Bold new design and finish options are livening up appliance choices for American consumers and home builders.
This summer, KitchenAid introduced the industry’s first-ever black stainless steel finish–a “new neutral” look that designers can use to add warmth and sophistication to the kitchen. Appliance maker LG also begun offering the look in its Diamond Collection.
KitchenAid's new black stainless steel appliances
“Major appliances are the anchor pieces of a kitchen, and their color and design contribute largely to the overall look of the space,” says Beth Robinson, senior brand experience manager for KitchenAid. “As a stylish alternative to traditional finishes, our black stainless steel offers designers and consumers tremendous design flexibility and the chance to experiment with fresh ideas.”
KitchenAid’s new finish adds warmth to the starker appearance of stainless steel by dressing it up in a lustrous, satiny black, says Robinson. Kitchen designs from classic to rustic become more modern and design-forward with black stainless steel appliances, whether complementing or differentiating the rest of the space, she adds.
Black stainless steel also coordinates with the latest design elements in KitchenAid’s new appliance collection, which features satin textured stainless steel handles, chrome inlaid frames, and unique KitchenAid brand medallions, available in red and other optional colors that serve as a finishing stamp on the side of every handle.
RETRO CHIC
Big Chill offers a modern take on industrial kitchen design.
Another U.S. manufacturer, Boulder, Colo.-based appliance manufacturer Big Chill, recently kicked off a new line of distinctive appliances. The Classic line of industrial-retro products features rugged metals, velvety colors, and distinctive finishes.
Handcrafted in Reading, Pa., the Classic series encompasses a 30-inch turn-of-the-century-inspired range and coordinating ventilation collection. Available in six colors – matte black, French blue, Cabernet, white, cream, and stainless steel – the line also features four unique metal trim options including brushed brass, polished copper, satin nickel, and chrome.
The Classic series was inspired by American industrial chic design, a movement that finds beauty in aged, utilitarian design, says Big Chill president Orion Creamer. Characterized by reclaimed woods, exposed brick, ductwork on the ceiling and worn textures mixed with hardy metals, this aesthetic works either as an all-encompassing design or just as a small accent mixed with another style, says Creamer.
