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Most Popular Stone Countertop Surfaces for 2024

If you're planning to redo your kitchen, selecting the perfect countertop surface is a decision of utmost importance. Countertops not only provide essential workspaces but also significantly impact the overall look and feel of your kitchen.

Stone countertops are a premium choice that add a touch of elegance and value to any kitchen, making them a favorite among homeowners. Here are some of the most popular stone countertop options trending this year.

Quartz

Quartz countertops have been a market leader for years, and their popularity is expected to rise even more in 2024. They are engineered using natural quartz crystals mixed with resins and pigments, offering an unbeatable blend of beauty and toughness.

Available in a wide array of colors and patterns, quartz countertops can match any kitchen style, whether you prefer a classic, elegant look or a contemporary, bold statement. The consistent patterns and colors ensure that what you see is exactly what you get.

In terms of durability, quartz countertops are non-porous, making them resistant to stains and bacterial growth. This makes quartz an excellent choice for busy kitchens prone to spills and moisture. Moreover, they are less likely to chip or crack, providing a long-lasting investment for your home.

Another significant advantage is that quartz countertops do not need sealing, unlike natural stones like granite or marble, making maintenance much easier.

Quartzite

Quartzite, a natural stone formed from sandstone under intense heat and pressure, is another top contender. With exceptional durability and stunning aesthetics, quartzite countertops are highly sought after.

One of the standout benefits of quartzite is its heat resistance, minimizing the risk of damage when hot items are placed on the surface. Despite this, it's advisable to use hot pads or trivets for additional protection.

Visually, quartzite provides a range of colors and patterns, often reminiscent of marble but more durable. However, regular sealing is required to maintain its beauty and protect it from stains, as quartzite is a porous material.

Granite

Granite remains a popular choice and continues to be highly sought after in 2024. This natural stone is known for its unique patterns and impressive color variations.

One of the most notable advantages of granite countertops is their durability. Granite is hard and can withstand daily wear and tear, making it ideal for high-traffic kitchens. Its heat resistance is another reason it's popular among avid cooks.

Each granite slab is unique, with a distinct blend of minerals and veining patterns. This variety means you'll find a granite countertop that perfectly complements your design preferences.

However, granite is also porous and requires regular sealing to prevent staining. With proper care, granite countertops can provide a timeless elegance to your space.

Marble

Marble countertops are synonymous with sophistication and luxury. The natural veining patterns and soft color tones create a visual impact that elevates any space.

Marble's unique veining and smooth, polished surface have been admired for centuries. It can enhance various kitchen designs, from classic to modern.

Marble is heat resistant to some extent; however, it's more prone to scratches and stains than harder stones like quartzite and granite. Regular sealing and the use of cutting boards can help minimize damage.

The choice between honed and polished finishes will depend on your aesthetic and maintenance preferences.

Soapstone

Soapstone has grown in popularity for its unique beauty and excellent performance characteristics. This natural stone features a smooth, matte surface with stunning shades of gray.

Soapstone adds character with its subtle veining and rich colors, making it versatile for various design styles from traditional to contemporary.

One of soapstone's primary strengths is its heat resistance. Additionally, it is highly resistant to stains and bacteria, which is crucial for kitchen hygiene.

Over time, soapstone develops a natural patina, enhancing its charm. If you prefer a more consistent look, food-grade mineral oil can maintain its darker finish.

The Stone Collection Can Bring Your Vision to Life

If you're seeking a beautiful stone countertop for your kitchen remodel, the experts at The Stone Collection can help you find the perfect slab. With the largest selection of natural and engineered stone products, you can find an option that complements your style.

The Get Inspired™ Experience guides you through the creative process, from discussing your aesthetic preferences to selecting the right stone. Visit one of our gallery-style showrooms in Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Dallas, or Ft. Worth to explore a wide range of options.

Contact us today or visit a showroom to begin your journey to a stunning new kitchen. For more information, please visit ROMA.

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Timeless countertops add incredible value to your kitchen design. Beyond designing for resale, choosing a timeless countertop will contribute greatly to an overall enduring kitchen aesthetic. Here are the top ten design choices to consider when selecting kitchen countertops.

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Benefits of Designing a Kitchen With Timeless Countertops

There are three main design philosophies:

1. Design solely for personal enjoyment
2. Design with trends in mind
3. Design for timeless aesthetics

I believe blending all three is possible and can yield the best results. Each approach has its pros and cons.

For instance, what is trendy today may become dated in a few years. Designing strictly for longevity can stifle creativity. And a unique, personal design may not appeal to potential buyers if you plan to sell.

Let's explore the advantages of designing with timeless countertops.

1. Timeless countertops are adaptable to various design styles.
2. They can enhance resale value.
3. They are generally durable and practical for everyday use.
4. Given their expense, it's sensible to choose a design that will last.
5. Many timeless options are made from natural materials, adding character and uniqueness.

Top 10 Design Decisions for Timeless Countertops

Here are the ten main design decisions for selecting timeless countertops:

1. Material type
2. Color
3. Pattern
4. Finish
5. Durability
6. Edge Profiling
7. Cost
8. Customizability
9. Compatibility with a backsplash
10. Maintenance level

1. Best Material Type for Timeless Countertops

Your primary decision will be the type of material for your countertops. Historically, durability and practicality have guided material choices.

In the 1800s, kitchen countertops were utilitarian, often made of wood or metal. Luxury materials like marble emerged in more upscale kitchens.

Victorian work surfaces included slate, soapstone, wood, or zinc. By the 1920s, tile and stainless steel became popular. Laminates, formica, and melamine appeared in the 1930s, while quartz gained popularity in the 1990s.

Looking over more than 200 years, these materials have endured:

• Wood
• Natural Stones
• Metal

These form the basis for your selection. The following design decisions will help you narrow it down further.

2. Kitchen Countertop Color

Next, choose a color for a timeless design. Neutrals are most versatile.

• Whites
• Greys
• Blacks

These colors offer flexibility in overall kitchen design.

3. Keep Patterning Simple

Your material choice will dictate the patterning. Natural stones have varied veining and flecks.

Opt for subtle patterns for a timeless look, avoiding overly busy designs.

4. The Best Finish for Timeless Countertops

Finish options vary by material:

• Wood: From Matte to High Gloss
• Stone: Honed, Leathered, Brushed, or Polished
• Metal: Hammered or Smooth

Subtle finishes are more timeless. For more information, please visit ROMA.

High gloss and hammered finishes can feel more trendy, while subtle finishes let other kitchen elements stand out. This shifts focus away from countertops, enhancing their timeless appeal.

5. Durability

Durability is crucial as you want your countertops to last. Durable options include:

• Wood
• Natural Stones
• Metal

While wood requires maintenance, it can be easily repaired. Granite and quartz are among the most durable stones. Metal is also durable but can show scratches or dents, depending on your kitchen use.

6. Edge Profiling Decisions

If fabricating a natural stone countertop, you'll choose edge profiling, detailing, corners, and sizing.

For example, my kitchen has a 3cm edge profile with a Ridgeline flat eased edge and 3/4" rounded corners.

More curves may date the countertop, while straight edges are modern and timeless.

7. Cost Variation for Timeless Countertops

Kitchen remodels are costly, and countertops are a significant expense. Wood is generally the least expensive, while marble and other stones are higher.

Get quotes for different materials based on your dimensions to stay within budget.

8. Is Your Countertop Customizable?

Customization can add to both trendiness and timelessness. Well-designed countertops should:

• Create clean corners
• Have discreet seams and joints
• Work around awkward spaces consistently
• Match veins or patterns in transitions

Consider these customizations for problem areas in your kitchen. Designing a full-height backsplash? Ensure the pattern continuity is smooth.

9. Choose Countertops Compatible with a Backsplash

While countertops may remain unchanged, backsplashes often vary. Choose neutral, subtle countertops to allow flexibility in backsplash designs.

10. Consider the Maintenance Level

Maintenance level is a personal preference. Some choose marble or soapstone despite upkeep, while others opt for quartz or granite for low maintenance and durability.

Personally, I prefer quartz and granite for their minimal upkeep.

Frequently Asked Kitchen Countertop Questions

Having considered the key design decisions, here are some FAQs.

What is the Most Timeless Countertop?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer as each material has its pros and cons. Determine your top two options and weigh their benefits and drawbacks.

In my kitchen, granite and quartz were the winners for their versatility, durability, minimal maintenance, and budget fit.

What Countertops Never Go Out of Style?

Natural stone countertops have stood the test of time due to their enduring appeal, variety, and durability.

• Granite: Requires regular sealing
• Marble: Avoid acidic foods or abrasive cleaners
• Soapstone: Needs oiling, but offers unmatched beauty
• Quartzite: Requires regular sealing
• Limestone: Easily stained, avoid acidic foods and harsh cleaners

Quartz is a great man-made alternative, evolving to mimic natural stones.

What Color Quartz is Timeless?

Quartz in shades of white or light grey offers a timeless look. For more on white quartz, check out the top pros and cons.

Which Countertop Adds the Most Value?

Stone countertops, including quartz, marble, soapstone, and granite, add substantial value to a home, unlike wood, laminate, or metal options.

What is the Most Practical Countertop?

Quartz tops the list for practicality. It's non-porous, heat and scratch-resistant, and highly durable, with numerous options to achieve your desired look.

My Kitchen Design Sources

If you're interested in materials or decor from my kitchen, here's where you can find them:

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More Kitchen Design Details

Thank you for visiting the blog! I hope you found this guide on choosing timeless countertops helpful.

What's your top choice for a timeless countertop? For more kitchen design insights, explore my resources.

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~Sarah

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Classic Countertops.