If there is one element that can truly transform your kitchen, it’s your kitchen countertop color. While countertop material is important, the color is what really defines the look, feel, and aesthetic of your kitchen.
This is why it’s so important to take your time when considering countertop coloring. Ultimately, the decision is pretty final, and once you’d made your choice, it’s time-consuming (and not-to-mention expensive) to change your mind.
So, what is the best color for your kitchen countertops in today’s day and age? Here’s how to choose between timeless options.
Kitchen Countertop Color Variations: Pure White
Sure, pure white may seem like a slightly generic option for kitchen countertops — but there’s a reason why it’s so popular and timeless. You can find pure white countertops in different materials, but the most common tend to be Corian and Caeserstone.
If you’re wanting an elegant, minimalist, and fresh look to your kitchen, then pure white is your go-to color. Another great aspect of choosing this color is that you can select just about any type of custom cabinetry color and it will match. Check out Panda Kitchen and Bath for options.
Pure white is also a good color option if your kitchen is on the small side and you want to open up the space, but it’s best to combine white cabinetry with your countertops, too. So, in summary, you want to opt for pure white if:
- You have an elegant, minimalist, and modern style in mind
- Your kitchen is on the small side
- Your kitchen features other bold elements and finishes
- You want to create a nautical-inspired theme in your kitchen
The materials mentioned above are a brilliant option for kitchens as they are hardy, resistant to stains, and remain that pure, crisp white color for many years, with very little maintenance.
White With Flecks or Soft Veins of Color
These two options: flecked white or softly-veined white are hands-down the most popular countertop colors today. You can find either of these color variations in a range of materials. Some of the most common include quartz, marble, and other types of manufactured stone.
Both the flecks and soft-vein texture of these countertops give your kitchen a sense of richness that many other stones cannot achieve on their own. Neither of these options is pure white in color. Instead, they’re are pale-toned and are a great way to mix elegance, sophistication, and warmth.
If you’re not a fan of the starkness of pure white, then going for a flecked or softly-veined white is the next best thing. If you plan on incorporating elements of natural wood in your kitchen, shaker cabinets, or statement pendant lights, then these softer shades of white might work better, too.
You want to go for flecked white or softly-veined white countertops if:
- Your kitchen/home interior is on the warmer, more traditional side — it’s not as minimalist
- You want to open up the space in your kitchen, without it feeling too stark
- You love the look of white but want to add some texture and character into your kitchen
Keep in mind that these two options are also great from a practical point of view. The specks and soft-veins that run throughout your countertops are great at hiding marks, crumbs, and dust.
Natural Wood
Now, let’s say white is far from what you want in your kitchen and you prefer the warmth, character, and inviting richness of wood countertops. Natural wood is one of the best options if you have a large kitchen and plenty of countertop space to work with. If your kitchen feels like it needs something to fill it, wood countertops can do just that!
If you want to impart a real sense of hominess, character, and contemporary balance to your kitchen, you want to go with wood countertops. They’re also a great choice for transitional kitchens, i.e. kitchens that flow from the dining room and lounge area.
Wood is also a functional material. If you want to add accents of wood, you can do so with your kitchen island countertop or an accent counter which you can use as a working chopping board. It’s a material that combines well with other materials too, so it’s versatile.
You should go for wood kitchen countertops if:
- You have other austere, stark elements in your kitchen that need warming up, such as white cabinets
- You’re looking to bring in some character to your kitchen and contrast your kitchen surfaces
- You want your kitchen to feel warm, inviting, and homey
- You prefer the aesthetic of rustic charm over modern, minimalist
Keep in mind that if you want your kitchen to have more of a rustic, farmhouse feel, then opt for lighter wood countertops. If you’re looking for a more contemporary, traditional kitchen, darker wood is your go-to.
Dark/Black Materials
While dark-toned countertops in colors such as charcoal, dark gray, and black are not as popular, they have their place in certain kitchens. In some spaces, darker countertops can make a kitchen feel rather closed in and gothic-looking. In other spaces, it can look beautifully harmonious.
If your kitchen is already on the darker side with its cabinetry, finishes, or floors, then dark-color countertops are a good choice. It will all tie in well together. In contrast, if your kitchen includes pure white cabinetry, dark countertops, flooring, and hardware can make a brilliant accompaniment for a modern, sleek, elegant kitchen.
Just keep this in mind: a dark palette in any size kitchen needs plenty of light sources — whether it’s natural light, light fixtures, or both. This a great way to keep your kitchen open and inviting, rather than making it look you’ve stepped into a cave!
Dark-toned countertops are a good idea if:
- You already have other dark elements in your kitchen that will blend in well
- Your cabinets are already colorful and you want dark countertops to add contrast
- Your home is on the trendy, modern side and you love the look of sleek stainless steel and mirrored elements
- You love the idea of a classic black and white theme
If you already have stark, pure white cabinetry, black countertops can actually be your best choice. They help to add depth to your kitchen and add a sense of richness due to the contrast in color. If pure black is not for you, opt for a dark gray countertop for a softer look.
Home Inspiration Is Just a Simple Click Away
Choosing a kitchen countertop color really does depend on the other elements of your kitchen. Most of the time, you’ll choose your cabinetry color first, then move on to countertops. At the end of the day, you want to choose the best color to tie these key elements together for a timeless kitchen aesthetic.
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