Benchtop edition
Creating a Coastal Kitchen Design that’s timeless and Beach-Inspired
Designing a coastal kitchen is all about creating a serene, beach-inspired environment that evokes the beauty and tranquility of the seaside.
Whether you’re living in a coastal state like Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand (like myself) or simply love the coastal aesthetic, incorporating light colours, natural materials, and nautical accents can transform your kitchen into a calming retreat.
In this blog post, we’ll explore different elements of coastal kitchen design, from cabinetry styles and benchtop choices to colours and decor.
natural materials enhance the natural feel of the Coastal style
Choosing the right benchtop is crucial in achieving a cohesive coastal kitchen design.
Natural materials are key to creating a beach-inspired look, and there are several options to consider. One popular choice is quartz benchtops.
Quartz offers a durable, low-maintenance surface that mimics the look of natural stone.
Opt for quartz in light colours, such as white or sandy beige, to maintain the bright and airy feel of your coastal kitchen.
butcher block accent benchtop
Another excellent option for a coastal kitchen is a butcher block benchtop.
Made from wood, butcher block benchtops bring warmth and natural beauty to the space.
They are perfect for adding a touch of rustic charm while maintaining a light and welcoming atmosphere. Lightly stained or natural wood finishes work best in a coastal kitchen, complementing the overall aesthetic.
Although, I must say, quite difficult to find in New Zealand, you will need a great joiner who can pull this off for you - if you’re in Hawkes Bay I know a few!
We design functional, thoughtful,
and beautiful homes, fit for real life.
We design functional, thoughtful, and beautiful homes, fit for real life.
At FBD Interiors, our main focus is creating spaces that are both elevated and realistic for your lifestyle. And we walk through every step of the process right alongside you - whether it’s a room refresh, a new kitchen, or a full home makeover/build.
natural marble counters with subtle veining
Marble benchtops are also a fantastic choice for a coastal kitchen.
The elegant, veined patterns of marble evoke the look of ocean waves, adding a touch of luxury to your space. While marble requires more maintenance than other materials, its timeless beauty and connection to the natural world make it a popular choice for coastal-inspired kitchens. Consider white or light grey marble to keep the space bright and inviting.
However, I do note, these benchtops are more expensive and do require maintenance so be sure to do more research before committing - this blog is a great resource, or chat to your local stonemason.
Concrete counters for a more modern approach
Concrete benchtops can also work well in a coastal kitchen, especially when paired with other natural elements.
Concrete provides a modern, sleek look while offering durability and functionality. To soften the industrial feel of concrete, pair it with light wood cabinetry and soft, neutral colours. This combination creates a balanced and harmonious coastal kitchen.
I know a great concrete benchtop fabricator here in Hawkes Bay, feel free to reach out and I will give you the details!
Creating a coastal kitchen involves carefully selecting cabinetry styles, benchtop materials, and colours and decor that evoke the serene beauty of the beach.
Whether you’re in the coastal state of Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand like myself, or simply love the coastal aesthetic, incorporating light colours, natural materials, and nautical accents can transform your kitchen into a calming, beach-inspired retreat.
By choosing the right cabinetry, benchtops, and decor, you can create a coastal kitchen that is both functional and visually stunning.