White Countertops: The Best Options To Consider (& Which To Avoid)
No matter what's currently popular, white in the kitchen or bathroom always remains timeless. Whether it's a pop of white to make the space appear larger or an elegant all-white room, the shade is a long-lasting trend-proof aesthetic option. However, there's much more than shade to think about when it comes to bathroom and kitchen countertops. To keep white countertops looking their best, it's also important to consider the material. There are many trendy kitchen countertop types home designers love, but durability should be considered. Some countertop materials, like quartzite, are good options for durability, while others, like marble, don't stand up as well to busy use. However, if you're focusing mostly on aesthetics, marble may be the better choice.
Of course, there is always the question of price. Natural stone countertops, like granite and marble, can be similar in price, but granite is a little less expensive at $15 to $140 per square foot compared to marble at $15 to $190 per square foot. Quartzite often comes at a higher price tag of $80 to $220 per square foot. Concrete falls somewhere in the middle, between $50 and $100 per square foot. You'll find that there are many materials for white countertops, but it's important to balance multiple factors to know what to consider for your home and what to avoid.
What to choose for durability and practicality
Quartz, a material fabricated from natural quartz and resins, is among one of the top options for durability. It's less prone to scratches, chipping, or cracking than other similar countertop materials. But what's ideal about choosing a white quartz is that it's not a porous material. This means that if you spill something, it's unlikely to stain. For a beautiful yet practical white countertop in the bathroom or kitchen, quartz is definitely the top choice. Calacatta Nuvo Caesarstone quartz has stunning gray veining that would add texture to the space while providing a subtle elegance, like marble.
Natural stones like quartzite and granite are also relatively good options when it comes to durability and practicality as countertops. Both quartzite and granite are resistant to heat, which is ideal for bathrooms and kitchens. A minor drawback to both materials is porosity, which makes them a little more susceptible to staining. However, regular sealing will protect these countertops. Azzurra Bay quartzite is a beautiful pure-white option that will add brightness to a room.
Concrete adds a sleek, contemporary element to a design. Though it's a hard material, it's more prone to cracks and scratches. It's also porous, which means it can stain easily. Similarly, while marble is a top choice for many homeowners, it's actually a countertop material that doesn't belong in your bathroom or kitchen; it's notoriously porous and can easily discolor, so it's not the best to maintain a bright white countertop.
Think about these materials if aesthetics are a priority
Kitchens and bathrooms are busy rooms, so choosing durable material should be a top priority. But, of course, no one wants to give up aesthetics completely. Marble is often seen as a visually appealing material for countertops, which is why many homeowners opt for this stone despite its issues with porosity and potential staining. While it's suggested to avoid marble in kitchens and bathrooms, it's not impossible to care for this stone and maintain its bright white appearance. If something spills, you want to clean it with gentle soap and water immediately to prevent staining. This will ensure your white marble countertops remain bright and beautiful. If you're looking for a bold and elegant option, most types of marble countertops are beautiful additions to kitchens and bathrooms. Calacatta Borghini offers white marble with statement graining in gray, while Crema Marfil is softer and more subtle.
However, there are many marble alternatives that can provide the look of the luxurious stone without the issues. Some quartz slabs, for instance, can have the appearance of marble, so you can maintain an elegant aesthetic while still having durable countertops. For bolder designs, Calacatta Lumanyx has dramatic black veining, which would look great in a contemporary space. Calacatta Laza Oro, is a creamier white with golden-tan veining, which will add a warmer, more relaxing feeling to the room. Overall, a countertop that is both durable and fits into your aesthetic will be the best choice for your home.