Unless being a designer is your profession, choosing finishes in your home can be a real challenge. There are so many options in terms of color, material, sheen, and how they all will somehow seamlessly fit together. This gets even harder when thinking about a kitchen or bathroom. There are no strict rules as to what finishes work together, or which order choices should be made. Here are a few tips to make this seemingly impossible task just a bit easier.
Start with countertops
First consider material and finish. Not just for looks, but for durability, functionality and budget. Countertops are not cheap to change out if you change your mind after the material is custom made for your kitchen. Once you have decided on the budget for your countertops, read up on which materials are best for your lifestyle.
Cabinets
Before choosing the color of your countertops, choose the cabinet color and door style. Cabinets are the focal point in the kitchen. They also will make or break a kitchen design. What color are you looking for in your kitchen? Smaller spaces are best with white, but larger kitchens have an infinite amount of options. There are also an abundance of cabinet door styles to choose from that fit any aesthetic choice.
Countertops again
Now that you have chosen cabinets, now it is time to choose the color of your countertops. This all depends on the material chosen. Most materials have a decent variety of color options and patterns to choose from. Find one that doesn’t clash with your cabinet selection. Feel free to take samples with you when looking at cabinet doors to see what fits your taste best.
Finishing touches
Last is hardware, backsplash and accessories. It is best to pick a matching metal throughout your hardware and fixtures. I am partial to oil rubbed bronze, as I think it contracts well the the normal nickel and stainless steel finishes. Choosing light fixtures, faucet/soap dispenser, and door hardware that are all the same material or color is a fantastic way to give your kitchen a “designer touch”.
