What’s the best countertop for your money?

There are too many factors that go into choosing countertop material to say that one provides the best return on your investment. However, if your budget is extremely tight, don’t be afraid to give laminate a second look. New printing techniques and edge options have today’s laminate countertop surfaces looking better than ever before.

What is the easiest countertop to maintain?

Laminate countertops are the easiest to maintain. Simply clean them with a mild spray cleaner or soap and water. No special cleaning or maintenance is required.

Are butcher block countertops unsanitary?

All countertops are probably dirtier than we imagine. A wood countertop is porous, which means it can trap more germs and debris than other solid surface materials. Be sure to clean a butcher block countertop after every use with vinegar or soap and water.

11 Countertop Ideas for Kitchen & Bathroom

“You wouldn’t build a house unless the design was exactly what you wanted; honing in on the design of your renovation project is crucial before you proceed.” – Michael Upshall

Choosing a countertop can be one of the most difficult decisions when building a home or doing a bathroom or kitchen remodel.

After all, a countertop is a wide expanse of color in any room and it’s one that you must live with happily for quite a long time.

Depending on the material you choose, it can also be one of your home’s biggest investments.

Countertop ideas can feel virtually limitless when trying to narrow down your preferences.

Each type of countertop has its own benefits and drawbacks. Scroll through our selection of the best countertop ideas and learn why each is a good—or perhaps not-so-good—option for your home.

1. Porcelain Countertop

This versatile material offers both durability and beauty, making it an excellent choice for any modern kitchen. The clean and smooth surface of porcelain complements various design styles, allowing you to pair it with warm wooden cabinets for a cozy and inviting atmosphere or with vibrant colors for a bold and contemporary look.

One of the benefits of a porcelain countertop is its low maintenance. Its non-porous nature makes it resistant to stains and easy to clean, ensuring that your kitchen always looks fresh and pristine. With a porcelain countertop, you can achieve a chic and functional kitchen space that effortlessly combines style and practicality.

2. Wood Countertop

Opting for a wood countertop not only brings an organic and earthy element to your kitchen but also provides a durable and functional surface for meal preparation and entertaining. To ensure longevity, consider choosing laminated wood, which offers added protection against moisture and heat. When caring for your wood countertop, be sure to regularly seal it to maintain its luster and protect it from stains.

Embrace the natural variations in grain and color that come with wood, as they add character and uniqueness to your countertop. Whether you’re aiming for a farmhouse-inspired kitchen or a modern culinary haven, a wood countertop is a versatile choice that brings warmth and style to your space.

3. Concrete Countertop

Concrete countertops offer a unique texture and finish that adds character to any kitchen. They can be customized to suit your style, whether you prefer a smooth and polished surface or a more rugged and textured look. To ensure the longevity of your concrete countertop, it’s important to seal it properly and maintain it regularly.

Remember to avoid cutting directly on the surface and use trivets or cutting boards to protect it from heat and scratches. With the right care and attention, your concrete countertop will continue to impress for years to come.

4. Granite Countertop

Granite is renowned for its natural beauty, with unique patterns and colors that can complement any kitchen style. It’s incredibly resilient and heat-resistant, making it perfect for cooking and baking activities. With proper sealing, it becomes resistant to stains and scratches, ensuring its longevity.

Plus, granite is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only a simple wipe-down to keep it looking pristine. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished granite or a textured and honed finish, a granite countertop will undoubtedly become the centerpiece of your kitchen, combining both style and functionality in one impressive surface.

Granite countertop — Source: @isabelleambiance via Instagram

5. Marble Countertop

This luxurious surface instantly adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any kitchen space. The smooth and glossy finish of marble not only looks stunning but also offers a durable and practical solution for your countertop needs.

It is natural veining and unique patterns create a sense of depth and character, making each countertop truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you prefer a classic white marble or a bold and dramatic color variation, the versatility of marble allows it to seamlessly blend with any kitchen style, from traditional to contemporary.

Marble countertop — Source: @christinestarfish via Instagram

6. Resin Countertop

This innovative countertop material offers a mesmerizing blend of colors, patterns, and textures that will instantly become the focal point of your space. With its seamless and glossy finish, the resin countertop creates a modern and sleek look that complements various design styles. Each resin countertop is a work of art, as the mixture of pigments and additives creates a swirling and marbled effect, resembling a captivating psychedelic experience.

Whether you choose vibrant and bold hues or subtle and earthy tones, your resin countertop will bring an element of excitement and personality to your kitchen. Its seamless surface is not only visually stunning but also highly durable and easy to clean, making it a practical choice for any busy kitchen.

7. Quartz Countertop

This sleek and sophisticated surface adds a touch of elegance to any culinary space. With its glossy finish and timeless appeal, quartz countertops not only enhance the aesthetics of your kitchen but also offer exceptional durability and easy maintenance.

Whether you opt for a classic white shade, a bold and veined pattern, or a subtle neutral tone, quartz countertops provide a luxurious backdrop for your culinary adventures. The smooth and seamless surface of quartz offers both style and functionality, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a chic and high-performing kitchen countertop solution.

Quartz kitchen countertop — Source: @theglassguyshouston via Instagram

8. Wood & Marble Countertop

This unique pairing brings together the warmth and natural beauty of wood with the timeless elegance of marble. The rich tones and intricate grain patterns of the wood create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while the sleek and polished marble adds a touch of luxury and sophistication.

Whether you prefer a rustic farmhouse look or a modern and minimalist style, a wood and marble countertop will effortlessly blend with any design aesthetic. Let the natural textures and contrasting colors of these materials become the centerpiece of your kitchen, creating a space that is both functional and visually stunning.

9. Black Countertop

Black countertops add a touch of elegance and drama to any kitchen space, creating a bold statement that is both chic and timeless. The deep, rich hue of a black countertop provides a striking contrast against lighter cabinetry, making it a focal point in the room. Whether you opt for a glossy or matte finish, the black surface adds a sense of depth and luxury.

Pair it with stainless steel appliances and sleek hardware for a modern look, or combine it with warm wood tones for a more rustic appeal. With its versatility and striking aesthetic, a black kitchen countertop is sure to transform your culinary space into a sophisticated haven.

Black kitchen countertop — Source: @seapointeconstruction via Instagram

10. Laminated Countertop

This affordable alternative offers a wide range of design options and allows you to achieve a chic and modern look. With its smooth and durable surface, a laminated countertop is not only budget-friendly but also easy to clean and maintain.

Choose from a variety of colors, patterns, and textures to match your kitchen’s aesthetic and create a stunning focal point. Whether you prefer a sleek and minimalist design or a bold and vibrant statement, a laminated countertop is a fantastic choice for adding both style and functionality to your kitchen space.

Laminated countertop — Source: @slewinskicph via Instagram

11. Stainless Steel Countertop

Elevate your kitchen design with the sleek and sophisticated appeal of stainless steel countertops. These modern and versatile surfaces bring a touch of professional style to your culinary space. Not only do they exude a contemporary vibe, but they also offer exceptional durability and functionality. With their resistance to heat, stains, and bacteria, stainless steel countertops are an excellent choice for busy kitchens.

They seamlessly blend into various design aesthetics, from minimalist to industrial, and their reflective surface adds a touch of glamour. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a passionate home cook, a stainless steel countertop will enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your kitchen.