When it comes to choosing a kitchen countertop material, one can quickly deduce that choices aren’t what’s lacking. In fact, there are at least ten different types of materials that are readily available in-store or from manufacturers. 

However, one has to be able to rightfully compare materials against one another. First off, it’s a matter of aesthetics, which we’ll delve into throughout this article. We’ve put together 10 images that highlight the different kitchen countertop options. The latter will give you an idea of what the different types of countertops look like. 

Next, compare characteristics and features against material prices. At the end of this article, we’ll highlight some links to related articles in which pricing is detailed.

10 Examples of Different Kitchen Countertop Aesthetics

1) A stainless steel kitchen countertop

Source: Canva

Metal kitchen countertops are very reminiscent of restaurant kitchens or traditional American diners. Seeing stainless steel counters in a residential setting isn’t as common. However, it’s an interesting material, especially in terms of aesthetics. Amongst its other advantages, note that this material is also resilient and rather low maintenance. 

However, it appears to be prone to scratching and can be rather sterile and loud. To offset these drawbacks, it may be worthwhile to opt for a hybrid version, like the one depicted above, where the metal workstation is installed atop a wooden base. 

• Everything About Stainless Steel Kitchen Countertops (in French only)

2) A concrete counter, with a modern twist, for a rustic-looking kitchen

Source: Canva

Concrete was a super trendy material in the design industry for a few years, albeit it’s not as common nowadays. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t stylish anymore! It’s simply used more sparingly than before. 

As depicted above, concrete was used to complement a pretty rustic-looking décor, which differs from other very modern and minimalist settings in which this material is typically featured.  

Here are a few concrete kitchen countertop-specific articles to peruse: 

• How to Build a Concrete Countertop

• Are Concrete Countertops Right for Your Kitchen?

3) A hardwood countertop to create a warm décor

Source: Canva

Wood is an extremely versatile countertop material since one can choose from a wide variety of essences, finishes, and textures. One can even choose, based on personal preferences, to stain or cover the hardwood with a glossy or matte varnish. 

As a countertop material, wood is especially vulnerable to humidity and scratches, and requires regular oil or varnish coatings. As far as upsides, note that on a regular basis, wood countertops are rather low maintenance and especially suited as a butcherblock surface. 

For more information, check out this article:

• Hardwood Kitchen Countertops (in French only)

4) A slate countertop for a timeless look

Source: Canva

If you’re looking for a material that’s especially solid, resilient, and luxurious, think slate! The latter makes for a waterproof and low-maintenance countertop. Furthermore, it results in a very distinguished aesthetic, one that’s suited to a variety of décors. 

Check out this article for more information:

• Stone Kitchen Countertops

5) A quartz countertop for an ultra-chic kitchen

Source: Canva

Quartz is one of the most common countertop materials nowadays, in due part to its numerous worthwhile characteristics.

For example, quartz is a material that can withstand heat, cracks, scratches, and stains. It’s low maintenance and available in a wide range of colours and textures. 

Here are 3 articles to peruse should you want more details:

• How to Choose a Contractor for Your Quartz Countertop (in French only)

• Quartz: The Ideal Kitchen Countertop Renovation Option (in French only)

• 6 Quartz Kitchen Countertop-Specific Tips (in French only)

6) A ceramic tiled countertop for a retro twist

Source: Canva

Are you a fan of slightly retro, ceramic-tiled countertops? If so, this is a worthwhile option. If you want to turn your countertop maintenance routine to a minimum, go for large format tiles. In fact, the smaller the tiles, the harder the countertop may be to clean because of the grout joints sitting in between each tile. 

Otherwise, it’s an affordable option that’s just as aesthetically pleasing.

7) Discovering corian: A worthwhile countertop material

Source: Canva

Corian is a synthetic material used in the making of countertops. It’s a visually appealing, versatile material that provides work surfaces with a wide variety of colours and patterns. This material is made with a polymer mixture, but it often mimics the appearance of natural stone. 

Generally speaking, it’s more affordable than natural stone countertops, hence its growing appeal. One of the biggest advantages of this material is that it makes for a seamless counter, with a super smooth look, that also facilitates maintenance.  

8) A white laminate countertop: An affordable and beautiful option

Source: Canva

Laminate countertops are one of the most budget-friendly material options showcased in this article. Laminate is a very versatile material; you can choose just about any finish that meets your preferred aesthetic and blend it in with any and all décors. Laminate countertops will often mimic that of butcherblock-like workstations, stone, or just about any other type of material.

9) Soapstone: A resilient yet refine-looking material

Source: Canva

Are you a fan of natural stone countertops? Well, other than slate and granite, there’s soapstone, too! It’s a material that’s slightly rarer, therefore don’t be too shocked to find out that soapstone countertops are rather pricey. 

If you’re ready and willing to spend a hefty sum on your countertop, then it’s definitely a unique and interesting option. Soapstone is a noble material, with a beautiful finish, paired with splendid colours that can be suited to modern and classic décors.

10) Terrazzo countertop for ’80s/’90s décor-enthusiasts

Source: Canva

Wrapping up this article with a slightly more controversial option. Indeed, the infamous terrazzo look, which lit up the '70s and '80s, is now making quite the comeback! At one time, it was more often than not linked to hospital or school floors, but over the last few years, interior designers have been working tirelessly to reintroduce it into residential décors. 

While some might find it more difficult to move away from its outdated look, others will be more than happy to create a design based on its specific retro-modern appeal. Used as a kitchen countertop, terrazzo makes for a durable, low-maintenance material. Furthermore, it’ll definitely give your kitchen a unique aesthetic!

Some Articles to Help You Compare and Contrast Different Kitchen Countertop Options

Here are two kitchen countertop-related articles that aren’t listed above:

• All About Granite Countertops

• Choosing and Maintaining a Marble Countertop

Here’s a list of articles to peruse to compare kitchen countertop prices and characteristics:

• Price Guide for Kitchen Countertops

• 7 Stone Countertop Alternatives

• How to Get a Kitchen Countertop for Under $100

• How to Choose Your Kitchen Countertop

• What Are the Standard Kitchen Countertop Dimensions?

• How to Replace a Kitchen Counter