Countertop Options for Any Lifestyle

Countertops that were once ‘always the bridesmaid’ in recent years have taken on a new prominence in kitchen design. While granite represents the most popular of surfaces, composite surfaces with new colors and textures marry several ‘must haves’ with fun new options. Composite, recycled glass, and concrete countertops offer fashion, functionality and an environmental sensibility. From spunky and modern to warm and traditional, they are enough to entice more and more homeowners to say, “I do.”

 Vetrazzo

When first introduced, glass based countertops represented a colorful, daring option in solid surfaces. In the past decade, the pallet has expanded to include more subtle tones. Soft, new Martini Flint and rich combinations like the popular Alehouse Amber with Patina from leading manufacturer Vetrazzo offer pizzazz in the browns that are found in nature. There are still plenty of playful options like Charisma Blue for the fun seeking homeowner (and the president, who has it on his desktop, according to Vetrazzo). 

An impressive 85 percent of the glass in the Northern California company’s countertops is recycled. Chips in the glass-cement-pigment recipe come mostly from curbside recycling. However, everything from laboratory beakers to traffic light lenses make each surface a story in recycling. Vetrazzo, a U.S. company, tracks the glass in each countertop and provides a Certificate of Transformation to the homeowner. Comparable to granite in hardness and maintenance, Vetrazzo’s glass countertops can also be used as fireplace surrounds, making them an option for the great room.

CaesarStone

The pioneer in manufactured solid surfaces combines natural quartz and a tough polymer to create the best of both worlds for the kitchen counter. Often called “composite” countertops, these surfaces are highly prized for ease of care. CaesarStone, founded in 1987, maintains a leadership position in composite counters with an eye toward environmentalism, style and functionality. A lifetime warranty and several Green certifications make it an Earth and home friendly choice. The company (based in an Israeli kibbutz) doesn’t stop there though. Fashion is as important as function for the firm.

CaesarStone in November began offering Motivo, an embossed product for everything from backsplashes to custom furniture. The first two patterns are Lace and Crocodile. The current collection also features recycled countertops, hammered matte finishes and a unique black metallic accent surface. Colors such as Marrone and Carbone (both recycled) offer bold statements while Absolute Noir and Jerusalem Sand are a soft background for the kitchen. Playful homeowners can try bright Apple Martini or Ruby Reflections.

Concrete

Mention concrete countertops and the imagination tends toward stark, modernistic forms. While certainly possible, the minimalist gray surface is only one option for this fairly new countertop choice. Custom coloring for this mix of sand, stone and cement means counters can be just about any hue. Concrete is unique in that colors can be applied much like a painting, so countertop art is possible. Detail work expands the genre with ornate edge details from Tuscan to contemporary. Embedding anything from coins to shells to personal mementos adds to the custom look. Integral sinks, drain boards and trivets offer functional accents.

Care of concrete countertops is similar to granite. Hot items should not be placed on the surface, nor should it be used as a cutting board. Non-abrasive soaps are recommended. Manufacturers recommend waxing occasionally to maintain luster.

Still not ready to take the plunge? Look for a local dealer that specializes in these unique countertops. Peruse the photos and visit showrooms for a chance to experience the real thing. Often the best way to overcome remodeling jitters is a date with someone who can give specific advice geared toward your needs. It could just be a marriage made in heaven.