When selecting kitchen countertops, think beyond basic granite, laminate, or solid surface. Adding an unexpected material, artistic edge, or bespoke detailing transforms counters from purely functional to an inspired focal point. The people at Bedrock Quartz say that imaginative use of metal, glass, concrete and recycled or salvaged items lets you create one-of-a-kind kitchen countertops, relaying personal style.
Copper Countertops
Showcase the welcoming glow and artistry of copper as your kitchen countertops. As a living finish, copper counters develop a varied patina over time, adding depth. Naturally antibacterial, copper provides a hygienic cooking surface. Three copper options exist:
Copper Tile
Mosaic penny tiles soldered to a sub-base create a retro backsplash look in smaller spaces. The round tiles nicely conceal grout lines. Keep surfaces coated with wax to prevent oxidation.
Stainless Clad Copper
Go for stainless-clad copper supplying durability and easy maintenance. The stainless surface prevents discoloration. Reveal flashes of copper along the edges or incorporate strips across the counter.
Concrete Countertops
Raw yet elegant concrete makes a statement as kitchen countertops. Crafted offsite or cast onsite, concrete offers diverse finished looks:
Polished Concrete
Finely ground and polished concrete takes on the look of expensive natural stone when sealed. Shimmering mineral flecks in the concrete matrix catch light.
Stained and Textured Concrete
Artisan techniques like acid-staining and imprinting the wet concrete with textures give concrete counters unmatched uniqueness. Use molds for sink forms.
Exposed Aggregate Concrete
Seed the wet concrete mix with colorful glass, quartz, or seashell aggregates before pouring. Once set, grind back the surface, exposing the decorative fragments.
Recycled Glass Countertops
Upcycle bottles and mirrors into exquisite kitchen countertops with recycled crushed glass. Showcase the glass naturally or mix it into concrete for sparkling counters with earthen appeal.
Reclaimed Wood Countertops
Salvaged barn siding, wine barrels, bowling alley lanes and other woods reinvented as kitchen countertops add rustic warmth and sustainability. Fuse beautiful patinas and natural imperfections into your design for counters with artistic soul.
Metal Countertops
In sleek stainless steel or rich copper, metal evokes an industrial ambiance. Options like:
- Zinc counters with an elegant low-luster gray finish.
- Bronze with golden warmth and antiqued or matte finishes.
- Riveted panels backing glass tiles for a cool factory look.
- Mercury glass tiles fused to create slick solid surfaces.
WOW Factors: Advanced Countertop Ideas
Dream up next-level countertops with these innovative ideas:
Embedded Objects
Encapsulate found items inside translucent resin countertops for eclectic personality. Ideas include seashells, pressed flowers, coins, and fabric. Illuminate objects for added drama.
Secret Compartments
Install a concealed drawer tucked discretely into counter overhangs to stash secret items or culinary tools. Copper inlay outlines for a subtle reveal.
Two-Tiered Counters
Lower a section of counter to create a space for bar stools on one side. Make the raised counter standard height for food prep. Great for eat-in kitchens.
Waterfall Edge
A countertop edge cascading to the floor makes a sensational contemporary statement. Choose stone slabs of sufficient size to accommodate the elongated profile.
Handcrafted Tiles
Commission an artisan to fabricate custom handmade tiles for your counters. Whether geometric cement tiles or art déco-inspired ceramic, personalized tiles crank up the charisma.
Conclusion
Kitchen countertops that exhibit ingenuity and originality speak volumes about your personal style. Moving beyond conventional materials allows counters that go beyond merely functional to become artistic showpieces that make your kitchen extraordinary. From the artistry of copper to the sustainability of salvaged woods, impactful countertops invite conversation and delight. Specify unique finishes, profiles or inlays that transform utilitarian counters into an inspired declaration. Your one-of-a-kind kitchen countertops will feed your soul in addition to your stomach.
