Black is the New Stainless Steel

It's been so long since we've seen a regime change in the preferred finish of appliances, sometimes it's hard to remember that there are other choices out there. House hunters mutter the mantra of their kitchen must-have as if hypnotized by its silvery sheen, and a trip to any appliance store reveals almost exclusively polished styles, unless you venture to the land of institutional white (gasp!).  Isn't it about time for design lovers to switch things up? To make a statement other than "I did this for the resale value?" 

Clockwise from top left: Smeg Refrigerator: $1,999, West Elm; Gas Range: $599, Whirlpool; Washer and Dryer: $1,530 each, Samsung; Professional Classic Series Range: price upon request, Viking.

Our alternative is unsurprising if you've ever seen our wardrobes: all black everything. Come to think of it, we would highly recommend this look for the proponents of that phrase: Jay, 'Ye, and BadGalRiRi. In high gloss or matte, something about a black range or refrigerator lends any space a sexy sophistication. (Yes, we just called an appliance sexy.) Look at these four current favorites and tell us you don't agree. 

Ready to switch things up, but not totally on board with black? Check out the best colorful small appliances, handpicked by Lonny. 

• 3 Color Trends to Steal from Spring Fashion Runways
• Imaginative Paint Treatments You Won't Get Tired Of
• This Paint Treatment is the New "Pop of Color"
• A Colorful Kid's Room Idea
• Three Outcast Colors Poised to Make a Comeback
• Paint the Runway: Mustard Yellow