Leather Finish vs Polished Worktops: Whats Best for Your Kitchen?

Introduction

When designing a kitchen that is attractive and practical, the worktop finish plays a bigger role than most people often think. In addition to the colour and material, the texture of the surface, which is also known as the "finish", affects the aesthetic, touch and usability of the kitchen for everyday life.

Two of the most popular finishes available at LSD Stone are the Leather Finish and the Polished Finish. Each one has its beauty and practical advantages as well as its best applications.

If you are wondering what the right worktop finish is for your space - this guide is to help you assess the best option available.

1.Worktop Finish Considerations

Before deciding between polished and leathered, it is important to first understand exactly what a “finish” is.

The finish of a worktop is simply the last surface treatment applied to the stone (quartz, granite, or marble). It is responsible for the:

- look (glossy, matte, or texture)

- feel (smooth or tactile)

- care and longevity of the surface

Both finishes may be achieved by using a specialized polishing technique to accentuate different properties of the stone's character.

2. What is a Polished Worktop Finish?

Polished finishes are a popular and recognizable surface treatment. The stone is buffed with fine abrasives until achieving a high-gloss finish which is typically shiny or reflective.

Key Features:

1. High Shine - beautifully reflects light to brighten your kitchen. 

2. Smooth Touch - sleek and glossy under your fingertips. 

3. Colour Depth - beautifies the natural stone patterns/pigments for depth. 

Advantages:

1. Easy to Clean - non-porous surface and smooth allowing spills to be wiped clean. 

2. Luxurious Look - perfect for modern or classy kitchens.

3. Great for a Smaller Space - reflective finish makes the kitchen appear larger and lighter. 

Best For:

Polished worktops are great for all kitchen styles that are contemporary, modern or even classic, that prioritize brightness and luxurious features. 

Popular Options from LSD Stone: 

1. Alaska White Quartz – crisp and bright 

2. Statuario Royal Quartz – classy marble look

3. Fantasy Grey Quartz – delicate and modern

3. What does leather finish worktop mean?

A leather finish (honed leathered finish or leathered finish) has a gentle texture and matte finish to the stone.  A leather finish is achieved by brushing the surface with diamond tipped tools.

It has a tactile feel that speaks to the stone's natural beauty, while plush with elegance and a bit of sophistication.

Key Features:

•Matte Finish - Less reflective and more natural than polished.

•Soft texture - It feels soft with a pitted pebbled texture.

•Enhanced Patterns - Increased definition for blobs, veins, and characteristics of the stone.

Additional Benefits:

•Smudge and Fingerprint Resistant - Great for families on the go.

•Unique Texture - Adds character and warmth to any kitchen.

•Low Glare - Performs beautifully with high light or sunlight near a window.

Best for:

Leather finish worktops are well suited for rustic, industrial, or modern farmhouse kitchens where texture and natural look are desired.

LSD Stone's most popular options:

•Arabescato Quartz - Soft texture with a marble look

•Alaska Grey Quartz - Stylish and grounded

•Fantasy Grey Quartz - The perfect balance of modern muted tone and tactile texture

4. Maintenance & Cleaning Advice

No matter what finish, LDS Stone's quartz and granite worktops are easy-to-care-for and low maintenance. 

Polished Finish Care Tips: 

• Clean with mild soap and warm water on a daily basis when possible. 

• Do not use abrasive pads to maintain the shine. 

• Clean spills right away to avoid film/build-up. 

Leather Finish Care Tips: 

• To dust off any dust use a soft cloth or microfiber cloth. 

• Avoid oily cleaners that will darken the soft matte texture. 

• Clean with a neutral pH stone cleaner to help maintain a long lasting natural appearance. 

Both finishes are easy to clean and stain resistant, making them suitable for busy households across the UK.

5. Selecting the Right Surface Finish for Your Lifestyle

No matter your preferences, here’s how you can choose the most appropriate finish for your worktops:

 • ?‍? Do you love to cook daily?

Select Leather Finish - to disguise smudges and fingerprints better.

 • ? Is your dream kitchen sleek and bright?

Polished Finish will brighten up any space and give the luxurious finish you want.