Posted by jsexton – November 24, 2006 8:29 PM
As I've mentioned, we're trying a bit of an experiment, installing a stainless steel countertop on our island (the bar top, or eating area of the island, will be wood). I like the concept of stainless countertops, having seen them in some magazines and trade shows. They look modern and clean, and at the same time they seem very practical. Steel is hard to dent, stain or scratch, which is why many restaurant kitchens use it.
At first Gretchen thought it would look too industrial. But she got comfortable with the idea, particularly since we're only using it on the island.
Here's the new stainless steel countertop, shortly after installation.
There are several choices when it comes to the finish on stainless countertops. You can go with a plain shiny finish; that's what you'll see in most cafeterias. Or you can have a pattern cut into the steel. The look can either be very soft, like brushed steel, or it can have a more distinctive pattern.
We went with a bolder, brushed pattern. I have to say I'm on the fence about it now. It's either very cool, or it stands out too much and is a bit distracting. My thought right now is, I wish the finish was a bit softer and not quite so noticeable. But I'm withholding judgment until the rest of the kitchen is installed around it. Then we'll see how it fits in with everything else.
How do you like it? All opinions welcome. Does anyone have experience with stainless steel countertops? Any tips on maintenance?
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I love it!! Wish I could change my builder's white to your stainless brushed design. I bet you will love it too, when your whole project is done.Good Luck
Posted by Star – November 30, 2006 1:59 AM
I agree that this countertop looks busy, but you will probably be surprised how it will look once everything is finished. I commend you on going bold and not just safe.
S.C.
Posted by Sharon C. – December 1, 2006 8:45 PM
I LOve it, wish I could change my builder's white countertops for something with flair like yours. I bet when the whole project is finished you will be very happy with it. It probably sticks out right now, bet it will blend beautifully with it all in place. Good Luck!! Star form Texas
Posted by Starlynn Archer – December 2, 2006 12:44 PM
I don't think it looks busy at all. I think it looks very elegant and very unique. Why go thru all the trouble of doing a "fab" kitchen, if it's going to look like everyone else's? Think of all the things you remember in your life...were those things plain and blending...or do your remember unique and beautiful things. Don't think I ever recall someone saying "gee, I love your plain white walls and your plain white counters" But people sure remember when someone has something different and unique! Enjoy....
Posted by Caryn C – December 12, 2006 6:46 PM
It is beautiful, bold and unique. I would love to have this counter top in my kitchen, stainless steel have been used in kitchens for a while now, that it has became a classic standard, and your counter top put a different twist on the classic standard. You are so blessed to have that fore-sight to do this, don't chicken out now.
Posted by Belinda M. – December 13, 2006 12:17 PM
That particular style is too busy for me but I love the idea. I agree with the others, once the kitchen is together it will make a splash. That particular style probably won't show the scratches either. I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
Do you know how it compares in price to granite?
Posted by e – December 14, 2006 11:13 AM
I love it is unquie, did you guys do that yourself?
Posted by sheila – December 14, 2006 12:54 PM
I love it too! When I have enough money saved for a total kitchen remodel - I have drawn plans already - it will have stainless steel and marble counter-tops. The one you have chosen is very beautiful! Enjoy!
Posted by NanceInWA – December 15, 2006 1:10 AM
Love the idea of stainless steel countertops any where, especially if you do bread, pastry dough and the like; but don't like the pattern on the stainless. Too busy, crazy in fact. Took awhile for me to get my eye sight back.
Posted by Karen Swain – January 12, 2007 2:28 AM
I'm very interested in the stainless steel look as it should compliment appliances, etc. I'm wondering if anyone has experience with using stainless on the backsplash? And, what styles seem to work well there?
Posted by Dee – January 12, 2007 9:36 AM
I think it's great!! I really like it. I have been trying to decide on a countertop for an island that I am building and that is a wonderful idea. I thought about a copper type but love the stainless steel. Do you have suggestions on where to find out about them?
Posted by Julie – January 13, 2007 2:59 PM
I love your countertop and I am going to do mine very soon.
Posted by EricaIn TN – January 21, 2007 4:00 PM
Hi as one of the homeowners (the wife) I'll attempt to get some answers to questions asked out there.
e--our stainless steel pattern was one of the least expensive and that helped to save on costs. With the hole cut in it for the stove top and the bend for the backsplash it was still cheaper than the granite countertops. Extra was added on because of a couple of custom 'out dents' required by our designer.
Julie--I'd go to a kitchen design store, even a general supplier like Lowe's or Home Depot, and ask them about stainless steel countertop suppliers. Another good place to begin would be checking in with a kitchen designer. Our designer had the connection to this supplier for us.
Posted by Gretchen – February 1, 2007 5:36 PM
As a kitchen designer, this is very interesting to me. It's very strong, the texture. Yet, it's very exciting, and it surely should not show scratches over time, at least not too obviously. I'd love to see a wider shot of this top It's different, and different is usually good in my book!
Posted by susan – February 7, 2007 8:34 PM
At first Gretchen thought it would look too industrial.
Posted by Bathroom Countertops – May 1, 2007 6:31 AM
