When it comes to custom cabinetry for your kitchen, choosing the right countertops to complement them is key.
The right countertop can dramatically enhance the look and feel of your cabinetry, creating an inviting area to prepare meals or spend time with friends and family. But with so many different materials and styles available, it can be hard to know which one will best suit your needs.
Don’t worry! That’s where this guide from the Cabinet Chic comes in! We’ll walk you through some of the most popular countertop materials and how they can complement your custom cabinetry.
Ready? Let’s get started!
Choosing the Right Countertops
Follow these tried and true tips to help you choose the right countertops that enhance the look of your beautiful cabinetry! And these tips aren’t just for the kitchen, they can be used in the bathroom too!
#1. Balance Light with Dark
The rule of thumb when it comes to matching countertops with cabinets is to balance:
- Light cabinets with dark countertops
- Dark cabinets with light countertops
Simple right?!
Also, if you choose granite that has veins or flecks of an accent color in it, choose cabinetry that matches the accent which creates a contrasting yet complementary design. For example, white-painted cabinets look stunning with dark granite that has white flecks.
#2. Choose a Simple Color Scheme
In interior design, color is your friend. But too many different colors in a room can appear chaotic rather than cohesive.
For a put-together look, choose two main shades that complement each other and one accent for a pop of color.
For example, combining dark-stained or painted cabinets and white marble or granite countertops is both classic and modern. Add a pop of bright color to the backsplash, light fixtures, or accent wall, and you’ve created a coordinated design that is still unique.
You also can’t go wrong with neutrals, which are always in style. Consider pale gray cabinets with white countertops. Very chic!
Whichever colors you choose, make sure you like them well enough to live with them for several years.
#3. Choose a Statement Piece
Only one area of your kitchen should have the spotlight. In other words, either your cabinetry or your countertops should be the focal point—but not both.
Whether you choose stunning veined marble countertops with a waterfall edge or choose to go bold with your cabinetry color, remember that each design feature should complement the overall design. This way, you will design a beautiful cohesive space that will stand the test of time.
Types of Countertop Materials
There are several kinds of countertop materials to choose from. Some of the most popular options include:
Quartz
Though quartz is on the higher end, it truly makes a statement. The best part? This material is sustainable and ultra-durable—even more durable than granite!
Quartz is made from around 93% crushed mineral quartz and 7% resin that binds the material together, plus a pigment to achieve color and texture. It has the look of stone but allows homeowners to customize the design based on their home’s aesthetic.
Granite
Granite is 100% natural and is mined from quarries around the world, cut down to size, and then polished to an ultra-smooth finish.
It comes in several different colors and patterns so whether you are looking for something subtle or a standard slab with unique inclusions, there is a limitless selection to choose from.
Marble
Few materials are more elegant than marble. Its soft white color with gray swirls is second to none, which is why it is one of the most popular materials for countertops.
Though it requires a bit more maintenance than quartz or granite, it can enhance the look of your custom cabinetry and give your space a luxurious feel.
Stainless Steel
The sleek, modern appearance of stainless steel counters works well in both traditional and modern kitchens.
While some homeowners might worry that a metal worktop looks too sterile, its appearance can be softened with beautiful painted cabinetry, wooden flooring, and finishes like brushed metal, satin, or antique matte.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile countertops are available in a variety of colors, shapes, materials, and sizes. With such a wide variety of colors and patterns to choose from, you can customize the look to contrast with your cabinetry, or opt for something in the same color palette.
The drawback? While there is a huge variety of types and styles available, if a ceramic tile countertop cracks or is damaged, it can be challenging to find the correct replacement.
Butcher Block
Butcher block, which is made from individual wooden strips that are fused into a beautiful sleek slab, is a timeless and trendy material for countertops that looks great with any style of cabinetry.
Whether you have glass front, shaker style, raised panel, or inset cabinet doors, the warmth of wooden butcher block countertops will set them off in style.
More Inspiration > Ways to Make Your Kitchen Look More Expensive
Have Happiness Built-In
To truly make a statement in your kitchen you need to incorporate stunning custom cabinetry and unique countertop materials. With over 30 years as custom cabinet makers, our local Tampa craftsman at C & C Cabinets can design, build, and finish custom high-end cabinetry that will enhance any space.
Contact our designer, Miriam Johnson, for a cabinetry consultation anywhere in the Tampa Bay area today at 813-876-6780!
