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A Guide to Kitchen & Bathroom Countertops: Options for Residential New Construction and Remodels

By The PHD Team
Updated September 22, 2023

Welcome to the world of kitchen design at Passion Home Design. Our expertise and passion extend beyond creating stunning house plans. We offer insights and practical advice for every step of your home building or remodeling journey. Today, let’s explore the essential element of any kitchen and bathroom – the countertop.

A kitchen with white cabinets and blue counter tops.

Granite Countertops:

A natural choice for many, granite countertops are durable, heat-resistant, and each slab is uniquely beautiful. With its timeless appeal, granite adds value to any kitchen design. However, keep in mind that it requires periodic sealing to prevent staining due to its porous nature. Check out our website’s inspiration gallery for examples of how clients used granite in their designs.   

a bathroom with two sinks and marble counter tops.
a bathroom with two sinks and marble counter tops.

Quartz Countertops:

Quartz countertops offer the beauty of stone with the benefits of engineering. It’s non-porous, meaning it’s more resistant to staining and doesn’t need sealing like granite. It’s also resistant to scratches and chips. It’s one drawback is that it doesn’t handle heat due to the way it’s made.  

A book with several different color samples on it.

Laminate Countertops:

Once seen as a budget-friendly option, modern laminate countertops have evolved into an aesthetic and versatile choice. With countless design and color options, you can achieve almost any look. 

An outdoor kitchen with a bar and stools.
Acadiana Concrete Tops

Concrete Countertops:

For those wanting an industrial or modern look, concrete countertops are a fantastic option. They’re durable and heat resistant. Plus, they can be customized with a variety of colors and finishes. For the clients who love DIY projects, they can be a great cost saving option.  If you are looking for a professional service, they can be a more expensive choice.

A kitchen with a blue island and white cabinets.

Wood Countertops:

Wood countertops, or butcher block countertops, give your kitchen a warm, timeless, rustic appeal. They’re also perfect for food prep. However, they do require regular maintenance and care. A few of our designs incorporate butcher block tops into the pantry for a low maintenance yet beautiful option.  The example photo shows how we’ve incorporated wood countertops in our designs

A kitchen with blue cabinets and marble counter tops.

Marble Countertops:

Marble countertops exude luxury and elegance. However, they’re more porous than other stone options, making them susceptible to staining. They’re an ideal option for baking stations. They are fairly soft, which requires them to have more care and maintenance.  

Quartzite Countertops:

Quartz countertops are engineered stone while quartzite is natural stone. The look of marble with the durability of granite.  Known for it’s lower maintenance than marble.  Benefits include colors and patterns not found in other natural stones. 

Stainless Steel Countertops:

Stainless steel countertops are sleek, modern, and sanitary, making them a popular choice for professional kitchens. They’re resistant to heat and stains but can be prone to scratches and fingerprints. This type of countertop is seldom used in residential design due to the aesthetics. 

Soapstone Countertops:

Soapstone is a less common but equally viable option for your kitchen countertop. Known for its rich, dark color and smooth feel, soapstone is durable and somewhat resistant to stains. However, it may darken over time and requires regular oiling to maintain its appearance. 

A kitchen with hardwood floors and a center island.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right countertop is crucial for your kitchen’s functionality and style. With various materials available, you can find something that suits your needs and reflects your style. At Passion Home Design, we’re ready to help you make these important decisions. Whether is a renovation or a new construction home, contact us today, and let’s design your dream kitchen together!