A Statement Island With A Statement Stone

When Jake Taylor began renovating his home, he knew the kitchen would be one of its defining spaces. As the owner of several luxury hospitality destinations in the Blackpool area, he had a clear appreciation for materials, atmosphere, and the details that elevate a space beyond the ordinary. The vision was ambitious from the outset, and ELORĀ's Calacatta Viola became the foundation on which it was built.

Calacatta Viola was chosen for its unmistakable character. The dramatic burgundy veining creates movement across every surface, giving the stone a presence that immediately commands attention. Rather than competing with the surrounding finishes, it becomes the focal point around which the entire kitchen is composed.

At the centre of the space sits a substantial island, fabricated by the Mo's StoneX team with a 60mm mitred edge that gives the stone a remarkable sense of weight and permanence. The increased thickness transforms the island from a functional work surface into a sculptural centrepiece, allowing the scale and beauty of the material to be fully appreciated.

The same attention to detail continues throughout the kitchen. The engineered stone rises into a full-height splashback, creating uninterrupted surfaces that showcase the natural movement of the stone. The veining becomes part of the architecture itself, introducing depth, contrast, and visual drama without overwhelming the overall composition.

One of the most distinctive features is the floating shelf, which was carefully fabricated to display the stone from every possible angle. Rather than finishing only the visible top surface, the stone continues along the underside and sides of the shelf as well. Whether viewed from across the room or standing directly beneath it, the stone remains fully visible. It is a subtle detail, but one that demonstrates the level of craftsmanship required to achieve a truly complete finish.

The richness of the stone is complemented beautifully by the surrounding materials. Warm timber cabinetry and the dedicated wine display introduce texture and character, creating a contrast that allows the bold veining of the Viola to stand out even more. Together, these elements bring balance to the design while reinforcing its luxurious feel.

Projects like this are about more than selecting a beautiful material. They require careful planning, precise fabrication, and meticulous installation to ensure every element works together exactly as intended. From the substantial island to the detailed shelving and full-height splashbacks, every aspect of the stonework was crafted and installed by Mo's StoneX.

The result is a kitchen that feels confident, refined, and unmistakably individual. A space where craftsmanship and material come together to create something truly memorable, with Calacatta Viola at the heart of the story.