Whether you are designing a room from scratch or updating an existing scheme, countertops play a key role in the completed look of your kitchen or bathroom. The variety of materials now used is practically limitless, bound only by your imagination.
Here are a few of the new products available for countertops:
Wood
Popular domestic wood choices include white oak, redwood, cypress and cherry, while more exotic varieties, such as Tasmanian blackwood and jarrah, are also gaining recognition. “I’m seeing wood countertops and vanities more and more in kitchens and bathrooms,” says Abbe Fenimore, Dallas designer and owner of Studio Ten 25. “Most of us think that the butcher block is the only option for wood countertops, but with all of the available species out there, wood can fit many budgets.”
Fenimore loves the practicality of wood and the fact that wood counters are naturally sanitary because they have “an inherent, built-in protection against bacteria. Another perk is that, unlike other materials, if wood countertops are ever damaged, simply sand away the undesired marks or dents to smooth out the surface. They are perfectly natural and perfectly modern.”
Copper
One of the best attributes of copper countertops is the antimicrobial properties they offer. You can also choose to have patterns or textures on your countertops that may complement the style of your kitchen. Because copper is a fairly soft surface, care must be used to avoid dents and scratches; always use a cutting board. Cleanup is easy with water and you can use dish soap for stains.
PaperStone
According to the company website, “PaperStone is made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled paper that has been saturated with our proprietary PetroFree phenolic resins and selected natural pigments on our treated lines.” The line is certified LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and available in nine colors.
Polished concrete
This “green” material offers a wow factor in high-gloss or matte finishes with color options galore. It also offers temperature benefits, as it absorbs heat in your kitchen and releases it as the temperature drops. Concrete countertops lend themselves to decorative items so you can easily create your own art pieces with them!
Quartz
This choice offers a countertop that is both durable and hygienic, as it is a non-porous stone. Its resistance to stains in both the kitchen and bathroom make it a top choice for new construction and renovations alike. Because countertops contain both quartz and polymer resin, they resist chips and scratches.
Choosing a countertop is a process of balancing your wants, needs and budget. With options available in every imaginable color, texture and finish, the sky’s the limit when putting together your dream kitchen or bath project.
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