Euclid Redux

Choosing a kitchen or bathroom countertop can be nerve-wracking, and we understand why—they can be one of the most expensive aspects of a renovation, with the added responsibility of impacting the aesthetics of a space. Read on as we work our way through the pros and cons of seven of the most common countertop materials.

The smooth, raven-hued island in this kitchen is made of oak with a thin stone countertop. A Foscarini Gregg Pendant hangs overhead.

An illuminated brick wall makes a lovely backdrop when juxtaposed against this kitchen's glossy black cabinets.

The use of both black and white kitchen cabinets is a unique design choice for black and white kitchens, but it works well in this lovely kitchen, a study in dark and light. It incorporates a fantastic black-and-white marble backsplash, which brings together the kitchen’s many other elements, like dark hardwood floors and a white quartz countertop.

This kitchen is an exercise in light and dark, which echoes the home’s dark exterior and light interior. The white quartz countertops gleam against the black sink and fixtures, and the cabinets and backsplashes were constructed from Baltic birch.

Black and white elements intersect in this clean, modern kitchen. Often, black and white kitchens benefit from a pop of color, seen here with these bright red barstools.

Christian and Jack play chess by the fireplace - the centerpiece of the living room and which the Arnolds use daily during the winter. The hearth is made of large slabs of limestone, which Christian cut himself, intentionally leaving imperfections on the surface for texture. A studio8 couch and Vitra Tom Vac Rocker articulate the space.

Living room

Apartments vary in sizes from 996 ft to 1195 ft and include 3 to 4 bedrooms, open concept kitchen, bathroom, sauna and a laundry room.

Living Room

Open plan kitchen and family space

In the Pacana Suite, modern European influences are replicated in the clean lines and exquisite detailing.

Interior designer Anne Sophie Goneau gave an apartment in a former factory a bright makeover. The minimal gas fireplace is from Ortal, acting as a focal point in the room, complete with integrated shelving.

The open kitchen and living room features a handcrafted walnut dining table designed by Marica, which sits beneath a brass chandelier she designed and built herself.

For the couple’s shared office, which is windowless, the team installed backlit panels to give the illusion of daylight entering the room.

The front door of this house in Scotland is built from charred cedar boards—a traditional way of fireproofing wood developed in Japan. In this case, the effect on the front door is likely more aesthetic than preventative, though you can never be too careful.

The centralized vertical circulation is both a functional and visual feature of the space.

The simplicity in massing and material create a sculptural blocking of interior and exterior spaces.

White, hexagon tiles frame a shower and bath block of space in the Master Bath.