Having trouble selecting a countertop for your Chicago kitchen remodeling project? We aren't surprised. There are so many options to choose from, and all of them are stylish, functional and versatile. Even so, we're noticing a shift away from granite (although it's still a popular choice) and towards other countertop surface choices, depending on a household's needs and maintenance preferences.
Top Kitchen Countertop Choices for Chicago Kitchen Remodeling Projects
Granite has long been the upscale kitchen remodeling darling, and with good reason. There are a myriad of patterns and colors to choose from and it always provides a luxurious finish. However, it also requires regular sealing to keep it looking its best. Also, granite can have a "busy" look and the drive towards more modern, "less-is-more" kitchens is bringing other countertop surfaces into the limelight.
Here are some of the countertop surfaces that are starting to take granite's spot as the top kitchen countertop choices for Chicago kitchen remodels.
Stainless Steel. Appliances aren't the only option for stainless steel anymore. Stainless steel cabinets and countertops are becoming an increasingly popular choice. While you can choose to have all of your countertops finished in stainless steel, most households opt to use it as a blend, adding stainless steel on the island or a section of the perimeter countertops and using their second-choice countertop selection elsewhere. If you like the idea of a metal countertop but want something a little warmer, look into installing a copper countertop instead.
Quartz. There are several reasons why quartz is gaining popularity. It is incredibly durable, requires zero maintenance outside of regular cleaning, is highly-sanitary due to its non-porous nature and it comes in a wide range of colors and styles, many of which aren't possible in nature. Also, many of the quartz slabs are made using pre- and post-consumer recycled products so it can score you points in the green building department.
Wood. If you're perusing interior design websites, then you've seen it too; wood countertops are on the rise. They add warmth to a modern kitchen, work perfectly in a traditional kitchen and reclaimed options enhance the green factor. Like stainless steel, this option is typically reserved for the island (hearkening back to the traditional butcher block look) or for a portion of the perimeter countertops.
Marble. We've completed quite a few kitchens with marble countertops these days. Marble is certainly luxurious and versatile. It's often a favorite of those who like granite but want a lighter, more subtle pattern option. However, you do have to be careful. Marble is a softer, more porous stone - quite prone to staining and etching if it isn't sealed religiously. It's best suited for lightly used kitchens and in homes without small children.
Quartzite. Not to be confused with man-made Quartz countertops, quartzite is a quarried natural stone - similar to granite in terms of looks - but it is virtually indestructible. No sealing required! It's on the pricier side but it is definitely a once in a lifetime investment.
Interested in learning more about 2015 kitchen countertop trends for Chicago kitchen remodels? Schedule a consultation with Kitchens & Baths Unlimited.
