3 kitchen countertop trends making their mark

The countertop is the humble hero of the heart of the home: the kitchen. From an area for cooking and preparing meals to a homework and entertaining hub, it's the surface that typically gets the most use and attention, so it's essential to choose one that can withstand the demands of daily life.

In this article, we will explore three of the most popular kitchen countertop materials on the market today to help you decide which is right for your home. Let’s jump in.

1. Composite countertops

Composite countertops have rapidly gained popularity in recent years due to their unique blend of durability, versatility and affordability. But what are they exactly?

Like the name implies, composite countertops are typically made of two or more materials that are combined to create a single product. They come in two main types, the kitchen designers over at Harvey Jones explain, with the first being quartz-based composites, “which are engineered using natural quartz crystals that are bonded together with special resins.” The second is “solid surface composites which are produced using a man-made acrylic or polyester material. Both types of composites offer the same main benefits.”

If you’re seeking a reliable, long-lasting surface that looks great and won't break the bank, this countertop could be for you. However, it's important to note that composite surfaces, unlike natural stone, may show signs of wear and tear over time. This doesn't mean that they are any less durable, but they may age differently and eventually need to be replaced due to cosmetic wear.

2. Veined countertops

Thanks to the popularity of all-white kitchens, veined countertops are enjoying a moment in the spotlight. A modern take on a classic style, “this kitchen countertop idea exhibits a vein-like pattern of color against a white (or neutral-toned) backdrop – to bring just the right amount of vibrancy to your space,” Homes and Gardens writes.

When it comes to choosing a material for a veined kitchen countertop, marble remains a popular choice due to its luxurious appearance and timeless appeal. However, it can be more expensive and less durable than other materials. Plus, each slab will have its own distinct veining pattern, making it difficult to guarantee the exact look you want.

For balanced veining that's consistent throughout, quartz countertops make an excellent alternative. These clever countertops are an increasingly popular choice among homeowners, thanks to their impressive combination of beauty and durability. Today, the latest advancements in technology now allow you to have greater control over the appearance of your quartz countertop, Texas Granite Group points out. With a variety of patterns available to choose from, you can select the exact design that best compliments your kitchen decor.

3. Silestone countertops

Sustainability is a hot topic these days, and it's something that's on everyone's mind, whether we're in the office, on the beach, spending time with our kids, or caring for our furry friends. In the kitchen, however, many common countertop materials are made using non-renewable resources and treated with chemicals that can be harmful to both the environment and our health. However, there are still some rock-solid options that put sustainability first. 

For example, the Cosentino Group recently released its most sustainable range of countertops to date: Sunlit Days by Silestone. Crafted with the environment in mind, this new type of countertop is the very first “carbon neutral collection in the quartz surfaces and engineered stone industry.”

According to the company, the Sunlit Days countertop is manufactured using 99% recycled water and powered entirely by renewable energy. What’s more, unlike traditional quartz surfaces, it uses a unique blend of top-quality minerals and recycled glass, resulting in a product that boasts exceptional resistance to stains, scratches, and impacts.