MADBURY, NH - Chris Dennen and Jay Trahan have launched Seacoast Soapstone, LLC,  a custom fabricator of wood and stone countertops, soapstone sinks, custom cabinetry and custom kitchen design. Seacoast Soapstone is based in Madbury, NH and services clients across northern New England.

Despite the name, soapstone countertops will be only part of their offering to clients. They will continue to design and build custom cabinetry, and will also offer wood countertop. Trahan and Dennen, who have over 40 years of wood and stone working experience, say the launch is a response to the market.

"There's been a resurgence of interest in soapstone in this region," says Trahan, who has a degree in architectural design and building that he says allows him to offer clients a higher level of craft based on traditional architectural training.

Trahan, who was born in Vermont, says soapstone has special appeal in his market area.

"There's a tremendous demand from people who are looking for alternatives to the ubiquitous granite kitchen countertop. Soapstone has a warm and inviting feel that gets better and better with age, much like an old leather chair. It's not cold and stark like granite."

Dennen, who became a professional cabinetmaker and furniture designer after graduating from Hartwick College, says while he designed beautiful cabinetry for his customers, "often they were disappointed with the options available for their countertops."

Advantages of soapstone countertops are its soft, matte finish, and no problems with staining.

"They can be oiled for a dark, rich look or left natural for a softer shade of gray," says Dennen.