Countertop Refresh

Our kitchen update is almost complete.
We featured our sink install and renovated butcher block island projects 
in the last few weeks.
The big change would come with the addition of new countertops.

This is the material that was on the counters when we bought the house.
It was some hideous kind of Formica, laminated substance
that did absolutely nothing for our decor.
What made matters worse, was that the "backsplash" was made of the same thing.
We shared here what it took to remove the material 
when installing the butcher block on the island.
What an ordeal!

The first step to new surfaces was for the installation company
to measure the space.
Big K took this picture, 
which shows the gizmo used to get accurate measurements.

Because we were putting in an apron sink,
it had to be installed before the measuring could take place.
Big K took care of that little inconvenience.

The dark blue was a harsh contrast against the white cabinets
and it was something we both agreed had to change.

The two gentlemen who would be doing the installation
came on a Saturday about a month after the counters were measured
and began the tedious chore of removing the old surfaces.

Using pry bars and a lot of muscle,
they were able to rid us of the cobalt catastrophe.

The new countertops were on the truck,
pre-cut at the warehouse
and ready to settle into their new home.
The surface we selected is non-porous and low maintenance,
so they should last a good, long time.

We chose recycled glass countertops and we are so glad we did.
In order to fit into our budget, we decided against quartz,
although that would have been our first choice.
Everyone does granite these days,
and we've never been one to follow trends.

These are Curava countertops, made sustainably.
From their website:
"100% of the glass used in Curava is recycled. 
The glass is collected from landfills and other resources 
from post-consumer and post-industrial waste 
that includes discarded glass bottles and window and windshield glass."

This practice fits right in with our beliefs to create less waste
and we feel good about supporting a company that is ecologically responsible.
 

The difference is striking.  
The kitchen looks so much cleaner and crisper.
Although we had to wait two years to make this change,
it was well worth it.
In fact,with this charming cucina,
I might be inspired to whip up some new grub!

Next week,
we'll show you the new backsplash installed.