Getting a new kitchen countertop is not something you do every day. A new countertop is a commitment, so you want to make sure you are choosing something that is both with the times and made to last. With these top kitchen countertop trends of the year in mind, you’ll be set with a beautiful kitchen that will dazzle for years to come.

With kitchen trends changing from year to year, you want to make sure you are making selections that will remain stylish and in good condition as time moves on. Options such as quartz and butcher block have rightfully earned their positions as mainstays, and sophisticated designs such as waterfall countertops and elegant backsplashes aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. Other fun options and trends, such as outdoor counters and the color green, have also been steadily growing in popularity.

What materials are popular for countertops this year?

Quartz

Quartz has been one of the top trending countertops for the past few years, and for good reason. Not only is it continuing to be one of the top choices for modern kitchens—its demand is rising. It is the reigning champion for a reason; the staying power of quartz speaks volume about the quality of these countertops. 

Not only are quartz countertops stunning and elegant, they are made to last. These countertops are made from around 91% to 93% natural quartz, making it the absolute hardest material used in modern construction. They are both scratch resistant and stain resistant, making them extremely low maintenance; it’s not hard to keep these countertops looking beautiful. Quartz countertops are heat resistant, but they aren’t heat proof.  They can be affected by extreme heat, so be sure to avoid putting hot pots and pans directly on their surface.

Butcher Block

Butcher Block countertops are also a very popular option this year. These countertops will add a warm, rustic feel to your kitchen. This is a fantastic option if you are looking for something that will bring more of a cozy vibe to your home.

Butcher block is also very durable and will last for years, however, it isn’t stone. Butcher block is of course made out of wood, so it is more susceptible to scratches. Because of this, some maintenance is required to keep these countertops looking good as new over the years, but it does not take anything overly difficult. Just treat the surface with some mineral oil around once a year to keep the wood protected, and simply use sandpaper to buff out scratches. Wood is also porous, which makes it more prone to staining. Just be careful with that jar of tomato sauce! 

You may have guessed one of the best parts of butcher block from its name: you don’t need to use cutting boards! Of course, chopping ingredients directly on the surface makes the countertop more susceptible to scratching, but with proper maintenance, this really should not be an issue. These countertops just need a little love!

Fun fact: butcher block is the preferred countertop of celebrity cook Rachel Ray!

What designs are popular this year?

Waterfall Countertops

If you have never heard of waterfall countertops, you’re not alone. They are a very new trend, making them a super modern option. Where a traditional countertop simply covers the horizontal top of the counter, a waterfall countertop also extends vertically to the floor on either side of the counter. This means your counter will have a continuous flow from the floor to the top, giving it the luxurious look that makes this style so desirable. 

The number one thing to keep in mind with these countertops is the cost. Because more material is used to achieve the distinct waterfall look, these countertops are naturally a pricier option. But if you are working with a higher budget and looking for something that will bring a sleek, modern style to your kitchen, this is a fantastic option.

Outdoor Countertops

Outdoor kitchen areas have recently become a hot trend, so naturally, the need for good outdoor countertop options has followed suit. Because outdoor countertops are exposed to the elements, durability is the name of the game. Stainless steel is a great option for outdoor countertops, as it is both extremely durable and easy to clean. It is a little susceptible to scratching, but not in a way that will be overly noticeable. If you are okay with slight imperfections, it is really nothing to be concerned about. The one thing to consider with stainless steel is that it can become extremely hot when exposed to long periods of direct sunlight. So if your outdoor kitchen is in a spot that gets a lot of intense sun, perhaps consider putting a structure over the counter area so it is shaded. Other than that, you really can’t go wrong with stainless steel; it is a look that is both classic and super modern.

What other kitchen countertop trends are popular this year?

Backsplash

The stone slabs aren’t just staying on the counters this year, they’re moving to the walls as well. Countertops that also extend into backsplashes are a very popular design choice this year. This is a bold look, as the countertop covers more surface area, making it an even more prominent feature of the kitchen. Once again, quartz seems to be the material of choice for these backsplashes, as it is such a durable and striking option. When used this way, it really adds an undeniable shine and elegance to your kitchen. So this year, just remember that when it comes to backsplashes, tiles are out and slabs are in! 

Green

That’s right, the color green! This is a trend that extends beyond just a popular choice for countertops, green is a trendy color choice for all aspects of the kitchen in 2022. People are finding that they enjoy the soothing, fresh feel of shades such as sage and mint for countertops, cabinets, chairs—you name it. Pro tip: green cabinets work really well with butcher block, adding to the cozy, natural vibe they bring to any space. 

While some trends come and go, some become popular for good reason and stick around through the years. The options discussed above are a few of the most popular, high-quality kitchen countertop trends of 2022, and you really can’t go wrong with any of them. If you are a Colorado resident in the market for a new countertop or any other type of kitchen renovation, Remington Builders Group is here to help! Contact us today to receive a quote for your kitchen project.