Autumn 2015

Trending Countertops

Cape Cod Home  /  Autumn 2015 / ,

Writer: Mary Stanley

Trending Countertops

Autumn 2015

Cape Cod Home  /  Autumn 2015 / ,

Writer: Mary Stanley

Similar to kitchen countertops, there is a trend toward using quartz in the bathroom.

Photo by: Shutterstock.com/Mr. Interior

Mark Ducharme of Coastal n Counters in Mashpee points out that the manufacturers are now making this product in a variety of styles and patterns, including faux granite and marble. “It’s a very practical and affordable option compared to the natural stones,” Ducharme says.

Some area countertop experts say nothing makes a design impact like recycled glass. A mixture of glass and seashells, Lane says this countertop material is “flying out the door.” Smith says the Curava brand is very popular—especially here on Cape Cod. “It comes in blue and green tones and because it is made with crushed sea shells, it is an ideal material to use in a beach home or any other house for that matter,” she says. In addition to being a beautiful statement piece in the kitchen, Smith says, clean up is easy. “Just wipe the counters down with a damp, soapy cloth.” In terms of saving money, the designer says the recycled material costs about the same as granite or quartz. “Recycled products always cost more money, but they are a feel-good material—and very attractive,” she says.

Since countertops need to be both beautiful and functional, careful consideration must be given to the material selected for a countertop. With the perimeter of the kitchen serving as the work area and the island often doing double-duty as a table or gathering spot for family and guests, industry experts say there is a trend toward mixing the materials, or styles of the countertops. Many homeowners are opting for materials that turn their countertops into beautiful work areas. Stainless steel is such a material. Since it is antibacterial, it is very functional without compromising on the beauty.

Wood is another durable material that is gaining in popularity for countertop choices. Available in a variety of wood species as well as finishes and stains, this option can be every bit as sophisticated and stylish as granite or quartz, while still being a viable work surface. “Wood is so versatile. Since it is antimicrobial, it is safe to cut and prepare foods on it. It can also be finished so that it looks like a piece of furniture,” says Lane.

Kitchen countertops are not the only statement pieces in a home—bathroom counters and vanities can create just as much of a statement. Industry experts agree that the bathroom countertop is a critical design element. “Since the bathroom tends to be smaller, the countertop and vanity are a big part of the presentation in the room,” says Fred Felder of Simons Bath Showroom of West Yarmouth, Plymouth, and New Bedford.

Mary Stanley

Mary Stanley worked as the sales and marketing coordinator for Cape Cod Life Publications from 2013 to 2016, writing advertising pieces as well as feature articles for both Cape Cod HOME and Cape Cod LIFE magazines. Prior to that, she was the senior reporter for Sandwich Enterprise Newspapers. She currently works as the public relations and marketing coordinator for New England Village, Inc., a nonprofit organization supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.