3 Ways to Incorporate Natural Stone into a Kitchen Design

The kitchen is one of the most frequently used and occupied spaces in the home, and a great opportunity to incorporate a unique design. Ordinary days start and end in this room, and entertaining takes center stage there while preparing and serving food and enjoying company, often simultaneously. In addition to bringing people together, kitchens must also combine many different features, building materials, and design considerations to create a space that is aesthetically pleasing as well as functional. Incorporating natural stone design components into a kitchen adds color, texture, and style along with durability and light maintenance that leave your time and attention on the important things. Here are three ways to add natural stone into your next kitchen project. 

This Black Ash Ledgestone fireplace adds atmosphere and functionality to the kitchen design.

1. Fireplaces create warm and create cozy atmospheres for gathering, relaxing, and socializing, and effortlessly become the focal point and centerpiece of a room. With the kitchen already being a prime spot for gathering, a fireplace can help center the socializing in a spot that is convenient but allows for space and food prep. In the project featured above by Medomak Construction, the fireplace is close enough to be enjoyed, but out of the way of the production area. The open layout also lends itself well to gathering and allows space for seating to savor the atmosphere and dining. The dark greys in the Black Ash collection add a needed contrast with the natural wood floors while also complementing the white cabinets and lighter features. 

Fieldstone Dark Mosaic provided by Gagne and Son creates this stunning kitchen backsplash.

2. Backsplashes can be a small but impactful way to bring natural stone into a kitchen design. The most stunning parts of home improvement projects are the details, and backsplashes add contrast between the major components of the room. Especially in high-traffic, frequently used areas devoted to cooking and meal prep, natural stone is a great choice because it is easy to clean and maintain, can withstand high temperatures, and is resistant to stains. This project by 207 Stonework features Fieldstone Dark Mosaic, which adds dark and light brown hues and complements these kitchen cabinets with a warm, rustic look. 

3.  Accent walls add visual impact in a specific area, and are a worthy design option even when space is limited. (Find more accent wall inspiration here.) Since natural stone complements other building materials, it is a good way to add depth and color to a design, and to add a unique look and feel to a kitchen. The project shown above features Nutmeg Ridge Roughly Square and Rectangle installed by SK Complete Landscaping. The earth tones and sleek, modern look bring together different components of the kitchen and turn this area into the center attraction. Since natural stone is long-lasting and low maintenance, this addition adds simplicity and ease as well as beauty. 

These are a few of many ways to inspire natural stone design in your next kitchen upgrade. However you choose to incorporate the many possibilities, you can add a special touch and elegance to your living space, and end up with a space that is visually appealing with durability to last for a lifetime.  For more design inspiration, download our catalog.