Planning on a kitchen redesign this year? Whether you’re dreaming of an ultra-modern, minimalistic aesthetic or a more traditional look and feel, changing things up a bit is guaranteed to breathe new life into your home – and the type of worktops you opt for could make or break the end result.
Whilst they might seem like just a small component of your kitchen, they are the ‘icing on the cake’, as it were, and if you’re eager to ensure you have plenty of workspace for cooking then you’ll want to opt for a choice that is as practical as it is elegant.
Achieving the perfect balance of functionality and sophistication isn’t always easy, but it is possible. We asked the experts at House of Worktops, a leading provider of luxury kitchen worktops, to break down the options.
Oak
If you’re looking to create a classic, country house feel or add a rustic element to a more modern style of kitchen, then oak worktops are a great choice. Exuding a sense of warmth and cosiness, they’re a great way to add a dash of timeless charm, and are strong and durable enough to last for many years, provided they are well looked after.
Showcasing the natural beauty of this stunning wood and its unique grain patterns, oak worktops are moisture resistant, so they can withstand the occasional splash or spillage – but they do need to be treated with a protective oil or varnish to ensure this, and also to prevent staining. It’s also worth bearing in mind that wood worktops are more heat sensitive than most alternatives, so you’ll need to avoid putting hot pans or dishes on them to keep them looking as good as new.
Natural stone
Natural stones like marble and granite have long been associated with luxury, and they promise to add an opulent and expensive feel to your kitchen. Marble worktops, in particular, are enjoying a moment, with classic white marble being combined with gold or copper fixtures and fittings in some of the most highly sought-after and up-to-the-minute high-end kitchen designs. But if you feel like mixing things up a bit, but it is possible to get both marble and granite worktops in a variety of different colours, including pinks, greens and even black.
Unlike wooden worktops, natural stone worktops are heat resistant, and are another timelessly beautiful choice for your luxury kitchen. With the right care and maintenance, they can last for decades whilst still looking as good as new, making them a great investment that could add value to your home as well as enhancing your kitchen aesthetic.
Engineered quartz
Engineered quartz worktops are made from natural quartz crystals blended with resin, and are a stylish alternative to marble that offers equally impressive durability. Because they are non-porous, they’re a sanitary choice and won’t harbour any bacteria or allow mould or mildew to grow – which is of course, important when it comes to food hygiene.
Not only that, but they don’t require any sealing, either, so any maintenance and upkeep needed is minimal. Whilst they are relatively heat resistant, they don’t quite equal the qualities of marble in this area and if they’re exposed to extreme temperatures then they can discolour or crack – so if you opt for engineered quartz then be prepared to invest in some protective trivets or stands to pop your pots and pans on after cooking and eliminate the risk of burning or marking your surfaces.
Exotic stones
Whilst there’s no denying that all of the above are lavish and sophisticated choices for your kitchen worktops, if you’re seeking a no-expense-spared extravagance then look no further. Splurging on some exotic stone surfaces will create a dramatic and glamorous aesthetic that will make you the envy of all your guests, with options including onyx, quartzite and semi-precious stones like amethyst or agate offering unparalleled natural beauty and a host of different colours and designs to choose from.
Whilst scarcity is sometimes an issue when shopping for the perfect exotic stone worktops, this only adds to the sense of exclusivity. They do, however, come at a price – not just in a financial sense, but also because they require specialised maintenance to keep them looking their best.
While each type of exotic stone worktop comes with its own unique set of requirements, they tend to call for careful handling and cleaning and can be sensitive to harsh chemicals – so you’ll need to choose gentle cleaning products and be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to look after them correctly.
For many, though, they are worth the investment for the statement look they can help you to create in your kitchen, and will make the space a pleasure to cook, eat and socialise in. When it comes to opulence, it really doesn’t get much better than this.
