The countertop is one of the main elements of the kitchen interior, which largely determines the style and functionality of the room. It can be monolithic or connected from several parts, fixed on the kitchen floor, cabinets or another base.
Which countertop to choose for the kitchen – beautiful or practical? A durable countertop significantly simplifies the process of cooking, and its stylish design adds sophistication to family meals and friendly meetings, which in many houses are traditionally held in the kitchen, so these qualities are very important.
The appearance and performance characteristics of countertops depend primarily on the material from which it’s made. But, what are other features that you should consider?
Color
The color scheme offered today is very wide, especially those made on the basis of chipboard, glass or artificial stone. In addition to traditional natural shades of granite countertops, there are a lot of products in black, white, red, turquoise, lemon, pistachio, green, purple and other colors.
The countertop can be matched both in the tone of the finish and the existing furniture, and stand out with a contrasting color, which looks especially interesting in combination with the unusual texture of its surface.
Scientists have established a connection between the color of the surface of the dining table and man appetite – cold colors reduce it, warm increases. Take advantage of this feature if all members of the family tend to lose weight, or need its increase.
But, during granite countertops installation, choosing the color of it, besides aesthetic benefits, it also has practical aspects. Products of white, black and other bright colors require more care – any stains and scattered crumbs are clearly visible on it. Pastel colors make the room cozier, and even in the process of cooking, they look neater.
But the most popular colors are still natural, usually imitating the color of wood of different breeds.
Texture
During the countertop installation, the texture significantly affects both the appearance and the operational characteristics of the countertop. Smooth glossy, matte and rippled surfaces, painted in the same color, are perceived in different ways.
Glossy surfaces make the interior brighter, but they are more visible scratches, which sooner or later appear on surfaces where meat and vegetables are cut and other kitchen work is performed.
The mate surfaces made from natural stone, unlike granite countertops and glass, require more effort during cleaning, since dirt and grease accumulate in the pores, which are uncomfortable to remove. But if you cook rarely, such a countertop will retain its originality for a long time.
