Statement surfaces with high-contrast patterns and strong veining are proving to be enduringly popular with homeowners looking for distinctive style – Sally Smith finds out from the experts about the latest launches.
When it comes to worktops it’s not just about the practicalities of the surface. Customers are making considered choices, looking for a thing of beauty that reflects their individual style and design preferences, and most importantly, they want it to make a lasting impression in their home.
"Homeowners are now more open to experimenting with their worktops, embracing colour and pattern in new and exciting ways as the trend for individualisation gains ever more traction," explains, Ben Bryden, sales & marketing director, RAK Ceramics UK. "At the same time, advances in technology are resulting in endless designs that suit every style of kitchen, which is making it easier than ever for consumers to find bold and beautiful worktops that will bring an air of elegance to their kitchen."
When choosing a more dramatic design for a worktop it’s important to get the balance right. "You don’t want the striking patterns and colour to overwhelm the space, so consider pairing it with neutral coloured cabinetry or use a bolder surface on the island and more neutral colours on the surrounding worktops," adds Bryden.
Simon Boocock, MD of CRL Stone, says they have seen a rise in demand for more dramatically designed worktops. "While kitchen furniture colours have remained relatively neutral, we’re seeing consumers becoming much braver with their worktop choices. We have definitely seen metallic warm bronze tones become more prevalent and with this in mind our new Pantheon Bronze quartz surface features striking bronze veining on a crisp white background. It brings the trends for bold worktops and metallics together and makes a real impact on islands and surfaces throughout the kitchen."
Gavin Shaw, MD at Laminam UK, has also witnessed this trend and understands why these designs are popular with customers. "These striking, dark surfaces with metallic or gold accents can add a luxe look to spaces without being overpowering or too intensely eye-catching but can complement both colourful and neutral spaces. A statement worktop can create a stunning focal point and the bold patterns and dark, rich tones work particularly well when paired with minimalistic worktops."
Strategic placement of lighting can enhance the depth and transparency of these striking surfaces and incorporating complementary textures, such as natural wood or matte metals, creates the ideal contrast in any kitchen layout.
Jonathan Stanley, VP of marketing & customer service at Caesarstone, adds: "Whilst the look of sought-after white and grey marbles with delicate veining such as Calacatta and Carrara are a firm favourite, we’re now seeing warmer hues becoming more popular. For example our 508 Isobellia porcelain surface, with its textured golden streaks, has recently become one of our best-selling designs. Our upcoming designs this year will feature bold veining, enhanced transparency, and greater depth, creating a striking sense of dimension and texture like never before. We’re also expanding the range to include more crystalline silica free designs made with up to 80% recycled content."
Often the dramatic veining on these colourful worktops reflect elements of nature giving a balance and meaning to the designs.
Ross Stewart, UK senior sales manager for Neolith UK, says: "Earthy tones and naturally occurring stone motifs that reflect natural landscapes and textures are becoming increasingly popular, from deserts, to quarries, to volcanic settings. Our WhiteSands and Rapolano surfaces feature an innovative new digital technology that allows us to give the surface an increased level of realism and natural depth that was previously unattainable outside of entirely natural stone."
