07 May Kitchen Reno – Countertops 101

In this post we’re sharing all things countertop design. The countertop is an essential component in a kitchen design and renovation.  It is not only where all the action takes place but can be the foundation of your overall kitchen design.  Although it may be tempting to choose a counter based on looks alone, it is so important to consider the durability, maintenance and overall cost!  There are so many choices on the market so deciding which one to go with can be overwhelming.  Here is an overview of different materials to consider:

Countertop Design options that are still popular in 2024

• Quartz continues to be the popular choice in 2024 for its unmatched durability and resistance. Quartz is an engineered stone which is a very durable surface and does not chip or scratch easily. Because quartz is not a porous material it’s great for resisting stains, and therefore also doesn’t need to be sealed. If you’re looking for a low maintenance option that also delivers high satisfaction, then quartz is perfect for you.

• Granite is a natural material that’s cut directly from solid stone. Variation in the stone’s pattern is common but its multifaceted appearance makes granite a great showpiece in any kitchen.  Granite is highly scratch resistant but it is a porous material, so it requires sealing in order to prevent stains (typically 1-2x per year)

• Concrete is naturally heat resistant but it is extremely porous so it must be sealed to avoid stains. Concrete can be left in its natural grey hue or dyed to almost any colour.A concrete countertop adds an industrial feel to the kitchen.

• Laminate is the most budget friendly choice. It comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns and can even mimic the look of stone and wood.   Laminate is more susceptible to scratching, staining and burning compared to other surfaces.

• Wood adds warmth and natural beauty to kitchens.  It does require regular oiling to keep it from drying out.  A wood countertop is at risk of damage from knives, hot pans and standing water but most damage can be sanded out.  However, wood is naturally anti-bacterial!

• Soapstone is highly stain and bacteria resistant.  Soapstone is a non-porous natural stone that is available in a range of gray tones, all with subtle veining.  It does not require any sealing but this stone is more prone to scratches, but regular applications of mineral oil will help disguise surface scratches.

• Quartzite sounds a lot like quartz and can look similar. These are actually two separate materials with some key differences.  Quartzite is a metamorphic rock that is created when sandstone is put under high pressure and temperature.  It’s often compared to granite in terms of hardness and durability.  Quartzite will also need to be sealed in order to prevent stains.

• Marble is one of the more expensive countertop options because it’s cut from a natural stone. The grey-toned veining in Carrera and Calacatta marble is aesthetically pleasing.  Marble is a timeless choice that works in both modern and traditional kitchens while providing any space with a high-end look.  Marble is porous so staining is a concern.  Marble requires regular sealing and special care to stay beautiful.

• Stainless Steel has been a design trend since the early 2000’s and in 2024 we’re seeing design trends such as pairing stainless steel with natural materials like stone and wood. Stainless steel is great for its resistance to heat and stains but you will have to deal with scratches and fingerprints.

Some final tips:

The countertop design is an important aspect of the overall aesthetic of your kitchen design.

Before finalizing your decision it is important to consider your lifestyle. If you can’t decide on one material, it’s okay to mix and match materials.  This trend allows for more customization in your kitchen design and ca create a unique look to your kitchen. This is a trend that is gaining popularity in 2024. Using a different material on an island than the rest of the countertops throughout the kitchen can add visual interest to the space.

Go and see the countertop surface in person, many dealers will allow customers to view the slab in person prior to ordering to ensure the grain/colouring is what the client is envisioning.  This is especially important when choosing granite and marble.

Get samples and make sure you carefully examine it next to your cabinet colour to ensure the colouring is complimentary.