How an Interior Designer Selects Slabs
A recent trip to Ann Arbor, MI for a large-scale kitchen renovation project found my clients and I walking through acres of various slab showrooms, weaving back and forth amongst aisles of quartz, granite, marble, soapstone (not my favorite – more on that in another blog), engineered stones, and more.
Dress for Success
Depending on the time of year, slab showrooms are typically cool if not downright freezing.
Hint #1: Comfy shoes and a light sweater in the summer or jacket in the winter go a long way. That and a good cup of coffee. Always!
Recognize Showstoppers
Some slabs are just magnificent. Showstoppers. The kind that gives you *champagne-bubbles-in-the-tummy*. If that’s your reaction, you might be on to something. But wait, there’s more.
Evaluating the Slab Matrix
One thing I like to watch out for is the overall makeup of the slab matrix, especially if it’s for a perimeter countertop.
Hint #2: I’m looking for **even distribution of color and pattern**. Some slabs will lose their overall beauty once cut to size during fabrication.
A kitchen perimeter counter is on average 25.5” deep, which accounts for the depth of cabinets plus a little extra for the overhang. If you’re going for an ultra-contemporary look, you might minimize the overhang. Regardless, the concept is the same. Here are a few examples.
Analyzing Slab Suitability
In this image, a beautiful and dramatically wide vein sweeps across the length of the slab. Lovely, yes. But follow the red dotted cut line. When the slab is cut in half lengthwise, one counter gets all the drama while the other counter is less impressive. Hence, this slab is better suited for an island or fireplace surround to name a few ideas.
Our next slab shows the even distribution of color and pattern that I’m looking for. When cut in half lengthwise, the slabs will look cohesive and tell the same story. A visual continuity is achieved. This is what you want!
Turning Corners with Style
And one more thing to keep in mind: how will the slab look going around a corner? At some point, counters will probably make a 90-degree turn. Will the veining match up? Or at least get close? Oftentimes the most dramatic of slabs won’t turn corners easily. Fabricating a corner with a 45-degree seam that looks effortless can be a frustrating endeavor for any fabricator.
Let’s face it, dramatic slabs are divas. Plain and simple. They don’t like to be told what to do. Rather, park them in the middle and just let them shine. Much like a soprano. (Typed with all due respect to divas everywhere! Truly. And as an opera lover and patron of the arts, I can say this.)
So, here’s to a more discerning eye on your next slab showroom trek. Good luck and happy sourcing like a pro!
Bring Your Vision to Life with KoVAC Design
Ready to elevate your next project with the perfect slab? At KoVAC Design, we specialize in helping you choose the best materials that harmonize with your vision. Whether you're renovating your kitchen or designing a new space, our expertise ensures you'll find the ideal slab that combines beauty and functionality.
Contact Sheri at KoVAC Design today to start your journey towards a stunning and cohesive design.