Kitchens are the most multitasked rooms in households--they not only have to facilitate the love of cooking and eating, they have to be warm and welcoming to guests. No wonder that the biggest trend in new material for the kitchen--stainless steel--reflects both of these

 

needs. It's clean, functional and heavy duty with a warmer sheen than the high-tech look of the past.

Originally introduced into residential kitchens by way of appliances, stainless steel put a new shine on old-style enamel ovens, refrigerators and dishwashers. It has also recently caught on as a great work surface as it can withstand a lot of abuse, is stain resistant won't rust and has no sharp edges or corners.

Stainless steel is very easy to care for and it's a lifetime material meant for hard everyday use.

 

Use a special cleaner that won't scratch it and wipe it down with vegetable oil occasionally to keep the sheen.

This material works well with just about any type of kitchen as long as it's used properly and in appropriate amounts. When paired with a warm wood, it looks entirely different than a more modern kitchen with every surface covered in it.

For the look of stainless steel without committing to the expense of all new appliances, incorporate accessories like a rack that attaches to a backsplash with shelves for spices and other kitchen items.