The New Design Trend When It Comes To Kitchen Countertops

Provided by: Jorbins.com

When it comes to choosing new kitchen countertops there are many things you should take into consideration besides deciding if you want Formica, ceramic tile, natural stone, corian, or stainless steel. You should consider adjustable height countertops or design options that give you varying countertop heights.

First a little on adjustable countertops. They can be lowered or raised to varying heights to accommodate people of different heights, children, someone sitting down, or someone in a wheel chair.

You can find countertops that can be adjusted electronically or manually and that are lowered or raised with a button, crank, lever, or knob. On the market as well are sinks and cook tops that also adjust to different heights and contain flexible plumbing to accommodate this.

Some of the reasons to consider adding adjustable countertops is convenience, resale value, someone in the home is in a wheelchair, and because many people are purchasing homes they plan to live in as they grow older and want to plan for all contingencies. Some also have an older parent that is living with them and adjustable countertops allow them to sit down while helping in the kitchen (even if they are not in a wheelchair).

Adjustable height countertops are considered a future trend that will become more common and affordable as time goes by but if you don't want to go that route there are things you can do to vary your countertops too.

The standard height for counters is 36 inches but you can add a taller counter that can double as a breakfast bar to accommodate those that feel more comfortable with a taller workspace. A pull-out countertop can be lower and will be easier for children to use as well as someone who is seated. If you want this lower countertop to accommodate a wheelchair you need to make sure it is at least 30 inches wide and is no lower than 28 inches to give plenty of knee room for someone sitting down.

One more thing, when designing your kitchen remember that lack of countertops, storage, and room to move around in are some of the biggest reasons people remodel their kitchens.