Imagine a countertop that looks like a work of art, with mesmerizing patterns of gray, charcoal, and jade. A surface so ultra-smooth and velvety it’s irresistible to touch. And a luxurious natural material more durable than granite.
Enter barroca soapstone. This exclusive type of soapstone is transforming modern kitchens with its beauty and performance. But what exactly makes it so special? And why does barroca command such a high price?
I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the wonders of barroca soapstone countertops. Let’s dive into this gorgeous natural stone capturing attention across the design world.
What is Barroca Soapstone?
Barroca is a premium architectural grade of soapstone quarried in a small region in north-east Brazil. It’s known for dramatic veining patterns and deep greenish-gray tones.
The name “barroca” comes from the Baroque art style popular when soapstone was first discovered in Brazil centuries ago. The stone’s fluid, expressive patterns resemble a Baroque painting.
Barroca soapstone is in extremely limited supply, found in only a few Brazilian mountain quarries. Slabs must be hand-selected for quality, adding to the cost. The huge demand for this stone makes it very exclusive.
Why is Barroca Soapstone So Expensive?
This remarkable stone has a price tag to match its rarity and beauty. Barroca soapstone can cost $200-$500 per square foot, installed. That’s 5-10 times more than common granite or marble.
But there are good reasons behind the heavy price:
Limited Availability: Only a few quarries worldwide produce barroca, keeping supply low. Fresh slabs are extracted slowly.
Labor-Intensive Quarrying and Processing: The stone must be carefully hand-extracted and finished to ensure the veining stays intact.
Strict Quality Control: Just 20-30% of quarried slabs meet the standards required for architectural projects and countertops.
Transportation Costs: Barroca is imported from Brazil exclusively for high-end construction. Global shipping drives up costs.
Increasing Popularity: As barroca becomes a coveted designer material, demand grows, which leads to higher prices.
But here’s the thing – barroca soapstone actually saves money in the long run because it lasts practically forever without needing replacement. This stone is passed down for generations.
Why is Barroca Ideal for Countertops?
With price tags extending into the tens of thousands, barroca soapstone is certainly not for the thrift-minded. But for those seeking a truly extraordinary countertop, barroca delivers in spades:
- Unmatched Aesthetics. The whorls and wisps in barroca soapstone have astounding depth and fluidity. No two slabs are alike – your countertop will be a unique work of art.
- Extreme Durability. It’s nearly impossible to scratch, chip or stain this incredibly dense stone. Barroca countertops will look flawless for decades with minimal maintenance.
- Heat Resistance. You can place boiling pots and pans directly on barroca without worry. The stone won’t burn or crack under extreme temperatures.
- Stain Resistance. Spills wipe right off the nonporous stone. Even red wine, oil and strong pigments won’t penetrate the surface.
- Antibacterial Qualities. The trace minerals in soapstone keep bacteria from growing. A barroca countertop is safer than porous options like marble or granite.
- Eco-Friendly and Nontoxic. Barroca is 100% natural and chemical-free. That means peace of mind for homeowners concerned about VOCs and toxins.
Combine the practical benefits with the sheer beauty, and it becomes clear why designers and luxury homeowners gravitate towards rare barroca soapstone.
How Much Does Installed Barroca Soapstone Cost?
Since barroca is exclusively sold in slab form, your total price depends on the finished square footage needed for your counters. Here are some typical costs:
- Small Galley Kitchen (~20 sq ft): $4,000-$10,000
- Medium Kitchen (~40 sq ft): $8,000-$20,000
- Large Kitchen (~60+ sq ft): $12,000-$30,000+
- Master Bathroom (~15 sq ft): $3,000-$7,500
Costs vary based on precise slab dimensions, edgework and special cutting required, and your location. Larger custom projects will be towards the top end.
Be sure to use an installer experienced in handling expensive soapstone. DIY is not recommended for such a rare, fragile material.
While certainly not cheap, barroca countertops offer a lifetime of enjoyment and luxury. This is a material you only need to invest in once.
How to Choose Barroca Soapstone Slabs
Choosing perfect slabs for your space is key to getting full value from the investment. Here are tips for selecting barroca:
Color
Barroca has an enchanting range of grayish-green, bluish-gray, inky charcoal and mossy jade tones. Decide whether you prefer dramatic or more subtle veining.
Pattern
Smaller spaces look best with tighter veining, while larger expanses can handle striking wide patterns. Ensure the veins match at seams.
Surface Finish
A honed finish has a soft matte look that disguises fingerprints. Polished barroca has a shiny elegance and reflects light beautifully.
Movement
Barroca’s signature fluidity results from minerals moving through the stone over time. Focus on pieces with vibrant lively markings.
Consistency
Since no two barroca slabs are alike, carefully inspect each one. Look for color and patterning consistency across your set.
Size
Have your installer measure precisely to optimize yield from the rare slabs. This will help control costs from wasted material.
With its incredible nuance, choosing perfect barroca slabs takes time. Don’t rush the selection – you’ll enjoy these counters for life.
Designing a Barroca Soapstone Kitchen
Ready to design your dream barroca soapstone kitchen? Here are some tips:
Complementary Colors
Barroca’s grayish-green veining pairs beautifully with light cabinets in white, cream, or pale blue. Brass hardware also harmonizes nicely.
Statement Island
Make the kitchen island a true centerpiece highlighted by a stunning expanse of barroca. Include special slab cutting and dramatic waterfall edges.
Crisp Backsplash
A backsplash like white subway tile allows the barroca counters to take the spotlight. Avoid busy backsplash patterns.
Warm Wood Tones
Bring in wood elements such as open shelving, butcher block accents or a reclaimed wood dining table to contrast the cool stone tones.
Minimalist Design
Let the extraordinary barroca stone stand out by itself. Skip ornate carvings, inlays or decorative corbels. Keep other finishes sleek and unadorned.
Professional Installation
Don’t cut costs on installation. This delicate stone must be handled with care by experienced professionals.
Creating a kitchen around rare barroca soapstone is a chance to really indulge in a remarkable material. Keep things clean and modern so its captivating beauty shines through.
Caring for Barroca Soapstone
Barroca needs little maintenance, but follow these tips to keep it pristine:
- Seal polished barroca annually to prevent etching. Honed finishes don’t need sealing.
- Use coasters, trivets and cutting boards to protect from direct impact.
- Wipe spills quickly with soap and water to keep the vibrant color.
- Avoid harsh cleaners or acidic sauces sitting on the surface.
- Reapply mineral oil occasionally on honed finishes if you wish to enrich the patina.
With proper care, your extraordinary barroca countertops will astound for generations. This is an heirloom stone destined to be passed down.
Make a Statement with Barroca Luxury
Treat yourself to the stunning elegance of rare barroca soapstone. Its rarity and unmatched beauty make it a special investment that will pay dividends in enjoyment for years to come.
Once you run your hands across the sensuous smooth surface and witness the mesmerizing patterns, you’ll be hooked. The appeal only grows over time as barroca develops its signature patina.
Bringing home incredible barroca countertops means welcoming an heirloom into your family. This striking natural stone makes an unforgettable statement.
