Stainless steel is a versatile metal that can complement a variety of colour palettes. When choosing colours to pair with stainless steel, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind.
Neutral Tones
One of the most popular and timeless options is to pair stainless steel with neutral tones like black, white, gray, beige, and wood tones. The neutral palette allows the stainless steel to stand out while still blending in seamlessly with the overall design. Neutral colours also give you flexibility to switch out accent colours over time without clashing with the stainless steel fixtures.
Earth Tones
Earth tones like greens, browns, tans, and terracotta work well with stainless steel’s sleek metallic finish. The natural colours complement stainless steel’s neutral yet bold look. Pairing rich wood finishes with stainless steel also brings warmth and texture to balance the metal’s cool tones.
Bold Accents
While neutrals may be the safe choice, don’t be afraid to use stainless steel as a base for bolder accent colours. Reds, oranges, purples, and even pastels like mint and sky blue can pop against brushed stainless steel. Just be sure to stick to one or two bold accent colours and balance them with enough neutrals so the space doesn’t feel overwhelming.
Avoid Clashing Metallics
In general, you’ll want to avoid pairing other metallic finishes with stainless steel since this can feel noisy and create visual competition. But there are a few exceptions. Mixing chrome and stainless steel can work since they are close in tone. Just be sure to use the same metallic finish for all the fixtures and hardware in a space for consistency.
Consider Sheen
Matte, satin, and brushed stainless steel finishes can blend in more easily with a variety of colours and textures. Meanwhile, polished and reflective stainless steel will stand out boldly against any colour palette. If your stainless steel has a very reflective finish, stick with lighter neutrals like white that won’t compete too much with the reflective surface.
Use Contrasting Textures
Pairing sleek stainless steel with contrasting materials like wood, glass, leather, greenery, concrete, or stone helps add visual interest. Stainless steel has a very smooth, cool texture that can be tempered with organic elements and natural materials with more warmth.
Sample Colour Palettes
Here are some examples of classic colour palettes that complement stainless steel:
| Colour Palette | Examples |
|---|---|
| Black and White | Glossy black cabinets, white quartz counters, brushed steel appliances |
| Gray and Wood | Gray walls, oak floors, steel fixtures |
| Cream and Greenery | Beige sofa, green plants, steel coffee table |
| Navy Blue Accents | White cabinets, navy island, steel barstools |
Tips for Each Room
The best colours to pair with stainless steel vary slightly depending on the room in your home:
Kitchen
In the kitchen, white and wood tones allow stainless steel appliances to shine. Neutral backsplashes also prevent clashing with stainless sinks and faucets. Add pops of colour with accent tile or appliances like a retro SMEG refrigerator.
Bathroom
For bathrooms, stick with clean whites and grays to complement stainless fixtures while also enhancing the bright, airy feeling. Add warmth with wood accents and greenery.
Living Spaces
In living rooms, libraries, and lounges, layer earth tones like mocha and deep green with stainless steel tables and shelving. Use textured rugs and drapery to soften the sleek steel.
Home Office
For home offices, cool gray blues help energize the space. Mix gray-blue walls with pops of orange as an accent. Add stainless shelving and desk legs to keep the space feeling contemporary.
Outdoors
Outside, color abounds in nature, so lean into stainless steel’s neutrality. Natural stone, wood decking, and green landscaping complement outdoor stainless kitchens and grills.
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve selected your color palette, consider how other materials like countertops, tile, and lighting interact with the stainless steel elements. Choosing countertop materials and backsplashes that coordinate with your cabinetry colours will give the room cohesion. Task lighting also highlights stainless steel’s sleek forms and neat lines.
Conclusion
Stainless steel is highly versatile and complements both bold and neutral colour schemes. The key is sticking to a cohesive palette and avoiding clashing metals. Focusing on textures and natural materials provides contrast and visual interest. With smart pairings, stainless steel can elevate any design aesthetic in your home.