If country kitchens fill you with thoughts of chintz and not-so-shabby chic, think again. Because today’s country kitchen is more likely to be an exercise in perfectly executed modern rustic style than an overkill of copper and clutter. And, where solid wood surfaces were once the default choice for a country kitchen worth its (Maldon) salt, designers of contemporary rural kitchens are now far likelier to opt for the pared-down beauty of a quartz worktop.
Understated, durable and resistant to stains and scratches, neutral quartz colours such as Caesarstone’s buttermilk, shiitake and oyster are ideal for partnering with painted or natural cabinetry. Unlike wooden worktops, quartz is completely non-porous, so doesn’t need sealing and can be used with confidence around the sink and in wet areas. And, whilst a trivet for searingly hot pans is always advisable for any surface, you can put warm-ish ovenware onto a quartz surface without undue worry.
Country kitchens often focus on texture and tactility – think rough-hewn floor tiles, knotty wood or burr furniture, original timbers or beams and natural materials such as stone and slate. And the latest generation of quartz surfaces – especially designed and formulated to replicate the beauty of marble – fit the bill perfectly. With all the subtle colouring and detail associated with marble – right down to delicate veining – these new quartz surfaces, which include colours such as the creamy Dreamy Marfil and the earthy Woodlands from Caesarstone’s Supernatural Collection are exceptionally well-suited to country kitchens.
The finish along the edge of a worktop – known as its profile – can make a real difference to the final look of a kitchen’s work surfaces and perhaps, an island or breakfast bar. For a modern take on country kitchen style, opt for a simple profile such as a ‘bullnose’ or ‘bevel’ for runs of surfaces and then choose a slightly more elaborate profile such as ‘ogee’ or ‘full bevel’ to enhance the appearance of an island or other, stand-alone piece of furniture.
Beautifully understated, warm and welcoming today’s country kitchens place an emphasis upon enduring materials that will last the course. Created as ‘forever’ kitchens that focus upon comfort and quality, their timeless appeal is hard to resist.
