3 Alternatives to Granite Countertops

Granite is an amazing countertop surface, let’s face it.  It is not only beautiful and comes in an amazing array of colors, it is incredibly durable and lasts for many, many years, lending a classic look to any house. Thus the reason for granite’s popularity in kitchen and bath design.

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We just recently specified this Blue Louise granite into a client’s kitchen renovation for a totally different, dramatic look ~ pictures to come soon!

{ Blue Louise granite | Cavanaugh Design Group }

However, if you find the idea of a $60 to $100 per square foot installed a bit overwhelming or you’d like a different look, you’re likely shopping for another comparable surface.

{ via Woodie Wilson Photography }

Soapstone is the only natural stone that isn’t affected by acids, such as coffee, juice and wine, and is a beautiful natural matte stone that comes in a variety of hues of greys and charcoals. It is actually a metamorphic rock mined from the earth and though it is widely considered to be a soft stone, countertop grades are the most durable. Mineral oils are best to maintain the integrity of the stone and no special cleaners are needed to clean it.

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Engineered quartz is created through mixing 95% stone and 5% polymer resins and is just as practical as natural stone. Quartz is also available in solid slab form, however mixing the stone with resin creates a natural-looking countertop that is both incredibly hard and low-maintenance. Though it is resistant to scratching, it will scratch and it won’t stand up to a pot hot off the stove.

{ via Jessica Kaufmann }

Solid glass is actually a surprisingly durable countertop surface. Typically ¾ to 1 ½ inches thick, it comes tempered with a polished square edge or a banded with another material, like aluminum or stainless steel.

{ via cbd glass }

I love a bit of the unexpected in any designed space, and glass counter surfaces provide just that. They are also resistant to scorching or cracking under high heat and will stand up to wine and other liquids that may stain other counter surfaces.  And if you’re concerned with hygiene and germs,  glass counter surfaces are non-porous and incredibly hygienic.

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As with any choice for your interiors, you’ll need to make your decision based on the dominant factors in your household, like small children and how much you entertain. However, in the long run, choosing something that you will enjoy each time you walk into your room is well-worth the time and money spent!