We were recently discussing countertops with a builder who asked us which type of material we would recommend. When we emphatically responded, "quartz" he was shocked. Is it really that great for the price? The answer is yes! We love quartz. It's got a huge variety of color options and styles, is highly durable, and is actually relatively competitively priced. It also comes in multiple thicknesses so you don't have to pay for the thickest quartz and you can still get the functionality of it.

The truth is, though. Even though we love quartz, there truly are a variety of countertop options out there so we figured we'd run through them with you. Sometimes it's nice to get a refresher on what's out there because even us as designers can get into a rut of using the same thing over and over again even though there are so many great options out there.

The first and most common style of countertop is one that is either veined like a marble or flecked like a granite. Quartz has look-a-likes for both marble and quartz so we're really referring more to the style and less to the material. These styles work well in almost any home. They are classic. They can be nice in a traditional setting or warm up a more modern kitchen. Either way, it's the most common style and for many designers, a go to.

There is life outside of countertop with movement, though! This particular style is actually our favorite and could be considered our go-to. White. Solid white. Even though this style looks a little more contemporary, we think it blends well with a lot of different styles as well. It goes a little more minimalist because it's clean and fresh but if we're being honest, pretty much anyone could benefit from all white countertops so we're not going to put it into a bubble.

Something that's taking it's popularity back is the wood countertop. When rustic and shabby chic were all the rage, wood was everywhere. That style has since died but the wood portion has reinvented itself and is coming back for round 2. The thing about wood countertops is that it's warm. It makes a space, any space, feel comfortable and inviting and is usually received really well. It's a good option to mix with different countertop materials in a kitchen and works well by itself on an island. Definitely something to consider when re-modeling your kitchen!

Also making a come-back are the dark countertops. Again, black granite used to be the big "modern look" in kitchens but that's not what's coming back. Dark countertop has reinvented itself in the form of slate or charcoal grey counters. These are often juxtaposed with white or light wood cabinets but they bring a certain elegance to any space. With the evolution of quartz color options you have a ton of varieties of grey to pick from and can make sure it's just the right shade!

Overall, countertops have really evolved! Where we used to just have the option of granite vs. laminate, we now have all sorts of quartz options in color and pattern along with the expanding granite and marble options we have. There's just so much available to make your kitchen beautiful AND functional that you really don't have an excuse if it's ugly! :)

Kitchen Countertops | Reviewing Your Options