Kitchen remodels are some of the most popular home improvement projects. Updating the counters and backsplash can make a huge difference in the look and feel of your kitchen. Here’s an overview of what’s trending and popular for kitchen counters and backsplashes in 2023.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz has become one of the most popular options for kitchen countertops in recent years. Made from crushed quartz blended with resin and pigments, quartz countertops are an engineered stone that is non-porous, stain resistant, and durable.
Some of the reasons for the popularity of quartz include:
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns that mimic natural stone but with more consistency. Popular options include white, gray, black, and patterns like marble.
- Resistant to stains, scratches and heat. Quartz is nearly maintenance-free.
- Non-porous surface inhibits bacteria growth.
- Durable and long-lasting. Quartz countertops can last for decades with proper care.
- Easy to clean and maintain. Simple soap and water is all that is needed.
With many customization options, quartz offers the look of natural stone with added practicality.
Marble Countertops
Marble remains a classic and luxurious choice that still tops many homeowners’ lists for kitchen counters. Pros of marble include:
- Elegant, timeless look that instantly elevates a kitchen. Available in a range of classic white, gray and black colors.
- Adds value to a home as a high-end material.
- Stays cool to the touch, which is ideal for pastry and candy making.
- Can be honed for a matte look or polished for a glossy surface.
- Unique patterning with beautiful veining that makes each slab one-of-a-kind.
The main downsides are that marble stains easily, requires sealing, and can be prone to etching from acidic foods and liquids. Proper cleaning and maintenance is a must. But for many, the unparalleled beauty is worth the extra care.
Granite Countertops
Like marble, granite is a high-end natural stone that remains sought after for kitchen countertops. Granite pros include:
- Adds luxurious, timeless look and value to a kitchen. Available in range of colors from white to black and everything in between.
- Durable and can last lifetimes. Resists scratches, heat, and stains.
- Unique natural patterning that makes each slab unique.
- Can be polished or honed. Most homeowners opt for glossy polished finish.
Downsides are that granite requires yearly sealing, can chip if subjected to heavy impact, and polishing can wear down over time. Overall, granite remains a top choice for those who want the luxurious look of a natural stone.
Butcher Block Countertops
Wood countertops like butcher block have seen a resurgence in popularity, especially in warm, rustic style kitchens. Benefits include:
- Warm, inviting look and feel that softens kitchens. Available in range of wood stains from light to dark.
- Adds unique, natural texture not found in other countertop materials.
- Easier on knives than stone surfaces.
- Can be sanded and resealed allowing for renewal over time.
- Greener choice as renewable material.
The cons are that wood requires diligent cleaning, resealing every few years, and can be prone to scratches and dents. Stains must be wiped up quickly to avoid absorption. But for those seeking a cozy, eco-friendly look, butcher block can be ideal.
Concrete Countertops
Concrete has become more popular with homeowners wanting an industrial modern look. Benefits include:
- Unique, contemporary look when polished that complements modern kitchens.
- Can be poured onsite allowing for seamless custom shapes and built-ins.
- Stain and heat resistant when properly sealed.
- Durable and unlikely to chip or crack with normal kitchen use.
- Can be stamped or finished with textures for one-of-a-kind look.
The downside of concrete is susceptibility to cracking if substrate or home shifts. Cracks can be filled but may remain visible. Concrete needs regular resealing. The weight requires cabinet reinforcement. Overall though, concrete offers a stylish, custom look.
Tile Backsplashes
Tile is the most common backsplash material and for good reason. Benefits of tile backsplashes include:
- Available in countless colors, shapes, sizes allowing for unlimited custom designs.
- Stain, water and heat resistant. Provides an easy to clean protective wall covering.
- Provides opportunity to showcase creativity throughPatterns like zigzags, mosaics, or combining tile shapes and colors.
- Grout can match or contrast with tile, adding another design aspect.
- Wide range of pricing allows for high-end stone or handmade tile or inexpensive ceramic.
- Easy DIY install for basic tile designs.
Downsides can include grout needing occasional sealing and possible cracking of grout or tile over time. But the versatile design options make tile an endlessly popular backsplash choice.
Stone Slab Backsplashes
Stone slabs like marble, granite, or quartz are also popular for backsplashes, providing a seamless, upscale look. Benefits include:
- Luxurious, uniform look of a natural stone backsplash.
- Better complement for countertops made of the same stone.
- Marble or granite can be honed or polished.
- Quartz comes in wide range of colors and patterns.
- Resistant to stains, heat and moisture when properly sealed.
- Easier maintenance with no grout lines to seal.
Cons would be higher installation cost for a stone slab vs. tile and weight requiring structural support. But for those seeking an elegant, streamlined look, stone slab backsplashes are a sought-after option.
Glass Tile
Glass tile backsplashes have seen a boost in popularity in recent years. Some benefits include:
- Shimmering, radiant look from the glass material. Available in range of colors from bold brights to soft neutrals.
- Extensive design options from small mosaic tiles to oversized glass sheets.
- Durable and water resistant. Easy to wipe clean.
- Distinctly modern look, especially when combined with stone or marble.
- Reflective qualities make it ideal for bouncing light in dark kitchens.
The cons of glass tile would be the higher cost range and more difficult DIY installation. But the luminous beauty keeps glass tile on trend.
Metal Backsplashes
Metal backsplashes like stainless steel, copper, and aluminum have grown in popularity for an industrial modern look. Benefits include:
- Sleek, polished, contemporary look, especially when done wall-to-wall.
- Durable, heat resistant, and waterproof. Easy to clean and disinfect.
- Copper and aluminum come in varied finishes like antiqued or hammered.
- Stainless steel works well in professional restaurant kitchens.
- Affordable stainless steel tiles are budget-friendly.
The cons are possible denting, need for cleaning of fingerprints and watermarks, and special cutting for outlets. But metal brings a modern, geometric element that complements many styles.
Wood Panel Backsplashes
Wood panel backsplashes are trending again, especially in cozy cottage or farmhouse kitchens. Reasons include:
- Warm, inviting look and texture wood brings to kitchens. Available in array of wood stain colors.
- Easier install than tile with large reclaimed planks or shiplap boards.
- Somewhat protective of the wall while still feeling natural and organic.
- Distressed, antique looks complement vintage style kitchens.
The biggest downsides are avoiding standing water and potential warping of material. Proper sealing and maintaining distance from heat source help. Overall, wood backsplashes bring naturals textures into kitchens in a unique way.
Open Shelving as Backsplashes
Some homeowners are opting for open shelving rather than a backsplash material. This can work well when the shelves:
- Are made of the same material as the countertops for a streamlined look.
- Have similar bases and supports as wall cabinets for a cohesive style.
- Are kept tidy and well organized so not to appear messy or cluttered.
- Showcase decorative items like vases, cookbooks, spices in jars.
The open concept keeps the kitchen lighter and airier. The lack of a solid backsplash means the walls require more frequent wiping down. Overall, open shelves provide a lighter alternative to traditional backsplash materials.
Smart Backsplashes
Some companies now offer “smart backsplashes” which incorporate:
- Digital screens that can display menu items, news, recipes.
- Dry erase boards to write menus or notes.
- Wireless charging stations for phones and tablets.
- Integrated lights, motion censors.
The technology incorporated into backsplashes adds modern functionality. However, the products come at a much higher cost and require electrical work and WiFi. While novel, many still prefer the simplicity and beauty of natural materials.
FAQs
What is the most popular kitchen countertop material?
Currently, engineered quartz is the most widely used and in-demand kitchen countertop material due to its durability, resistance to stains/scratches, and wide range of colors/patterns.
What countertop material requires the least maintenance?
Quartz and granite require very little maintenance compared to materials like marble, butcher block, and concrete that demand frequent sealing and care.
What is trending for high-end kitchen countertops?
Marble remains the preferred choice for luxury, high-end kitchens wanting to make a statement. Quartz that resembles marble or concrete is also on-trend for upscale contemporary kitchens.
What backsplash material best complements a marble countertop?
For marble countertops, a backsplash made of the same marble slab is ideal to achieve a seamless, elegant look. Glass or stone tile can also beautifully complement marble.
What’s an affordable backsplash option?
Ceramic tile is an affordable backsplash option starting under $5 per square foot. It comes in endless colors and designs to fit all budgets and styles.
Can you do an open shelf backsplash with granite countertops?
Yes, open wood or metal shelves can pair nicely with granite countertops for a streamlined, modern look, as long as they have similar support structures and base moldings.
Conclusion
When planning a kitchen remodel, the counters and backsplash make a big impact. Quartz, marble, granite, concrete, wood and tile all have their pros and cons. Simple ceramic tile or stainless steel backsplashes work in any kitchen. Open shelving creates an airier feel. Ultimately the choice comes down to your preferred look, budget and how much maintenance you want to manage. With some smart planning, you can give your kitchen counters and backsplash a stylish updated look that will enhance the space for years to come.
