What’s the best worktop material for your dream kitchen? It’s something that comes up a lot at Joseph May. At first glance, this seems relatively straightforward. Choose something that is tough enough to withstand regular use, is easy to clean and can handle some splashes. We see worktops as more than just practical features – style plays an essential part too. In fact, picking the right colour and finish for your worktop is a powerful way to elevate your luxury kitchen. If you’re stuck for ideas, explore our favourites below.
Solid Wood
Often seen in more traditional, cottage style kitchens, solid wood worktops are a beautiful addition to any kitchen. The richness, warmth and texture they bring can’t be beaten by anything else. When cared for properly, wooden worktops are long-lasting and practical. They also have the benefit of being inherently anti-bacterial. However, they require a little more maintenance to avoid water ring stains and knife scratches, and they should be oiled and sealed regularly. We love solid wood as an accent on breakfast bars or integrated chopping boards and this is often how we use this gorgeous material.
Natural Stone
Natural stone offers a wide range of qualities, from the more sensitive marble to harder quartzite and granite. The latter in particular are extremely robust and resistant to scratches and acids. Marble has long been a common material in kitchens, probably since ancient times. In Italy where marble is commonplace, there is a greater acceptance of the fact that a stone like this shows signs of wear and patina. In fact, this characteristic is celebrated. Natural stone is a living material, simply because millions of years of geological and natural history are stored in it. There’s something magical about that and while natural stone may need a little more TLC, it will continue to be popular with our design team at Joseph May.
Man-made Quartz
Quartz is an excellent choice for several reasons. As it’s man-made, pattern and colour are consistent, so every slab is identical. Unlike marble, a good quality quartz won’t stain and doesn’t need regular sealing or treatment. Quartz is actually a mix of minerals, recycled materials, resin and dyes along with mirrored particles in some styles. Cheaper quartz often has a higher ratio of resin which can change colour over time and also burn more easily than premium brands like Silestone & Caesarstone. Quartz can be made to mimic natural stones like marble and quartzite, making that aesthetic more accessible from a cost and lead time perspective. All quartz is sensitive to heat, so needs to be protected from hot pots.
Porcelain
Porcelain materials like Dekton, Caesarstone & Inalco are beginning to catch up with quartz for kitchen countertops and wall cladding. The main reason for this is resistance to heat and durability. Many of our professional chef clients insist on a porcelain material for worktops in their own homes and we can see why! The range of designs and colours has grown hugely in recent years so whatever style of cabinetry you choose, there is a gorgeous porcelain that will make it shine. Many of these brands offer a variety of thicknesses too, so cabinet doors can be clad in the same material as worktops, offering a striking aesthetic.
Whatever you choose, Joseph May designers can help you make the best choices for your bespoke kitchen, utility, wine room or pantry. Visit us to discuss your project and we’ll get started!
