MIXED MATERIALS
Balancing Engineered Quartz with Raw MaterialsIn the past, kitchen design often dictated a singular aesthetic: all sleek and modern, or all rustic and farmhouse. But as we move into 2026, the most captivating spaces are those that tell a richer story – a narrative of contrasts and complementary textures.
The #1 design trend emerging? Mixed Materials
At Hendrix Industries, we believe in crafting spaces that are both beautiful and livable. That’s why we’re seeing an exciting shift towards balancing the pristine, engineered elegance of our quartz slabs with the grounded, authentic “grit” of raw wood and aged metals. This fusion creates a sophisticated “Modern Heritage” look that is both cutting-edge and timeless.
Here are our top design tips for mastering the art of mixed materials:
1. The Quartz Canvas: Start with a Foundation of Strength
Your Hendrix quartz slab isn’t just a countertop; it’s the anchor of your design. Whether you opt for the luminous clarity of Majestic Mountain or the deep drama of San Felipe, let its pattern and color guide your material choices.
San Felipe Quartz | Legacy Collection
Aspen White Quartz | Origins Collection
Techno Cabinet | Rustic Oak Flat Panel Style
3. Unlacquered Brass: Patina with Purpose
Forget perfectly polished brass. Unlacquered brass hardware, lighting, and plumbing fixtures offer a living finish that will naturally oxidize and darken over time, developing a unique, organic patina. This “aging gracefully” quality is the perfect counterpoint to the consistent perfection of engineered quartz.
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Pairing Tip: Unlacquered brass shines against the cool tones of a quartz like Canyon Mist Timber, adding a touch of antique warmth. It also brings out the golden flecks in warmer quartz options like Supernova.
5. Aged Metal Details: Industrial Edge Meets Refinement
Look for subtle ways to incorporate other aged metals. A raw steel range hood, antique copper pots, or even exposed iron shelf brackets can add an industrial-chic edge that complements both the quartz and the wood.
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Pairing Tip: Matte black faucets and hardware can bridge the gap between quartz and raw wood, offering a contemporary anchor.
2. Rift-Sawn Oak: The Warmth of Vertical Grain
Say goodbye to horizontal wood grain. Rift-sawn oak cabinets are having a major moment for their incredibly straight, uniform grain pattern. This clean, linear look provides a subtle texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth surface of quartz without competing for attention.
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Pairing Tip: A lighter quartz like Maverick Marble with natural rift-sawn oak creates an airy, Scandinavian-Texas feel. For a moodier vibe, pair Smokey Brazos quartz with a lightly stained, darker rift-sawn oak.
4. Raw Wood Accents: Grounding the Space
Beyond cabinetry, introduce raw wood in unexpected places. Think open shelving crafted from reclaimed beams, a live-edge dining table, or even a statement cutting board that lives permanently on your counter. These elements provide organic texture and a sense of history.
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Pairing Tip: If your quartz has subtle veining, choose a raw wood with more pronounced knots and imperfections for visual interest.
6. The “Tactile Triangle”: Aim for Balance
When mixing materials, think of a visual triangle. You want your quartz, your wood, and your metal to have equal “weight” in the space. Avoid overwhelming one material with another. This creates a harmonious flow that feels intentional, not cluttered.
7. Embracing Imperfection: The Beauty of the “Grit”
The allure of mixed materials lies in their contrast. The perfect, pristine nature of your Hendrix quartz makes the natural variations of wood grain and the developing patina of unlacquered brass even more appealing. It’s about celebrating the beauty in both engineered excellence and organic imperfection.
The Modern Heritage look isn’t just a trend; it’s an evolution in how we conceive of our living spaces. It’s about creating kitchens that feel curated, comfortable, and uniquely yours.
Publish Date: January 15, 2026