KITCHEN FASHION IN METAL!

 
KITCHEN FASHION IN METAL!

Just like your wardbrobe requires statement pieces, so too does good kitchen design!  Begin with a hood or sink.  Plan for at least one special show stopping element in the budget....  Maybe you distinguish the space with a metal counter top?  Careful not to overwhelm by using too much of this exquisite material!  Going overboard is for the untrained eye.  Always edit the space carefully by hiring an expert to help with very important placement of the statement pieces with all other elements in the kitchen.

Zinc

Zinc is a very beautiful option as counter material and has been used on counter tops, bars and back splashes for years. It can be welded to create seamless tops and sinks.  Also makes gorgeous hoods.

• Antimicrobial
• Living finish when unsealed
• Over time, scratches and marks from use enhance the antique look.
• Finish can be aged using chemical compounds

 

Note- when zinc is exposed to water, a white oxide forms on the surface; this material requires maintenance.
 

Stainless Steel
 
Impervious to bacteria and heat, stainless steel is the ultimate in counter top surfaces. Stainless steel has become the “in” product for modern, transitional and contemporary kitchen counter top design.  Scratches and marks give the stainless steel the feel of a working kitchen, but does not decrease its aesthetic value. Sinks are welded to create a clean, seamless a one piece unit; sink dimensions, shape and drain locations can be at the discretion of the purchaser.

• Stainless steel is heat resistant
• Antimicrobial and non-allegenic
• Sanitary pit-free surface

Maintenance: Use a specially formulated stainless steel cleaner. Scratches can be buffed with a fine scotch brite pad, never use steel wool!

Copper Copper is lovely to look at and a nice compliment to most decors, particularly modern contemporary, traditional and country.  In addition to plain sheet, it is available in many textures and finishes. Unsealed, it provides an antimicrobial surface 30 times more effective than stainless steel. Unsealed, it provides a "living" surface that will change colors over time, depending on what it comes in contact with -- most often, it will go to shades of brown. Antique or aged finishes can be obtained chemically, so you can choose the exact finish you desire. Sealed or regularly polished, it will remain its original color. If sealed (lacquer or other) it will like require periodic resealing to maintain its look.

Rich in character and charm, copper counter tops are have been used for generations and offer generations of enjoyment .

Bronze and Brass Bronze like copper, is lovely to look at and a nice compliment to many decors, especially modern, contemporary and traditional.  In addition to plain sheet, it is available in many textures and finishes. Unsealed, it provides an antimicrobial surface Unsealed, it provides a "living" surface that will change colors over time, depending on what it comes in contact with  it most often transforms or patinas into various shades of brown. Antique or aged finishes can be obtained chemically, so you can choose the exact finish you desire. Sealed or regularly polished, it will remain its original color. If sealed (lacquer or other), it will like require periodic resealing to maintain its look.     Growing in popularity rapidly as counter top material are the alloys bronze (copper and tin) and brass (copper and zinc). The mix of metals makes both of them harder than copper and both start out with more golden hues than their salmon-colored parent. Both will patina into dark brownish black tones.

Pewter
 
Often seen pewter counter tops in cafes, bars, and other dining establishments around the world, it's not difficult to bring the same warm and delicately worn look into the decorating scheme of your kitchen. These striking kitchen counter tops are lead free, made from a tin alloy.

The surface is completely safe for food preparation, making them an ideal choice for home kitchen counter tops. You can select from among a number of different edge styles, and these stylish counters can easily be wiped clean with mild soap and water. Pewter counter tops will acquire a natural patina over time, meaning that they will develop a unique glow and luster that can enhance the decor of your home for years, or even decades, to come. If you want to keep the original shine intact, simply use mineral soap when the counters need washing rather than other types of cleansing agents.