Splurge-Worthy Countertops

Remodeling your kitchen and finally achieving your vision is an investment in your home’s value, but also an investment in your own enjoyment, comfort, and convenience. But is it worth going above and beyond when it comes to splurging on countertops?  

Joe DeSilvia, experienced contractor and familiar face to many homeowners thanks to DIY Network’s Under Construction and 10 Grand in Your Hand, says, “When remodeling a kitchen, the number one splurge you should make is countertops. They’re the first thing people see.” (They’re also one of the most utilized elements of this space.) We couldn’t agree more. 

Go Ahead: Splurge on Countertops! 

When it comes to kitchen remodels, the #1 splurge is countertops. It makes sense. These are versatile surfaces that perform dual roles: they are command central for food prep, and they play a starring role in the aesthetic of the space. In fact, according to a Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, 94% of homeowners updated their countertops when undertaking a renovation, and 42% reported opting for more extravagant, lavish, and/or higher quality replacements.  

So, what makes a countertop splurge-worthy?  

Upgraded Materials 

Upgrading countertop materials is an effective way to elevate the entire look and feel of your kitchen. Exceptional options include perennial favorites like: 

Granite and marble. These are highly sought after, and for good reason. When sealed and maintained properly, they serve you — beautifully — for years and even decades. Their classic elegance never goes out of style, but their characteristic veining is especially popular today. 

Soapstone. Another terrific choice, though soapstone is more susceptible to damage than harder stones. You’ll need to treat it with mineral oil regularly; the tradeoff is that it acquires a lovely patina that complements a variety of aesthetics. 

Quartz. This man-made material is all the rage these days! Manufactured from a mix of quartz stone, polymers, resins, and pigments, quartz is highly durable, nonporous, hygienic, and gorgeous. 

Waterfall Edge  

Most countertops stop at the finished edge. Waterfall edge countertops, though, continue down the side of the cabinet or island, “flowing” towards the floor. Their unique design can act as a stunning focal point for your kitchen, especially in materials such as marble, granite, quartz, or even eye-catching wood. 

Thicker Profile Countertops 

Want a thicker profile for your countertops? Well, when your material of choice is a heavier stone like granite or marble, for instance, you may be worried about all that weight. Not to worry! It’s an illusion. Installers work their magic by joining two pieces of stone with mitered edges at a right angle, creating the appearance of an extra-thick countertop. This style really highlights the beauty and unique qualities of the stone (or other material).  

Extend the Material Up the Backsplash

Why not go further and extend the countertop material up the backsplash? Bold? Yes. You? We think so. Cambria, which produces high-quality, American-made quartz countertops, for example, has launched a 6mm product option. It is ultra-thin and lightweight, making it an ideal fit for backsplashes. Innovative solutions like this allow you to create a truly cohesive, seamless look that ties your countertop into other elements of the room. 

Love Where You Eat 

Splurging on your countertops is a decision that you will live with, and love, every day. High quality materials and solutions offer the perfect blend of form and function. 

To learn more about your options, contact the ACo team. We want you to love where you live— and where you eat!