Stone with a Story – How Kitchen Cosmetics Got Its Start

Dave Neal on his boat fishing.

When you walk into a kitchen or bath finished by Kitchen Cosmetics, you’re not just seeing polished stone—you’re seeing decades of experience shaped by hand, heart, and hard work.

Dave Neal, founder of Kitchen Cosmetics, didn’t take a straight path into stonework. He was born in Virginia, raised in Wyoming, and spent his early years mastering cabinetry and trim work. That love of precision and materials grew into a full-time trade. In Iowa, he ran his own cabinet shop and built homes for more than a decade. But it wasn’t until he returned to Virginia in 2006 that the idea of Kitchen Cosmetics started to take form.

What began as remodeling and granite installation projects soon evolved into a custom fabrication shop. In 2010, Dave bought his first manual bridge saw. That single decision transformed his business from installer to fabricator. Today, Kitchen Cosmetics runs two 5-axis CNC saws to deliver clean cuts, consistent detail, and custom stone pieces for Tidewater homeowners, designers, and builders.

But some things haven’t changed. Dave still handles every measure and template himself, ensuring every project starts with precision. His partner Michelle Colangelo-Colonna keeps operations on track and supports the team behind the scenes.

This is a business built by hand—and built by reputation. Many of our clients come to us by word of mouth, and they stay because we care about every corner, curve, and cut.

We’re proud to serve our coastal Virginia community with craftsmanship that stands the test of time (and tide).

Thinking about a remodel or custom stonework project?

Visit our brand new website and enter your information for a free estimate!

Or simply give us a call us to get started. 757-737-4343