Design choices that matter when it comes to kitchen countertops

Natural Stone Countertop Restoration London

Replacing a kitchen workshop? If so, you’ll understandably focus on major issues such as your choice of material. But smaller details can play a huge role in the look, feel and functionality of the space.

Here are some of the things which may seem trivial on the face of it, but which in fact really matter:

Worktop thickness

This is about more than just how your kitchen looks. It’s also about functionality. For acontemporary, sleek appearance, a 20mm countertop is elegantly minimalist. A 30mm version gives presence and depth. Fully-body, mitred edges look thick and luxurious, yet remain lightweight.

The right finish: polished, honed or leathered?

This plays a key part in your worktop’s look and upkeep. A high polish lends the stone vibrancy and depth. So it’s ideal for classically designed spaces. Subtler matte or honed finishes lend another modern, even industrial feel. A leathered finish is textured and luxurious.

Splashbacks and upstands

Blend your worktop seamlessly with the rest of your kitchen. Luxurious, full-height stone splashbacks are very popular right now. Equally, complementary upstands add continuity without overwhelming the space.

Edging your bets

A worktop’s edge profile describes the design and shape of the countertop’s exposed edges, affecting appearance and functionality. Again, this is not a small detail but significantly impacts your kitchen’s character. For modern spaces think sleek, square edges, while a bullnose or ogee model is classically elegant. For their part, ‘waterfall’ edges make a dramatic statement.

Seam placement

Place seams strategically and they will remain inconspicuous, especially with stones which have heavy veining. Bookmatching is a technique which adjoins two slabs of stone cut from the same block to create a symmetrical, mirror-image pattern that looks like an open book. (It also highlights natural veining.)

Select the right stone for your style

For a clean, modern appearance think light-coloured stones, while darker ones with honed or leathered finishes give more of an industrial chic vibe. (Think black granite, for example.) Real marble with dramatic veining is all about classic luxury, while earthy granites and textured surfaces are rustic and warm.

Essentially, remember that your kitchen worktop is not just a surface. It’s a key design feature with significant impact on your overall space. Pay attention to the seemingly small details to achieve a high-end look.

Get in touch with Royal Stone Care

Royal Stone Care specialises in all kinds of natural stone, from marble cleaning to limestone chip repair and granite restoration in London. We have the skills, experience and equipment to do a brilliant job every time. So give us a call today for a no-charge, no-obligation quotation.