Caesarstone’s 5031 Statuario Maximus worktop surfaces bring durability and elegance to chef and content creator Mandy Miller Simmonds’ kitchen.
For chef and content creator Mandy Miller Simmonds (@simplyfoodbymandy), the kitchen is more than just a place to prepare meals – it’s the backdrop for recipe testing, a workspace, and the setting for her social media content. When renovating her Georgian townhouse in Kent, a blend of practicality, durability and aesthetics was at the forefront of her design choices, leading her to select Caesarstone 5031 Statuario Maximus as the ideal surface.
Mandy’s vision was to transform her existing dining room and kitchen into one open-plan space. With her two sons living at home, she needed a highly functional and stylish design that would cater to everyday cooking, family meals, and frequent filming. With its high ceilings and grand proportions, the house called for a kitchen that would complement its elegant architecture.
Serving as both the main dining area and a versatile workspace, a large island, topped with 5031 Statuario Maximus, provides a striking focal point. Its off-white base and broad light grey veining echoes the luxury of natural marble while offering superior durability. Tom Howley cabinetry’s classic detailing and rich colour palette reflect the property’s heritage, while contemporary elements bring a fresh, functional feel. Hidden behind closed doors, a home bar adds a sophisticated touch, keeping the space elegant and clutter-free.
To balance her dark green Shaker cabinetry, Mandy sought a light yet striking worktop and splashback that would stand out on camera and in daily use. As a professional in the food industry, Mandy understands the demands a kitchen work surface must withstand. Having previously experienced the upkeep challenges of natural marble, she knew she needed a durable, low-maintenance option that would hold up to daily cooking, prep work, and filming sessions. Unlike natural marble, which is prone to staining and chipping, Caesarstone surfaces are non-porous and highly resistant to heat, scratches, and impact – making them the ultimate choice for busy kitchens.
Upon visiting Caesarstone’s London showroom, Mandy was able to explore full-size slabs, appreciating the intricate veining and textured finishes in person. The Caesarstone team guided her through the selection process, providing expert advice on durability, care, and design pairings to ensure she made the right choice for her space. Mandy instantly gravitated toward Statuario Maximus. She comments: “When I walked into the Caesarstone showroom, I felt a lot of thought had gone into each stone surface on offer. There were several that would have worked well for me, but I instantly fell in love with Statuario Maximus. Being able to see the large slabs in the showroom was key for me, and it made the decision-making process so much easier.”
Statuario Maximus’ dove-white base and light grey swirls provided the perfect contrast to Mandy’s kitchen colour scheme while complementing the brass hardware for an elegant, timeless aesthetic. Beyond its beauty, the polished finish of Statuario Maximus offers a practical edge - it is cool to the touch, making it perfect for pastry work, and exceptionally resilient against everyday wear and tear.
Complete with a full suite of Miele appliances - including two ovens, a steam oven, a sous vide, and a warming drawer - and a Quooker boiling water tap, Mandy’s kitchen is a chef’s dream, seamlessly balancing practicality with performance. Click here to see how Mandy’s vision came to life.
Thinking about your own kitchen renovation? Visit one of our three UK and Ireland showrooms - in London, Manchester, or Dublin - to explore our surfaces as full slabs. Or, order a free sample to find the perfect fit for your space.
