Countertop Trends
Countertop Trends
A focus on countertops in the kitchen will continue to grow because kitchen cabinet details are being simplified. Elements to be considered when entertaining countertop ideas include:
Texture - In recent years the texture has become as important, if not more, than color. Physical texture for countertops, for the most part, will always be smooth for functionality, but visual texture has proven to be an important aspect of surface aesthetics
Stone - Granite continues to be popular, but other stone materials are becoming popular including soapstone, slate and onyx.
Glass - Glass countertops introduce practicality and beauty to kitchen and bath spaces. Non-porous, hygienic and impervious to stains, they can be wiped up with common glass cleaner. They are made of a high percentage of recycled glass, so are considered a green material and the artistic capabilities are huge.
Engineered Stone – Engineered stone (Also known as quartz) imitates the look of natural stone by combining small stone chips, resins and other pigments. These surfaces have quickly become some of the most popular options in countertops because they deflect stains better than natural stone without the use of sealers. While quartz surfaces won’t stand up to heavy impacts like granite will, quartz is highly resistant to scratching, scorching and staining and is also easy to maintain. Some quartz (Zodiac by DuPont) is even incorporating recycled glass making it an even greener choice.
Silestone has Microban, an antimicrobial protection built in and Certifications by the National Sanitation Foundation and the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute. (It has low-to-no emission (off gassing) of toxic chemicals into the indoor environment.)
Solid Surface - Colors of solid surface are expanding to bright (red, yellow, blue, green) and translucent looks as well as looks that have more visual texture. Corian is even Kosher certified.
Color - Neutral colors are expanding beyond the basics and some bold colors are emerging. Hot colors include reds, yellows, greens and blues.
Green - Glass, bamboo, low emission engineered stone
Functional - Separate work areas for baking (marble), large islands for entertaining/everyday use
Surface Variety - Homeowners are using multiple surface materials for better function or a more dramatic look
