How to mix metals in the kitchen

Mixing metals is sometimes unavoidable, but it can also make a kitchen even better if done well. Nothing says “showroom kitchen” like all matching hardware, so I want to share my biggest tips for mixing them up:

Don’t stop at just 2:

You may may have just one extra metal you want to include. Often times, this is the cabinet hardware, but don’t stop there - include at least 3 metals if you plan to mix. It can be a sconce, outlet covers, or even countertop accessories, like a mixer.

Look for fixtures that already include a mix of metals. This light from Illuminate Vintage helps all the other mixing in the room feel more cohesive and intentional.

Mixing more than two metals is particularly important if you have a mix of metals on the same plane of vision.

Alter what you already have

In this kitchen, the brass cabinet knobs from Spearhead Collection came right up to the sink, so we actually painted the existing chrome sconce above the sink a gun metal color.

If you have a standard metal sink, stick with the same finish on the faucet. Otherwise it can look like a replacement that was an afterthought. The exception is if you have highly contrasting finishes like a copper sink and gunmetal faucet. OR if they are different in material, like a porcelian sink with a metal faucet. Mixing materials is also very chic and if they are different enough from each other in tone, it doesn’t look like your faucet broke and you’re replacing it with one you got on sale.

Don’t forget accessories! This is the easiest way to bridge fixed hardware metals in your kitchen. Some vintage brass and cast iron pans continue the mixed metal story on this silver shelving unit.

Copper is such a great bridge between two metals like warm brass and brushed nickel. Adding a few copper accessories might be all you need to tie these two together!

We also painted the fridge handle to further tie in the black “gun metal” color.