Drew Barrymore's trick for adding metallics to her kitchen is a masterclass in understated luxury – and it's easy to recreate for only $13

A touch of brass goes a long way to elevate a kitchen – and the actress adds it with an exceptionally affordable and simple method

Drew Barrymore
(Image credit: Photo by Arturo Holmes/WireImage via Getty Images)

Metallic finishes are a staple of modern farmhouse style, and it's easy to see why. Brassy tones bring a touch of glamor and elegance to any space where they are used. No matter the style of your home, it's easy to integrate this elevated material with brushed brass outlet covers.

Drew Barrymore demonstrated the kitchen trick in a recent Instagram post, in which we spotted a metallic plate cover above her countertops. Though it's a small detail, it makes all the difference. The plate brings brightness to her wooden worktops and contrasts nicely with her teal walls. Luckily, the look works in any home.

Metallics like this are an example of quiet luxury design; small, hardly noticeable details that elevate the entire space. 'When we think about metallics, we often think of flashy finishes,' design expert Lena Gierasinska tells Homes & Gardens. 'However, by choosing brushed gold and brass, metallics can add a sense of understated luxury to your space. The matte finish brings an elegant touch and works harmoniously with muted tones like sandy neutrals and organic fabrics like linen, making it the perfect finishing touch in a minimaluxe scheme.'

Metallics work in any room because they are an excellent way to create contrast and bring in light. Gierasinska states: 'By pairing metallics with softer textures and tones, you’ll also bring an all-important sense of balance to your space, allowing your gold accents to shine without overwhelming the room. On a more practical note, the matte nature of these finishes means they’re much easier to keep clean and polished - ideal for an effortless, minimal look.’

To emulate Barrymore's look, all you need to do is find an outlet cover you love, and install it with a screwdriver. Here are a few brushed brass ones that we love, but the options are endless from retailers like Amazon. If you prefer a more matte look, you can also paint your outlet covers.


If you love the look of metallics in the kitchen and want even more, a brass or stainless steel kitchen backsplash is a beautiful and practical way to incorporate more of the material. Leigh Stuart, design expert at The Metal Store, advises: 'Metal splashbacks offer a sleek, contemporary look that compliments a wide range of kitchen styles, from industrial to minimalist and even rustic. Whether you're aiming for a bold statement or subtle elegance, metal splashbacks provide a versatile solution that enhances your space's visual and practical aspects.'

The functionality of the material rivals its aesthetics. Stuart continues: 'Beyond their undeniable visual appeal, metal backsplashes bring a host of practical benefits to the table. They are highly durable, heat-resistant, and easy to clean—qualities that are essential for any kitchen surface. Unlike traditional tiles or glass, metal splashbacks do not have grout lines, reducing areas where dirt and grease can accumulate.'

Metal in the kitchen adds an instant air of luxury, and it can be highly functional. Besides, who wouldn't want to be just a bit more like Drew Barrymore?


Sophie Edwards
News Editor

Sophie is a London-based News Editor at Homes & Gardens, where she works on the Celebrity Style team. She is fascinated by the intersection of design and popular culture and is particularly excited when researching trends or interior history. Sophie is an avid pop culture fan. As an H&G editor, she has interviewed the likes of Martha Stewart, Hilary Duff, and the casts of Queer Eye and Selling Sunset. Before joining Future Publishing, Sophie worked as the Head of Content and Communications at Fig Linens and Home, a boutique luxury linens and furniture brand. She has also written features on exciting developments in the design world for Westport Magazine. Sophie has an MSc from the Oxford University Department of Anthropology and a BA in Creative Writing and Sociology from Sarah Lawrence College.