Re-designing your space is always exciting, but with so many different kitchen worktops available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the material options. We say: Why choose one?
Mixing and matching your worktops to create a 2-tone kitchen is a fantastic way to get exactly what you want while potentially saving a few pennies along the way.
In this post, we’ll be discussing complementary stones, suitable materials for mixing and matching, and how to think strategically when planning your material placement.
What are the Benefits of Mixing and Matching Stone Worktops?
Whether you pair marble with quartz or porcelain with granite, there are many benefits to combining different worktop materials.
First off, combining more than one material can help to reduce costs, especially if you’re planning a renovation in a large kitchen space. Rather than covering every single surface with a high-end stone, you can prioritise the more expensive material for high-impact areas like your kitchen island or the section around your hob, while using a more budget-friendly option for less prominent surfaces.
This approach also allows you to match each material’s strengths to specific functional needs. For example, you might choose ultra-durable quartz for your main prep areas where you’ll be doing heavy chopping and food preparation, while selecting natural marble for a breakfast bar where its beauty can take centre stage and daily wear is lighter.
Along with the practical benefits, mixing materials creates visual interest and can help you to define different zones within your kitchen. Since the contrast between textures and colours naturally draws the eye to different areas, it’s a great way to make your space feel more dynamic and purposeful.
Got an open-plan space? A zoning effect is particularly effective in open-plan kitchens, as different worktop materials can subtly separate cooking areas from dining or socialising spaces.
Creating Contrast: Stone Worktop Combinations to Explore
When combining different types of stone in your kitchen, it’s vital to consider both style and function. Here are three simple pairings that honour both considerations and complement each other beautifully:
White Calacatta Quartz Island with a Honed Bianca Carrara Marble Perimeter
When it comes to timeless pairings, these two elegant stones are a match made in heaven. The engineered quartz is perfect for handling heavy island use, while the more delicate natural marble will add a sophisticated feel to the perimeters (an area that tends to get gentler treatment).
Visually, both stones share similar veining but different textures. The quartz’s high shine and polish bring glamour, while the matte honed marble feels organic yet luxe. The overall feel achieved with this delightful combo is clean, high-end, and quietly opulent.
Titanium Granite Perimeter with White Marble Island
After something bold yet sophisticated? This classic pairing delivers plenty of drama thanks to the striking contrast created by the black and white stone. The richly textured granite is ideal for cooking and preparing food, while the pristine marble island best suits lighter prep work and entertaining – it’s guaranteed to add a touch of wow factor.
Grey Porcelain Slabs with Statuario Marble Accents
This combination is all about low-maintenance luxury. The beauty of porcelain is that it provides clean, uninterrupted surfaces that create a sense of calm. This simple worktop material pick pairs seamlessly with carefully placed Statuario marble, a stone known for its contemporary elegance.
Porcelain is ideal for handling all your daily kitchen activities, while the marble accents bring natural beauty, elevating the entire space.
Combining Stone Worktops with Wood
Torn between sophisticated stone and timeless wood? Combining the two creates a modern space that feels luxe yet organic.
White Calacatta Quartz and Bleached Oak Cabinetry
Love a high-end Scandi look? The veining in white Calacatta quartz stands out beautifully next to paler-toned woods like bleached oak, keeping everything feeling fresh, modern, and airy. This combination is perfect for anyone craving a contemporary kitchen without it feeling too sterile.
Black Honed Granite and Warm Walnut Cabinets
Rich, moody, and totally on-trend, this grown-up pairing feels both luxurious and grounded. The matte granite finish prevents it all from feeling too flashy, while the walnut adds organic warmth. You’ll find darker pairings everywhere at the moment, and for good reason: not only are they ultra-stylish, but they also bring a cosiness that’s hard to replicate, perfect for large, open spaces.
Carrara Marble and Fluted White Oak
Do you love marble in contemporary spaces? Pairing Carrara with fluted white oak creates something fresh and up-to-date yet refined. This combination gives you that high-end, ‘modern bar’ feel and works beautifully with teal and gold bar stools.
Master the Art of Contrast with Marble Supreme
Need advice on finding the perfect material combination for your kitchen? We’re here to help. At Marble Supreme, our knowledgeable experts will introduce to you to the subtle intricacies of each stone type, helping you to understand which combinations will deliver both the look you love and the functionality you need.
Already got your eye on one of our worktops? Get in touch with us to discuss your project requirements.