Kitchen Countertops: A Complete Guide to the Most Popular Materials

by Alice | Nov 27, 2024 | IN THE WORLD OF DESIGN, KITCHEN, LIVING AREA, LIVING THE HOUSE, PRIVATE APARTMENT, STYLE TIPS

When choosing a kitchen countertop, we are often faced with a tough decision. The materials for kitchen countertops available on the market offer a vast range of possibilities, each with unique characteristics. From solid wood, laminates, and HPL to stainless steel, quartz, granite, marble, and the latest ceramic materials, the options are nearly endless. In this article, we will focus on two highly popular categories: marble, natural stones, and quartz, alongside ceramic materials, exploring their features, advantages, and limitations.

Natural Materials: Marble and Stones

Marble

Marble is undoubtedly one of the most elegant and prestigious materials for a kitchen countertop. Its beauty lies in the uniqueness of each slab: no two are alike, thanks to the veins, striations, and unique transparencies that add depth and a three-dimensional quality to the surface. These details often result from natural elements crystallized over thousands of years. A perfect example is Panda White marble, with its golden veins standing out against a dark background, ideal for bringing brightness to a modern kitchen design.

Marble slabs are typically available in thicknesses of 1.2, 2, or 3 cm. Their use can involve arrangements in “book-matched” patterns, creating a mirrored effect that is particularly striking when used on walls. Alternatively, the veins can be aligned to follow the functional surface of the countertop, emphasizing the material’s natural beauty.

The cutting process must be carefully planned to ensure that openings for sinks or cooktops do not compromise the most striking parts of the slab.

In recent years, dark or heavily veined marble has gained significant popularity. A notable example is polished Negresco marble, which pairs beautifully with metallic kitchens, creating an effect of unparalleled elegance.

Natural Stones

In addition to marble, other natural stones like travertine and lava stone can also be used for kitchen countertops. Travertine, a beige sedimentary limestone, has been renowned since Roman times for its distinctive striated appearance. Lava stone, such as Basaltina, offers deep gray tones and a textured, tactile surface that adds character to the kitchen design.

Both materials are naturally porous but can be treated with transparent fillers to enhance resistance against oils and flours, which might otherwise seep into the material’s natural crevices. This treatment preserves their beauty while improving their practicality for everyday kitchen use.

Maintenance of Natural Materials

Marble and natural stones require careful maintenance. Their porosity makes them vulnerable to staining from acidic substances such as tomato, lemon, or wine. To preserve their beauty, it is essential to use neutral cleaning products and regularly treat the surface with appropriate sealants or protective treatments.

A Place to Admire Them in Person

Marmomac, held annually in Verona (considered the second home of marble after Carrara), is the premier event for marble and natural stone enthusiasts. This exhibition showcases unique slabs from around the world, offering a chance to explore the diversity and beauty of these materials. Below is an example of Travertine and green Amazonite.

Ceramic Materials and Quartz Agglomerates: Innovation and Practicality

Quartz Agglomerates

Quartz agglomerates are among the most versatile and sought-after options for kitchen countertops. Composed of approximately 95% natural quartz and 5% resins, this material combines the aesthetics of natural stones with the performance of technical materials. Its surface is completely smooth and non-porous, making these countertops particularly hygienic and resistant to liquid absorption and staining.

Thanks to quartz’s high hardness, these surfaces offer exceptional resistance to abrasion and scratches, making them ideal for everyday kitchen use. In recent years, quartz agglomerates have regained popularity due to their dynamic finishes, such as the “terrazzo finish,” which mimics the effect of small stones embedded in a neutral base for a fresh, contemporary look. Below are some examples from Stone Italiana’s collection.

Maintenance of Quartz Agglomerates

Despite their excellent performance, quartz agglomerates can be sensitive to high temperatures. Direct contact with hot pots or pans just off the stove may cause stains or cracks due to resin overheating. To protect the surface, it’s advisable to use trivets or other precautions.

Maintaining quartz countertops is straightforward, requiring only neutral cleaning products. Their non-porous surface makes cleaning easy and prevents bacterial buildup, ensuring a highly hygienic kitchen environment.

Ceramic Materials

Ceramic materials represent a modern and highly functional solution for kitchen countertops. Made from a blend of mineral powders, glass, ceramics, and quartz, these materials are compacted and baked at high temperatures, ensuring exceptional durability.

These materials are available in neutral textures or with finishes that mimic marble, wood, concrete, and even oxidized metal. Continuous research has led to highly realistic effects, such as marble veins or metal oxidation, making these products highly sought after for elegant and contemporary kitchens.

Dekton from the Cosentino group, is one of the most appreciated ceramic materials, not only for its aesthetics but also for the brand’s eco-sustainability efforts, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2030. Other brands like Neolith and Atlas offer top-quality solutions, while Lapitec, a compound made entirely of mineral stones and free from silicones, stands out for its innovation with Lapitec Chef, an induction cooktop integrated directly beneath the countertop.

One technical aspect to consider is the veining: in ceramic materials, the veins are not continuous through the entire thickness but are limited to the top surface. To address this, 45° joints are often used to create visual continuity along the edges.

The only ceramic material currently offering a true-through vein effect is Silestone, an agglomerate of quartz and crystalline silica.

Maintenance of Ceramic Materials

Ceramic materials are virtually indestructible. These materials are characterized by high resistance to scratches and stains, thanks to their low porosity and the absence of resins. They are highly resistant to thermal shock and, most notably, to heat, making them capable of withstanding contact with pots and pans just removed from the stove. Additionally, they are antibacterial, preventing the formation of germs and microbes. They are also extremely resistant to chemical agents and UV rays, which can often cause color alterations in materials over time.

Where to Discover Ceramic Materials

Cersaie in Bologna, held annually in September, is the international exhibition for ceramic tiles and architecture. It is the perfect place to discover the latest trends and most innovative solutions in the sector. Below, you can see a ceramic version of the popular marble from last year, created by Atlas. The texture definition is highly realistic, but the main difference is noticeable in the transparency. On the left, an original Patagonia slab by Antolini, backlit to emphasize its beauty, while on the right, Atlas’ reproduction, Gala Marvel, captures the high-resolution photograph of a Patagonia slab with remarkable detail.

Conclusion

The choice between natural materials and ceramic materials depends on personal needs and the desired style for the kitchen. Marble and natural stones offer a unique and timeless charm, thanks to their authenticity and irreplaceable beauty, but they require more careful maintenance in daily use. Ceramic materials, on the other hand, represent a modern and highly functional solution, offering durability and practicality without sacrificing elegance. With their realistic finishes and a wide range of textures available, they fit into any context, from contemporary designs to more traditional ones.

← Versatility in Study and Hospitality

Versatility in Study and Hospitality

by Alice | Oct 17, 2024 | IN THE WORLD OF DESIGN, LIVING THE HOUSE, PRIVATE APARTMENT

In a world that demands increasingly flexible spaces, we reimagined the study of two friendly professors who often work from home, transforming it into a multifunctional room capable of welcoming both students and guests with ease.

The heart of this transformation lies in the long side bookshelf, an elegant composition that houses textbooks and novels, bringing both order and beauty to the space. At the center, a dedicated compartment for a large television becomes a didactic tool for interactive lessons and, at the same time, a source of entertainment for those staying in the room.

Study Mode

When the study comes to life, the space takes on a well-defined role. The desk, framed by a vertical bookshelf, becomes the focal point of the room. Positioned so that the student can sit directly across from the teacher, with the room unfolding in the background, it facilitates dialogue and learning.

Guest Mode

When the room hosts a guest, versatility takes center stage. The sofa transforms into a comfortable bed, while the desk, repositioned against the wall, disappears without disturbing the room’s harmony. Every movement flow is smooth and thoughtfully designed to ensure maximum comfort.

Balance Between Visible and Hidden

The bookshelf tells a story of balance between what is on display and what is concealed. On the open shelves, books that decorate and enrich the space find their place, while in the lower part, hidden behind doors and drawers, everything that shouldn’t distract such as files, documents, and electronic devices, is neatly stored. A difference in depth between the open and closed sections ensures greater storage capacity without overwhelming the overall aesthetic.

Colors and Atmosphere

Colors play a fundamental role in defining the space’s identity. The equipped shelves, with anthracite gray metallic uprights and white shelves, offer a neutral and sophisticated base. In contrast, the desk’s mustard-colored desktop adds a touch of vibrancy. This color not only catches the eye but stimulates creativity and concentration, making the space ideal for studying. The same yellow tone can be found on the wall behind the equipped bookshelf, enveloping the room with warmth and energy.

In this way, the space becomes a haven for knowledge, a place of versatility and hospitality, ready to transform to meet every need.

← The Art of Smartworking in an Equipped Wall with Poetic and Functional Design Kitchen Countertops: A Complete Guide to the Most Popular Materials →

The Art of Smartworking in an Equipped Wall with Poetic and Functional Design

by Alice | Jul 31, 2024 | IN THE WORLD OF DESIGN, LIVING AREA, LIVING THE HOUSE, PRIVATE APARTMENT

In the heart of the modern home, where every corner is designed to combine aesthetics and functionality, the equipped wall by Officina Idea stands out as a poetic and innovative project that transforms the everyday experience of smartworking into a fluid one.

From Design to Realization

The initial renders created by Paolo of Officina Idea illustrated the project in great detail, including color schemes, providing a clear vision of how the unit should look. Thanks to this precise design foundation, we were able to realize the equipped wall as faithfully as possible.

Organized Spaces for Every Need

Imagine a wall that, like a blank canvas, blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment, imparting a sense of order. This is not just a piece of furniture, but a true organizational system that embraces the needs of home working. The spaces have been divided so that one section is dedicated to storing useful materials, another is left open for easy access, and a third is designated for the desk.

Functionality in an Equipped Wall

The wall, extending up to the ceiling, is divided into carefully organized spaces. The upper section, featuring doors, is dedicated to storing files and books, neatly arranged on shelves designed to accommodate standard-sized containers. The lower section, with drawers and large drawers, holds stationery and equipment, keeping everything within reach. An open compartment is reserved for technology, with space for a printer and other mobile devices, while the desk serves as the central hub of creativity and productivity.

The two lateral sections serve the living area, hosting kitchen supplies and, thanks to a hanging bar, some coats. Beneath the desk, an accessible rear compartment hides all the electrical connections and various devices, with switches and outlets available on both the desk surface and the back of the open element. In the desk niche, overhead LEDs provide targeted lighting for the work surface.

Here, we revisit our entire article dedicated to smartworking.

Chromatic Harmony and Style Details

The immaculate white that characterizes the entire structure provides the ideal backdrop for two distinctive elements: the olive green desk and the open compartment in stained oak. These touches of color not only enliven the space but also create a visual balance that lightens the environment while maintaining a refined elegance.

We also find olive green in this kitchen in the Orobic Prealps.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the equipped wall by Officina Idea represents the perfect blend of form and function, combining aesthetics, practicality, and innovation in a project that makes smartworking not only more efficient but also more enjoyable. An ideal solution for those looking to transform their workspace into an oasis of tranquility and organization.

← Material Harmony in the Heart of Como with Ceppo di Gre and Metallic Finishes Versatility in Study and Hospitality →

Material Harmony in the Heart of Como with Ceppo di Gre and Metallic Finishes

by Alice | Jul 10, 2024 | LIVING AREA, LIVING THE HOUSE, PRIVATE APARTMENT

In the enchanting setting of Como’s urban center, an architectural gem rises within a meticulously restored historic building. Here, in a perfect blend of history and modernity, lies an apartment we had the privilege of contributing to. The brainchild of the creative genius of the Studio Milo, this living space stands out for the captivating fusion of raw Ceppo di Gre and elegant bronze metallic finishes, accompanied by warm brick tones.

Material and Color Contrasts

The living area of the apartment is a masterpiece of material and color contrasts, where the natural roughness of Ceppo di Gre meets the sophisticated shine of metallic finishes. This combination not only gives the space a unique appearance but also creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere while maintaining timeless elegance.

The Equipped Wall: Functionality and Aesthetics

Upon crossing the threshold, you are greeted by a floor-to-ceiling equipped wall that impresses with its versatility. Made of wood painted with bronze metallic finishes, it is paired with a lower section consisting of ceramic doors with a Ceppo di Gre effect. These are designed to open downwards with a stop system that prevents contact with the floor, a solution that not only optimizes storage space but also adds a touch of practicality and ingenuity.

ingresso ceppo di Gre e finiture metalliche

The interiors of the upper part are finished in warm gray, with shelves offering ample organizational possibilities. The open compartments, with coordinated shelves in the same metallic finish, add further dynamism and functionality to the structure. One of the most fascinating features of the wall is the sliding door system that, when needed, reveals a wall-mounted television, integrating technology discreetly and elegantly.

The Bar Cabinet: A Touch of Elegance and Color

In the living room, next to a central pillar, is a refined bar cabinet in brick red tones. This distinctive piece features a lower section closed by doors that hide internal shelves, ideal for organizing glasses and bottles. The upper part, on the other hand, features backlit shelves that create a scenic effect, elegantly illuminating the bar area.

The back of the cabinet is closed by a circular arch, in which a mirror reflects the slightly rounded dark wood dining table positioned in front. This play of reflections amplifies the perception of space, adding depth and a touch of sophistication. A classy detail is the recessed handle chains with a bronze finish, recalling the finishes of the rest of the furnishings and completing the living room’s aesthetic harmony.

Arches and rounded architectural details are making a comeback. Here is another example of a recent creation where an arch serves as a divider between two different home environments.

The Home Office: A Haven of Creativity and Concentration

Moving away from the materials used in the living room but maintaining the same soft blue wallpaper background, you find the home office. This space is enclosed by bronze-finished frames, giving a sense of continuity with the rest of the apartment. Inside, a desk and shelves are entirely made of oak, where the wood finds its fullest expression.

The multifunctional desk is a design masterpiece: it features a rounded corner, a part equipped with a pull-out shelf, and a cable pass-through at the back to maintain order. The wall shelves, illuminated by a study shelf light, provide an ideal environment for reading and working, adding a touch of warmth and coziness.

Here is an article entirely dedicated to home office corners designed for smart working.

Details that Make the Difference

In the living area, the vital core of this apartment on Lake Como, every detail has been meticulously curated. From the raw Ceppo di Gre to the selection of warm and welcoming colors, from the peculiarly designed wall lights to the double pair of ceiling spotlights, each element offer not only functionality but also a strong aesthetic value. The perfect lighting and the skillful placement of each piece enhance the entire environment. The fine materials and sophisticated finishes blend in perfect harmony, highlighting the natural beauty and inherent elegance of each detail.

mobile ceppo di gre e finiture metallizzate

An Invitation to Live in Style

This apartment represents the perfect meeting point between past and present, a place where history intertwines with modernity, creating a unique environment, designed to offer a bespoke living experience. The combination of Ceppo di Gre, with its rough and authentic texture, and the bronze metallic finishes, with their sophisticated charm, creates a harmonious dialogue between tradition and innovation.

← Light and Shadow: The Magic of a Multifunctional Anthracite Gray Kitchen The Art of Smartworking in an Equipped Wall with Poetic and Functional Design →

Light and Shadow: The Magic of a Multifunctional Anthracite Gray Kitchen

by Alice | Jun 21, 2024 | IN THE WORLD OF DESIGN, KITCHEN, LIVING AREA, LIVING THE HOUSE, PRIVATE APARTMENT

In a modern apartment just a stone’s throw from Bergamo, nestled at the edge of a quiet, green forest, we have designed an anthracite gray kitchen, crafted to be not only aesthetically refined but also extremely multifunctional.

Kitchen Design

During the design phase, we considered the room’s square layout and the family’s habits. This led us to choose a corner kitchen, leaving the central space free for an extendable table, perfectly illuminated by a centrally positioned designer chandelier.

On the left side, the kitchen structure begins with a series of tall columns housing the pantry and ovens. From here, a long worktop extends to embrace the corner. One part of the countertop is equipped with high wall units, while the other part leaves space for a window overlooking the garden. Completing the opposite side, a large free-standing refrigerator is framed by a unit with a side pull-out.

Multifunctional Additions

One of the most interesting aspects of the design is the retractable spice rack. By utilizing additional depth, we managed to integrate a pull-out system placed behind the initial columns. This element, which opens laterally to the induction hob, features compartments for spices, small accessories, and a paper towel holder, making everything within reach during food preparation.

Other useful components include trash can drawers, a foldable door in the cabinets, and a column with a front extraction system that allows access from both sides. These features enhance practicality and efficiency, making it a true multifunctional hub.

Materials and Finishes

Considering the very bright environment, we chose to dare with anthracite gray, a dark and striking color that contrasts with the predominant white. The oak veneer wall units complement the honey-toned wood-effect porcelain stoneware, bringing a touch of nature into the home.

The worktop is made of Lapitec, a high-performance ceramic material with a slightly speckled, rough texture. It harmoniously blends, almost merging, with the anthracite color of the kitchen and the sink in the same shade of granite.

At the back of the kitchen, a glossy white Lacobel panel, in the same shade as the wall, creates a clear contrast between the gray countertop and the wood of the cabinets.

We present two more examples of anthracite kitchens: the first is a corner kitchen with a cooking island, while the second features a C-shaped layout ending in a central peninsula.

Coordination in the Space

The TV cabinet, facing the kitchen, has also been designed and built in the same anthracite gray, completing the space in a discreet and harmonious manner. Comprising drawers and doors with internal shelves, it offers ample space for storing elements and accessories related to the living area and kitchen. Next to the television, wall elements in white, gray, and anthracite alternate, creating a play of shapes and symmetries that enrich the overall aesthetic of the space.

Conclusions

There is no need to fear using dark colors, especially in bright environments or where white is predominant. In this project, anthracite gray was the perfect choice to balance the abundance of light tones, infusing the space with a decisive and refined elegance. This kitchen, combined with the living area, demonstrates how functionality and aesthetics can merge into perfect harmony.

← Design Week 2024 Material Harmony in the Heart of Como with Ceppo di Gre and Metallic Finishes →

Kitchen Countertops: A Complete Guide to the Most Popular Materials

Natural Materials: Marble and Stones

Marble

Natural Stones

Maintenance of Natural Materials

A Place to Admire Them in Person

Ceramic Materials and Quartz Agglomerates: Innovation and Practicality

Quartz Agglomerates

Maintenance of Quartz Agglomerates

Ceramic Materials

Maintenance of Ceramic Materials

Where to Discover Ceramic Materials

Conclusion

Versatility in Study and Hospitality

Study Mode

Guest Mode

Balance Between Visible and Hidden

Colors and Atmosphere

The Art of Smartworking in an Equipped Wall with Poetic and Functional Design

From Design to Realization

Organized Spaces for Every Need

Functionality in an Equipped Wall

Chromatic Harmony and Style Details

Conclusions

Material Harmony in the Heart of Como with Ceppo di Gre and Metallic Finishes

Material and Color Contrasts

The Equipped Wall: Functionality and Aesthetics

The Bar Cabinet: A Touch of Elegance and Color

The Home Office: A Haven of Creativity and Concentration

Details that Make the Difference

An Invitation to Live in Style

Light and Shadow: The Magic of a Multifunctional Anthracite Gray Kitchen

Kitchen Design

Multifunctional Additions

Materials and Finishes

Coordination in the Space

Conclusions

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