A functional countertop is the cornerstone of any kitchen. It’s where you prepare meals, where your family gathers, and where you spend lots of time. For a homeowner interested in remodeling, choosing a countertop is also a fundamental design element that sets the tone for the whole space.

Thankfully, there are plenty of materials, finishes, and designs to help you achieve the kitchen of your dreams. Here are the best countertop designs in 2021.

Quartz

Quartz has been a favorite when it comes to countertop design, and that shows no sign of slowing down this year. There are plenty of reasons for quartz’s popularity, like that it’s a nonporous material resistant to bacteria, heat, scratches, and stains. It’s also low maintenance and incredibly long lasting.

But perhaps the best part about quartz is that it’s man-made, which means you can get it in practically any pattern, finish, or color. Any homeowner can take advantage of its properties, regardless of the vision you have. Light-colored quartz is currently one of the most in-demand types.

Quartzite

Natural quartzite countertops are modern yet timeless, and they can be just as unique as your style. Quartzite has excellent resale value, and with proper sealing and additional treatment, it can resist heat, moisture, and everyday kitchen messes.

The result is a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that brightens up your kitchen. Yes, brightens; quartzite comes in countless colors that rival the look of granite and other popular natural stone options. It also requires minimal maintenance.

Contemporary Concrete

Industrial design has been gaining traction, meaning concrete is popping up more and more. Kitchens are an excellent place to take advantage of this bold material, which adds texture while offering an exciting blend of modern and industrial to your space.

Concrete has little to no upkeep, and it resists cracking and staining over time. You can also customize it in many ways with tonal variations, flecks of contrasting colors, or the addition of items like glass fragments or stones on the surface.

Colored Countertops

Plenty of homeowners are using color in 2021 to create unique kitchen designs, and countertops are no exception. This trend is excellent for anyone who is not afraid to make a statement. Countertops in bold colors, such as vibrant yellows, reds, or blues, are an excellent way to add contrast and create a focal point in your kitchen. Plus, they add a fun, whimsical vibe to your home.

Honed vs. Polished

Though the finish of your kitchen countertop may seem like a minor detail, it can change the feel of your space. We’ve been seeing the trend toward honed surfaces, or those with little to no shine, in design in general, and kitchens are a popular place to add them. Polished surfaces are a more classic option, but honed finishes have their advantages.

They conceal flaws or imperfections more easily than their polished counterparts. You can also apply them to several different kinds of materials, such as quartz, granite, and marble. Some people consider them to be more sophisticated, and they look beautiful in modern kitchens.

If you’re on the fence, leathered finishes are a more in-between option. They offer a gorgeous soft sheen that hides fingerprints and has a nice touch.

Butcher Block

Butcher blocks became wildly popular when they first debuted, and they continue to be a top choice for kitchen countertops in 2021. Butcher blocks are available in a variety of finishes that work well with practically any style of kitchen and color palette. They’re also easy to maintain and are highly practical.

Veining and Patterns

When done properly, putting a subtle pattern or some light veining on your countertops adds sophistication to your kitchen—especially when it comes to man-made materials like quartz. Veining and patterns are at home with practically any color scheme or design preferences you have. They even work well and add some interest to minimalist spaces.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right countertop for your kitchen remodel makes all the difference in the result. Despite calling these designs “trends,” any of them will make long-lasting, beautiful additions to your kitchen.