An accent kitchen island will help make your space pop with added character. In this blog, we look at four countertop options.
Many homeowners decide to use the same material as their perimeter countertops for their kitchen island countertops. This works well to create a cohesive space. But an accent kitchen island can add even more character and value to the overall space.
If you want your kitchen island to stand out, consider a contrasting material for the countertop. For example, if your perimeter countertops are black granite, choose a white material for your kitchen island countertop. That helps to bring emphasis to the space, making it an accent kitchen island.
Plus, kitchen islands are functional. You can install cabinets to hold items ranging from utensils to cooking equipment. Then, you can add more color and ambiance to your kitchen by getting creative with the look of your cabinets.
Not to mention, you can never have too much counter space—which is probably why you’re thinking about getting a kitchen island in the first place.
With that said, here are four countertop ideas for your accent kitchen island.
Accent Kitchen Island Countertop Materials: 4 Options
Dekton Ultra Compact Surfacing
Dekton, or ultra compact surfacing, is a surface that’s made using Sinterized Particle Technology to blend glass, porcelain and quartz material.
Dekton provides unique UV resistance and exceptional strength. In addition, the surface is highly resistant to impact, scratches and abrasion, making it an ideal option if you plan to use your accent kitchen island for meal prep. You can get it in a variety of colors, patterns and even finishes.
Note that this is typically a more expensive option because of the high-tech process used to model the metamorphic change that natural stone goes through.
Quartz
Quartz is a popular, practical material that combines natural quartz pieces with polymers and pigments for binding and color.
It’s practical because it’s easy to maintain and doesn’t require sealing. Quartz countertops are resistant to scratches and stains, but hot pads and trivets should always be used to protect against high heat exposure from pots, pans and cooking units. Overall, it makes for a great kitchen island.
Because it’s a manufactured material, you can choose from a complete range of unique solid and patterned colors to get the accent you’re looking for.
Granite
Granite is a natural stone material made from igneous rock that mostly consists of quartz, mica and feldspar.
When you want a countertop with earthly beauty, look no further than granite. These countertops are highly durable, meaning they don’t chip easily or get damaged by heat, but we still recommend hot pads and trivets to protect your investment. Granite is also easy to maintain but does require periodic sealing. While the range is not as extensive as manufactured materials, hundreds of colors can be found naturally that perfectly accent your perimeter countertops.
Marble & Quartzite
Finally, we have marble and quartzite—two other natural stones that make for a great accent kitchen island.
Marble is a metamorphic form of limestone that appears naturally in an attractive range of colors and features elegant veining. Because marble is a softer material and more porous, it is less commonly used as the main countertop in a kitchen but can work great as an accent piece. Just be sure to heed the proper care instructions, including regular sealing and cleaning with mild cleansers with a neutral pH.
We are talking about quartzite and marble at the same time because quartzite is a great alternative if you want the look of marble with more durability. Quartzite has gained popularity in recent years due in part because it is more durable than most natural marbles, yet provides similar marble-like veining patterns and colors that have been so much in demand. While quartzite is more durable than marble, it should still be sealed periodically.
How to Choose a Countertop Material
Now you know your options, but how do you decide? There are three primary factors to consider when choosing the right countertop material for your accent kitchen island:
1. Budget
Perhaps the most significant factor that plays into your countertop choice is the budget. You want to choose a material that will look elegant for a long time without breaking the bank. It’s also important to factor in possible repairs if the countertop becomes chipped or damaged.
2. Style
To make your accent kitchen island stand out, you need a countertop that adds to the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Depending on your surrounding countertops, you should choose an accent kitchen island countertop with a different color or pattern to give it a unique look.
3. Durability
Your accent kitchen island will get a lot of use, so you want to choose a countertop that can resist scratches, stains, heat and impact. If the countertop material isn’t the most durable, make sure it’s renewable or repairable.
Conclusion
Choosing the right countertop material for your accent kitchen island comes down to preference. But no matter which option you go with, you can feel good knowing it’s a worthy investment and a stylish accent for your kitchen.
Find affordable, stunning and durable countertops for any accent kitchen island at Eastern Surfaces. Request more information on countertops by contacting us.
