In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman sits down with returning guest Ross Williamson, Sales Director at The Surface Collection, to explore the latest innovations in quartz worktops, particularly the striking and design-led Verdara range. This episode delves into the aesthetic and practical considerations behind choosing the right worktop, from backlit splashbacks to bold marble-effect slabs. Together, Faye and Ross highlight the evolution of quartz design, how to spot quality, and the importance of professional fabrication.

Key Takeaways

Quartz is evolving beyond plain colours, with the Verdara range offering depth, texture, and natural-looking veins that bring warmth and character to kitchen spaces.

Marble effect quartz remains a timeless favourite, but the detail between the veins, rather than just the veins themselves, sets premium designs apart.

Professional fabrication is essential, particularly for complex installations like backlit islands or bookmatched slabs. Not all fabricators have the skillset to handle high-end finishes, so it's worth seeking recommendations.

The Worktop Fabricators Federation (WFF) plays a key role in promoting health and safety standards, especially around silicosis awareness. Always choose fabricators who follow safe, professional practices.

Best Moments

“The devil’s in the design, it’s not just about the vein, it’s everything in between that gives the slab its natural look.”

“Don’t just pick what’s popular on Instagram, choose something you love that fits your space and budget.”

“Backlit worktops look incredible, but it’s the structure and craftsmanship behind them that make the difference and add to the cost.”

“There are plenty of slabs that look similar, don’t lose sleep over choosing between two if you can’t spot the difference. Both will look great in your new kitchen.”

About the Guest

Ross Williamson is the Sales Director of a company called The Surface Collection, which is a well-known worktop distributor based in Manchester. The Surface Collection was founded after World War II when the grandfather of the company's directors found blocks of Carrara marble on the beaches of Carrara and started importing them to make vases and other products.

https://www.thesurfacecollection.co.uk/

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

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Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

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