As we look forward to what the new year will bring, revamping the kitchen surfaces can help to breathe new life into your home.
Using state-of-the-art machinery, stonemasons can cut stone slabs to an exceptionally accurate measurement whilst incorporating traditional techniques. “The attention to detail that masons can devote to the artistic aspects, thanks to modern technology, ensures that homeowners have a range of striking styles to pick from,” says Steve Vanhinsbergh, director of stoneCIRCLE in Basingstoke.
We chat to Steve about the emerging trends for kitchen countertops across the market, the array of stones and colours available and their unique approach to stonemasonry.
Q: What are the likely popular trends for kitchen worktops in 2023?
A: Neutral creams and off-white have been a longstanding favourite for kitchen surfaces and show no signs of dropping in popularity. Quartz is still very popular as an alternative to natural materials as it is very uniform, being manmade. Granite also retains its enduring popularity and quartzite is another very durable natural stone which is sought-after for its beautiful looks, although it is rarer and therefore more expensive than a lot of granites.
However, we’ve also seen an increasing demand for the more dramatic granites and marbles. The striking veining and wide variety of natural colours from deep azure blues to earthy greens, and beautiful reds, allow you to turn your kitchen into a stunning design statement.
Q: Are durable, long-lasting stones still an on-trend choice?
A: Naturally resistant stones are always a sound choice for the kitchen. As the hub of activity within a household, corrosive liquids are a constant threat to your countertop. If you opt for a granite or quartz countertop, stains and spillages can be mopped up with minimum care and maintenance required to keep the sheen and colour of the stone prominent.
Whilst bold colours such as reds and blues can make your surface stand out, softer colours can work equally as well within your kitchen space. The Viscount White granite incorporates blue patterning that contrasts with the white stone, bringing a sleek elegance to your countertops and complementing existing styles and colours.
Black is an increasingly popular choice for those favouring a bold look. Black Beauty and Absolute Zimbabwe Black granites provide a remarkable countertop, splashback surface or floor that is sure to set your kitchen apart from the rest.
Q: Can softer stones be incorporated into the kitchen?
A: Traditionally, softer stones that stained easily and required a greater level of care were a challenge to integrate into your kitchen area. Now that we have a new treatment that seals the stone, these beautiful materials provide an array of opportunities to refresh your space.
Marble is an incredibly beautiful stone that symbolises elegance and sophistication. Traditionally, opting for a marble countertop would involve a challenging amount of maintenance to retain the quality and colour of the stone. However, treated marble can be used for your worktops without fear of degeneration with a plethora of shades to choose from, including gleaming whites and creams, sea greens and brilliant reds.
Q: What are the benefits of combining modern machinery with traditional techniques?
A: The task of cutting stone by hand is a particularly arduous one. The amount of dust produced during the process can be hazardous, and the removal of large quantities of stone takes a long time. The use of machines has speeded up the process, with the average time from templating to installation now a week. In addition to templating technology, CNC-equipped cutting machines, and a machine that allows us to scan the slabs and arrange the areas to be cut to get the best from the stone, have all increased the accuracy of the work.
However, they have not replaced the creativity and artistic skills of the stonemasons. Freed from the more hazardous and laborious procedures, our masons can concentrate on the final finishes and quality control that makes your kitchen sparkle.
To find out more about stoneCIRCLE’s range, visit stone-circle-home.com or call 0125 685 0380.
