Many of us prefer the warm sheen of copper over other metals.  The deep color, the sturdiness and the lovely patinas that develop on copper that is exposed to the elements are unique.  One of the more unusual application of this metal that I've seen was in a home with copper countertops in the kitchen.  It surprised me as I would think the maintenance would be difficult.

The homeowner had added the copper in a kitchen remodel and told me it was the best counter she'd ever had.  There are metal manufacturers that produce copper counters that are preformed and are coated to keep the shiny look of a new copper penny.

That was not the case in this home.  The homeowner was able to locate an adventuous remodeler who was not afraid to try something new.  She had ordered heavy gauge copper sheeting from an online supplier and it was cut and the drop edge rounded just before installation.  It was not coated at all.  After 3 years, the counter had darkened and mottled and was unbelievably striking. 

Hard to care for?  Not at all said the owner.  She does use cutting boards to avoid deep scratches (which should be done with almost any countertop routinely) but said that she simply cleans the copper counter with a soapy cloth just as you would any counter.  The heavy gauge and the solid wood surface beneath the copper prevents denting.