One Client’s Journey to Find the Perfect Kitchen Countertop
“Volakas” honed marble after it was first installed.
I was called on to this project to help my client, AG, with the finishing touches of her new dream kitchen; the countertop (and island pendants). It is one of the hardest and most important decisions to make during a kitchen remodel, so AG and I set out on the journey to find the perfect one that would check off all her criteria. We started by looking at different quartz (man-made) options so that we could get a really clean, non-fussy look. Over the years, since Caesarstone, Silestone and other manufacturers have become increasingly popular, the technology has really improved. We found quite a few decent options and one brand that aesthetically had just what she was looking for. But I saw it in AG’s face- she wasn’t thrilled or excited and if it’s not an absolute attraction or love at first sight it’s not the right one. During one of our car rides, she opened up to me and said that there is nothing like natural stone. She grew up in Spain surrounded by marble and other natural elements without much thought to whether the stone remained as perfect as the day it was installed. There’s an incomparable beauty and feel that only increases over time. I couldn’t have agreed more. After many more visits to various stone yards, we happened upon the most beautiful “Volakas” honed marble slabs that have since become what AG calls “the best part of the kitchen!”
Marble is known to stain, so AG tested a sample to see how it would withstand some of her kitchen essentials (coffee, oil, lemon, orange and white wine). It passed with flying colors!
Two years later, and the countertop is getting plenty of use and looking just as beautiful.
Share your own countertop journey below. If you have any questions about which material is the right one for you contact me to discuss: jamie@jbtdesigns.com