Good-looking, well-designed countertops can round off any kitchen design
Kitchen counters are a lot more than just places to chop vegetables or prepare meat. Naturally, providing a space for cooking is their primary role, but they also serve many other purposes. Above all else, they form the centrepiece of kitchen designs. A badly placed or shaped kitchen countertop can ruin the ergonomics and visual effect of a kitchen, so how should you use them?
At Faber, we know all about kitchen design, and our range hoods harmonise beautifully with a wide range of countertop styles. So we thought we’d offer a few design tips to help you get started.
Make clever use of contrasts in countertops
Firstly, remember that countertops form a relatively slender layer on top of other elements – which could be drawers and cupboards, washing machines, or even ovens. This provides designers with the chance to create match-ups between different materials, giving their kitchen designs added definition and visual impact.
Bright and bold is a good way to go. But experiment on paper before committing to anything. And be sure to find colours that match the feel you are aiming for.
Countertops: Get the height just right
When placing kitchen countertops, ergonomics are all-important. It’s no use purchasing a beautiful slab of marble if it’s too high to be used comfortably. So think about how high your countertop needs to be.
Heights will vary from person to person. However, as a rule, experts tend to advise that the surface is placed 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) below the user’s elbow, when they are standing straight and their elbow is bent at 90 degrees in front of them. If you need to add height, think about thicker materials, or using wooden materials to “boost” the height of the countertop. It could make them much more comfortable to use.
Choose the perfect material to accent your kitchen
When choosing a kitchen countertop, you’ll come across no shortage of materials. From zinc and steel, to marble, wood, granite, and patterned stone, the range of options is really diverse, and choosing the correct material can make all the difference.
If you have a small kitchen, paying extra for premium materials can add a touch of elegance that isn’t easy to create with limited space available. And, whatever size of kitchen you are furnishing, it’s important to pick a countertop material that suits your appliances and furnishings.
At Faber, our range hoods all offer premium aesthetics that will combine well with marble or metallic countertops. Have a look around our catalogue, and visualise how our accessories would look with your chosen material. Then create the kitchen of your dreams.