Selecting Countertops for Kitchen Spaces
Selecting countertops for kitchen spaces may seem a little overwhelming as it involves multiple steps. We've broken down the process for you into 6 simple steps. Here's an outline of the steps. Click on each section to learn more.
If you are looking for the widest selection of countertops in Southern Ontario, contact our highly experienced stone countertop specialists now. You can even visit our warehouse and select the perfect slab for your space.
How to Select Countertops for Kitchen Spaces
1. Define Your Kitchen Design and Style
*The above countertop is made by Caesarstone.
The first step in selecting countertops for kitchen spaces is to get inspired.
Defining your kitchen design and style is a crucial first step in selecting countertops for kitchen spaces that not only serve a practical purpose but also contribute to the overall aesthetics of your space. Here are steps you can take to help you define your kitchen design and style:
Gather Inspiration
Begin by collecting inspiration from various sources. Explore interior design magazines, websites, social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram, and home improvement shows. Pay attention to kitchens that catch your eye and collect images or ideas that resonate with you.
Consider Your Lifestyle
Reflect on your lifestyle and how you use your kitchen. Do you need a functional and efficient space for cooking, or is it more of a gathering place for family and friends? Your lifestyle will influence the design elements you prioritize.
Determine Your Design Style
*The above countertop is made by Caesarstone.
Knowing your design style with help when selecting countertops for kitchen spaces.
Identify your preferred design style. Common kitchen design styles include:
Traditional: Classic and timeless, often featuring ornate details and warm, rich colours.
Modern: Sleek and minimalist, characterized by clean lines, neutral colours, and a focus on functionality.
Transitional: A blend of traditional and modern elements, offering a balance of classic and contemporary aesthetics.
Rustic: Embraces natural materials, earthy tones, and a cozy, farmhouse-inspired atmosphere.
Industrial: Incorporates raw materials like metal and concrete with an urban, warehouse-style feel.
Choose a Colour Palette
Decide on a colour palette that aligns with your chosen design style. Colours play a significant role in setting the mood of your kitchen. For example:
Traditional kitchens often feature warm, earthy tones.
Modern kitchens tend to use a neutral colour palette with pops of bold colours.
Rustic kitchens emphasize natural wood tones and earthy hues.
Choose a colour palette that not only fits into your design, but also matches the mood or vibe of your lifestyle.
Create a Mood Board:
You could also create a digital or physical mood board that combines the images and ideas you've collected. This visual representation will help you see how various elements come together and whether they align with your desired style.
Defining your kitchen design and style is a creative process that allows you to personalize your space according to your preferences and needs. Taking the time to clarify your vision will make the subsequent steps of selecting countertops for kitchen spaces more focused and enjoyable.
2. Set a Budget
Set a budget and try to stick with it.
When determining your budget for your countertop you need to consider the cost of the following factors:
Materials
Fabrication
Installation
Be prepared to allocate a portion of your budget for any additional features or upgrades.
You will need to keep your budget in mind when making your design choices. Some styles and materials may be more cost-effective than others. However, you don't want to skimp on your countertop either. Considering the usage a countertop gets, you will want to make sure you choose a high quality one that is going to last.
If you are looking for the best value for your kitchen countertop, contact Natural Stone City. We offer a higher amount of quality and value for the same price as other suppliers. You will get better value for your dollar when you buy from Natural Stone City.
3. Research and Select Your Countertop Material
*The above countertop is made by Caesarstone.
Research how easy the material is to maintain when selecting countertops for kitchen areas.
When it comes to selecting countertops for kitchen spaces, there are a wide range of materials to choose from. You should explore different countertop materials (e.g., granite, quartz, marble, laminate) to understand their features, benefits, and drawbacks. Here are a couple of helpful articles that will assist you in your research:
Stone Countertops - Selecting The Right Stone Material
Granite Countertops vs Quartz: Materials Compared
When you are doing your research, you should consider the following factors in relation to each type of material:
Durability
Maintenance Requirements
Aesthetics
Colour Options and Patterns
Finishes
You should then assess how well each material aligns with your design style and budget and choose the countertop material that best suits your needs.
4. Create a Countertop Layout
When creating a countertop layout, start by evaluating the physical aspects of your kitchen space, such as size, layout, and architectural features. Consider how these elements may influence your design choices. You will also want to identify your functional needs and prioritize them in your design. Think about the workflow in your kitchen, the number of appliances, storage requirements, and any specific needs like a dedicated prep area or island seating.
Countertop Layouts
Countertop layouts can vary widely based on the size and shape of your kitchen, as well as your specific needs and design preferences. Here are some different possible countertop layouts to consider:
Single Straight Run:
This layout features a single, continuous countertop along one wall of the kitchen. It's a simple and cost-effective design, ideal for small kitchens or galley-style kitchens.
*The above countertop is made by Caesarstone.
A single straight run countertop is the simplest and usually most cost effective.
L-Shaped:
In an L-shaped layout, countertops run along two adjacent walls, forming an "L" shape. It provides ample workspace and can accommodate a corner sink or appliances.
U-Shaped:
A U-shaped layout features countertops along three walls, creating a "U" shape. It offers a lot of workspace and is great for larger kitchens. It allows for a well-organized work triangle.
Island with Adjacent Countertops:
This layout includes a kitchen island with countertops, often combined with additional countertops along the kitchen walls. Islands provide extra prep space, seating, and storage.
Peninsula:
Similar to an island, a peninsula layout includes a countertop extending from the kitchen cabinets but is connected to a wall. It can define a separate area within an open floor plan.
Galley:
Galley kitchens have countertops and cabinets on opposing walls, creating a corridor-like layout. It's efficient for small spaces but may feel narrow.
Two-Level Island:
This design incorporates an island with one level for food prep and a lower level for seating, creating a dining and prep area in one.
*The above countertop is made by Caesarstone.
Two-level islands let you eat and do food preparation.
Wraparound Peninsula:
A wraparound peninsula extends from the cabinetry and curves or angles to create additional workspace or a breakfast bar. It can enhance the flow of the kitchen.
L-Shaped with Island:
Combining an L-shaped layout with an island adds more prep space and can accommodate a range or cooktop on the island.
Open Shelving or Display Area:
In addition to standard countertop space, some layouts include open shelves or a designated display area for showcasing dishes, cookware, or decorative items.
Baking or Coffee Station:
Designate a specific area of your countertops for a baking station with extra workspace and storage for baking supplies, or a coffee station with a coffee maker and related accessories.
Corner Countertop:
Utilize corner space with a corner countertop that extends diagonally from the corner, offering additional workspace without wasted space.
Butler's Pantry:
In larger kitchens, a butler's pantry layout includes a separate area with countertops, cabinets, and storage for serving and entertaining.
Inset Countertop:
This design incorporates a smaller, inset countertop within a larger one, often used as a prep area or for specific tasks like chopping vegetables.
Custom Shapes and Curves:
Custom countertops can be designed to fit unique kitchen shapes or incorporate curves and angles for a distinctive look.
The choice of countertop layout depends on your kitchen's size, shape, and your specific cooking and lifestyle needs. When planning your layout, consider factors like the work triangle (the proximity of the sink, stove, and refrigerator), storage requirements, and the flow of traffic within the space to create a functional and visually pleasing design.
5. Check Reviews and Gather Quotes
Look at the reviews of the suppliers you are considering.
Research the reputation and customer reviews of the countertop suppliers or fabricators you're considering. A good place to start is by checking their online reviews at websites like Google reviews or the Better Business Bureau. Look for comments that not only relate to the quality of the product, but also the level of customer service received.
You can contact the countertop suppliers that you found to be reputable and request quotes based on your chosen material and layout. Ask for detailed quotes that include the following charges:
Material
Fabrication
Installation
Any additional charges so that you don't get any surprises
Most suppliers will give you a free estimate, but make sure you ask if there is a charge for this service.
6. Visit Showrooms and View Samples
Natural Stone City has every colour you want and more - in stock!
Visit showrooms to see countertop samples in person to get a better sense of their coloUr and texture. You might want to ask for samples to take home so that you can view them in your kitchen's lighting.
You should also inquire about warranties offered by the supplier or manufacturer. You will also want to know the timeline of installation of the countertop that you have selected. Many countertops from suppliers who don’t keep a large inventory, may need to be ordered, so they may not be ready when you need them installed.
Remember that the timeline and specifics of the process can vary depending on factors like the availability of materials and the workload of the chosen supplier. It's essential to communicate effectively with your chosen supplier and maintain a clear understanding of the project's progress throughout the entire process.
If you want your countertop installed fast, Natural Stone City has hundreds of countertops in stock for you to see firsthand. Most of their countertops can be installed within a week which is an incredibly fast turnaround time.
Countertops for Kitchen Spaces: Natural Stone City Has Any Colour You Want & More
Natural Stone City has the largest selection of Granite, Quartzite and Quartz in Southern Ontario, with over 100 colour options. You can choose from standard colours to super exotic options, shipped directly from Italy, Brazil and around the world. We carefully select each one, keeping the satisfaction of our customers in mind.
When you buy from Natural Stone City you’ll get:
Better value for your dollar
Any colour you want and more
Help from our knowledgeable staff who are experienced stone countertop specialists
Contact us today and we will help you choose the perfect countertop for your home.
What Our Customers Are Saying…
“Unbelievable customer service. We wanted to replace a sink with a larger one in our kitchen island. They came on a Thursday afternoon to remove a 4’ x 9’ granite slab, re-cut the sink hole and reinstalled it with a new sink THE NEXT DAY. They didn’t even give me enough time to book a plumber to reconfigure the drains :). Thank you so much to Aura, Daniel and the team for turning this around so quickly!”
— Jeff Harrop
