Let’s Take a Look at the Aesthetics of Stainless Steel
Stainless steel in commercial kitchens has been a mainstay for close to 90 years. With such a long & storied history, it’s easy to see why stainless steel is the preferred choice. After all, stainless steel brings a plethora of benefits such as durability, hygiene & sustainability. But, what about the visual appeal of stainless steel? To this day, the debate still rages on.
In this article, we’ll break down both sides of the argument regarding stainless steel’s visual qualities. Ultimately, we’ll weigh in on the great discussion & offer up some insight. Let’s pick this apart.
Argument #1 – Stainless steel is sleek, modern & attractive
Just take a look at any polished stainless steel product. The shiny surface & the symmetrical grain are a thing of beauty.
By inspecting a completed stainless steel item, you know that tender care & effort was taken into creating such a work of art. It evokes an emotion of professionalism & modernity not seen with any other material. Compare this with wood or plastic where the visual appeal just doesn’t reach these heights.
The ultimate key to why stainless steel is so attractive is the reflective nature of the material. The gleaming surface adds a feeling of spaciousness to the room but also complements a range of design styles, from minimalist to traditional kitchens.
Also, stainless steel just pairs well with almost any other floor/wall material such as granite, marble, or quartz. Other equipment materials such as iron, brass or copper require more effort to pair well other aspects of your kitchen.
Argument #2 – Stainless steel is cold, surgical & distant
Yes – it is a fact that stainless steel has been used in surgical environments way before kitchen settings. In 1926, stainless steel surgical implants were first used, which gave birth to the use of S/S in other medical applications. Ultimately, using a material that is most common in hospitals has turned some people away from implementing it into their own kitchens.
Stainless steel is a metal, so it will be cool to the touch in most conditions. This is because it readily conducts heat away from your skin when touched, making it feel colder than other materials. For some, this is a turn off.
Lastly, stainless steel has the stigma of being “dark” & uninviting. The neutral gray/silver color is primarily responsible for this. It is a fact that stainless steel is not the “happiest” material to brighten up a room – in certain settings.
So, what’s our verdict?
While it’s easy to weigh the pros & cons of stainless steel in terms of appearance, it will come down to how you pair it with other materials in your kitchen. Beauty shines when it is complemented. Balance is key!
It is your mission to create symmetry & flow in your kitchen so stainless steel can shine the brightest. A smart idea is to start small by incorporating smaller stainless steel items & gradually building a full lineup.
As mentioned in the opening, stainless steel offers many more benefits than just how it looks. It is “food grade”, meaning it is the most sanitary material in kitchen environments. Let this play a major factor in your purchasing decision as well.
To learn more about how IMC can cater to your stainless steel needs, click here.
