I would definitely go with the stainless. Black stainless is going to be dark, but the bigger problem is if the color is discontinued and you have to go with another brand's version of it, it may (probably) won't match; worse if this color fad fades away over time (IMO it will) and will no longer be available when one of the appliances cr*ps out on you -- then you're stuck with a complete finish mis-match.

Here are two recent designs we have done. Notice how both have stainless steel appliances?

Contemporary Kitchen & Bath · More Info

Alpine Ski Home · More Info

I have read on many blogs that the black stainless appliances scratch easily. I would go with the plain stainless steel.

Plain old stainless is IMO always the best choice for appliances and BTW look awesome with cherry I would in your space get to work on some much better lighting too

I would avoid black appliances and backsplash and consider what a lighter kitchen will feel like.

With your quartz, go with a light backsplash and since you are redoing, now is the time to change the hood.

Alpaca may be in adjoining room, but you need to consider what is best for kitchen and go lighter, but still complimenting family room.

When backsplash and paint color are similar, it creates a seamless flow in a small kitchen. I really like the combination below.

In regards to the lip, in reality it doesn’t hide that much and it’s a much nicer look without one.

Regarding beverage centre, I would make it a feature and tied more to dining area. Suggest cabinetry on bottom painted a similar color to your chairs and use cherry counter and shelving which will tie into your cabinetry.

Then add Roman blinds in a similar color and a new pendant to create a modern and inviting dining area.

Thank you for sharing. so many wonderful ideas and some that I was already planning. we never considered a black backsplash. It will definitely be a light tile to match counter tops. (Currently the granite carries a 4” backsplash). We were trying to decide between the black or stainless appliances. I also agree and really do like the look of the Roman shades and we are updating all the fixtures throughout our house. My initial plan is to replace desk cabinets and create a separate beverage center, but depends on budget. I’m totally open to painting what I have and raising them to support a wine fridge. I’m not sure I can really change out my hood because of the crown molding. We don’t plan on staying in our home more than another 5 years... so we are looking to do a modest facelift, not a complete kitchen makeover. :)

i was also planning to update my kitchen seating with neutral colored parsons chairs with flaps ad I like the French country look, but I really like the chairs and BM paint color you shared. Please share Links for the chairs and Roman shades of available!

Unfortunately the blinds were not referenced. Suggest deciding on everything else and then decide on fabric, as you’ll probably need custom anyway. Maybe removing the wooden appliqué on the hood would make it feel less traditional. Oops about black backsplash; misread.

Another vote for stainless, it is just safer, get daring on other stuff.

Definitely stainless.

You could also paint the hood white or a lighter color and add a strip of stainless steel or black where the appliqué currently is. Something similar to the picture

Thanks, Boxerpal!

Interesting you shared the link to LilyAnnCabinets. They are actually located about 30 minutes from me here in Michigan. I saw the same cherry cabinets image on their Facebook page and contacted them last week as i really love their design and the backsplash tile that was used.

I did replace my appliances with SS - only have have arrived (cooktop) and double wall-oven combo. I'm still trying to get used to the SS appearance - and I'm not loving the fingerprints on the fingershield / resistant finish...lol. Dishwasher is scheduled for delivery today and the refrigerator mid-summer.

I will upload some more pictures of the desk space I plan to remove to create a new coffee & cocktails beverage center. and my personal vision board. I'm trying to decide between a soft white cabinet & the new Bonsai. I love the Bonsai - but not sure if I can commit to the color or rather pick it up in the space through accents (chairs, curtains, etc.). The entire process is overwhelming!

My other dilemma -- my built in desk is 21" deep and new cabinets are standard 24" - which will definitely encroach on my kitchen space. Also, beverage fridges are also standard 24" - but thinking of recessing it in the wall. Also, because it's only 72-74" max in width to work with, I'm thinking i want a small compact beverage cooler. 18X21 would be ideal -- but haven't been able to find it. I also need to think about cabinet layout and where to put the plumbing / sink for the beverage station. I was thinking of offsetting it to the left side to give me more continuous counter space.

Welcome any additional thoughts!