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One of the most common questions clients ask is about choosing the right type of countertop for lasting durability. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to research every surface. Here’s a quick reference guide of the top 5 materials we like to use for both durability and style.
Marble is the prettiest of all surfaces, in our opinion. We love to use marble whenever we can if the client is up for it. To make it as durable and long-lasting as possible, we use a hydro-shield to protect the stone. Often, we’ll use remnant pieces for smaller areas like the powder bath and the full slab for a primary bathroom, making it a stunning accent or statement piece.
For busy families, our favorite surface is without a doubt quartzite. This natural stone is durable, non-porous, easy to clean, and heat-resistant, making it perfect for kitchens. While quartzite is the most durable, it’s also the most expensive. If the budget is tighter, we may only use it on the island, a spot that’s used and seen the most.
Quartz offers a clean, modern feel. You get the look of stone without the maintenance and upkeep of natural stone. We love to use a white quartz with light veining, especially in bathrooms and laundry rooms, because of its durability.
Butcher block is a great accent in the kitchen and highly functional. We usually add a square of oak, maple, or another type of wood at the end of an island to warm up the kitchen. It can be used as a cutting board and is fairly easy to maintain with oiling. Personally, I have a butcher block at the end of my kitchen island that I use every day, and I love the lived-in feeling it has developed over the years.
Another option we use occasionally is granite, especially in a black honed option like Black Mist or Indian Hills. Granite is great for bathrooms, basement game rooms, and kitchenettes. It’s a warmer-toned surface that adds a touch of elegance to any space.
Choosing countertops can feel tricky and overwhelming, so we hope this guide helps familiarize you with the different types out there. We’d love to share more tips on how you can make your home feel simply elevated. For more personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Liv Design Collective!
