Post by Stacey Walker. Stacey mostly works behind the scenes for Walker Woodworking, managing day to day operations, and marketing. Stacey has helped many clients create their dream space.
3 Unique Countertop Choices
Countertops are an important selection especially in the kitchen since they will be used on a daily basis from dinner prep to morning routines. They are the workhorse of the kitchen space and need to be given consideration when shopping for the specific material that will be used. It is important that they be durable as well as elegant. Traditional choices have been granite, quartz, and quartzite but as homeowners look for ways to add a bit of themselves into the design there has been an emergence of varying selections that are gaining in popularity with some of them being quite unique. Let’s talk about three unique countertop choices that might not have been on your original list but might be just what you have been looking for to add that missing something to your kitchen.
Concrete countertops
Though they might not be the first material that comes to mind when thinking about countertops, concrete has become somewhat popular as a choice for kitchen countertops. There are several reasons why they are a good option:
- Functional
- Customizable
- Durable
- Easy maintenance
Concrete offers a functional design because it can be customized into any shape or style you desire. There is a wide range of colors available to you meaning you can get the exact color you want for your home whether you want it very dark or elegantly light. This means it can blend with a rustic farmhouse style or modern contemporary. There is even the ability to make concrete imitate the look of other materials such as granite and marble giving you the beauty of these traditional choices but with the durability of concrete. Texture is another element that can be included in a concrete countertop so if you enjoy a leathered feel that is completely doable. There are other materials that can be blended into the countertop such as pieces of clear or colored glass. Even metal and wood can be married into the design giving you a very custom countertop that is perfectly suited to your specific needs. One of the best benefits is the durability and easy maintenance for concrete countertops. Glass fibers are typically used in the concrete mix to reinforce the final product making it very strong at the sametime ensuring that it is lighter in weight than regular concrete. This also enables it to have fewer seams and waterfall options. As with most things there are a few drawbacks to concrete countertops such as vulnerability with staining but if you reapply the sealer and wax on a regular basis and wipe off spills fairly quickly you can avoid this con. Do keep in mind that sufficient time is needed to form and cure the countertop meaning your choice should be selected several weeks prior to it being needed in the kitchen. If you are looking to create a unique look in your kitchen or even outdoor space, concrete is a wonderful option that will serve you well for decades.
Wood countertops
Wood is a wonderful addition to any space as it adds warmth, texture, and elegance but this is especially true in the kitchen making it a great choice for a countertop. Though it has not been a common choice for some time, it has begun to trend more and more over the last few years. With so many wood species available there is no end to possibilities for grain patterns and varying colors meaning that wood countertops are a versatile material that integrates into a myriad of design styles. A well stained and polished wood countertop can easily become the kitchen’s visual statement piece that catches the eye of every guest. Wood tones also add warmth to the heart of the home and can add nice contrast to a white kitchen. If you are searching for a countertop material that is eco-friendly, wood is one of your top choices. Maintenance is an important point that needs to be emphasized with wood countertops because it needs to be treated well and by that we mean oiled sometimes up to two and three times per year. It is also good to be careful of water spills since puddles can seep into the wood especially if it has not been properly sealed; placing hot items directly on the wood is also a no-no since it can leave burn marks. With your countertop being made from wood there is a tendency to want to use it as a large cutting board but again wood can be damaged so best to use an actual cutting board instead. One bonus though is the fact that it is possible to sand down and refinish your wood countertop to refresh its overall look but be sure to check with the manufacturer to see if this is an option. Wood countertops are a wonderful addition to any kitchen space or even laundry rooms so ask your designer about using them as a possible choice for your renovation.
Stainless steel countertops
Typically seen as a standard material in commercial kitchens, stainless steel countertops are beginning to make their way into the residential market. In some ways they are seen as the new granite by homeowners looking for options that will last for years to come. In their own unique way they possess a beauty that can transform a kitchen into something stunning. The number one favorite feature is its durability, if fact you could say it is nearly indestructible as it is able to withstand just about anything. Neither water, heat, or stain can mar its original look meaning that even after years of use you can still enjoy your stainless steel countertop. This is also a great choice for those looking to have a material that resists bacteria and mold due to its non-porous material meaning that you can rest easy with the knowledge that germs are few and far between on stainless steel countertops. You can also do just about any type of food prep imaginable since no food coloring or acid can damage the surface. This choice is perfect for a modern or contemporary look in a kitchen and if taken care of properly stainless steel countertops can last a lifetime. Low maintenance and budget-friendly are a couple more reasons this makes a great choice for your kitchen space. While scratch marks are inevitable on stainless steel they can add to the overall aesthetic of the design so don’t stress too much over them. Metal is a great element of design and when embraced can transform your kitchen into a unique space.
Unique countertop choices
While traditional is nice there is no reason why it has to be a staple in design. More and more homeowners are embracing the unique as they look for ways to turn their house into a home, a true reflection of themselves. Your countertop choices play a part in telling your story to family and friends so don’t be afraid to look outside of the usual choices even when it comes to countertops. There may also be added benefits when you do think beyond the standard options. Our team is happy to help you find the exact material that can help you create the kitchen space of your dreams.
