2025 Countertop Trends + Countertop Guide

If you’re planning a kitchen renovation, make sure you consider all the things for this step—your countertops set the tone for the entire space. And as we look ahead, the latest kitchen countertop trends are all about authenticity, character, and timeless materials. One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing? A move away from overly artificial quartz patterns with thick, heavy veining. These once-popular styles are quickly becoming outdated countertop choices that feel more manufactured than refined.

What’s taking their place are natural stone countertops with organic movement and real depth—materials that feel both grounded and elevated. From soft, elegant quartzite to bolder, more colorful slabs like Ijen Blue, this year is all about countertops that look like they belong in your kitchen for years to come. In this post, we’re sharing which countertop trends are on their way out, and what’s replacing them for a look that lasts.

What’s Out, What’s In

Out: Quartz with Overly Artificial Veining

• What it looks like: thick, unnatural patterns that scream “faux.”
• Why it’s going out of style: visually jarring, lacks the organic depth of real stone, and ages poorly.
• Looks trendy now but not built to last.

These thick, high-contrast quartz patterns were once popular for mimicking marble, but the look often feels harsh and inauthentic. The exaggerated veining doesn’t replicate the depth and softness of real stone—and it tends to age poorly. Many homeowners now see it as a trend that came and went, leaving kitchens looking more manufactured than modern.

In: Organic Movement and Natural Stone Countertops

• A shift toward authenticity and softness in veining.
• Natural stone offers nuance, variation, and a feeling of depth.
• Quartzite as a front-runner: durable, elegant, and visually timeless.

One of the biggest kitchen countertop trends is the return to authenticity. Natural stone options like quartzite feature softer, more organic veining that brings quiet character to a kitchen. These surfaces feel layered and real—adding movement without overwhelming the space. As a bonus, quartzite is durable enough for daily wear, making it a favorite in both form and function.

In: Bold, Colorful Stone with Soul

• Ijen Blue quartzite and other striking stones add personality.
• Color is making a comeback—especially when layered thoughtfully.
• Adds soul, texture, and uniqueness.

For those ready to make a statement, bold natural stones like Ijen Blue quartzite are having a moment. These richly colored slabs turn the countertop into a focal point, adding unexpected personality to modern kitchens. They’re especially beautiful when paired with neutral cabinetry and layered styling, proving that even daring materials can feel timeless when thoughtfully applied.

Countertop Trends That Are Still Going Strong

• Honed finishes
• Waterfall edges (done minimally)
• Quartz or Granite with subtle veining
• Pairing contrast countertop and cabinet colors

Granite Countertops

Pros:

• Natural beauty with unique, one-of-a-kind patterns
• Extremely durable and heat-resistant
• More affordable than some natural stones
• Available in a wide range of colors and finishes

Cons:

• Requires periodic sealing to resist stains
• Some patterns can feel dated depending on the slab choice
• Can chip or crack if subjected to heavy impact
• Requires sealing every 6–12 months to resist stains. If water stops beading on the surface, it’s time to reseal

Best for: Busy kitchens where durability is key, but natural character is desired.

Quartz Countertops

Pros:

• Engineered for consistency in color and pattern
• Non-porous and highly stain-resistant (no sealing required)
• Low maintenance—just clean with mild soap and water
• Wide range of colors and patterns, some mimicking natural stone

Cons:

• Less heat-resistant than natural stone
• Can look overly uniform if not chosen carefully
• Not as rare or unique as natural slabs

Best for: Homeowners who want a durable, low-maintenance surface with a polished, uniform look.

Quartzite Countertops

Pros:

• Natural stone with elegant, organic veining
• Harder than granite—very resistant to scratches and etching
• Heat-resistant and long-lasting with proper care
• Timeless look that works across styles

Cons:

• Must be sealed regularly to prevent staining
• Can be more expensive than granite or quartz
• Requires skilled fabrication and installation
• Must be thoroughly dried after fabrication before sealing (make sure you hire someone who is experienced and skilled with quartzite or you will have problems)
• Needs sealing after installation and regular resealing to prevent stains. Use a pH-neutral cleaner to extend sealer life

Best for: Those seeking natural beauty with durability for a busy kitchen.

Pro Tip: If you choose a natural stone—granite, quartzite, marble, or dolomite—sealing is essential to protect your investment. Have it sealed after installation (multiple times and on all cut edges, including plumbing holes) and plan to reseal regularly. It’s a regular maintenance step that makes a big difference in keeping your countertops beautiful for years.

Marble Countertops

Pros:

• Iconic luxury and timeless beauty
• Cool surface ideal for baking and pastry prep
• Unique veining that adds sophistication

Cons:

• Softer and more porous—prone to etching, scratching, and staining
• Requires frequent sealing and careful maintenance
• Acidic foods (lemon, tomato, vinegar) can etch the surface
• Requires more frequent sealing than other stones to protect against stains and etching. Even with a sealer, acidic foods can leave marks

Best for: Bakers, entertainers, and homeowners who love a patinaed, lived-in look.

Dolomite Countertops

Pros:

• Similar look to marble but generally slightly more durable
• More affordable than marble or quartzite
• Unique, subtle veining for a softer stone aesthetic

Cons:

• Not as hard as granite or quartzite—can still scratch and stain
• Requires sealing to maintain stain resistance
• Limited color options compared to other stones
• Requires sealing to maintain stain resistance, though less often than marble

Best for: Those who love marble’s look but want a slightly more forgiving material.

Porcelain Countertops

Pros:

• Extremely durable, heat and stain-resistant
• Non-porous—no sealing required
• Can replicate the look of marble, concrete, or stone
• Lightweight and can be installed in thin slabs for a sleek profile

Cons:

• Hard to fabricate—requires an experienced installer
• Chips or cracks can be challenging to repair
• Can feel less “natural” than real stone under close inspection

Best for: Sleek, modern kitchens or busy households that want worry-free maintenance.

Tips for Choosing the Right Countertop for Your Kitchen

If you’re wondering how to choose a kitchen countertop that’s both stylish and practical, start by thinking about how you use your space. The best countertops for kitchens are the ones that strike a balance between beauty and durability—especially in a high-traffic, high-function zone like this. Natural stone countertops like quartzite are a top choice for many of our clients, thanks to their elegant appearance and superior strength. Just keep in mind: quartzite requires skilled fabrication and installation, so it’s worth working with experienced professionals. Whenever possible, view full slabs in person to get a true sense of the color, veining, and scale. With so many kitchen countertop materials available—from marble to quartz to soapstone—partnering with a designer can help you avoid costly mistakes and land on a surface that aligns with both your lifestyle and your design goals. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed by all the options, I’d love to work with you and help bring clarity (and beauty!) to your kitchen plans.

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