MSG Free: What’s an alternative to stainless?
As a REALTOR ®, I am programmed for every wall to be beige and every kitchen to have maple, stainless and granite, or “MSG” as one client (un)affectionately put it. I followed the rules when designing my own kitchen but rebelled with the cobalt blue backsplash. I am constantly thinking of what my next kitchen will look like, my “forever” kitchen, knowing that I want it to be timeless, functional and fun, as I spend more waking hours in the kitchen than I do any other room of the house (okay, maybe except for the living room…I have a big, comfy sectional couch and a Beverly Hills, 90210 addiction). In the same vein as our blog post about life after granite, I ask: What’s an alternative to stainless?
RETRO APPLIANCES ~ These appliances make me want to swoon. The Big Chill has a gallery that will suck you in and inspire you to haul your current appliances out to the curb. It is a misconception that retro appliances mean you need a retro style kitchen. My favorite rooms are ones with multiple styles and a whole lot of personality.
CUSTOM APPLIANCES ~ In addition to the Sub-Zeros and the dishwashers with the cabinet fronts, today’s color technology allows you to have appliances made to match any color with a pantone or RAL code. I imagine appliances in a grey-er shade of a colorful wall paint with Shaker style birch cabinets, modern, sleek hardware and a matte clear glass backsplash. Can you see it? Until I come up with a way to create it on paper, here are a few more examples:
THE NEW WHITE ~ Just when I think white appliances are outdated and so “bleh,” Whirlpool comes out with their new Ice Collection. I wouldn’t hesitate to put these in my kitchen.
Whirlpool ICE
SLATE ~ “Welcome GE’s new fashion-forward finish, Slate: a color that is just as stylish and sophisticated as stainless steel but with a strong, earthy feel” (GE’s words, not mine).
And, of course, you can always whip out a can of spray paint.