Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops: Knowing How to Pair

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A kitchen remodel can be an exciting yet stressful project for any home. However, knowing how to properly plan out the process can help remove the stressful aspect. A significant part of the remodel will be deciding on a kitchen design and choosing elements that work well in the setting. Some of these elements include kitchen countertops, kitchen cabinets, kitchen islands and backsplashes. You will also need to keep in mind appliances and fixtures, such as the refrigerator, dishwasher and kitchen sink, and flooring. This guide will focus on giving you the knowledge you need to successfully pair your kitchen cabinetry and countertops. 

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Pairing Your Cabinets and Countertop: Factors 

There are several factors that go into effectively pairing your cabinets and countertops. Two of the most important factors are choosing attractive color combinations and choosing ideal materials. It is often recommended that even if you want one particular color in your kitchen that you have some variation between the cabinets and countertops. For example, if you choose white for both, it will be in your best interest to choose a slightly different shade of the color for each structure. 

Many homeowners opt to go with neutral colors in the kitchen. Examples of neutral colors include beige, tan and gray. These colors will fit in well with virtually any décor. 

What Materials Can Be Used for New Cabinets? 

While you can use laminate for your cabinets, various types of wood are the most common materials. Oak, Cherry, Pine, Hickory, Walnut, Ash and Birch are among the most common woods used for building cabinets. 

What Materials Can Be Used for New Countertops? 

Installing countertops is typically one of the final steps of creating a new kitchen. Fortunately, there are plenty of high-quality countertop options you can find. The following are descriptions of the best countertop materials you can install in your home. 

Granite 

Granite countertops are the most popular among homeowners. These natural stone surfaces have long been admired for their beauty, durability and many other positive qualities. Considering that granite is stain resistant, heat resistant, scratch resistant and easy to care for, it is a great option to complete any kitchen remodeling project. 

Marble 

Marble is a timeless building material that has been used since the age of ancient civilizations. The beautiful coloring and veining of many types of marble will add a luxurious touch to your kitchen. 

Quartzite 

Quartzite is often seen as a viable alternative to marble. The two natural stones have a very similar appearance. However, quartzite is a much stronger material, making it a great choice for your new kitchen countertop. 

Quartz 

Quartz is an engineered stone that is made by combining about 90 percent ground natural quartz with around 10 percent polyresin. The specific percentages can differ slightly based on the brand. Quartz countertops can be found in a vast array of colors and styles, so you will surely be able to find something that pairs well with your cabinets. 

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Soapstone 

Soapstone countertops are available in an eye-pleasing range of gray tones, some of which include hints of dark green. One of the unique features that you will receive from soapstone countertops is the material’s ability to darken on its own. If you want to speed up the darkening process, you can treat the countertops with mineral oil. 

Slate 

Much like soapstone, slate is a darker colored material. These dark gray surfaces are an excellent fit for modern kitchen settings. Slate is also very durable, making it an ideal choice for kitchen countertops. 

Limestone 

Although it is typically used in lower traffic areas of the home, limestone can be used for kitchen countertops if you exercise caution. These surfaces are particularly susceptible to damages from acidic liquids, like coffee or soda. As for the stone’s appearance, limestone can be found in a range of lighter colors, such as light grays and golds. 

Travertine 

Travertine is a similar material to limestone. In fact, travertine is a form of limestone, although the two names should not be used interchangeably due to the distinct differences that do exist between the two materials. Travertine can be found in a similar color range as limestone and is also prone to damage from acidic substances. If you are careful, however, you can pair a beautiful travertine countertop with your cabinets. 

Onyx 

If you want a stunning and interesting countertop, consider going with an onyx countertop. These surfaces are able to be backlit, which will highlight the beautiful coloring of the stone. As long as you are careful around the stone, onyx can bring a truly artistic feel to your kitchen and be a wonderful pair for your cabinets. 

Gemstone 

Gemstone countertops are truly one of the most unique surfaces you can choose for your home. These countertops can instantly become the focal point of your kitchen and can be a great pair for your new cabinets. 

Glass 

Glass countertops are very trendy. If you are looking to create the appearance and feel of a modern kitchen, glass is an excellent material to choose. 

While the materials above are your best bets for kitchen countertops, there are some other materials you may hear about on the market. Some of these include butcher block, stainless steel, solid surface and laminate countertops. 

What Are Your Options for Pairing? 

As you can tell by the extensive list of materials you can use for both cabinets and countertops, you certainly will not be limited in the number of options you have. To effectively pair your cabinets and countertops, carefully consider the look you want to achieve. For example, do you want to match white cabinets and white countertops? Or perhaps you want to contrast dark cabinetry with light countertops or vice versa. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Below are answers to some common questions related to pairing kitchen cabinets and countertops. 

Can You Install a Countertop on Your Own? 

This will depend on what material you choose for your new countertop. While some options like tile can be a DIY job, you should not attempt to install any of the options mentioned above. Most of these materials are very heavy and require the skill of an experienced professional. Hiring a professional will reduce the likelihood of any issues occurring during the installation as well as potential injuries. 

What Impacts the Cost of Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops? 

There are many factors that can impact the cost of kitchen cabinets and countertops. One of the primary factors is what material you choose for each. For example, different types of wood will have different costs, as will stone countertop materials. In terms of countertop materials, granite is an example of a material that is on the less expensive side, while gemstone may be priced out of your budget. 

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Selecting kitchen cabinets and countertops is a huge part of any home improvement project. Finding the right pair for your home will go a long way toward establishing a stylish look for your new kitchen. While the process may seem stressful at first, narrowing down your options is not all that difficult. Once you do, you will be well on your way to having a beautiful new room that you can proudly show off to your guests. 

Through reviewing the information in this guide, you can be aware of how to effectively pair your kitchen cabinets and countertops. Finding the right pair will change your kitchen – and your entire home – for the better. 

When it comes to countertops, backsplashes and more, stone slabs are the best option. Find out what stone slabs are and other helpful information.

Why you can trust Marble.com

When it comes time to get the job done, our fabrication and installation teams have the equipment and expertise it takes to get your project cut and delivered the right way, every time. We at Marble.com are known for our incredibly quick turnaround, as we understand having countertops and other mainstays installed quickly and properly is important to our customers. We value your time, and our goal is to create the best work possible and have you enjoying it as possible.

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