Finishes: To Mix or Not to Mix?
Question: "I am renovating a cottage and changing it into a log cabin. I have a newer stainless steel oven and refrigerator. I am putting in knotty pine cabinets, an earthy green counter, brown or green drywall on the walls. I would really like to use Tuscan bronze as the finish on the faucet, but will that work with the stainless appliances? Also, what kind of sink should I go with?" —Nancy L.
Answer: Don't worry about faucet or hardware finishes contrasting the stainless steel; people do it all the time. This kitchen remodel is one example, featuring stainless steel appliances paired with warmer finishes on the cabinetry hardware and sink faucet. You can expect to see even more warm-tone finishes in the coming year as the look gains favor among homeowners and designers.
A single-bowl farm sink with an apron front — either a white vitreous china or a metal — would be a good look. If that's too pricey or if you want two bowls, any kind of undermount sink would be less obtrusive. But remember: changing the size and installation method (apron and undermount sinks are both different from a basic drop-in sink) will require an appropriately fabricated countertop.
