Confused about kitchen countertops? You should be. The three most popular types of kitchen counter materials—solid surface, quartz, and slab granite—look alike, at least at first glance. This is intentional. Amazingly stone-like looks are engineered into solid surface and quartz and are nature-made in slab granite.
Only when you get close to the material and feel it do you begin to discern differences. Note that in the charts below, 'homogeneous' is used to indicate a material in which elements are mixed to form a consistent, even look.
Basics
Appearance and Feel
Installation and Cost
Buy It If
. Here I will outline the geology of granite and quartz, their source, physical attributes, durability, and environmental sustainability. In many ways a natural stone countertop can fuel interest in geology. What makes up the different colors of granite? What makes a granite dark vs light What causes cracks within the stone? Why are some minerals small and others big? Is quartz more durable than granite? All of these questions will be answered below and lead into interesting discussions on the formation of igneous rocks.
My home kitchen is airy, with a gas stove, a stainless-steel island table in the center and granite countertops. It's very modest but there's tons of counter space, so you can slap down three or four cutting boards. - Grant Achantz, Chef
Kitchen Counter Price Comparison
What Is Granite And How Is It Formed?
Granite is an igneous rock made up of primarily quartz, feldspar, micas, amphiboles, and a mixture of additional trace minerals. These minerals and their variation in abundance and alteration give granite the numerous colors and textures we see in granite countertops. Formally, granite is a plutonic rock that is composed of between 10 to 50% quartz (typically semi-transparent white) and 65 to 90% total feldspar (typically a pinkish or white hue).
Composition of a granite (Credit: National Park Service)
Granite is an intrusive igneous rock, which means it was formed in place during the cooling of molten rock. Generally, the slower the molten rock cooled, the larger it's mineral crystals with K-Feldspar megacrysts forming in special circumstances greater than 5cm. During formation of granite it is buried below kilometers of rock and sediment necessary to produce enough heat to melt rock. Of course, the granite we see today is near surface, and thus at some point was uplifted, causing overlying sediment to be shed via erosion. This transition from high pressure and temperature to atmospheric temperature and pressure can cause the granite to slightly expand and crack. This, in addition to seasonal variations in temperature can leave you with a weakened and less desirable granite to use for countertops.
What Is Quartz And How Are Quartz Countertops Made?
You may be a bit confused in that there are granite countertops and quartz countertops. As discussed above, granite is a type of rock that is partially composed of quartz, a mineral. Therefore, what exactly is a quartz countertop? You may initially think that a quartz countertop would be composed of a quartz arenite, a rock made up of at least 90% quartz. This may remind you of a white sandy beach with a few brown and pink specs. The natural sorting of quartz on beaches is driven by mineral strength (I'll get to that below) and their differential weathering rates. As weaker minerals weather and erode relatively quicker than quartz, you are left with quartz as a predominant mineral in well weathered sediment systems (i.e. beaches) far from sediment source (i.e. mountains).
However, you will find that quartz countertops are actually man made and although they consist of 90% quartz, the rest of the countertop is composed of resins, polymers, and various types of pigments. This creates a very durable artificial rock without pores or cracks. The pigment is used to provide coloration that is naturally found in quartz arenite.
Comparison of Granite vs. Quartz Countertops
Industrial Kitchen Design
Here, I'll directly compare both granite countertops and quartz countertops with physical, chemical, and geologic parameters. Where noted, I use quartz arenite instead of the composite quartz countertop due to lack of data on the quartz composites.
Quartz (Quartz Arenite) | Granite | |
Mohs Hardness | 7 (pure quartz) | 6-7 (depending on mineralogy) |
Melting Point | 1670 °C | 1215–1260 °C (dry) |
Natural Radiation | None | Trace amounts |
Source | Man-made | Natural |
Natural Fractures | None | Small but variable amounts |
Porous | No | Very slightly |
Should You Be Concerned About Radon From Granite?
Another important aspect when considering the two options is radon and unfortunately there is a variety of misleading or scare-mongering information online. Radon is a radioactive gas that is naturally found in granite due to the decay of radium to radon. Granites can contain parts per billion of radium, providing for an extremely small amount of radioactive material to decay and produce radon. Based on significant research from granite's around the world, it is determined that there is a minimal and acceptable amount of radon in average granite building materials.
Although quartz countertops will have less to zero radon, it does not preclude granite as a 'less safe' choice in kitchen countertops. Given the radiation naturally encountered through flying, walking around a city, and living your everyday life, it is not significant enough to discourage granite in the household.
EPA map of high radon areas in the United States
EPA
Which One Should You Choose?
The debate breaks down into a few large picture questions that you have to ask yourself. Despite the price difference in the two countertop options there are really two variables that you should take into account. One variable is whether you prefer a man made stone or a natural stone. You will find much more beauty in granite and there is certainly an excitement involved in picking out the small imperfections and color variation. I'll give this one to granite as it has a unique and impossible to replicate feel that never disappoints in upgrading your kitchen countertop.
The other variable is ease of use in a number of different factors. Quartz countertops are sealed and therefore not porous, they are primarily made of quartz, which means they are more durable than granite. You'll find that quartz countertops are easier to clean, maintain, and forget about. If your primary concern is having a countertop that you can ignore and heavily use, quartz composite is the way to go.
So there's the breakdown of quartz vs. granite countertops from a geologist's perspective. Undoubtedly, you can't go wrong with either choice. Most of all, make sure you have fun choosing out your very own slab and make it something that has meaning to you and your family. If you have any ideas or anything I missed, feel free to comment below with your thoughts.
Introduction
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Design Inspiration
- 10 Before & After Kitchen Remodels
- Modern Farmhouse Kitchens We Love
- Colorful Kitchen Backsplash Ideas
- Stunning Home Bar Design Ideas
- The Best Kitchen Design Programs
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- Top Paint Colors for Your Kitchen
- 10 Pretty Kitchen Color Schemes
- Timeless Kitchen Paint Colors
- Beautiful Blue Kitchens
- 10 Painted Kitchen Cabinet Ideas
- Striking Kitchens With Blue Cabinets
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- Before You Buy New Kitchen Cabinets
- Materials for Kitchen Countertops
- Best Countertop Covers
- Basic Kitchen Sink Types
- The Most Durable Kitchen Flooring
- Types of Kitchen Lighting
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- How to Hire the Right Contractor
- Tips for Working With a Contractor
- Common Contractor Red Flags
- Best Kitchen Improvements Under $100
- Affordable Kitchen Flooring Ideas
- How to Find Cheap Kitchen Cabinets
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- How to Spray Paint Kitchen Cabinets
- Pretty Ways to Update Your Cabinets
- DIY Kitchen Backsplash Ideas
- Kitchen Island Sink Plumbing
- How to Install a New Kitchen Sink
- Electrical Circuits for Kitchens
- Plumbing Projects You Can DIY
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- 50 DIYs to Update Your Kitchen
- Clever Ideas to Organize Your Pantry
- 10 DIY Wood Bar Carts
- Styling Tips for Kitchen Shelves
- Ways to Display Your Cookbooks
There are lots of options on the market for kitchen countertops, but 10 materials comprise the majority of countertops in residential kitchens. Consider the pros and cons of each type, and follow the links to learn more about each type when making your own decision.
Pros and Cons of the Top Kitchen Counter Surfaces
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Granite
For some time, granite has been the countertop material of choice when there are no other things to think about—such as money. Granite defines elegance in a kitchen. Even modest kitchens seem like luxury spaces when flavored by the beauty of granite countertops.Historically, granite has been an expensive material, but its cost has come down somewhat as supplies have increased and engineered stone has become more common.Pros
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Almost impervious to heat
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Very strong and durable
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Adds real estate value to home
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Nearly 3,000 different colors and types available
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Nearly maintenance-free when treated with newer sealers
Cons
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Very expensive material
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Not suitable for DIY installation
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Slabs may have imperfections
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Can crack if stressed or improperly installed
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Knives are quickly dulled by cutting on granite
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Stone is porous and requires sealing to avoid stains
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Soapstone
Soapstone is another natural stone, usually dark gray in color with a smooth, silky feel. It has seen a recent resurgence as an alternative to granite. Soapstone is often seen in historic homes but is also used in modern homes as both a countertop and sink material. Over time, soapstone takes on an antique-like patina that can be very attractive in certain kitchen styles.Contrary to expectations, the architectural soapstone used for countertops is actually quite hard and resistant to stain. However, it will scratch over time, although this can add to the antique patina of the stone.Pros
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Deep, rich color
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Somewhat stain resistant
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Fairly impervious to heat
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Damage can be sanded out
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Offers antique, historic look to a kitchen
Cons
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May darken over time
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DIY installation not possible
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Must be treated with mineral oil
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Surface can scratch and dent, though this can create an attractive antique look
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Marble
Another natural stone commonly used in kitchen countertops is marble. Because no two sheets of marble are exactly the same, each marble countertop will be entirely unique.Because of its extremely high price tag, marble is not often seen on the countertops of whole kitchens. More often, its luxurious look is limited to use on an island or section of countertop reserved as a baking center.Although highly prized, marble may not be the best choice for kitchens, due to its penchant for staining and scratching. Newer sealers can reduce the upkeep on marble, but this is a considerably more temperamental stone than granite or soapstone.Pros
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Waterproof and heatproof
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Adds to real estate value of a home
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Exceptionally beautiful stone, with unique veining
Cons
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Expensive
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DIY installation not possible
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Can be scratched; repairs are difficult
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Stone is porous and stains easily unless sealed
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Quartz (Engineered Stone)
The countertop material known as 'quartz' is actually an engineered stone product that contains as much as 93 percent quartz particles and other minerals, shaped into slabs and bound with resins. These are not solid quartz slabs produced by quarrying.Sold by companies such as DuPont Zodiaq, LG Viatera, Cambria, and Silestone, quartz was created as a more adaptable and better-performing alternative to granite and marble. It is available in a larger range of colors than granite and has a nonporous surface that resists both scratching and staining. Some types are convincing copies of natural marble, with similar veining. Unlike natural stone, engineered quartz requires no annual sealing.Similar technology is now being used in so-called glass countertops, which consist of particles of recycled glass blended with resins and shaped into countertop slabs. Consumers keen on being on the cutting edge may want to consider glass as well as quartz countertops.Pros
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DIY installation possible
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Easy to maintain, no sealing required
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Slabs are uniform, with no imperfections
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Can be custom-fabricated in any size and shape
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Resists stains and is impervious to heat and acid
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More convincing, natural appearance than solid surface material
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Solid-Surface Material
Solid-surface material, sold under brands including Avonite, Corian, and Swanstone, is a man-made material consisting of a blend of acrylic particles and resins that are pressed into sheets and other shapes. Solid-surface countertops and sinks have now been around for nearly 50 years, but at the time of introduction, they were regarded as space-age alternatives to natural stone, which they sought to mimic.Once regarded as premium, luxury countertops, solid-surface material is now considered somewhat mid-tier, but it is still an excellent choice for mid-range kitchens. It can also be a good material in high-end kitchens with a lot of countertop space that would be prohibitively expensive to cover with granite or quartz.Pros
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Resists staining
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Seams are virtually invisible
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Damage can be easily sanded out
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Available in many, many colors and patterns
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Integrated sink/countertop units are available
Cons
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Moderately expensive
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Vulnerable to damage from hot pans
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No DIY installation; must be fabricated by pros
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Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is durable and easy to clean, and it is considerably less expensive than natural stone, quartz, or solid-surface countertops, especially for DIYers willing to do their own work.Recent innovations in porcelain tiles offer many more design options than ever before, including tiles that look like wood, marble, or even leather or cork. Ceramic and porcelain tiles offer more design options than nearly any other countertop material.Pros
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Easy to clean
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Usually affordable
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Easy for DIYers to construct
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Immune to heat damage from hot pans
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An enormous range of colors and styles available
Cons
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Custom tiles can be very expensive
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Tile are brittle and may crack under impact
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Grout lines can stain and are difficult to clean
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Does not carry the same prestige as granite or quartz
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Laminates
Laminate counters bear trademarks such as Formica, Nevamar, and Wilsonart. The laminates are plastic-coated synthetics with a smooth surface that's easy to clean. Countertops are made by bonding the laminate sheets to a particleboard (MDF) core. Laminate countertops can be purchased as pre-formed segments (called post-form countertops), or custom-fabricated to specifications, either on-site or in a fabrication shop.Although for many years regarded as a poor cousin to more premium countertop materials, laminates have seen a recent surge in popularity, thanks in part to the thousands of colors, patterns, and styles now available. Laminates are especially popular in retro designs, particular mid-century modern kitchens.Pros
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Very easy to maintain
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Thousands of options available
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DIY installation is relatively easy
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Very inexpensive countertop option
Cons
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Seams are always visible
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May be viewed as 'low-end' by potential home buyers
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Custom edging and backsplash treatments can add expense
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Surfaces can be scratched and chipped; damage is almost impossible to repair
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Wood or Butcher Block
Wood countertops offer a beautiful warm look and are available in a wide range of colors and finishes. Gta sa graphics mod for low pc. Hardwoods such as maple and oak are the species most often used as countertop woods.Pros
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Relatively easy to clean
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Very long-lasting when properly cared for
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Can be sanded and resealed, as needed
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Offers a quaint, country look in most kitchens
Cons
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Fairly expensive countertop material
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Surfaces can be scratched and cut by knives
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Can be damaged by water and stains over time
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Bacteria can be a problem if not properly maintained
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Wood is subject to cracking if not maintained; must be oiled and sealed frequently
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Stainless Steel
For a really contemporary and industrial look for your kitchen, stainless steel is a good choice. Stainless steel countertops are heat resistant and durable. Because they're constructed to your specifications, you can have a seamless countertop.Pros
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Impervious to heat damage
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Excellent for modern-style kitchens
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Easiest of all countertop materials to clean
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Regarded as 'premium' countertop; adds real estate value
Cons
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Noisy
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Very expensive to fabricate
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Can be easily scratched; not a cutting surface
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Concrete
If you have countertops in unusual shapes, or if you want a truly unique kitchen, concrete may be a good choice for your countertops. Due to their heavy weight, concrete countertops are usually cast in forms right in your kitchen. These are not the same kind of concrete slabs used in sidewalks, but highly polished slabs that may even be textured or acid-stained to produce colors.Although concrete can be subject to cracking, new treatments can reduce this tendency. The porousness of concrete can be reduced with additives.Pros
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Can be color-tinted
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Heat and scratch resistant
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Provides a look that is exotic and unusual
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Decorative textures and colors are possible
Cons
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No DIY installation possible
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Cracking may occur over time
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Costs are high due to custom workFeb 27, 2019 - Linux distros are continuing to improve apace. While there isn't truly a one-size-fits-all solution, we've picked out the best Linux distros of 2019. Best linux distro 2019. 5 days ago - Choosing the Best Linux distro in 2019, for Desktop. Sorted in 3 categories: easy, satisfying and challenging. Last updated: June 8th 2019. Mar 5, 2019 - The Best Linux Distros for Laptops in 2019. MX Linux is an open-source distro based on antiX and MEPIS. Manjaro is a beautiful Arch Linux-based distro that works as an excellent replacement to MacOS and Windows. Mar 27, 2019 - Wanting to ditch Windows or MacOS? Linux is a great alternative, but whic version is best for you? There's a lot to choose from which can make. May 18, 2019 - Brief: In this article, we will see the best Linux distro for beginners. This will help new Linux users to pick their first distribution. Let's face it, Linux.
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Surface is porous unless regularly sealed
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Appearance may seem 'industrial'; may be viewed negatively by future home buyers
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Mixing and matching kitchen cabinet doors is a big trend, and now we’re seeing a marrying of materials in countertops too. Combining different styles of countertops in contrasting colors and textures has several benefits. It creates visual drama, offers versatility and can help stretch a budget.
If you’ve had your eye on an expensive slab of marble or stunning hardwood, for example, you’ll be able to use it in a small area as a focal point while installing something more affordable in the rest of the room. Surfaces can be tailored to functions, such as a heat-resistant top for the cooking zone and a warm wood for the eating area. So whatever your style or taste, there’s room for more than one countertop material in your kitchen.
Photo by Blue Eco Homes, original photo on Houzz
Wood combos. Wood is the stalwart of the kitchen surface, but if you want something a bit different, try pairing it with a contemporary composite or natural stone.
Many people pick wood for its good looks, but it needs regular oiling when used around the stove and sink to prevent scorching and water damage. Therefore, if you desire the beauty of wood but want to be practical too, use wood just in the eating area to save a heap of time on maintenance. I love the combination of distinctive wood grains, such as zebrawood or iroko, with modern pale surfaces, such as limestone.
Photo by Auhaus Architecture, original photo on Houzz
Paired up. Kitchens that feature countertops in the same finish as the cabinets have a smart, uniform look. It’s a good practice to follow when combining materials to avoid having the space look overcrowded.
If you are mixing a wood with a colored surface and cabinets, consider the tone of the wood. Color varies within wood countertops, and the result can feel either warm or cool. Pairing wood with the right color is crucial. Combos that work well are pale oak with deep gray and rich walnut with cool green.
Photo by LEX Furniture, original photo on Houzz
Practical finish.Bakers know the benefits of rolling dough on a chilled surface (it doesn’t stick so much). Why not include a slab of marble or granite at the end of a wood or laminate counter to handle the job? It also creates an interesting visual feature.
Photo by Zeitgeist Photography, original photo on Houzz
Raw edge. Polished concrete countertops make a statement and can be perfect for channeling an industrial look. Diablo 2 the curse of tristram download pdf. However, their texture and finish can feel a little cold and uninviting for an eating area. Try pairing yours with a smooth and clean-looking surface, such as a composite material. Composites are man-made materials that use rock minerals suspended in tough resin. They are stain-resistant, easy-care and antibacterial.
Photo by Ande Bunbury Architects, original photo on Houzz
Color blocks. Laminated surfaces are the most affordable countertop option. They’re hard-wearing, thanks to their tough coating wrapped around high-density particleboard, plywood or medium-density fiberboard. They also come in a host of colors. Here, they’re paired with a stainless steel countertop around the sink area for ease of use.
Photo by Von Haus Design Studio, original photo on Houzz
The professional touch. Stainless steel countertops are hygienic, and can withstand heat, water and stains. However, steel is pretty chilly to touch, and it does scratch, so it’s probably not the ideal material for a breakfast bar, which sees a lot of cutlery action. Pairing it with another smooth and sleek surface for the eating area, such as limestone, will make your serious kitchen welcoming yet very functional.
Photo by Arent & Pyke, original photo on Houzz
Attractive opposites. Marble has seen a resurgence in popularity in the kitchen. Its bold veining adds drama to backsplashes, islands and other surfaces, and each slab of natural marble varies in color and pattern, However, that beauty comes at a price. Therefore, dedicating a sizable chunk of work surface to another material, such as wood or laminate, can save you a bundle and still retain that classic look.
Photo by Fred Tabet, original photo on Houzz
Cool monochrome. If you want to play it calm and collected with a sophisticated black-and-white palette, consider upping the ante with a standout island. Choose wraparound black countertops to bring focus to this central feature, and white surfaces for the rest of the space so that it feels light and bright.
Photo by BDA Architecture, original photo on Houzz
Compare and contrast. Galley kitchens can often feel a little featureless, thanks to their long and narrow layout. Try raising the pulse by mixing some rough with the smooth. A chunky, tough concrete countertop opposite a skinny porcelain surface will create a stunning contrast that’s sure to get your heart racing.
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Louise O'Bryan, Houzz Contributor
Mixing and matching kitchen cabinet doors is a big trend, and now we’re seeing a marrying of materials in countertops too. Combining different styles of countertops in contrasting colors and textures has several benefits. It creates visual drama, offers versatility and can help stretch a budget.
If you’ve had your eye on an expensive slab of marble or stunning hardwood, for example, you’ll be able to use it in a small area as a focal point while installing something more affordable in the rest of the room. Surfaces can be tailored to functions, such as a heat-resistant top for the cooking zone and a warm wood for the eating area. So whatever your style or taste, there’s room for more than one countertop material in your kitchen.
Wood combos. Wood is the stalwart of the kitchen surface, but if you want something a bit different, try pairing it with a contemporary composite or natural stone.
Many people pick wood for its good looks, but it needs regular oiling when used around the stove and sink to prevent scorching and water damage. Therefore, if you desire the beauty of wood but want to be practical too, use wood just in the eating area to save a heap of time on maintenance. I love the combination of distinctive wood grains, such as zebrawood or iroko, with modern pale surfaces, such as limestone.
Paired up. Kitchens that feature countertops in the same finish as the cabinets have a smart, uniform look. It’s a good practice to follow when combining materials to avoid having the space look overcrowded.
If you are mixing a wood with a colored surface and cabinets, consider the tone of the wood. Color varies within wood countertops, and the result can feel either warm or cool. Pairing wood with the right color is crucial. Combos that work well are pale oak with deep gray and rich walnut with cool green.
Practical finish.Bakers know the benefits of rolling dough on a chilled surface (it doesn’t stick so much). Why not include a slab of marble or granite at the end of a wood or laminate counter to handle the job? It also creates an interesting visual feature.
Raw edge. Polished concrete countertops make a statement and can be perfect for channeling an industrial look. However, their texture and finish can feel a little cold and uninviting for an eating area. Try pairing yours with a smooth and clean-looking surface, such as a composite material. Composites are man-made materials that use rock minerals suspended in tough resin. They are stain-resistant, easy-care and antibacterial.
Color blocks. Laminated surfaces are the most affordable countertop option. They’re hard-wearing, thanks to their tough coating wrapped around high-density particleboard, plywood or medium-density fiberboard. They also come in a host of colors. Here, they’re paired with a stainless steel countertop around the sink area for ease of use.
The professional touch. Stainless steel countertops are hygienic, and can withstand heat, water and stains. However, steel is pretty chilly to touch, and it does scratch, so it’s probably not the ideal material for a breakfast bar, which sees a lot of cutlery action. Pairing it with another smooth and sleek surface for the eating area, such as limestone, will make your serious kitchen welcoming yet very functional.
Attractive opposites. Marble has seen a resurgence in popularity in the kitchen. Its bold veining adds drama to backsplashes, islands and other surfaces, and each slab of natural marble varies in color and pattern, However, that beauty comes at a price. Therefore, dedicating a sizable chunk of work surface to another material, such as wood or laminate, can save you a bundle and still retain that classic look.
Cool monochrome. If you want to play it calm and collected with a sophisticated black-and-white palette, consider upping the ante with a standout island. Choose wraparound black countertops to bring focus to this central feature, and white surfaces for the rest of the space so that it feels light and bright.
Compare and contrast. Galley kitchens can often feel a little featureless, thanks to their long and narrow layout. Try raising the pulse by mixing some rough with the smooth. A chunky, tough concrete countertop opposite a skinny porcelain surface will create a stunning contrast that’s sure to get your heart racing.