If you're looking to add some spice to your kitchen design, try the island countertop. The island often is the focal point of the room, providing a strong visual element that is distinct from the main countertop area.

 

Island countertops come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors, and can include two or three levels. Consider:

 

·          using a different countertop material or color to create a focal point

·          varying the height of the countertop or using two or three levels

·          adding custom features, like an installed “hot pad” or wine cooler

 

Granite Countertops

Granite is a hard, natural stone that typically is polished. It ranges from white to black in color and each stone has a mixture of colored particles that give it a speckled appearance.

 

If you can't afford granite throughout the kitchen, consider adding it on the island. A shiny piece of black granite with tan speckles and a beveled edge would create a dramatic contrast against maple or white cabinets.

 

Solid Surface Countertops

Solid surface countertops have a seamless finish and typically are made with the top and sink as one piece. They are made in a variety of colors and textures, with some having a look that is similar to granite. Because of the smooth surface, they’re easy to clean.

 

One advantage to using a solid surface is the ability to create a customized design with the material. "You have a whole range of options you don't have with granite because of the way the material is formulated," said Reed Fry, a spokesperson for Avonite, a solid surface manufacturer based in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

 

Laminates

Laminate countertops are the least expensive and come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including some that imitate natural stone.

 

Blend With Other Architectural Elements

Also use the countertop to pull in details of windows, doors and other features. "The stained glass in a bay window had a particular design (with) swirls and the fabricator was able to trace the design and build it into the top," Fry said.

 

Little Extras

Solid surface countertops also can be formed with stainless steel rods for holding hot pots. Five or six rods would be set one inch apart in one section of the countertop. "A lot of times in a big kitchen the oven and refrigerator are side by side on opposite sides of the sink, so you're going to need a place (in between) to set a hot pot down," Fry said.

 

Color Options

While neutral colors are still popular, they can be paired with bright colors to make the island appear more dramatic. Sometimes the islands are a different color from the rest of the kitchen. Consider:

 

·           natural cherry cabinets with black granite that has bits of copper in it

·           maple cabinets with blue solid surface material

·           deep mahogany cabinets with a cream countertop

 

Height Variations

Countertop heights will vary. Some want an island that has sections that are taller than the traditional 36-inches high surface. Try putting a taller cabinet on one end or both, up to 42 inches instead of 36, with a seating area along the back. The lower section of the counter houses the cooktop and any mess made from cooking. The higher section of cabinets hides the mess from view from across the room.

 

Others might want a low section of the countertop for baking. One disadvantage to that layout is that it might require additional bending.

 

Countertop Costs

·           Laminated surfaces are the least expensive at $25 to $50 per linear foot, installed

·           Solid surfaces sell for $80 to $110 a linear foot, installed.

·           Granite (and other stones) sells for $150 to $200 a linear foot, installed.

·           The cost will vary based on the edge treatment and other factors.