Just as you can customize cabinetry to achieve an elevated look, the same is true for countertops. It would be easy to focus solely on the cabinetry and forget how big an impact countertops can make in your kitchen design, but don’t fall victim to this! Countertops play a big role in the overall look and feel of your kitchen, and they are a much more versatile design element than one might expect. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a full kitchen design or simply want ideas for replacing your current countertops, you’re in the right spot! Here we will share our ideas (with examples!) of how to make a statement with your kitchen countertops.
1. Bold Veining
First things first- choosing the right countertop color. There’s plenty of subtle patterns that are safe options, but if you’re looking for something with a little more drama- try a bold vein pattern or one that has multi-tonal layers for a more dynamic look. If you want your countertops to be a prominent focal point, opt for high contrast patterns to attract the eye.
Before selecting a countertop color, make sure to view a full-slab version so you can see how the pattern plays out on a larger scale. Sometimes the samples just don’t do it justice, and you want to make sure you will like how it looks in a large piece since that’s how it will appear in your kitchen!
2. Waterfall Edge
A waterfall edge is when the countertop material extends over the side of the cabinetry and all the way to the floor, similar to how water cascades over a cliff. This modern touch adds an essence of grandeur that is sure to turn heads. We most often see this option used on an island or peninsula, although there’s no reason you couldn’t do it on the perimeter.
3. Drop Miter Edge
If the waterfall edge is too much countertop for you, try a drop miter edge instead! In this option, the countertop still drops over the edge, but this time it’s a few inches all the way around. This gives the illusion of a thicker slab, making it look more upscale and elegant. Similar to the waterfall edge, we do see most people highlighting the island with a drop miter, but it could be done in the whole kitchen as well. If the mitered edge isn’t quite what you’re going for, there are several edge profiles to choose from, such as an ogee or chiseled edge. Make sure to ask about all the profile edge options so you can choose your favorite!
4. Full Height Backsplash
For a sleek and modern look, we must highlight the full height backsplash. For those unfamiliar, a full height backsplash is when your countertop material is carried up the wall to act as the backsplash, in place of tile, for example. Its seamless appearance exudes luxury and takes away the need to search tirelessly through countless backsplash tiles. In the absence of upper cabinetry, some homeowners are opting for a shelf to cap off the backsplash and provide a little extra storage.
5. Two-Toned Countertops
You may have heard of two-toned cabinetry, or mixing cabinet colors within a kitchen, but have you considered two-toned countertops? Essentially, we are talking about mixing and matching two different countertops within a kitchen, like one for the island and another for the perimeter. This can take a bit of strategy to make sure that the colors coordinate without clashing. With a designer on your team, however, that should be no problem. You want to ensure there is enough contrast in both the colors and that other elements of the kitchen design help tie them together.
6. Quartzite
Quartzite has been gaining popularity in kitchens in recent years, for both its beauty and durability. Quartzite is a natural stone, meaning it is taken from the Earth, so its color and vein patterns are naturally occurring. Because of this, each piece of quartzite is incredibly unique, making it a stunning focal point for any kitchen. While natural stone typically comes at a higher price point than manufactured materials like quartz, it is more heat and scratch resistant, making it more durable overall. It does require a little bit of maintenance, so that is something to consider. However, the natural beauty of quartzite is sure to stun!
7. Pop-Up Outlets
Elevating your countertops isn’t only about aesthetics; it’s also about functionality! Adding pop-up outlets is great way to make your countertop more useful for crockpots and other small kitchen appliances, as well as charging phones or other devices. These come in many shapes and sizes, some with extra features like wireless charging for smartphones. Consider adding a pop-up outlet on a large island to make use of the counterspace that would otherwise be far from typical outlets. With custom countertops, the material can be pre-cut to account for outlets. When not in use, just pop them down with minimal interruption.
Here at Gravel Lane Design, we do offer custom countertops as well as full kitchen design services. Our design team is passionate about helping clients achieve their dream kitchen, with experience working with a wide range of budgets and personal styles. To get in touch with one of our designers, visit the “Contact Us” page for our Eureka, Peoria, or Mahomet showroom location, depending where you are in Central, Illinois. We’d love to hear from you!
If you’re looking for help pairing countertops with the right cabinetry, check out these blog posts:
