The entire house is a combination of stained and painted wood, so I decided to continue that look throughout the kitchen and addition. The oak flooring will be continuous throughout the downstairs including the kitchen. So here’s the lineup:
Upper cabinets, pantry and oven tower: natural cherry
Lower cabinets: buttermilk painted composite (great value!)
Countertop: antiqued nordic black granite
Floor: white oak
For months I’ve considered various countertop materials and keep coming back to soapstone. I did not want a shiny counter that I’d feel obligated to polish. I love the look of soapstone, the feel and the sense of solidity it brings. However, in a last minute change of heart, I went with antiqued granite, surprising Mr. Cook and myself. I initially had steered away from granite because I did not want a dominating or distracting pattern. The antiqued granite has the depth and feel of soapstone without the maintenance. The granite has been treated with an epoxy fill to plug surface gaps. This is visible as shiny flecks that look like mica. Overall the surface is matte, not shiny, meeting my original criterion.
This granite feels soft but not completely smooth.
Simple cherry cabinets will complement buttermilk paint.
Cabinet door has simple bevel.
