Each time we have friends over to the beach house we inevitably end up hanging out in the kitchen. We designed it to be an open, sociable space so it’s no surprise that it has become the gathering point in the house. As our renovation is only a little over a year old, conversation often ends up on the topic of design and why we chose the materials, colors, finishes etc. that we did. Without question, we always get asked “What’s your favorite design feature in here?” and we both reply: “The Cambria quartz countertop”. We were fortunate to partner with Cambria for our countertop and it turned out to be the cornerstone (no pun intended!) of the space that pulled the two-tone kitchen together. Read on to discover why I picked them…
When I designed the beach house kitchen I knew I wanted to have our island peninsular be a different color to the cabinetry along the kitchen walls. While the Cosmos and Decoy colors are complimentary to one another, I still needed to make sure there was a synergy across them. The solution came in the form of Cambria’s beautiful Torquay Matte countertop. I chose this finish because it has a marble-like effect with a subtle pattern and grain to it. I didn’t want a countertop that was too heavy or had a high impact pattern because I felt it would complete with, rather than compliment, the two-tone color story in the space. Also, the simple Ridgeline edge profile works perfectly for the heritage meets modern design approach I took for the beach house kitchen, too. If you have a more traditional or perhaps a super contemporary space, there’s plenty of edge profiles to pick from to make your countertop suit your aesthetic.
Two of the main things I would think about when considering a countertop choice for your own kitchen are: first, carefully think about what kind of surface finish will work in the space, and secondly, what grain/pattern would you like? Most countertops come with a high sheen that gives a glossy polished finish, which can look beautiful but isn’t always *right* for every kitchen. I was thrilled that Cambria offered a matte option because I didn’t want to go for a glossy countertop for our beach house kitchen. Personally, I think the matte finish provides a warmer look and creates a more tactile experience in the space. Cambria are one of the few manufacturers that provide matte finishes while also offering the same warranty as they do for a gloss finish, so they are great option to consider.
Finally, also consider carefully the grain in the countertop. The Torquay Matte has the perfect grain and subtle marble-like pattern to unify the colors in our kitchen. However, if you have a one-color kitchen (vs. two-tone like ours) or you are looking to make a design statement with the countertop, then I would consider a high pattern, such as Summerhill, which will become a focal point in the space.
29 Comments
Such a beautiful kitchen Will! I love how you’ve designed it!
I hope you have a great Tuesday,
Michael
https://www.mileinmyglasses.com
@Michael – That’s so kind, Thank you!
Your kitchen is still my favorite inspo even now I just love everything about it!!
@Caroline – Awwww I love that! Thanks for making me smile!
My partner and I are embarking on our first home renovation right now so this couldn’t have been better timed Will. Thanks for sharing such helpful tips for this novice!
@Quincy – You are so welcome. All the best with the renovation. There’s more posts about the renovation we did so do check them out!
You made the perfect choice…I agree that anything darker would have been too heavy
@Scarlet — Thanks, glad you agree!
Hello I was wandering the color & brand of paint you used on the cabinets (darker blue color)? Thank you😊 Your kitchen is beautiful!!!! Love it!
@Theresa – Cosmos! Thank you 🙂
Hi Will
Your kitchen looks beautiful, congratulations! Can you put hot things on the countertop?
Thanks,
Em
@Em – I do put hot things on them and they have been fine but they don’t guarantee it.
I saw on your insta story that you can spill red wine and it doesn’t stain?! Life-changer Lol
@Paula – Yessssss!
This is my literal dream Will. You are so talented! When I’m rich and famous you will be my designer ok?!?! 😉
@Michael – Awww that would be so fun!
This was interesting to read. Thank you.
@David – Thank you!
This looks amazing! I really want to redo my countertops now but I don’t even know how pricing works. Do you have a source that can break down the pricing for different patterns and material?
I love these countertops! I hadn’t even considered quartz having a Matt finish rather than a high polish. Beautiful x
@Karly – Thank you do much!
All your designs are awesome.
I love an island in a kitchen, you’ve created a clean look but the natural elements make it warm and inviting! Bravo, love your blog 🙂
I love your kitchen.. Thanks for sharing useful information.. I really love the colors, what is the color name of the blue cabinets??
@Cosmos
I love the island. What color did you use for that?
Lovely kitchen…so fresh and happy! Where did you find the amazing bar stools, please?
@Suzanne – Thank you! One Kings Lane.
Love the matching design of the countertop. I especially love where it place. Overall, it’s perfect.