West of Beige: Metal Countertops

We've all seen enough Carrera marble in kitchens to keep Michaelangelo supplied for eternity. (Admission: I still love it!) But it is time to look towards the new and the bold. And I'm talking metal. On the plus side it is non porous, heat proof, and hygienic. On the minus, it can dent, stain, and scratch. This is also known as 'patina.'

Let's start with Stainless Steel. You might think of this for an industrial or modern look.

Source: google.com via Alison on Pinterest

Does it bring memories of your high school science lab? Think again.

Source: houzz.com via Alison on Pinterest

This material is equally at home with the farmhouse look. It almost makes me want to arrange flowers! (Except that is not a design skill I own. Further posts to follow as I explore this lack in my design character.)

Let's combine farmhouse and industrial. Are you interested?

Source: houzz.com via Alison on Pinterest

Moving on to Copper. With finishes that included hammered, distressed, flamed, patinated, and smooth, this metal brings warmth and shine to a kitchen. Again, we are looking at traditional and modern applications.

Brookswood

Source: houzz.com via Alison on Pinterest

Zinc is the new darling of the design world. It is not as blue cold as stainless steel and it will develop a patina. This well published kitchen from a San Francisco showhouse knocked people's socks off with it's night/day, light/dark design. And what was anchoring it? Zinc.

The modern is beautiful, but the traditional is so unexpected. Enjoy these last two beauties. And check out Home Style Choices for an explanation of all the pros and cons of metal countertops.