Serving as both kitchen workhorse and showpiece, today’s countertops play a demanding role. Site of all food preparation, they’re expected to be durable (stain-proof, scratch-proof, and heat-proof), beautiful, and (best-case scenario) economical. No wonder choosing a countertop material is such a daunting decision.
But it needn’t be so tricky. Instead of getting seduced or intimidated by the endless options in the marketplace, begin by asking yourself the right questions and setting your priorities straight. As an architect who has survived and supervised several kitchen remodels, here’s my list of crucial questions you should ask yourself before you commit.
1. How will you use your countertops"
The most critical part of your countertop decision should come from an assessment of how you and your family use your kitchen. For example, I have two teenage boys and our countertops see a lot of daily active duty. Not only do we do a fair bit of family cooking but also my sons are always in the kitchen making “in-between” meals. And so it was important to me that our choice be able to withstand a variety of cooking and clean-up styles?without my having to be extra vigilant. I was less concerned about scratches and more concerned that my countertops being impervious to most food stains.
Above: I wanted a warm material for our open kitchen, so I selected 1 1/2-inch-thick solid oak countertops that have been treated with several coats of Dani...