Surface Paradise: The Lust-Have Appliance Finishes

From fridges and freezers to ovens and dishwashers, kitchen appliances were once splashed in a monotone palette of white, white and white. Not today, though! So-called whitegoods are now available in all manner of shades and finishes, and they are designed to blend with your flooring, cabinetry and countertops to create a beautifully cohesive space. Here, we break down the latest kitchen appliance finishes and colours for 2024 – along with some timeless classics – to guarantee major surface appeal.

Will Black Appliances Stand The Test Of Time?

When executed with care and consideration, dark minimalism is a look that won’t date. “Black ovens, cooktops and refrigerators work best in a space with an abundance of natural light,” advises Alisa Fraser, ambassador for Kinsman Kitchens. “Alternatively, try contrasting dark kitchen appliances with a white marble splashback, or a light timber benchtop.” Glossy finishes add lustre to sleek and streamlined spaces, but for something modern and matte try black stainless steel – it’s fingerprint- and smudge-proof, and delivers a distinct sense of luxury.

Get the look with Haier’s 508L Slimline Quad Door Refrigerator , a considered black design completed with a modern flat door and recessed handle – it is sure to add a hint of luxury to any kitchen.

Shop the Haier 508L Slimline Quad Door Refrigerator now

Get the look with this handsome trio: the LG 637L French Door Refrigerator , the Miele 90cm Wall Mounted Rangehood and the Smeg 90cm Dual Fuel Upright Cooker Anthracite .

Stainless-Steel Appliances Continue To Dominate

Versatile, durable and timeless, stainless steel is like a kitchen neutral. “It goes with everything,” explains Lysandra Fraser, ambassador for Kinsman Kitchens. “The shiny, silver tones have been a popular choice for some time, but right now we’re seeing a preference for industrial-inspired appliances that hint at the aesthetic of a top-tier restaurant kitchen.” Stainless steel works in both traditional and contemporary spaces – be it a classic rangehood and cooktop surrounded by grey Hamptons-style joinery, or a metallic French door fridge in a sophisticated black kitchen. And don’t be afraid to mix metals. For example, stainless-steel appliances can complement beautiful brass tapware or gleaming copper pendant lights.

Get the look with the Fisher & Paykel 569L French Door Refrigerator .

Image credit: Kitchen design & images by Kinsman

Integration Is The Future Of Kitchens

The role of the kitchen is ever-evolving. Today, open-plan cook zones that flow into living areas demand interiors that are not only utilitarian, but also visually pleasing. The key ingredient? Fully integrated appliances that sit flush with the cabinetry, serving up clean lines and a clutter-free aesthetic. “It’s a seamless look where the surfaces really star,” says Alisa Fraser, adding that integration requires careful planning. “Your cabinetry will likely need to be custom-built to accommodate your appliances, but the end result will be bespoke and tailor-made just for you.”

Get the look with the Asko Fully Integrated 82cm Dishwasher and the Fisher & Paykel 104L Cool Drawer .

“Your appliance colours and finishes should sit cohesively with all the other elements in the scheme.” – interior designer Annie Bowen

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Why White Appliances Will Never Go Out Of Style

White appliances might stir up connotations of stark and soulless 1990s kitchens, but right now they’re enjoying a stylish renaissance. Think an icy-toned fridge or dishwasher that allows a statement splashback to really pop, or a textural all-white scheme with subway tiles or swathes of marble.

“It’s always about the overall palette,” says interior designer Annie Bowen of Annie Bowen Design. “A white oven, for example, would need to make sense with the cabinet colours – either blending into the background or contrasting with the cupboards.”

You can also gradually incorporate ivory appliances into a home with existing stainless-steel appliances – just look for designs with stainless-steel handles or detailing.

Get the look with the LG 420L Bottom Mount Refrigerator, the Smeg Portofino 90cm Induction Upright Cooker and the Bosch 60cm Freestanding Dishwasher White .

Image credit: Kitchen design & images by Kinsman

For more appliances that not only look stylish but are also big on functionality and performance, visit us in store or online . Be inspired by our home renovation ideas to start planning your new kitchen design .