In an Adelphi, Maryland, kitchen, designer Laura Fox Wolff of Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC, sourced countertops in eye-catching Fantasy Brown quartzite.
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“I loved that it tied the beautiful warm tones and greens together,” says Wolff, adding, “Though I understand the use of quartz from the perspective of ease, there’s nothing like natural stone. It may etch and stain over time, but to me that’s life and part of its character.”
—Laura (Fox) Wolff, Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC PHOTO: Christy Kosnic |
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“As much as we love engineered stone (and use it often), it can’t compare to an unusual natural stone with dramatic veining—it’s like a piece of art. We also suggest Grothouse end-grain walnut butcher block, which adds warmth and texture to balance harder kitchen surfaces.”
—Kirsten Kaplan, Haus Interior Design |
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“I consider countertop materials that will provide a timeless look, be functional and deliver a wow factor. Does the client prefer a strong, linear pattern or something softer? Is there a need for consistency in movement or color? I also look at seam locations and durability.”
—Joyce Pearl, Interior Concepts, Inc. |
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“Quartz is our favorite for beauty and durability. Trends on the horizon include the use of materials and methods of fabrication that respect our environment and last for generations.”
—Barbara Hawthorn, Barbara Hawthorn Interiors |
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“We often use a combination of countertop materials to maximize needs and add visual interest. Most clients love the look of natural stone but not the maintenance, so we frequently do hard-working islands in quartz and the perimeter counters in natural stone; that way, the client gets the best of both worlds.”
—Laura Hildebrandt, Interiors by LH |
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“While tracking trends at Milan Design Week 2023, I saw a lot of natural stone in leathered or honed finishes and an increase in sintered stone. I predict more sinks, drains and cabinet/appliance fronts will be made of the same materials.” —Ann Gottlieb, IIDA, LEED AP ID+C, Ann Gottlieb Design PLLC |
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Bonnie Ammon Bonnie Ammon Interiors |
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Jamie Merida
Jamie Merida Interiors |
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Sarita Simpson Interior Matter |
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Melanie Whittington Whittington Design Studio |