I’ve never been a huge fan of black hardware in the kitchen. It’s not that I dislike it, but it would never be my first choice. Every home I’ve ever lived in has had either chrome or brushed nickel hardware. Both of those are fine, but I’ve always, ALWAYS dreamed of having a kitchen with gold hardware and fixtures. Some people think gold is a bit tacky, but I’ve always found it warm and elegant, especially when used in a modern way. So when I was envisioning my new kitchen I always just assumed it would have gold cabinet hardware and gold light fixtures.

Enter husband.

As it turns out, I now share a home with someone who hates gold hardware. He doesn’t just dislike it, he loathes it. I’ve shown him a million pictures and done everything I can to try to convince him, but it ain’t gonna happen. He didn’t complain when I put floral Pottery Barn curtains in the bedroom, and he was very accepting when I bought star light fixtures for over the island. Neither would have been his first choice but he knew how much I loved them. So now I feel like I have to show him the same courtesy. Especially since he’s the one who will be building the kitchen!

We haven’t totally settled on what finish we’ll go with, but we’ve decided on black doorknobs and hinges in the rest of the house, so it stands to reason that black hardware should go in the kitchen.

I have no issue with mixing metal finishes in most cases, but the house is quite small and I think consistency will be important. I’m not going to make a firm decision until we’ve got the cabinets in place, but I need to start thinking about it.

So now comes the search for inspiration pics. The plan is for the cabinets to be Benjamin Moore Cloud White, the floors will be Travertine, and the counter will be a light, neutral Quartz. Plans can change of course (and I’m really hoping I can convince my better half to do something other than white cabinets), but the Travertine is being ordered tonight and I’ve already bought star light fixtures in black, so that’s something! As far as the backsplash goes…I have no idea yet. I want it to be warm and cozy so I’ll need something to pull this all together. I’m open to suggestion!

I really do like these looks, particularly the last one. I think the key to using black hardware in the kitchen is to keep it really streamlined and simple, as it is here. And honestly, the darker island makes a world of difference.

Time will tell if we decide to go this route or not. Stay tuned!

Feature photo courtesy of Buyers Bootcamp