The surrounds around the base cabinets are frame with drywall though masonry is often used in Europe for this look. The cabinetry is painted maple.

Mexican construction uses brick end walls and partitions with concrete spanning the top. The brick is then covered with a skim of tinted concrete or concrete stained of painted after application. I'm seriously considering this but am faltering at the loss of cabinet storage and I guess slightly the resale impact. Looks great, unique but might scare buyers who don't appreciate it other than the cost it will run to remove it! Oh well, common sense be damned, the look is king! (The use of common framing and drywall certainly makes the process cheaper to install as well as easier to demo if the next buyer wishes.)

Well, it didn't slow down the sale of this home. I believe it sold quickly so go for it. Common sense is over-rated!!! Just kidding.