Hi. I’m a product designer with a somewhat proletarian/utilitarian aesthetic, at least for certain things. If something functions beautifully, is well made from nice materials, pleasing to the eye, and is practical (that includes cost), then it often wins the contest.
I chose Pallares Solsona knives with olive handles. I chose stainless blades so I don’t have to tend to the cutlery while my guests move on to dessert. They are easy to buy ($), easy to maintain, good looking (100% subjective), function beautifully, and are very nice in hand.
After using them a few times, I’m ready to break out the beeswax to fill the gaps.