Kitchen countertops play a huge role in any kitchen’s aesthetic. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right countertop look that will stand the test of time. To help narrow down the choices, we asked interior designers and renovation pros to share which countertop styles and materials are trending right now. From natural stone to engineered quartz, here are the kitchen countertop looks that are hot in 2023.
White and Gray Quartz
One of the biggest countertop trends we are seeing right now is the move toward lighter Quartz colors like crisp white or various shades of gray. The soft, neutral palette helps create a timeless and calming kitchen environment.
- White Quartz like Caesarstone Piatra or Silestone Helix reflect light beautifully to create a bright and open kitchen feel. They pair nicely with any cabinetry color from white to dark wood tones.
- Light grays like Cambria Weybourne or MSI Calacatta Laza add subtle contrast against white cabinetry but still keep things light and airy. Darker grays work well to ground all-white kitchens without going full-on dark.
- Pros love the durability and maintenance ease of Quartz. It’s non-porous so it won’t stain and is heat and scratch resistant. The minimal seams and pattern options give a Custom look.
Marble & Natural Stone
For those seeking a high-end and timeless look, marble remains popular. Advancements in sealing technology have made maintenance less daunting. Natural patterns and veining create depth and visual interest.
- White Carrara marble offers a classic appeal that fits both traditional and modern spaces. It comes in many grades from more subtle Calacatta variations to very dramatic statuario marble.
- Gray marbles like St. Cecilia and Statement Grey are also growing in popularity. These provide a soft, neutral alternative to bright white marble.
- Soapstone and quartzite are natural stones that provide more durability than marble with enticing veining. Pros recommend these for busy kitchens.
Wood Countertops
Wood counters add warmth and texture to any kitchen. Improved sealing processes make them more water-resistant than in the past. Styles range from rustic to highly refined.
- Butcher block with visible wood grains and lines embraces the natural beauty of wood. Oiled finishes enhance the patterns and require periodic reapplication.
- White oak has increased in popularity for its subtle grain patterns and light wood tones that fit contemporary spaces well. Durable and scratch-resistant.
- Walnut stains nicely to achieve darker wood hues. Because it’s a softer wood, it’s best avoided for heavy-use prep areas or paired with a protective finish.
Bold Colors and Patterns
For those wanting to make a statement, bold countertop colors and artisan patterns are having a moment. Vivid hues and handcrafted looks create an artistic, one-of-a-kind kitchen.
- Bright blues and greens are trending as playful color options. These shades add energy and give the space an uplifting feel. Best paired with light cabinets.
- Unique artistic patterns like terrazzo offer the look of custom concrete and glass aggregates in an affordable Quartz material. Nugget effects are also popular.
- Recycled glass countertops provide eco-friendly style with artful bottle ends and pieces embedded right into the surface in mesmerizing ways.
- Tile allows you to create truly custom designs. From geometric patterns to artistic mosaics, choices are nearly endless.
Matte Finishes
While glossy finishes highlight patterns, many pros now recommend matte, or leathered, finishes. These muted looks hide fingerprints and feel less formal.
- A matte finish softens granite’s shine and helps darker colors feel more modern. Uba Tuba and New Caledonia are popular gray granites.
- Leathered Quartz like Ceasarstone’s Metropolitan Blanco has an appealing warmth and velvety feel. Dove Grey is a great matte gray option.
- Honed marbles skip the high polish for a satiny, less reflective appearance. White Macaubus quartzite has a naturally weathered honed look.
Eco-Friendly Options
Sustainable materials are an increasing priority for eco-conscious renovators. Many stone remnants get recycled into countertops, avoiding landfill waste.
- Paper composite surfaces made from recycled paper and natural minerals come in a wide variety of patterns and colors. Most brands are NSF/ANSI 51 food-safe.
- Reclaimed wood from old barns or fencing gives new life to material that would otherwise go unused. Great for adding rustic charm.
- Some companies like IceStone now produce recycled glass countertops with a concrete-like appearance using 100% recycled glass.
FAQs
What are the most popular countertop colors right now?
White, light grays, and soft neutrals are the most popular. Bold blues and greens are trending for those seeking color. Dark dramatic colors are fading in popularity.
What finish is best for kitchen countertops?
Matte, or leathered, finishes are on the rise for their muted look and ability to disguise marks. However, polished finishes still work well for patterns like granite.
What is the most durable kitchen countertop material?
Quartz is among the most durable options resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It requires little maintenance. Granite and solid surface materials like Corian are also very durable choices.
Should I get marble or quartz?
Quartz is lower maintenance and more stain/scratch resistant. But marble offers timeless beauty with natural veining. Advancements in marble sealing have helped durability, so either can work.
What is the most cost-effective countertop option?
Laminate is the most budget-friendly option, followed by tile. But materials like recycled glass and Concrete can also provide cost savings over natural stone. Get quotes for different materials to compare.
What countertop edge profiles are trending?
Simpler edge profiles like pencil or eased edges are replacing ornate ogee edges. For a clean contemporary look, straight 90-degree edges are popular. Many pros recommend an eased edge for slight rounding and comfort.
Conclusion
With so many factors like budget, usage, and style affecting choices, there is no universally perfect countertop material. Current trends point toward lighter quartz and marble looks, matte finishes, and eco-friendly recycled options. But even classics like granite and wood butcher block remain go-to choices that provide timeless appeal. Consult with kitchen designers and materials pros to narrow selection to the right countertop solutions for your unique space and needs.
