More often than not, the kitchen ends up being where a family spends a good deal of their waking time. Barring Great Aunt Ginny’s trip over the dog into the Christmas tree, the kitchen will be a major focal point during gatherings as well.
The kitchen should be visually appealing, durable, and functional. While each piece plays an integral role in these roles, choices in countertop finish shout volumes when it comes to style and usability.
Here are the top 5 trendy countertop finishes right now:
Nano-tech Countertops
(Photo credit Arpa Internazionale)This is a laminate bonded under high pressure; the manufacturing process is what gives it great longevity as well as a myriad of other benefits.
The defining factor of these countertops are the nanotech tips that make up the surface. These nanotips have been shown to cut down on glare from shiny surfaces and help to cut down on noise interference in rooms with lots of hard surfaces.
The nanotip technology is resistant to dirt, oil, and germs. The best part about this style is that all it takes is a little heat or elbow grease to buff out light scratches, as it “heals” itself.
These countertops come in a variety of colors and matte finishes.
Porcelain Countertops
(Photo credit lushome.com)Porcelain can go much further than the bathroom; introducing the first kitchen worktop that can also be used for cooking.
The benefits of a porcelain countertop do not stop there. Porcelain is 30% harder than granite, so they are close to impervious to scratches and heat – a must for all heavily used kitchen surfaces.
In addition, porcelain slab countertops come in a variety of colors and patterns, and they’re highly customizable.
(Photo credit lushome.com)Recycled Glass Countertops
These versatile countertops have taken kitchen design by storm. They are made from 100% recycled glass, and each glass is sealed concrete. The origins of the glass range from the recycling center on the corner to skyscraper rehab projects.
The best thing about this choice of countertop is, there are many, many color combinations to choose from. Glass colors can vary from clear to any color in the rainbow and the same pretty much goes for the tint of the cement.
This type of countertop is still sturdy enough to take a beating. Because the base is made from concrete it will have to be sealed every year or two to avoid discoloration and pitting.
Check out more recycled glass countertops as well as our other designs in our gallery.
Enameled Lava Stone Countertops
(Photo credit leezasurfaces.com)These lush, colorful surfaces have a distinctive look. Made from actual lava stone, they make great work surfaces, even for the most avid cook.
This type of stone comes in many great colors that will brighten up even the darkest of kitchens, but less luminescent shades are also available.
They are crack and scratch resistant and can be customized to fit anyone’s needs.
Concrete Countertops
(Photo credit designcastconcrete.com)The versatility of concrete countertops is out of this world. For a truly unique and artistic touch to the kitchen, concrete countertops are the way to go.
Concrete can be mixed with other mediums to create a one of a kind look. These are long lasting, durable countertops any busy family can rely on and love to look at.
