The Unique Countertop Stanley Tucci Has In His Outdoor Patio Kitchen

Known for his diverse film roles, actor and filmmaker Stanley Tucci has elegant taste when choosing a countertop for his stylish outdoor patio kitchen. An avid Instagram poster, the "The Devil Wears Prada" star is often seen creating scrumptious, gourmet dishes or mixing cocktails from his London-based home that he shares with his wife, Felicity Blunt. One post shows him making a Pimm's cocktail in his modern, yet rustic outdoor patio kitchen with a distinctive gray countertop that resembles soapstone. Natural and earthy, soapstone, or Steatite, is a metamorphic rock that consists mostly of talc, which makes for a soft, durable surface. Within an urban oasis, Tucci's soapstone counter is accompanied by wood slat paneling upon the back wall and cabinetry while surrounded by lush greenery.

What makes soapstone so unique? While the mineral rock is highly resilient, including heat and stain-resistant, soapstone is ideal for kitchen countertops, sinks, floor tiles, and other handy surfaces. With its superior quality, soapstone is comparable to granite and marble. However, many selections may range between $70 to $120 per square foot, making it considerably more expensive than other natural stone materials. With his passion for cooking, Tucci has no limits when it comes to having an authentic culinary experience amidst his outdoor patio kitchen. Nestled within a private, backyard haven, the "Searching for Italy" host has showcased the finest stonework to complement the natural environment.

A successful entertainer, Stanley Tucci also frequently loves to cook in the outdoor patio kitchen of his backyard English garden. Set within a quaint space, a soapstone, galley-style countertop is at center stage. Tucci's chic, gray surface contrasts against the light wood paneling that extends upward as a privacy wall. With similar wooden slats present on the lower portion, the handleless cabinets resemble a mid-century, invisible kitchen design. A stainless steel gas grill is easily accessible within the center of the elongated countertop. The decoration is simple with abundant greenery planted in various terracotta pots and placed on various shelves, including other handmade pottery. 

Tucci can entertain day and night in his culinary oasis with the mounted lighting visible over the countertop and grill as well. The "Julia & Julia" star also has a brick, wood fire pizza oven to switch off to. The oven, which is made for al fresco dining, is located at the opposite end and features a similar-looking soapstone counter. From stone and wood to brick and metal, the actor's built-in, outdoor kitchen is an ideal blend of the natural elements for everyday use.

Cool and natural, soapstone consistently holds up for a variety of reasons. Often used as a dependable indoor sink or counter, the quarried stone has endless properties that may benefit an outdoor space even more. With only a few colors to choose from like blue, black, or gray, Stanley Tucci's charcoal-gray countertop is an ideal choice for his outdoor patio kitchen. While soapstone is extremely dense and non-porous, the "Hunger Games" actor won't need to worry about surface spills, as soapstone naturally resists stains, including acidic liquids like coffee, vinegar, or wine. Additionally, Tucci's authentic slab won't burn from an overheated pot or fade from the sun, and it won't be affected either by the damp London weather.

Another highlight, soapstone has a soft, luxurious texture and doesn't easily crack, however, it may be prone to scratches from cutting or other use. With it comes to cleaning, the actor may need to maintain a fresh surface, possibly with a little dish soap and warm water. While exposed to outside air, soapstone also has a unique way of fading over time. To get the most out of his countertop, Tucci may apply mineral oil periodically for it to mature and maintain its rich, darkened quality. With this in mind, giving the surface a light comparison like stone, wood, or brick will give it a remarkable contrast.