Been There, Done That: Alternatives to Granite Countertops

Karen Chanan of Number 4 Design, a talented designer in the Chicago area, is sharing her favorite alternatives to granite today. While granite still seems to be the number one choice of people house hunting or looking to update a kitchen, there are so many other exceptional options on the market to consider! Janell

I’m dreaming about my next kitchen…it will look something like this.

Sally Wheat via Cote de Texas

Maybe the cabinets will be gray; maybe they will be white, not sure about the floor.

One thing I know for sure, there will be no granite anywhere in sight.

Granite has long been the usual go-to for countertops, and it’s starting to feel a little redundant. With so many choices, both natural and man-made, you can really make a statement, yet be practical at the same time.

Before you go looking, consider these factors:

1. Your budget. This is the first place to start, considering your budget will help narrow down your options.

2. Use. Are you an avid cook? Do you avoid the kitchen at all costs? Some countertops may or may not be the most sensible choice for you based on use.

3. Maintenance. This is a matter of personal preference. Some countertops are super high maintenance, and some are not. Let your lifestyle dictate the direction you take.

So now that we’ve gotten those decisions out of the way, let’s talk options:

Without a doubt, my all-time favorite is Carrera Marble. It’s high maintenance and shows wear, but I don’t care. I love it. Beautiful, elegant, classic. That said, you have to accept that it will show etching and patina over time. I think that’s what gives it character, but if you like a more pristine look it may not be for you.

Concrete is gaining popularity in countertops, as it can be transformed into any shape, finish or color. It’s also heat and scratch resistant. This is another one of my favorites, but keep in mind this is typically a custom project so it may not be right for the budget conscious.

Engineered countertops are made of natural stone mixed with resin, so they are more durable and practically maintenance-free. They are available in a wider variety of colors than granite and have a nonporous surface that resists scratches and stains. You may recognize them under their brand names: Zodiaq®, Cambria Quartz, Cesar stone and Silestone.

If sustainability is one of your goals, Paperstone is a great alternative. It’s a green product made from post-consumer recycled paper mixed with resin. It’s strong, waterproof, and available in a wide range of colors. But keep in mind that the resins in this product can cause the color of the countertop to change over time.

Many associate stainless steel with commercial kitchens, but it can give a great industrial look to residential spaces. While it’s highly durable, heat resistant and easy to clean, it definitely shows scratches, so if you want flawless surfaces, you may want to move on.

Soapstone is a soft, non-porous, natural stone which is distinguishable by its dark, almost black, honed surface. Great for cooks because it's an excellent heat insulator, at the same time it is one of the higher maintenance surfaces requiring regular applications of mineral oil.

We’ve covered only a few of the dozens of options out there…take your time, do your research, don’t be afraid to venture off the road of conformity. You’ll be happy you did!

{images via Houzz}