If you're planning custom countertops for your kitchen, you can choose to use one material across the board – or, for added visual interest and personality, you can combine multiple options. Not all materials and styles are complementary, so you need to consider your options carefully. Follow the principles below to create an attractive and inviting space. 

How to Match Materials for Custom Countertops

1. Find Balance

Proper proportions are important. Usually, you’ll have a primary color or simple pattern that will cover the majority of the room. One or more bold accents are then used in smaller areas. The same applies to your countertops: choose a foundation material, then apply an accent that draws the eye. For example, make your kitchen island the focal point by topping it with a glossy, richly hued marble while making the rest of your countertops a neutral color with a matte finish.  

2. Consider Pattern

Some countertop materials incorporate bold patterns that create a sense of movement and complexity. If you're using patterned materials, pair a complex one with a simple one, such as combining stamped tile with a plain stone countertop.

3. Select Color

Your chosen scheme needs to be consistent with your entire kitchen. You can either pick your counter colors first and adapt your walls, cabinets, and fixtures to suit them, or incorporate existing tones into your counters. If your counter will be the primary feature of the room, opt for a bold or unusual shade, such as pale pink swirled with gray ripples, sparkling emerald, or charcoal with white flecks to mimic the stars in the night sky. Palette generators online can help you come up with an appealing plan. 

4. Control Shade

While you don't want your counter colors to clash, you do want there to be a noticeable difference between them. Two counters with complementary colors but the same overall paleness, such as dusty pink and washed-out jade, may not provide the distinction or cohesion you need. Opt instead for high-contrast tones, such as a gentle pastel blush and Kelly green.  

5. Vary Textures

Different materials have varying consistencies. Consider the differences between transparent glass, reflective steel, rough stone or brick, and the whorls of wood grain. Incorporating more than one countertop finish or material in your kitchen, such as a butcher block against smooth and sparkling quartz, can soften or sharpen your overall arrangement. 

For custom countertop installation, choose Stone World at Red Bank in Monmouth County, NJ. For 12 years, they've provided homeowners with a selection of over 300 colors of natural stone in a wide range of styles. Their experienced staff will walk you through their extensive showroom and help you find the perfect high-quality materials to suit your vision. To get started, call (732) 383-5110 or visit them online.