Your kitchen is the heart of your home, your gathering place for all things family and friends. So when you think about your countertops and what you’ll put on them, functionality is only one part of the equation. Read on to find out what our design pros said about choosing the right materials and arrangements for the look you want.
Zac Houghton
Zac Houghton, CEO at Loftera.
Countertop Ties Kitchen Together
Many factors come into play when designing a kitchen. The layout, the cabinets, and the appliances all influence how you feel about your home’s kitchen.
However, one of the most important features is the countertop. Countertops are what bring the kitchen together. They are an important part of the design and functionality of your home, which is why it is so important to pick out the right material for your countertop. There are many different styles and colors, but each option has its benefits and drawbacks depending on your home’s needs.
When it comes to designing the interior of your home, one of the most important aspects to consider is countertops. This can be a difficult choice, as there are many different types of countertops available, differing in material and style. Let’s take a look at some common countertop materials and how they differ in design and practicality.
Tiles
Tiling is one of the most popular choices for homeowners who want to create a unique and stylish atmosphere in their kitchens. There are many kinds of tiles on the market today, from ceramic tiles to glass or even mosaic ones. If you want to create a marble kitchen island but don’t want to spend too much money on it, this may be an option for you.
Natural Stone
Natural stone comes from natural sources like rocks or other minerals. This material has become increasingly popular over time, as people have come to appreciate its beauty and uniqueness. Some of the most popular natural stone materials include quartzite, marble, granite, slate, and limestone. When used as a kitchen island countertop, natural stone will add elegance and beauty to your home’s interior décor while still providing excellent practicality.
Ambiance on a Budget
Countertop material factors into interior design because it dramatically affects the look and feel of your kitchen as well as the cost of your project. For example, people looking to upgrade their kitchen without breaking the bank might opt for quartz countertops instead of marble. If you’re looking to save money, some people opt for peel and stick backsplashes and countertops.
Priscilla Moiseoff
Priscilla Moiseoff is the lead stylist and interior designer a Walker Edison Furniture.
Joel Phillips
Joel Phillips, Founder of Home Guide Corner.
Steer Clear of Clutter
Countertop arrangement and materials can change the entire look of the space. Materials like granite and marble are super popular if you want the room to feel luxurious and elegant. On the other hand, concrete or natural wood surfaces are ideal if you want to go for a modern yet minimalist design.
As far as the countertop arrangement is concerned, ensure that you don’t clutter it with random items. A flower vase in the center looks very chic. You can even have cookies or candy jars for the kids. Avoid placing your appliances on the countertop. They should be stacked away in a cabinet, away from the human eye. This gives the area a clean and organized look.
Shoot for Low-Maintenance Arrangements
What you choose as a countertop arrangement can change the entire look of your kitchen. Whatever you choose, the most useful arrangement looks good but also has a functional element to it. These may be beautiful glass jars that are used for dried pasta or cooking utensils. This helps to keep the counters clutter-free as the decor pieces have a purpose.
The materials chosen also matter as you want it to be something that can easily be cleaned or wiped down. Therefore materials such as rough wood or wicker might not be the best option. These can collect dust and food splatters that are almost impossible to clean off.
At the end of the day, most countertop arrangements have a lot of thought put into them when done correctly. If not you may end up with items that simply take up valuable space.
Nora Mitchell
Nora Mitchell is a former designer and writer who founded Household Advice, a website designed to cover home repair, DIY projects, design, and more.
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