For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the old-world European style. It has cozy, rustic elements, and nothing captures that better than the use of natural stone. So, when it came time to design my kitchen, I knew incorporating Kitchen stone was a must. I really wanted to achieve the modern European/sophisticated cottage vibe I was going for. While I adore every detail of my kitchen, from the cabinet layout to the brass hardware and beadboard island, the stone is what truly pulls everything together.
The Inspiration Behind My Kitchen Stone Choice
The stone wall we installed at our ranch house was a project I fell in love with. The texture and natural beauty it brought into the space made me want to carry that same charm into my kitchen in this home. However, because I planned to install stone behind both the sink and the range I needed to find a thinner stone. The reason so it wouldn’t be as bulky as the thicker version we used in the ranch house.
After searching for the perfect option, I discovered Silverdale Country Squire from Buechel Stone. Its shape and color were exactly what I wanted. Giving my kitchen that beautiful, aged feel without the bulk of traditional stone. You can take a closer look at the stone here: Silverdale Country Squire from Buechel Stone.
If you’re considering installing stone on the interior or exterior of your home, I highly recommend checking out Buechel Stone. They have a large variety of stone types, colors, and shapes.
Installation Process: A Labor of Love
Luckily, my husband Chad is no stranger to stonework. He’s a mason by trade, and together, we’ve installed stone in every home we’ve lived in. For this project, Chad used the same method we applied at the ranch house to install the stone.
The stone was carefully placed behind the sink and range. Then we finished it off with white grout to tie everything together. If you’re curious about the exact method we used, you can check out this step-by-step guide: How to Build an Interior Stone Wall.
A Common Concern: Cleaning the Stone in a Kitchen
One question that I get asked is: “How do you clean the stone, especially in a kitchen where it’s exposed to splashes of water, grease, and food?” While it’s true that stone won’t wipe down as quickly as a tile backsplash, I have a few strategies up my sleeve to keep it clean.
For general maintenance, I plan to seal the stone to protect it from stains and moisture. The sealer will act as a barrier, making it easier to wipe down with a rag and water or a mild, non-abrasive detergent. In cases where more thorough cleaning is needed, a steam cleaner can also be used. This really helps keep the stone looking fresh.
We’ve also made it a habit to turn on the hood vent every time we cook, which helps filter out grease and other airborne particles. As a final touch, I vacuum the stone using a brush attachment to remove any dust that may accumulate over time.
The Final Look: Stone as the Heart of My Kitchen
Ultimately, the stone has become the heart of my kitchen. It adds texture, warmth, and that perfect old-world charm I envisioned from the start. Although it might require a little extra care, I’m confident that it will stand the test of time and continue to add beauty to the space for years to come.
If you’re considering using stone in your kitchen renovation, I highly recommend it! It may take a bit more maintenance than traditional backsplashes, but the character and uniqueness it brings are well worth the effort.