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Natural Materials(4 of 5)

Choose natural flooring and countertops. For flooring, consider limestone, slate, travertine or marble; on counters, think slate, soapstone or granite. "If money permits, the best countertop surface in any kitchen is granite," Mary says. Look for a horizontal, flowing pattern reminiscent of water rather than speckles or flecks. If you're a pastry chef or baking buff, a countertop panel of marble is nice because it stays cold for rolling out dough; marble is too soft, however, for use throughout the kitchen. "The only problem with natural stones is that you have to keep them sealed and you can't cut right on them," Broerman says. "When I install a natural countertop for somebody, I always give them a cutting board as a gift."

Wrought iron and copper are signature metals for the Arts and Crafts look. Possibilities include a hand-forged sink, wall sconces, cabinet pulls, or, for a showstopper, a large oven hood.