We are New Yorkers who own a weekend home in the woods of northeast Pennsylvania. A few years back we remodeled the entire house (about 950 sq. feet) for about $40,000. The kitchen remodel was a fraction of that – so I would say it was low budget.   We love stone countertops. With granite and quartz budget-busters, and given our location in the heart of Pennsylvania bluestone country, our contractor suggested we consider bluestone. Pennsylvania bluestone is a common material seen in sidewalks and patios – but kitchens? So we went to visit a local bar and restaurant that had selected bluestone for the bar top and we were sold.

Today, our kitchen features Pennsylvania bluestone for the countertops and bluestone tile for the backsplash. We think ours may be the only kitchen to use these materials. The results are beautiful. The countertop stone does not “polish” exactly but the counters are smooth, and if kept well-sealed (yearly) with stone sealer, won’t stain and wipe down easily. The surface is hard and won’t dent – and like all stone, it takes heat.  We love the natural texture of the bluestone tiles and the natural blue-grey color that contrasts beautifully with the maple cabinets.

We installed custom-made LED under-counter lights and faced the edge with bluestone tile to blend it in to the backsplash. The result is dramatic lighting that is both task-lighting and also shows off the details of the tile backsplash.

A stone engineered sink from the local supplier kept the theme going. We spray-painted inexpensive contractor-grade outlet covers with a faux stone paint to keep with the style.

Contractor: Houghtaling Custom Homes of Wyalusing, PA.