A quick search for kitchen inspiration will feed you with an array of beautiful spaces, all with a variety of different countertop designs. And while black countertops really had their moment in the spotlight, designers seem to be moving away from these darker surfaces.
But what kitchen countertops should you choose instead? Even though black kitchen countertops aren’t going out of style, they can certainly date a space if they are introduced to the wrong scheme.
And according to interior designers, there are a few alternatives that can be more timeless and instantly elevate your kitchen. These are the 5 countertop materials and colors they suggest trying instead.
5 black countertop alternatives to try
One of the most common questions when designing a cooking space is whether kitchen countertops should be light or dark. And while there are no rules, black countertops can feel incredibly dark and jarring in the wrong space. But some great alternatives can feel just as bold and striking.
1. Colorful stone
(Image credit: Studio Hollond)
If it’s the drama that black countertops bring to a kitchen that appeals to you, there are other bold designs to consider. One of the biggest upcoming kitchen countertop trends is colorful stone, and it works in both modern and traditional schemes.
‘Kitchen countertops are a place where you can have some serious fun; they don’t need to be dull. I love to use colored stone tops, such as greens or blues, or sometimes even pinks,’ says Phoebe Hollond, founder at Studio Hollond.
‘By introducing a soft color through the countertop, it makes the kitchen feel much softer, even though it is the most hardwearing room in the house,’ she explains. And she’s not the only designer enjoying the revival of these more colorful countertop designs.
(Image credit: Jolie Studios)
‘For a bigger investment piece, lava stone is a studio favourite for its amazing crackle-like textures,’ adds Franky Rousell, of Jolie Studios. ‘We see this as a place you can be brave and inject personality. Just having an interesting countertop alone can do a lot of the design work for you, then you can pair it with more neutral and natural finishes across cabinetry for that balance of elegance.’
Even though colorful stone countertops might feel bold and daring, they are actually some of the easiest (and most fun) surfaces to style and decorate. Phoebe recommends leaning into that more playful look.
‘I adore having interesting bowls on these work surfaces, filled with front and joyful flower vases. Beautiful soup dishes or jugs add pops of interest and bring your kitchen to life and ensure a homely feel,’ she explains.
‘We adore an oversized tonal green floral arrangement, with a handmade crisp white round ceramic vase. It adds so much amazing drama and requires little else to join it. Of course, a candle on the countertop is an essential, as well as some beautiful ceramic storage jars and a lovely natural wood chopping board,’ Franky adds.
2. Light-toned porcelain
(Image credit: Caesarstone)
On the opposite end of the color spectrum, light-toned countertops are always considered timeless. For extra durability, some designers suggest opting for porcelain countertops.
‘While black countertops can create a sleek and modern look, many homeowners are turning to lighter alternatives that brighten and open up the kitchen. Engineered stone and porcelain are fantastic options – they are durable, low-maintenance, and available in a wide range of styles,’ says Jonathan Stanley, VP of marketing at Caesarstone.
‘If you love drama but want to avoid a dark, heavy surface, consider a marble-look design with bold veining. It offers striking contrast and elegance, while still keeping the space airy and inviting,’ he suggests.
3. Carrara marble
(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)
If there’s one countertop material that will always give your kitchen a luxurious, elevated look, it’s marble. And while the team at deVOL kitchens loves a black countertop in the right space, they recommend Carrara marble if you prefer something less moody.
‘We love the lustre of Carrara marble, and although it can be a little diva-ish at times, this is far outweighed by its simple, classic beauty. Used for centuries, Carrara marble was always a tough stone that was used in all kinds of environments, and much of it is still going strong to this day,’ says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL.
Carrara marble countertops also offer a versatility that black alternatives don’t. They can add a seamless finish to a tonal, neutral kitchen or lift a moody scheme, like in this design, where marble countertops have been paired with dark kitchen cabinets.
4. Copper
(Image credit: deVOL)
Choosing black kitchen countertop alternatives doesn’t need to be boring. For a timeless but more unexpected finish, why not add copper kitchen countertops to your design?
‘Copper countertops provide visual beauty as well as a practical and hygienic option, and can be used around cookers, sinks, and on prep tables to give a subtle and unusual style to your kitchen,’ says Helen, who emphasises the beauty of the natural patina that appears over time.
‘You will find that the more the patina builds up, the more beautiful the countertop is and the less you notice the blemishes, which fade and merge into this piece of ever-changing artwork on your work surface.’
5. Brown tones
(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)
There are instances where a deep-toned countertop is the best way to add interest and contrast to a design, but block isn’t the only option. Brown offers the same moody aesthetic, but offers a softer and more on-trend look.
‘Dark countertops are great for creating a moody kitchen vibe, but selecting a true black countertop can make your space feel a little harsh. Brown is having a major moment in design and is another beautiful option to create a rich feel and a dash of drama,’ says Jennifer Verruto, founder of Blythe Interiors.
It’s a countertop color that can work well in modern and traditional spaces. In this design, the mid-century-inspired kitchen has lots of lighter wood tones, so brown countertops have been added for contrast and an authentic vintage feel.
Whether you want a light and airy space or a moody kitchen full of contrast, there are plenty of black countertop alternatives to try. For a timeless space, look to kitchen countertops that never go out of style, and make sure you consider the way your chosen material wears over time.