Picture this: a light, bright and inviting kitchen that is not only practical, but a relaxing and serene space. Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? Whether you want a nature-inspired Scandi haven or a slick, minimalist design, marble-effect worktops can be the key ingredient to creating a scheme that is both hard-wearing and oh so elegant.
Worktops are one of the most important features in any successful kitchen design. They get so much use and are touched every single day after all, so it pays to invest in a material that is hardwearing and suited to your style of living.
Marble or marble-effect worktops?
With marble being such a popular look for worktops, it’s important to know that real marble takes some careful maintenance to keep it looking good. It stains easily and is porous, so you’d have to ensure it’s kept clean to prevent damage.
But with modern innovations, there are other options for marble-effect worktops with easier care. For example, mineral hybrid surfaces made with recycled materials.
Let us explain: the joy of marble-effect worktops is that they get that natural, beautiful look but have high resistance and hardness, plus are really easy to maintain – bonus.
So, if you’re looking to create a kitchen that is equally as stunning as it is practical, then the latest kitchen worktops with intricate marble-look patterns could be the perfect choice for your new design.
Below, you can see four different kitchens with four striking marble-effect worktops. Each is made with HybriQ+ technology – the newest from Silestone – with a minimum of 20% recycled raw materials. What’s more, HybriQ+ uses 99% reused water from the production processes, and 100% renewable electric energy, too.
Along with the eco benefits, the materials look great as well. We’ve got some tips on how to make each of the new mineral hybrid styles work in your new kitchen. Question is: which one is your favourite design?
Get that luxurious look with monochrome
If you love dark cabinetry but don’t want to lose that open and airy feel, worksurfaces are a great way to instantly brighten up your scheme. Go one step further and use the material for your splashback as well. Pro tip: highlight your worktop’s beauty with LED strips and spotlights and also set the right atmosphere when hosting.
Silestone‘s Ethereal Glow surface oozes classic elegance and is inspired by the sunset and its glorious faded glimmer. It features golden and grey veining running through a crisp white background to bring an accent of interest to every corner – ideal for a contemporary scheme.
Create a Scandi-style design with natural materials
Minimalist yet warm and welcoming, Scandinavian-inspired kitchens exude a feeling of peace and calm. Pair your luxurious marble-effect worktops with raw finishes like dark wood and toasty terracotta to add contrast and create the ultimate cosy and relaxing scheme.
Ethereal Dusk showcases a chic urban look in which the blue-ish tone of its veining brings a modern and subtle touch of colour to any scheme. It symbolises an unforgettable sunrise and is charged with feelings of solemnity and tranquility – ideal for any modern-rustic or Scandi-style kitchen with contemporary influences.
Go sleek with modern marble-effect worktops
Want to design a slick and contemporary kitchen?
All you need is handleless cabinetry in a similar tone to your worktops for an ultra-chic effect. However, why not choose a different material for the doors to add another layer of interest to the scheme? Pro tip: Go for built-in appliances to continue that seamless look and a concrete floor for an ultra modern look.
Ethereal Haze has been inspired by the dynamic way the wind moves the clouds over the mountains. The result when using this surface? A calm and modern kitchen design elevated by the entanglement of grey gradients which blend into the pure white worktop.
Create a minimalist kitchen?
Keep your choice of colours and finishes to a minimum and let one accent feature really do the talking. The veining in marble-effect worktops can add elegant detail to an otherwise pared-back space – simply pick up the colour of the veining in your cabinetry or others fittings like your tap.
Ethereal Noctis by Silestone evokes the darkness after sunset. The tinged white backdrop is broken up by grey and black veins, providing contrast and depth. Put yours under the spotlight with contemporary pendant lights and slim LED strips.
Want to know more about these worktops?
Silestone Ethereal is the latest collection of white canvas surfaces with intricate veined patterns which recreate the natural beauty of marble with the veining inspired by the sky by Silestone by Cosentino. The new collection launch is supported with a campaign featuring entrepreneur and international fashion icon, Cindy Crawford (check out the video below!).
So, which worktop caught your eye? The Silestone Ethereal worktops are available now with prices starting from £450 per sq m.
To find out more about the full range of Silestone kitchen worktops, you can call Cosentino UK on 01256 761229 or email [email protected].
This article has been created in partnership with Cosentino.