Countertops… here’s the skinny
Countertops are a huge part of your kitchen design. They set the tone of the space, they support the tasks you work through, and they are a great way to show off your style.
Sometimes they are OVERWHELMING because there are so many options, colors, materials and each ones have their own uses and features.
I don't want you to be overwhelmed, so I put together a quick overview of the pros and cons of my favorite countertop options.
Skip to the end of you want to see my favorite materials and how to use them!
Your Go-To Countertops
| COUNTERTOP | PROS | CONS |
|---|---|---|
| Granite | Resistant to heat and abrasion; strong and durable material; many colors and patterns. | Requires annual sealing, sometimes more if you have a lighter colored material; heavy and difficult to install. |
| Quartz | Easy to maintain, no sealing required; resistant to mold, mildew, and stains; wide variety of color options. | Vulnerable to heat damage; susceptible to scratches; direct sunlight can fade the color. |
| Wood | Durable, long-lasting material; environmentally friendly countertop option; attractive country-style appearance. | Susceptible to moisture and stains; porous material, vulnerable to bacteria; must be oiled and sealed frequently. |
| Concrete | Heat and scratch resistant; long-lasting industrial appearance; variety of color options; fully customizable. | Expensive and high-maintenance; porous surface, must be regularly sealed or epoxy covered. |
| Soapstone | Unique veining and color patterns; non-porous, resistant to heat and stains; patina can create an antique appearance. | Takes time for the patina to develop; must be treated with mineral oil every month; surface is vulnerable to abrasive damage. |
| Marble | Deep, rich color; somewhat stain-resistant; fairly impervious to heat; damage can be sanded out; offers antique, historic look to a kitchen. | Vulnerable to scratches and staining; requires sealing and maintenance every six months to keep it in good condition. |
| Stainless Steel | Impervious to heat damage; easiest material to clean; resistant to mold, mildew, and stains. | Easily-scratched surface; shoes fingerprints and water spots easily; very loud, clanking, and pinging when pots and utensils are set on it. |
| Solid Surface | Resistant to staining; seams are virtually invisible; available in many colors and patterns. | Vulnerable to damage from heat; susceptible to scratches and dents; manufactured, not natural. |
Tip from your designer:
If I had to pick a single favorite countertop material it would have to be Butcherblock.
It brings such a warmth to the space that can be hard to find in options like granite, quartz or marble. It adds in this beautiful natural movement through the area, not to mention the historic ambiance it can bring. I love matching materials and their uses to what we would have found hundreds of years ago in the glorious old world farmhouses.
A Close Second...
PRO TIP:
Marble is a great option for a small station in the kitchen. We like to make candy and pastries with the kiddos and the temperature regulation in Marble is perfect to keep things from sticking.
I always look at countertops as a way to bring in some beautiful, old world glory. These magnificent materials that are timeless and will age gracefully to meet the needs of my family as we grow and change is just something that I couldn't go without.
Make it stand out
Build it.
What it took to build this dream!
Dream it.
It all begins with an idea, a desire for change!
Love it.
The beautiful reality of that dream!