Picture this: magnificent marble islands that ooze a sense of luxury, and kitchens dressed in opulent stone worktops and splashbacks. Want to go big with beautifully veined materials, whether they be engineered or natural? We show you how.
If you are thinking about getting the look of stone, know that it comes in a variety of colours, ranging from whites and greys to soft pinks and blues, with a multitude of patterns and swirl variations. The best bit? No two pieces are the same. So, dressing your kitchen in stone, be it a glamorous island or a striking worktop, it will instantly add a touch of luxury to your space.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to natural stone. First of all, it is a porous material, which means it can absorb spills. So, be careful with red wine or greasy takeaway.
Secondly, stone is more prone to marks and scratches, so say goodbye to hot pots and pans placed directly on the worksurface. Thus, in order for you to enjoy the material for as long as possible and make it a practical addition to your kitchen, it needs to be sealed properly.
There are also great benefits to choosing stone in your kitchen. For example, seeing as it’s cool to the touch, natural stone is great for making pastries and kneading dough – so perfect for an island.
As natural stone is a luxurious and expensive surface, there are plenty of alternatives such as beautiful quartz and durable laminate, that offer the look of stone without the upkeep. How great?
Now, how can you use stone to get a luxurious look in your kitchen? Whether you’re in the middle of renovating your kitchen, or are putting together a moodboard for a future project, take a look at how you can nail the look of stone…
Get the look of stone
Why not achieve a moody look with a show-stopping stone? Go with a dark and veiny book-matched surface on your island and to add interest opt for fluted wood cabinetry, gunmetal taps and built-in matt black appliances.
Use the same striking surface on your kitchen island on both your worktops and splashbacks for a cohesive scheme. If you really love the look of stone, why not lay the the material in any alcoves, too? From open shelving to a former chimney breast, fill the space with a luxurious slab.
You can make a statement by choosing natural stone with powerful, contrasting swirls and veins, such as Calacatta viola marble, on your island, worktops and splashbacks. Pair it with dark wooden cabinetry to make it really shine and highlight its beauty with chrome accents.
You don’t have to stick to one style of stone. Be daring and mix and match your favourite slabs for an opulent look. Whether an island in on your wishlist and you’re finally ticking it off, or need to upgrade your worktops and splashbacks, play with different patterns to achieve a unique scheme.
Stone and metallic finishes go hand-in-hand. There’s something about warm brass that bring out the beauty of stone even more. Go bold with a grand island that’s perfect for entertaining and opt for a brass breakfast bar to take the design to the next level.
Stone-effect surfaces to get the look of stone
Real stone costs more and needs plenty of care and attention. But fear not, there are lots of alternatives out there that are durable, pretty and offer the look of stone.
For example, engineered quartz worktops are durable, non porous, easy to clean and suit any scheme, from classic-contemporary to modern-rustic. What more could you want, right? Choose a crisp white design with speckles and stripes to embrace a look inspired by stone, but of course, without the upkeep.
What’s more, you can also find laminate surfaces that offer the look and feel of real stone. Laminate surfaces are easy to cut and fit, plus they’re resistant and simple to maintain. Create a monochrome scheme using dark kitchen units and a modern surface with abundant grey veining on your worktops. Sorted!
In conclusion, whether you opt for natural stone or a stone-effect surface, you will instantly bring a luxurious feel to your scheme. Keep in mind the pros and cons of choosing real stone or give up the upkeep with a marble-inspired pattern.
Last by not least, another bonus tip, visit showrooms to grab slabs that you can test at home, or play with virtual tools to see your space some to life and nail the look of stone.