Kitchen design has come a long way from when pink and avocado appliances were all the rage. Today, many unique options are available to create that perfect kitchen space. 

You can now choose from an array of materials for your countertops. Gone are those traditional light-colored laminate surfaces. Instead, say hello to beautiful wood grains or sleek marble textures, along with modern lighting accents and flooring solutions galore. 

With more possibilities than ever, there is no shortage of ways to turn your cooking zone into something functional, easy to care for, and stylish. Find the kitchen countertop that best fits your household’s needs and lifestyle — because we all know what they say: the heart of every home is the kitchen!

Evaluating Types of Kitchen Countertops

The right kitchen countertop can transform any space into a masterpiece, from open-concept floor plans to narrow galley kitchens. After all, it's not just another material; it sets the tone for your entire home. With so many options in style and finish, you'll want to select your perfect countertop with care and choose one that reflects both your personality and living space.

Deciding on your kitchen countertop material doesn't have to be intimidating. Consider durability, cost, and style when making this important decision. Here are a few factors to keep in mind when finding the perfect fit.  

Functionality

When it comes to your kitchen, the functionality of its surfaces plays an influential role in both what and how you cook. Professional chefs would need different countertop materials than those who prefer cooking only occasionally, so choose wisely. 

Long Term Maintenance

Maintenance is also something to consider when evaluating kitchen countertops. Pick a countertop that works for you, depending on your lifestyle and schedule. If you are busy or just don’t like to do regular maintenance, perhaps one requiring fewer touch-ups over the long term might be ideal. 

Affordability 

Your kitchen countertop needs to be stylish and durable, but it doesn't have to break the bank. For example, if you know it will get a lot of use, it may make sense to go with something more affordable versus something flashy. But you don’t have to compromise style or quality when designing your dream kitchen if you pick the right material.

Just remember, as you evaluate kitchen countertop options that kitchen countertops are held to a high standard. They need to withstand hot dishes from the oven and cold items from the freezer while being sturdy enough for metal pots and gentle on fine china. Your countertop has to look beautiful while enduring lots of wear and tear throughout its lifetime of use so it is a smart idea to evaluate carefully.

The Best Kitchen Countertop Materials

From quartz to butcher block, there are plenty of kitchen countertop options available out in the market. Whether your culinary style is like a gourmet chef or casual cook, the right material can turn any kitchen space into an inviting environment with a unique flair. So make sure to pick one that's perfect for you and how you’ll use it. 

1. Granite

Durable and functional, granite countertops are the go-to material for many homeowners looking to make a stylish impact in their kitchens. Since their introduction, these luxurious stone surfaces have become incredibly popular, which is no surprise when you consider how much better they look than laminate. 

With granite counters, you’re guaranteed to get a truly one-of-a-kind look. No two slabs of this natural stone will be exactly the same, even if they come from the same quarry. But don't make your decision based on an online photo; head into the store and browse through each unique slab in person to really find the right fit for your space.

Granite's resilience is unparalleled, which is another reason it is so popular. Granite can take the heat of hot pots and even your sharpest knives without a scratch. However, as beautiful and strong as granite is, the sealants that keep stains at bay can suffer from heat damage. Be sure to use a trivet so the surface isn’t harmed by excess heat.

Granite countertops are incredibly sturdy, but sometimes that inflexibility works against them. For safety and durability’s sake, it’s best to avoid standing on them, as too much weight can cause them to crack, plus heavy items dropped on them may cause chips. 

Overall, although it may be more of an expense, granite is often worth the investment because its many benefits and beautiful hues will last and give your kitchen years of style and use. 

2. Marble

Marble countertops bring timeless elegance to any kitchen — and offer a helping hand for bakers. Its perpetually cold temperature makes it the perfect surface for kneading or rolling dough. And with so many quality sources available, marble can be an affordable countertop option.

That said, while marble counters make a stunning addition to any kitchen,  they do require sealing and special attention to keep their beautiful sheen intact. In addition, it's also important not to cut directly on the surface as it will dull your knives. And while marble is heat-resistant, like granite, its sealants are not. It’s always best to use trivets or potholders for very hot pots and dishes, just in case.

3. Quartz

Quartz is quickly becoming the popular countertop option for savvy homeowners. Not only does quartz offer a beautiful blend of durability, color, and pattern, but its non-porous nature, in contrast to marble and granite, means accidental spills won’t discolor your counter. Plus, with prices ranging from budget-friendly to big-budget, there is a quartz option for every homeowner in terms of design and affordability. 

While quartz countertops add a lovely touch to any kitchen, it's important to note that it is not as heat resistant as other materials so be mindful of hot dishes and pans. Use trivets or pot holders for added protection so your quartz counter won't show signs of heat damage over time. 

4. Other: Wood, Stainless Steel, Concrete, and Glass

There are plenty of other kitchen countertop options that offer a range of styles and functionality. Bring the beauty of nature into your space with wood butcher-block counters, or opt for stainless steel's commercial kitchen feel to showcase your inner chef. And if you're all about modern design, glass, and concrete provide chic yet highly functional surfaces that are perfect for any contemporary home.

Which Countertop Is Right for You?

Whether you're dreaming up your ideal kitchen or giving your current one an update, selecting the right countertop is essential. But don't base your choice on looks alone. Consider functionality and longevity. Some thoughtful reflection will ensure you pick a surface for your kitchen space that works best for how you intend to utilize it and maintains its beauty over time.

Ready to see some beautiful kitchen counters in person? Discover stunning floor plans and beautiful kitchens at one of Pulte's new home communities today!

Contributed to by Christy Murdock Edgar