Kitchen countertops see a lot of action, from food prep to clean up and everything in between. While some prefer the seamless look of a single countertop material, others enjoy mixing up their countertop materials for visual interest and practical purposes. Here are 10 creative countertop mashups to consider for your kitchen remodel or upgrade.
Butcher Block + Quartz
The warmth of wood paired with the durability and easy maintenance of quartz makes for a dynamic duo. Use butcher block on part of an island or peninsula for chopping, rolling dough and other tasks where you want a little extra give. Then complete the countertop run in a coordinating quartz for a fuss-free surface that shrugs off stains and stands up to daily wear and tear.
Marble + Quartz
Marble is stunning but can be prone to etching and stains. By using it selectively alongside the indestructible quartz, you get the best of both worlds. Frame out a marble inset for rolling out pastry dough, or use marble on the prep areas and sleek quartz on the surrounding countertop.
Soapstone + Stainless Steel
For an industrial edge, stainless steel makes a smart pairing with the soft gray veining of soapstone. The steel provides a hygienic, indestructible surface for the cooktop and sinks. Contrast it with the gentle look of soapstone for an organic yet modern vibe.
Concrete + Wood
Concrete and wood each have distinctive textures that complement one another beautifully. Concrete makes a statement for baking, food prep and cleanup duty, while wood warms up the aesthetic. Use reclaimed wood, high-density boards or even end grain for surfaces that can stand up to everyday use.
Tile + Laminate
Economical laminate countertops provide a cost-effective foundation for tiled accents. Install tile where moisture exposure is limited, like on a section of counter housing the microwave or for a decorative backsplash reach-across. The tile dresses up the look while laminate keeps budget in check.
Stainless Steel + Tile
Similar to the soapstone and steel combo, stainless steel takes top billing for heavy work zones like the cooktop. Bring in tile like subway, mosaic or ceramic for the ideal surface for rolling dough, prepping veggies and other tasks. The pairing is both functional and visually appealing.
Granite + Quartz
Timeless elegance meets contemporary styling when you couple luxurious granite with popular quartz. Granite brings natural patters and gleaming movement in shades like black, white, green and more. Quartz offers a colorful array of solid hues and mica-infused styles. Used together, they create captivating contrast.
Concrete + Marble
For an ultra-luxe designer look, the cool tones of polished concrete and the elegance of marble make quite the team. Use marble to create framed sections that almost float atop a sleek concrete countertop. The combination exudes high-end style while offering unique practical advantages.
Recycled Glass + Quartz
Upcycled glass aggregate combined with quartz resin creates counters that are earth-friendly and eye-catching. Often offered in vibrant hues, the recycled glass and quartz combo infuses character and sustainability. Durable quartz ensures these counters stand up to years of use.
Soapstone + Copper
The gentle look of weathered soapstone paired with glimmering copper accents results in an organic yet infused-with-warmth aesthetic. Use copper for functional elements like the apron-front sink. Soapstone offers the ideal natural contrast for an earthy elegant look.
How to Choose the Right Countertop Combination
With so many options, how do you decide on the right counter mashup for your kitchen? Here are a few tips:
Consider your lifestyle and how you use your kitchen. Active cooks and bakers may opt for more durable surfaces like quartz, concrete or stainless steel in heavy prep areas. If you’re more of a microwave warmup person, you can get creative with more high-maintenance materials.
Think about ease of maintenance. Some pairings, like marble and quartz, allow you to put the higher-care surface in low-use areas. This minimizes wear and tear.
Play with contrasting textures. Mixing matte and shiny finishes, smooth and rough surfaces, natural and manmade materials creates visual interest.
Combine old and new. Blend traditional concrete, soapstone or butcher block with contemporary quartz or recycled glass for a blend of classic and current.
Add special details. Copper or tile accents can turn a basic countertop into a focal point. Use them sparingly but purposefully.
Consider resale value. Timeless granite and marble make smart choices for investment. On-trend concrete and glass may not appeal to every future buyer.
Check the budget. Using higher-end materials only where needed helps control costs. Balance splurges with more economical options to get the look you love at the right price point.
Focus on your countertop priorities. Decide where natural stone for rolling dough or quartz for a tidy look matter most, and design your mashup accordingly.
With some thoughtful planning, you can mix countertop materials in your kitchen for aesthetic appeal and optimized practicality. Use this guide for ideas and inspiration when planning your kitchen remodel. Analyze how you use your space, research material combinations and qualities, and explore ways to creatively blend different countertops for a look that suits your style, needs and budget. The options are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular countertop mashups?
Some of today’s most popular countertop combinations include quartz + marble, butcher block + quartz, stainless steel + tile, granite + quartz, and concrete + wood. These pairings allow cooks to get the benefits of different materials in the most functional areas.
What should you avoid mixing in countertops?
Avoid pairing very soft or porous surfaces like wood or marble next to areas that will experience heavy use or moisture exposure. This will minimize damage. Also avoid combining many different materials in a small space for a cluttered look.
Should you mix countertop styles?
It’s a personal choice whether to mix countertop materials or not. Many people prefer a seamless look. But thoughtfully combining surfaces creates visual interest, helps delineate work zones, and allows you to put costly materials only where needed.
What countertop materials can’t be mixed?
While most countertops can be combined, some exceptions are concrete and natural stone. These two materials expand and contract at different rates, resulting in cracking. Careful installation is required, or choose a more compatible pairing.
Do mixed countertops increase home value?
Skillfully combining countertops with intention can increase a home’s aesthetic appeal. Stylish mixes like marble and quartz or concrete and stainless steel create high-end designer looks. But avoid too many materials or randomly placed surfaces as this can decrease home value.
Conclusion
Creative countertop mashups allow you to think outside the box when it comes to your kitchen design. Take advantage of the unique benefits of different materials specifically in the areas where you need them. Thoughtfully combine textures, colors and styles to enhance both form and function. With strategic planning and expert installation, you can craft a one-of-a-kind kitchen countertop that caters seamlessly to your cooking and entertaining needs while wowing with distinctive design. The options for countertop mixes are nearly endless, so have fun dreaming up your perfect combination.
