High + Low: Countertops

If you're building or renovating a kitchen, you have more countertop choices than ever. One being the most expensive countertop surface in the world — enamelled lava stone. It is produced mostly in France, where the stone is extracted from a volcanic crater and glazed with either a glossy (crackle effect) or matte finish. The resulting material is lightweight, durable, requires very little maintenance and comes in any colour. But at $400 per square foot, it is far too expensive. There are great substitutes that are more typically used, such as stone (granite, marble, and limestone), engineered stone, and ceramic tile. You just have to find out which one will complement your lifestyle. Stay tuned for a mini series on the pros, cons and cost of countertop materials for your future build or renovation.

Images via. Ranieri Pietra Lavica and Real Simple

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