"That kitchen counter and backsplash are literally bonkers" says commenter

The article highlights the increasing importance homeowners place on kitchen countertops, as evidenced by a 2022 Houzz online survey. While quartz and granite remain popular, the market offers a diverse range of materials that blend aesthetics and functionality. This overview showcases several kitchen projects, each featuring distinct surfacing materials, demonstrating how designers incorporate them to achieve specific design goals and meet client needs. Selah Ewert, a senior interior designer at Norman Building & Design, used Brazilian Fossil quartzite for an island to create a striking focal point in a contemporary kitchen. The quartzite's dramatic geometric patterning and bold coloration, complemented by a waterfall edge, influenced the selection of Anigre wood cabinets and other natural elements to ensure a cohesive design. For the perimeter, a neutral Silestone White Zeus Extreme quartz was chosen, allowing the island to stand out. This project underscores the use of natural stone to introduce unique artistic elements into a kitchen space. Cameron Weaver of Weaver Construction restored a home with Mid-Century Modern design, incorporating soapstone for both the island and perimeter countertops. The soapstone slab, featuring hints of blue, gold flecks, and light/dark clouds, provided movement and character. Oiling the stone deepened its color, coordinating with window trim and contrasting with white cabinetry. The use of a waterfall edge further enhanced the stone's natural beauty, aligning with the home's original architectural style and integrating modern elements with a historical tribute. Barbi Stalburg Kasoff of Stalburg Design utilized Enigma Spyder quartz for a kitchen with gray perimeter cabinetry, aiming to counteract a potentially stark aesthetic. The dark, earthy, red-based quartz, combined with black pendant lights and custom green island cabinetry, introduced warmth and a homey feel. Flecks of gold within the quartz synchronized with gold-lined pendants, adding layers of texture and richness. This design illustrates how engineered quartz can achieve a natural, sophisticated yet family-friendly ambiance. Valerie Helgeson of Design Directions transformed a 1920s bungalow kitchen by removing walls and incorporating Metro Quartz Unique Calacatta quartz countertops. This marble-look engineered surface offered durability and stain resistance while maintaining the home's period feel. An arched island edge improved seating and safety for children, demonstrating thoughtful design for both aesthetics and practicality. The quartz complemented other elements like white oak accents and custom green cabinetry, ensuring a timeless design that respects the home's heritage. Nar Bustamante of Nar Design Group selected Cosentino Dekton Rem sintered stone for a kitchen with abundant natural light. The Dekton's UV protection prevented discoloration, while its subtle veining, replicating Calacatta Lincoln, offered a gentle contrast to white cabinetry. The suede finish of the surface was chosen to minimize glare from large windows, creating a comfortable working environment. Bustamante highlighted the material's thin profile and polished edge, achieving a play on texture and sheen, and its stain resistance made it practical for additional areas like a wine bar. Reid Brawner and his wife, lifestyle blogger Shalice Noel, used Neolith Calacatta Luxe sintered stone for their home renovation. The stone's dramatic veining, mimicking luxurious marbles, integrated traditional and modern elements. Its polished finish provided a luxurious feel and was easy to clean, a practical benefit for an active family. The reflective quality of the surface also helped distribute natural light. The design incorporated a transitional modern foundation, with accents throughout the kitchen referencing the stone's veining and minimizing the appearance of the range hood. Jessica Pleasants and Okan Oncel of POP Architecture incorporated stainless steel for the island and bar countertops, along with Glassos crystallized glass for the perimeter and backsplash, in a Manhattan apartment renovation. The stainless steel, chosen for its durability and ease of cleaning, featured brass rivets that added warmth, while the Glassos offered uniformity and a pure white property. This project showcased a mix of materials to add visual interest and depth, maintaining a sophisticated yet functional design that honored the building's heritage. Jenny Roush Newman of West End Cabinet Company used Curava Savaii recycled glass countertops, featuring embedded seashells and clear glass, for a coastal-inspired kitchen. The material's color palette softened horizontal surfaces and complemented painted walls and subway tile. This choice provided a unique, aesthetic solution that also offered practical benefits, such as concealing crumbs, fitting the homeowner's desire for a light, airy, and inviting design theme. Courtney Kizer of Architectural Squared highlighted a custom walnut island with Caesarstone Ocean Foam quartz for the perimeter and main working surface. The walnut element, made possible by structural changes, became a central feature, adding warmth and unique flair. The quartz maintained a clean neutrality, allowing the wood and other colorful accents, such as a multi-toned green backsplash, to stand out. This design combined the warmth of wood with playful elements, inspired by the Baja peninsula. Michelle Krochmal of Filament Architecture Studio utilized Wilsonart Blackbird laminate for a vintage-inspired kitchen, reflecting the client's preference for 1930s-1950s styles. The dark laminate, with a Leno Weave finish, grounded the kitchen and coordinated with checkerboard flooring, while a metal trim detail maintained historical authenticity. This choice demonstrated how laminate can offer a distinct vintage aesthetic and express individuality, proving its relevance beyond modern material trends. Alberthe Buabeng of Albie Knows selected Formica Bleached Concrete Everform solid surface for her galley kitchen. The material's durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal were crucial for a high-traffic area that served multiple functions beyond cooking. The neutral colorway supported a black and white design with warm wood accents, achieving a luxe, cozy, and minimal aesthetic that aligned with her design ethos while accommodating a busy family lifestyle. #KitchenDesign #CountertopMaterials #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #Quartzite #Soapstone #EngineeredQuartz #SinteredStone #LaminateCountertops #SolidSurface

A kitchen backsplash, once a purely functional element, has evolved into a significant aesthetic component, allowing homeowners to inject personality and create a focal point in their kitchen design. Historically, backsplashes were simple curved lips of laminate, primarily serving to protect walls from spills and crumbs. Today, however, they offer a vast array of choices in materials, styles, and price points, transforming a typical kitchen into something unique and special. Design professionals emphasize the backsplash as an opportunity for creative expression, contrasting with the more practical decisions involved in selecting cabinets, countertops, and flooring. There are options available for every budget and taste, ranging from affordable ceramic tiles to high-end specialty materials. Visiting a tile showroom is recommended to explore the possibilities, with knowledgeable staff on hand to guide customers through the selection process, provided they bring kitchen dimensions. Ceramic tile is a popular choice, including the classic 3-by-6-inch subway tile, which is now available in various colors and shapes beyond traditional white. Other popular backsplash materials include porcelain tile, natural stone (such as marble, granite, onyx, limestone, and slate), mosaic tile, and glass tile. Each material offers distinct characteristics in terms of durability, appearance, and installation requirements. Porcelain tile, a denser and less porous type of ceramic, requires special setting material. Natural stone, while versatile and organic, is more porous and typically requires sealing. Mosaic tiles provide decorative flair with their combination of small pieces of colored ceramic, glass, or stone. Glass tile is a contemporary, shimmery option, but it comes at a higher price and can be more challenging to install due to the adhesive being visible through the tile. While many tile shops and big box stores offer classes on backsplash installation, and some individuals prefer the challenge and cost savings of a DIY approach, expert opinions vary on its feasibility. DIY success largely depends on the tile type and pattern chosen; mesh-mounted mosaics, for instance, are particularly tricky for amateurs due to visible grout lines if mistakes are made. Precision, patience, measuring skills, and familiarity with a wet saw are essential for those considering DIY installation. Professionals often advise caution, particularly for complex patterns or if a perfectly level and straight finish is desired. For a dramatic effect or intricate designs, hiring a professional installer is recommended to ensure a high-quality and satisfying result. #KitchenDesign #HomeRenovation #BacksplashIdeas #CeramicTile #PorcelainTile #NaturalStone #GlassTile #DIYHomeImprovement

The author recounts a challenging experience with a kitchen backsplash installation, highlighting the complexities and potential pitfalls of home improvement projects. The narrative begins with the successful completion of various kitchen renovations, including new counters, cabinet hardware, sink, and faucet, all executed within three days as per the author's meticulous planning. However, the backsplash installation was deferred, awaiting the finalization of the new quartzite counters to ensure proper tile selection against the home's natural light. After selecting warm white, 2x8-inch tiles, the author engaged a handyman's tile installer, Joey, to complete the backsplash. Joey proceeded with the installation in a horizontal subway style with staggered joints. Upon completion, the author observed that the tiles were uneven and appeared wavy, an assessment confirmed by her husband. This led to contacting Richard, the handyman, who acknowledged the issue and committed to fixing it. The author emphasizes that a business's response to mistakes is as crucial as the mistake itself, drawing a parallel to Southwest Airlines' customer service. To confirm her assessment, the author consulted her tile store salesperson, whose husband is a tile installer. The salesperson attributed the problem to the installer's failure to check the wall's flatness with a level, indicating that the only remedy was to remove and re-install the tiles. Richard subsequently arranged for Joey to remove the initial installation. A few days later, Richard personally undertook the re-installation. Richard, a tile installer with 30 years of experience, offered several pieces of advice for achieving a high-quality tile installation. His recommendations include securing a skilled installer, preferably through referrals from specialty tile stores or other tradespeople. He stressed the importance of thorough preparation, ensuring that the surface is flat and free of blemishes before tile placement, as any existing imperfections will be amplified by the tile. He advised using a level to confirm the evenness of the substrate, whether a wall or floor, and to rectify any humps or depressions. Richard also highlighted the critical nature of squareness, recommending laser levels to maintain perfectly straight tile lines. He suggested the technique of 'cheating' by making subtle adjustments to account for imperfect right angles in walls or floors, thereby tricking the eye into perceiving straightness. Furthermore, he advised against rushing, recommending a day or more for tile to set before grouting. Finally, he detailed the proper application of grout, emphasizing working in small sections, firmly pressing grout into joints with a float, and swiftly wiping excess from the tile surface with a slightly damp sponge before it hardens. He concluded by stressing the importance of acting quickly to correct any mistakes once tile is in place. The article concludes with the author reflecting on the process, expressing gratitude for Richard's professionalism and problem-solving approach. The experience serves as a practical lesson in home renovation, underscoring that even with careful planning, unforeseen issues can arise, and the quality of craftsmanship and customer service in addressing these issues are paramount. #KitchenRenovation #BacksplashInstallation #HomeImprovement #TileInstallationTips #DIYFailures #QualityCraftsmanship #CustomerService #RenovationChallenges #MarniJameson

This blog post highlights a kitchen makeover that stands out due to its unconventional and bold color scheme, featuring coral and green. The article begins by acknowledging that the idea of painting a kitchen in such vibrant colors might initially seem unusual or even unappealing to some, as traditional kitchen designs often favor more neutral or subdued palettes. However, it quickly pivots to express strong admiration for the unique transformation achieved by interior designer Martin Atwell, emphasizing the positive emotional response it evokes. The core of the makeover revolves around a daring combination of coral-colored walls and bright green cabinetry, a choice that intentionally departs from conservative design principles. This maximalist approach challenges conventional aesthetics by incorporating elements that are typically considered unusual for a kitchen, such as two distinct, highly saturated colors. The article explains that the design successfully integrates these bold colors, creating a cohesive and visually striking space that defies expectations. The original kitchen, before the makeover, featured light wood cabinets and plain walls, which provided a blank canvas for Atwell's creative vision. Atwell’s design strategy is further elaborated through the inclusion of complementary elements. For instance, the original light wood cabinets were retained and integrated into the new design, providing a grounding, natural texture that balances the vibrant hues. This choice prevented the space from becoming overwhelming and added depth to the overall aesthetic. The article details how Atwell carefully selected additional design features, such as the backsplash, hardware, and accessories, to harmonize with the coral and green without detracting from their impact. Specific examples include a backsplash with a subtle yet distinctive pattern that complements both main colors, and hardware that adds a touch of sophistication without competing for attention. The blog post emphasizes that the success of this bold makeover lies in its thoughtful execution and the designer’s confidence in his color choices. It conveys that the kitchen is not just colorful but also thoughtfully curated, demonstrating that maximalist design can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The article also suggests that this project serves as inspiration for those considering their own home renovations, particularly when it comes to experimenting with color. It encourages readers to step outside their comfort zones and consider unexpected combinations, even if they begin with smaller elements like artwork or decorative items. Ultimately, the article concludes by reiterating the transformative power of color and the potential for a kitchen to be a vibrant, expressive space. It suggests that the showcased makeover is a testament to the idea that bold choices, when executed with intention and balance, can lead to truly remarkable and enjoyable results. The post also includes links for readers to explore the full colorful kitchen redo and to find advice on painting kitchen cabinets, further encouraging them to embark on their own creative home improvement projects. #KitchenMakeover #KitchenCabinets #MaximalistKitchen #CoralColor #GreenCabinets #InteriorDesign #BoldColors #HomeRenovation #DesignInspiration

This blog post explores seven unconventional kitchen countertop materials and designs that can add a unique and personal touch to a kitchen space, moving beyond traditional options like marble or quartz. It offers creative alternatives for homeowners looking to make a statement and upgrade their kitchen's aesthetic. Each suggestion comes with a brief description and a link to an external resource for more details or a DIY guide. One featured idea is Penny Countertops, where numerous pennies are meticulously arranged and sealed to form a distinctive and visually engaging surface. This option is presented as an ambitious DIY project for those with a significant collection of pennies, offering a personalized and conversation-starting element in the kitchen. Another innovative concept is Recycled Sea Glass Mosaic countertops. While mosaic countertops themselves are not new, the use of recycled sea glass creates a beautiful and eco-friendly surface with a unique shimmer and texture. This approach provides an artistic and sustainable alternative to standard materials, bringing an ocean-inspired aesthetic indoors. Cork Countertops are also highlighted, particularly for wet bar areas. The article speculates that these might be crafted from slices of wine corks, suggesting a charming and thematic choice for a bar setting that evokes a sense of warmth and natural texture. This option appeals to those seeking an organic and possibly sustainable material for their surfaces. For those desiring a playful and bold design, the DIY Glitter Countertop is introduced. This option involves embedding glitter within an epoxy resin, creating a dazzling and unexpected surface. The article suggests this is ideal for a retro-themed or quirky kitchen, or as an accent on a bar countertop rather than the entire kitchen, allowing for controlled use of this vibrant material. The blog post also delves into Glowing Quartz countertops, moving beyond typical quartz applications. This particular type of quartz is noted for its ability to glow, providing a striking and luxurious effect. Such a countertop transforms a functional surface into a luminous design feature, adding an element of modern sophistication and wonder. DIY Copper Counters are presented as a more accessible and cost-effective way to achieve the luxurious look of copper. The article advises that while copper might initially seem expensive, it can be a feasible DIY project with the right materials and adherence to a tutorial, allowing homeowners to introduce the rich, warm tones of copper into their kitchen without a hefty professional installation cost. Finally, Chalkboard Counters are suggested as a simple yet effective way to revitalize outdated countertops. Utilizing chalkboard paint, this idea transforms a countertop into a functional and interactive surface where notes, recipes, or doodles can be easily written and erased. This highly practical and creative solution offers a dynamic and customizable element to the kitchen, making it a focal point for communication or artistic expression. These various options collectively offer a diverse range of materials and styles for individuals looking to infuse their kitchens with personality and originality. #KitchenDesign #CountertopMaterials #DIYProjects #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #UniqueKitchens #CreativeSpaces