RockFin Countertops is a professional countertop installation business in Houston
Click to request a quote for your remodeling project.
Ah, the joys of remodeling: Getting that right side of your brain boiling, gleefully ripping out the hideous laminate that’s teased you for years, and telling the in-laws you’re too tired to barbeque. Whether you want a country French feel or cook like the CEO of Restoration Hardware, it’s always a good idea to begin with the basics such as your kitchen countertops and other accessories.
Start with the stone- or granite -countertops
Although we’re in the business, a great tip -if your budget allows- is to splurge on your kitchen countertops, which really are the foundation of the space. The color, material and general feel of your countertops set the stage for choosing your complimentary cabinets and fixtures.
White Marble countertops, pure and not-so-simple looking
Judging by the marble above, I would have no problem licking any rogue crumbs straight from counter. White marble slabs tend to really modernize a space, if that’s the look you’re after, and the color invokes the words ‘purity’ and ‘cleanliness’. Marble countertops say a lot by not doing much. Although more stark than humble, it’s a statement piece rather than something to fade into the kitchen’s details. However, you can warm up the space with playful pops of colorful.
Black granite countertops: Make a statement, just not too loud!
Like white marble, black granite also makes a statement, but it’s important that you don’t go too Addams Family on your kitchen. Make sure that your accompanying cabinets and wall colors don’t drain all the life and light out of the space. The perfect solution is a kitchen that utilizes the black granite countertops as the hub of the design. However, also note that the black iron accents and the white cabinets keep the kitchen fresh and bright.
Think of your sink accessories like a pair of dangle earrings
You’ve got the little black dress and demure shoes, but your silver-sheen earrings really catch the compliments of the night. Your kitchen’s aesthetics are just like your cocktail flare. Your kitchen countertops are the foundation (the dress) and the cabinetry are your shoes; they can be as wild as you want. However the kitchen sink, knobs, lighting and other hardware that dot the den really add the spice of life.
I don’t even know what this faucet says to me design-wise, but I like it. Speak. By Kohler
Although this little number by Kohler reminds me of a World of the Wars creature or something reminiscent of the dentist’s chair, you might like this twist on tradition
This faucet by Moen doesn’t scream modern, I think it just harbors a clean look
You may also be interested in: Playing around with design ideas and creating remodeling idea books at the awesome Houzz.com
Vintage chachkis and accessories warm up a space
Today we’re surrounded by factories that pump out generic flower ‘paintings’ and other vintage-looking items that you’ll find in every cookie-cutter house. Vintage, I’m talking REAL vintage furniture and frames from the junk store down the street, add the most unique touches to your kitchen’s end design. The aged items that you rummage for all tell the story of being loved before, and they add an irreplaceable element to the space. And no kidding, there’s also a giddy feeling of accomplishment and joy after finding the perfect, quirky piece or vase to add to the counter top. The best part? There’s a good chance no one in the world has the same thing as you (Insert smug, satisfied nod to Restoration Hardware).
Here’s two chairs I found at a vintage store off of Westheimer in Houston (Lou B’s Antiques). They’re a great accent anywhere in my home. They migrate to many places in my house: kitchen, living room, dining etc.
I took my own advice and spiced up my kitchen: Pictured is a restored architectural drafting table from my boyfriend’s great, great add a few more ‘greats’, grandfather. It warms the kitchen, and it’s also an incredible conversation piece. Notice my white cabinets and my black granite countertops.
Where do you find your favorite ideas to store in your mental scrapbook? What’s worked best (or the worst) with your remodeling projects? Do you prefer marble or granite countertops?
