Kitchens are the hearts of homes, and nothing dictates the function and style of a kitchen like a countertop. After all, your countertop can define the aesthetic of your space. These days, homeowners have more options than ever when it comes to the design of their kitchen. But, sometimes, a vast array of options can make it difficult to make a decision.

That’s why it can be helpful to look at the current countertop trends and examine the pros and cons of each.

However, it’s important to choose the right countertop type due to the potential health risks associated with some materials. Certain engineered stone countertops have drawn attention in recent years after some fabrication workers were diagnosed with silicosis.

Here are some major countertop trends for those planning a kitchen remodel.

1. Terrazzo

The popularity of retro kitchens is increasing. Materials which used to be popular a long time ago are coming back again.

Terrazzo countertops bring organic, natural textures which make kitchens look quietly luxurious.

Resin terrazzo is great for kitchens since it isn’t as porous as traditional terrazzo. This makes it resistant to stains and easy to live with.

Terrazzo works well for making a refined statement and introducing color. It pairs well with neutral walls and wood cabinets, and works well paired with metal finishes.

You can create cohesion by echoing terrazzo tones in wall color or kitchen tiles.

2. Natural Quartzite

While quartz is a popular choice for maintenance and durability, naturali quartzite is becoming more popular.

Stones such as Perla Venata and Taj Mahal offer the variation and beauty of marble, yet possess more resistance against etching and scratches, which makes them great for busy kitchens.

The material pairs excellent performance with beautiful aesthetics.

3. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel countertops, which were popular in the 1990s, are becoming popular again. They possess top-rate durability and chic style.

Stainless steel countertops present a professional, pared-back quality, with appeal that stems from a contemporary, clean nature, durability and ease of maintenance.

These countertops pair well with furniture, brassware, appliances or lighting that also utilize stainless steel. This creates a thread through your space. You can balance this with warm textures and tones to maintain a feel that is inviting.

4. Matte and Honed Finishes

Highly-polished, high-gloss countertops are becoming less popular. They tend to show every fingerprint, scratch and smudge.

Matte and honed (satin and smooth) surfaces are becoming more popular in their place.

Finishes that are low-sheen provide refined, soft looks that are easy to live with. These finishes absorb light instead of reflecting light, giving spaces a sophisticated, calm feel which lets the natural color and movement of the stone shine.

5. Colorful Stone

Neutral-toned countertops will always be popular. However, designers expect that kitchens will have more colorful examples of countertops, particularly deep tones like burgundy or green.

Kitchen design, today, focuses largely on countertops, and is focusing towards bold veining and away from predictable greys and whites.

Homeowners are increasingly embracing individuality and color, expressing their personality through their countertops.

Natural, colorful stone like Calcutta marble is becoming more popular.

6. Seamless Slabs and Waterfall Edges

Modern design emphasizes streamlined, clean slabs. The manner in which countertops meet cabinets or floors is important.

A lot of designers are choosing to continue countertop slabs up walls as solid surface backsplashes, creating a high-end, seamless and clean look that is easy to clean.

Waterfall edges extend countertop materials vertically down cabinets’ or islands’ sides, creating an uninterrupted, continuous flow. It’s a sleek, luxurious look which emphasizes slabs’ beauty and creates modern focal points.