15 Best Kitchen Countertop Ideas for Every Style, Color, and Budget
Whether you use it as a place to entertain, channel your inner chef, or as a catch-all for mail and other floating clutter — no judgment! — the kitchen countertop is an important part of your home. It’s also one that takes up a lot of square footage in your kitchen, so you want to get it right. In addition to opting for materials that complement the space’s aesthetic, Cassandra Thurston, founder of her namesake design firm in New Jersey, advises they also “stand up to the demands of daily use depending on your lifestyle.”
And material, believe it or not, is just the beginning. “Personalization is key to enhancing both functionality and style,” Thurston continues. “Consider a waterfall edge or thicker slab, integrated cutting boards, or built-in power strips hidden underneath.” Here are 15 more kitchen countertop ideas to get you inspired.
1. Soapstone
As a low-maintenance, heat-resistant, and durable natural material, soapstone is a kitchen countertop idea that will last. Its darkness makes it the exact opposite of the white quartz or marble trend, making it a standout pick as well.
2. Mixed Media
Who said you can only choose one countertop material? In this kitchen, they combine materials to make an even more versatile, interesting look. The bar is made out of the same wood as the open shelving, adding warmth, dimension, and consistency at the same time.
3. Glass Top
Love to entertain, but need a more durable surface than what you have? If you’re dealing with a more delicate countertop and you want to maintain its appearance, consider adding a custom-cut piece of glass to the top as protection.
4. Butcher Block
Out of all the kitchen countertop ideas, butcher block is one of the most affordable (and on-trend!). The wood makes a space feel more homey, and you can ditch your cutting boards to use it as a workspace if you want.
5. Stainless Steel
Another kitchen countertop idea for home cooks, stainless steel is a restaurant staple because of how heavy-duty it is. Though it definitely has a more industrial look to it, here, the homeowner creates some contrast with a wood base.
6. Ceramic Tiles
Though tile counters can run the risk of looking dated, in this kitchen they feel more contemporary. The bright green ceramic is refreshing, while the patterned accent tile on the backsplash features curves that contrast with the sharp geometric shapes.
7. Marble
This natural stone has only grown in popularity over the years, loved for its light and bright look and one-of-a-kind character. Though some are a fan of the patina it develops over time, its high maintenance nature can be frustrating for others, which brings me to…
8. Quartz
Quartz is an engineered stone surface that’s hard-wearing and less expensive than many other countertop options (that looks just as chic). Depending on the style, it can be used as a low-maintenance alternative to marble.
9. Waterfall Edge
A waterfall edge is exactly what it sounds like: Instead of the countertop stopping at the end of the cabinetry or island, it continues over the side to the floor. Materials and installation will cost you a little extra, but the statement it makes is undeniable.
10. Concrete
Similar to stainless steel with its industrial appeal, concrete is a less expected kitchen countertop idea that makes a major impact. Plus, if installed and taken care of properly, it’ll last a lifetime.
11. Contact Paper
Adding contact paper is one of the most rental-friendly kitchen countertop ideas out there — all you have to do is peel off the backing and stick it on your current counters. Seriously! While it’s not always the best for long-term use, for typically under $50, you get an amazing cost-per-use, and it’s a great in-between solution if you can’t figure out what look you’re going for.
12. Stand-Alone Counter
When you’re low on counter space, the easiest way to create more is to add a stand-alone cart or island to the kitchen. The bonus is that you also get extra storage and, depending on the location and setup, seating.
13. Laminate
I know, I know … But hear me out: Laminate has come a long way. It’s making a comeback, and at such an affordable price point, I’m all for it. Modern laminate will surprise you with how much it can emulate other, more elevated materials like marble or granite.
14. Extend the Countertop
If you have the space, there’s no reason not to add more seating (and countertop!) in the kitchen. This makes it more of a place to gather with friends and family, which is never a bad thing. Check out more gorgeous kitchen peninsula ideas here.
15. Trash Chute
This may feel excessive, but for serious cooks (especially messier ones), a trash chute is a game-changer. Instead of interrupting your slicing and dicing to take handfuls of scraps to the garbage, all you have to do is slide them into a hole and keep going.
Which is your favorite kitchen countertop idea? Let us know in the comments below!
Further Reading
The One Cookware Brand That Gordon Ramsay Can’t Stop Talking About
Reese’s Just Launched a Limited-Edition Peanut Butter Cup, and It Tastes 4x Better than the Original
