Open Plan Kitchens

In this category, the kitchen space shares equal attention with entertaining areas. The redesign of a small kitchen that kept its owners isolated from the more public entertaining rooms allowed more space for the many appliances. The design also permitted ample preparation and storage areas for both catered and family dinners. Incorporating the seating into the glass and granite island eliminated the need for a freestanding table and chairs. This area is enhanced by three monopoint fixtures from Artemide, with general lighting supplied by Lightolier recessed fixtures. Undercabinet and in-cabinet lighting add interest along the wall of cabinetry in a cherry finish. Matching wood flooring now unifies the entertaining area with the new kitchen space, where the appliances are as much a part of the visual excitement.

More resources:
Granite Edges
Whether stone is set on a cement base or laid in sand also depends on style. Stone's rounded and asymmetrical edges naturally lend themselves to creating flowing designs.
Kitchens New Jersey