An island is a stylish way to increase counter space and storage in your kitchen. Islands are freestanding workspaces, usually located in the center of the kitchen. What began as purely practical has become so much more. A kitchen island has become the centerpiece of the kitchen and is usually the main hub for activity in a lively home
The kitchen island is as versatile as it is functional. It may range from a humble worktop to a bold and elegant breakfast bar. If you are a keen host, your guests may congregate around your island, enabling you to hang out and chat while preparing the meals or making cocktails
Your island may be fitted with enclosed spaces: cupboards and drawers – excellent for pots and pans, utensils, or food. The island may also have open shelves for easy access to resources and perfect for smaller spaces.
Now that you’ve decided to have an island, what material will you choose for the countertop? Your choice of countertop will determine the style of your kitchen.
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Questions you need to ask yourself before choosing an island countertop?
The countertop surface will make an impressive statement about your kitchen, so choosing the right one is a big decision. There are many options available to you, depending on your budget, priorities, and lifestyle.
Here are a few questions to ask yourself to help define which material will work best for you.
- How often will you be using your countertop?
- What are the requirements for your kitchen or bar?
- How much maintenance do you want to put up with?
- What materials are right for you?
Marble countertops
The most popular choice for a classic and luxurious look is, of course, marble. Marble is a metamorphic stone from the mountains of North and South America, Asia, and Europe. Heat and pressure over millions of years, produces the striking result we see as mineral deposits create veins. It’s found in the oldest layers of the earth.
Care
The porous surface requires regular maintenance of sealing and cleaning to keep it in good condition. Of the possible countertop surfaces, marble is the most susceptible to staining, chipping, and abrasion. So it may not be a wise choice for a busy household with young children. However, it may be an excellent option for someone who wants the quality and is willing to put in the work to protect their investment.
Color
The color and veining in each slab of marble are unique – ranging from subtle to dramatic. The colors vary depending on the type of marble, for instance: Carrara marble is greyer with soft veins, while Calacatta is whiter with richer veins. As well as the original coloring, your marble will take on other hues over time. Patina sets in and the look of your marble begins to change as it develops a visual history. It can be a beautiful process.
Finishes
Marble comes in two finishes: polished and honed. A polished finish is shiny or high gloss, while a honed finish is more matte in appearance. The polished finish is a good choice because it emphasizes the depth of color and veins.
Pros
- They are unique
- They are a natural product
- If well maintained, they will increase property value
- They are long-lasting
- They are exquisite
Cons
- They are incredibly expensive
- They are extremely heavy
- They are porous, so stain easily
- They can be fragile
- They degrade over time
What can you do to make your countertop stand out?
Give your countertops the designer touch with these style tips:
- Add a lush potted plant to bring life and vibrancy to your countertop.
- Use pitchers to display your fresh flowers.
- Layer and group items on the countertop for contrast and interest.
- Use accessories in odd numbers. I.e., in threes or fives.
- Use trays or cake plates to create groupings of essential items.
Related: Luxury Interior Design: How to Decorate Your Home
What are some alternatives to marble countertops?
If you can’t have marble countertops, what then? Not to worry, we have options that can have the look of marble but are much easier to maintain. We also have options that don’t look like marble but are as unique, natural, and beautiful.
Granite countertops
Like marble, granite is a natural stone. Granite isn’t uniform in color or appearance and can be seen in up to 20 different shades. It is hard and resistant to chips and scratches but does require annual sealing. Granite countertops will increase the value of your home and do remarkable things for aesthetics. While granite is durable, it’s not indestructible. It costs slightly less than quartz in most cases.
Quartz countertops
Quartz is an attractive option if you still want the look of marble, but with less maintenance. Quartz is less expensive than marble, but by a process called image printing, has a similar look. For many, it is difficult to distinguish between the two. It has the depth, color, and significant veining of marble.
Limestone countertops
Limestone, available in shades from sandy beige to grayish blue, is another natural stone. Although limestone is more porous than the other natural stone options, sealing makes it stain and heat resistant.
Stainless steel countertops
Stainless steel may seem more like material for restaurant countertops, but it can look just as crisp and timeless in your kitchen. There are great reasons to have stainless steel, the main one being that it’s virtually indestructible. Stainless steel is heat, stain, and almost anything else-resistant. It’s non-porous, so it is easy to clean and sanitize. It’s perfect for families with young children or busy cooks. The reflective surfaces can make your kitchen look bigger and brighter.
The drawbacks are that stainless steel can look cold and sterile, it’s susceptible to scratches and dents if you aren’t careful, and the counters are noisy to use.
Concrete countertops
White concrete countertops are another great alternative to marble. They’re a budget-friendly way to add a marble-like look, with heat and stain resistance. It is warm to touch, and concrete countertops are a satisfying and doable DIY project.
Related: Contemporary Dining Room Ideas for 2020
Closing Thoughts
Your choice of material for the island countertop is vital to the look and feel you want to create in your kitchen. We’ve looked at a broad selection of options, beginning with the most exquisite – marble. Depending on your budget, how your kitchen will be used, and how much work you’re willing to put in, we have shown various choices.
If not marble, then granite or quartz are attractive options. Stainless steel countertops are an interesting consideration, as are limestone and concrete. You may be truly imaginative when it comes to your countertops and create almost any aesthetic you please. You can take your ordinary kitchen and turn it into an extraordinary space.