We recently rounded up the best kitchen color trends of 2019 and one color trend in particular stuck out as a favorite – combining dark toned cabinetry with dark countertops. The kitchen above is a perfect example of that look. And while there is no denying the beauty of classic white marble, there are so many alternatives that are a bit off the beaten path yet so, so pretty. Below you’ll find six kitchen countertop options that will inspire you to rethink your marble plans.

 

 

Soapstone Countertops

 

 

Made from quarried stone, the dark hue of soapstone is so beautiful when paired with lighter cabinets or a monochromatic black or navy cabinetry. It has the deeper coloring of granite paired with the soft veining of marble for an old-world feel that is relatively low-maintenance.

Cost: $70 – $120 sq. ft. 

Maintenance: low-maintenance, non-porous, a bit easier to scratch or chip. Needs to be oiled regularly.

 

via: The Haven List | Interior Design: Gather Projects | Photography: Rennai Hoefer

 

Interior Design: Nyla Free Designs | Photography: Phil Crozier

 

Interior Design: Megan Pflug Designs | Kitchen of  The Woodhouse Lodge

 

 

Terrazzo

 

 

Terrazzo is literally everywhere these days, making a resurgence in everything from small accessories, to furniture and now kitchens. Small marble or recycled glass chips are cast into a slab to make this eco-friendly countertop. The cost is on the highest end but there are faux terrazzo countertops that will give you the look for way less.

Cost: $125 – 250 a linear ft.   

Maintenance: Low-maintenance, extremely durable.

 

Interior Design and Photography: Avenue Design Studio

 

Interior Design: Maria Marinina

 

via: Nordiska Kok Kitchens

 

 

Quartz

 

 

If you just can’t shake the idea of a stunning white marble moment, Quartz is a standout option. With the same look and feel of traditional marble, quartz is extremely durable. You won’t find water rings or red wine stains here.

Cost: $50 – 100 sq. ft.   

Maintenance: Highly durable and non-porous so no sealing required.

 

Interior Design: Chris Loves Julia

 

Interior Design: Lindsey Brooke Design | Photography: Amy Bartlam

 

 

Concrete

 

 

Concrete countertops aren’t just for ultra modern kitchens. They can take on an earthy, rustic feel or a more modern classic vibe depending on the style.

Cost: up to $150 sq.ft.   

Maintenance: Requires annual sealing, extremely durable, won’t scratch but can sometimes crack. Once it cracks, it’s hard to fix

 

Interior Design and Photography: Kate Zimmerman Turpine

 

via: The Design Files | Photography: Annette O’Brien

 

 

Butcher Block + Wood

 

 

Add warmth and texture to your space with butcher block or wood countertops. The beauty of these countertops lies in the patina that they develop over time.

Cost: $40 – $65 sq. ft.   

Maintenance: low heat resistance, requires periodic oiling, nicks and blemishes can be easily sanded down and reoiled.

 

via: deVOL Kitchens

 

via: Kinfolk Home | Photography: Simon Watson

 

via: Rejuvenation

 

via: deVOL Kitchens

 

 

Stainless Steel Countertops

 

 

Leave it to Nate Berkus to make industrial stainless steel countertops look all-together elegant and chic. This insanely durable material, most notable for its use in commercial kitchens, is virtually indestructible

Cost: $75 – $150 sq.ft.   

Maintenance: Extremely durable, can scratch or dent if using lower gauge metal

 

Interior Design: Nate Berkus | Photography: Brittany Ambridge

 

 

For more design topics, have a look at these posts:

• The Best Kitchen Paint Colors of 2019
• Beautiful Storage Solutions for Every Room
• Where to Score the Best Vintage Rugs
• The Bold Look of Slab Marble

 

And for more information on creative business strategy:

• The Value of Trade Accounts
• The Best Programs + Apps for Organization
• Our Exact Formula for Creating a Mood Board

 

 

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Erin Lepperd is an interior designer – turned digital media editor with a penchant for breathtaking interiors. When she’s not gabbing about design, you’ll find her wrangling her wild and wonderful 5-year-old twins, brunching like it’s her job and exploring the wilds of New England as a California transplant.