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Rooms of Steel
I am an architectural design writer who often focuses on how environment can affect behavior. Before consulting privately, I received my MA in writing and ran a design boutique in Los Angeles.
I am an architectural design writer who often focuses on how environment... More »
When my mom recently exclaimed, too exuberantly before morning tea, that she planned to replace her kitchen countertops with stainless steel, I have to admit (I'm sorry I'm sorry) that I turned my nose up. Steel? Won't that look too clinical? Won't it wear badly?
Then I remembered that some of my favorite kitchens not only boast stainless steel facades, but countertops as well. Yes, they will wear over time as all things do, but even Martha Stewart has said that the signs of usage enhances its character.
Steel adds such bold panache to any space it inhabits. Clinical, no. Hefty yet sleek, yes. Traditionally for industrial use, this material suggests a professional and serious attitude, which can be surprising in a domestic atmosphere. It brings a brilliance and a balance to rooms, whether those rooms need a little touch of masculinity--or chic. Yes, steel provides both. Not to mention its great functionality.
These spaces use steel to not only show off this great material, but to enhance the space itself.
Then I remembered that some of my favorite kitchens not only boast stainless steel facades, but countertops as well. Yes, they will wear over time as all things do, but even Martha Stewart has said that the signs of usage enhances its character.
Steel adds such bold panache to any space it inhabits. Clinical, no. Hefty yet sleek, yes. Traditionally for industrial use, this material suggests a professional and serious attitude, which can be surprising in a domestic atmosphere. It brings a brilliance and a balance to rooms, whether those rooms need a little touch of masculinity--or chic. Yes, steel provides both. Not to mention its great functionality.
These spaces use steel to not only show off this great material, but to enhance the space itself.
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| Steel facades and surfaces keep this modest galley kitchen streamlined and anything but . . . modest. The shape of the lights above and the details such as the wall art balance the look. |
Another look of steel in a modern and streamlined kitchen. Open and uncomplicated, thanks to the white and steel.
Cabinetry detail.
Another view, with a laundry room to the side. The steel manages to make the space sleek and simple, not space-agey (which can sometimes happen when working solely with white).
The lighting and chair choice adds to the sleek modern look.
In this kitchen by the same designers (Mal Corbey Design), the steel gets a nice balance with hefty, raw stone and wood.
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This kitchen manages to keep a traditional feel with its modern touches. Another wall instead of mirrors would contribute to a more traditional feel.
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Steel reinforces this modern stairway full of bold square geometrics, yet somehow manages to give the space another delicate touch.
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These doors and shelving add to the interesting yet understated elements throughout this pleasing room. Steel balances so well with heftier, warmer-toned materials like wood and this marble.
by Birdseye Design
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Stainless steel in the kitchen paired with the exposed beams overhead add to this room's industrial chic aesthetic. The delicacy of the chairs and lighting around provide a good balance.
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by Cottam Hargrave
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| Steel paired with brick is always chic. |
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This stairway keeps the light flowing in and allows for a continual great view, keeping the area open.
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Reminiscent of a 1940s hospital, this surprising steel piece adds surprising beauty.
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Steel beautifully paired with dark wood to give the space warmth. "Intelligent Kitchen," no kidding.
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Another view of how a mix of balanced materials and beautiful shapes makes this kitchen and dining area a space you would never want to leave.
Comments
InterDesign Studio Stainless vanity shelf. 
3 years ago · Like
scrapabbey Did you notice the cabinets had labels on the handles in Braille?
3 years ago · Like
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Ideabook published on Sept. 20, 2010.
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