Mixing finishes definitely makes a space feel more layered, but I totally agree it can get out of hand fast if you’re not careful. I’ve seen kitchens where folks went wild with three or four different countertop materials and a bunch of clashing hardware—looked more like a showroom than a home. Keeping the palette tight is key, like you said.
One thing I’ll add: when I’m flipping places, I always think about resale. Buyers get nervous if things look “too custom.” Mixing finishes works best when there’s a clear logic to it—like matte on the island for durability, or using wood only in spots that won’t take a beating. Ever tried mixing metals too? I’ve done brushed nickel pulls with matte black faucets, but only when the rest of the kitchen is pretty calm. Too many statement surfaces or colors and people start worrying about maintenance or if it’ll date quickly.
Curious if you’ve ever regretted putting a special finish in a high-traffic spot? I had a client insist on marble on the island once... let’s just say, it didn’t stay pretty for long.
