Let’s Talk Kitchen Countertops: What I Look For & Love
Kitchen Counter Tops
Let’s Talk Kitchen Countertops: What I Look For & Love
Hey friends—Jess here! When it comes to designing a kitchen, choosing the right countertops is huge. Not only do they set the tone for the whole space, but they also need to work hard for your lifestyle. I get asked about countertops all the time, so I wanted to share a few of my go-to picks and what I personally look for when making a recommendation.
1. Quartz: My Tried-and-True Favorite
If you want something durable, low-maintenance, and beautiful—quartz is your best friend. It resists stains, doesn’t need sealing, and holds up to real life (hello, messy cooking sessions and toddler snacks!). Plus, there are so many gorgeous color and veining options now—it can mimic marble without the stress.
2. Marble: Timeless & Elegant
There’s just something about marble. It’s classic, luxurious, and adds instant charm to any kitchen. But—marble does require more TLC. It’s prone to staining and etching, so I always make sure my clients know what they’re signing up for. If you love it, go for it—just be prepared to baby it a little.
3. Butcher Block: Warm & Inviting
I love incorporating butcher block in a more casual or rustic-feeling kitchen. It’s great for islands or small prep areas and brings such a cozy, lived-in vibe. Just know it’ll need regular oiling and a bit of maintenance to keep it looking great.
4. Granite: A Solid Classic
Granite has been around forever, and for good reason. It’s strong, heat-resistant, and still very much in style when chosen in the right colors and patterns. I like to steer away from overly speckled options and lean toward softer, more natural-looking stones.
5. Mixing Materials
One of my favorite design moves? Mixing countertop materials! Think: a marble island with quartz surrounds or butcher block on the island paired with quartz along the perimeter. It adds character and keeps things visually interesting.
Quick Tips from Me:
Don’t forget about the edge detail! A simple square edge keeps things modern, while a mitered or beveled edge adds a more traditional touch.
Think about your backsplash and cabinet color when choosing countertops—they all need to work together.
Always bring samples into your space before deciding. Lighting changes everything!
Countertops are such a big part of the kitchen story, and I love helping clients find something that’s both beautiful and livable. Need help picking the right one? You know where to find me.
xo,
Jess