As every year passes, people get more creative and innovative when designing interiors, and metal fittings are no exception. When it comes to types of metallic finishes, both chrome and stainless steel are especially appealing to modern sensibilities both in look and function. Nevertheless, the use of both these two metals in a single design can be a bit compromising. This article discusses how modern interior designs can use chrome and stainless steel fixtures in a complementary manner.
Contents
Understanding the Characteristics of Chrome and Stainless Steel
Before consideration of the design strategies, it is essential to appreciate the nature of chrome and stainless steel. Chrome, otherwise known as chromium plating, is characterized by a shiny, gleaming appearance that embodies chic and the future. It is common in fixtures such as faucets, shower heads, and lights since it does not require frequent maintenance and is corrosion-resistant.
Stainless steel is a carbon steel containing iron, carbon, and chromium, along with a small amount of other alloying elements. It is appreciated for its strength, ability to withstand corrosion, and has a less shiny look than chrome. Stainless steel is quite commonly used in kitchen appliances, sinks as well as countertops since it has a professional touch.
Harmonizing Chrome and Stainless Steel in Design
1. Consistency in Style and Form
To ensure an appropriate synergy between different elements, the fixtures should have similar designs and forms. For example, if deciding to have chrome faucets for the sinks, then one should also buy stainless steel utensils with smooth surfaces and contemporary designs.
This is because visual harmony is achieved through consistency in the use of a design language, even in the choice of different metals.
2. Balanced Distribution
Several procedures are suggested to maintain a balance when using both chrome and stainless steel together on a chair. Eschew the tendency of having one type of metal centralized at one location or area.
However, extend the metals throughout the given area in equal portions. For instance, in a kitchen setting, utensils such as refrigerators, dishwashers, or microwaves could be made of stainless steel, while cabinet knobs and the light could be chrome. This prevents one material from dominating the other, enhancing the ordinal facade.
3. Utilize Transitional Pieces
It is important to note that transitional pieces of furniture, which have parts made from chrome and stainless steel, can connect the two metals.
Some of the products that can bring continuity of the two finishes into the room include the dual-finish faucets or the light fixtures, which are made from both finishes. These pieces assist in making the materials transition smoothly, allowing a single design to flow consistently.
4. Consider the Finish
As said before, chrome is inherently shiny, but when it comes to the outlook of stainless steel, it can range from a brushed and polished look.
To avoid this, there are certain general tips: For easy cleaning, consider the type of finish on your stainless steel fixtures.
Modern designs are preferably fitted with polished stainless steel as this finish resembles chrome and is more compatible with brushed stainless steel.
In that case, instead of gone look that brushed nickel provides, try and look into chrome-finished fixtures with a satin sheen to them.
Practical Applications in Different Spaces
1. Kitchens
That is why using chrome and stainless steel is most appropriate in the kitchen space. Various types of home appliances that are manufactured using stainless steel, like refrigerators and ovens can be complemented with chrome faucets, drawer pulls as well as pendant lights.
Additional elements that could improve the modern design is the stainless steel backsplash if accompanied by chrome trims on the small appliances, such as toasters or kettles.
2. Bathrooms
When interior decoration, especially in the bathroom, chrome, and stainless steel can effectively design like the sauna. Chrome-finished showers and showerheads look great, matched with stainless steel tower bars and vanity knobs.
Mirrors accompanied with chrome frames can enhance the reflection of light and thereby help to bring brightness to the bathroom, besides making it look elegant. A stainless steel sink, on the other hand, provides durability along with being smooth and shiny.
3. Living Areas
Although the metal fixtures tend to be placed in the kitchen and bathroom, it is also possible to add them to the living area because the combination of chrome and stainless steel looks good.
Stainless steel furniture legs can complement a contemporary lighting fixture like the Chrome lighting. Metals, for example, chrome-framed photo frames or steel sculptures, can seal the commonality of the look.
Maintenance and Longevity
Another advantage of chrome and stainless steel that may warrant their use in interior design is that they are easy to clean and very durable.
It is important to note that the materials are both anti-corrosive and stain-resistant, which is perfect for an area with much traffic. These surfaces can be wiped clean with mild detergents, preserving the beauty of these fixtures.
Conclusion
Applying chrome and stainless steel products in modern interior designers and architects must be done systematically. For a harmonious ensemble, several factors need to be considered, including the characteristics of the different metals, consistency of style, and balance of distribution; incorporating transitional pieces can create a harmonious blend that complements a room perfectly. Whether it is the cooking area, wash areas, or specific living regions, chrome blended with stainless has an elegant and sophisticated look, which captures the feel of modern interior design.