Choosing the right worktops for your kitchen is an important task, be it part of a complete renovation or a simple scheme refresh. They need to be practical, but also look good. So, what are the most popular materials in 2023, I hear you ask? We find out today.
From statement, veiny marble to concrete-inspired surfaces, we’ve asked the industry experts to share this year’s kitchen worktop trends. Get your pen and paper out and let’s explore the latest looks…
Kitchen worktop trends in 2023:
1. Marble worktops
Of course, top of the list is marble. This luxurious and natural material has become a must-have design feature for many renovators. “There is a trend developing – homeowners are seeking out real marble for their worktops,” says Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport.
And what’s not to love? It instantly adds a touch of glamour to your kitchen – be it through work surfaces or a statement island clad in book-matched marble. Plus, did you know this material is ideal for baking lovers? As it is cold to touch, it makes kneading dough for pastries a piece of cake – no pun intended.
“It’s likely that the marble-look has worked its way out of being a trend and is here to stay, thanks to its timeless and classic look,” suggests David Hird, area manager for retail at Laminam. “However, consider the texture and feel – we’re seeing a big trend towards matt or a soft sheen finish, rather than ultra shiny or glossy, particularly in kitchens,” he says.
From the subtle veining of Calacatta to the stunning patterns of Arabescato, if you love a sophisticated look and are ready to care intensively for your worktops, then marble is the right choice for you. To find out more about marble, from care to cost, click here.
2. Stone-effect materials
If you’re into the look of marble but don’t want to commit to such a high-maintenance material, rest assured because there are plenty of options for you.
“There is also a move towards porcelain being used to replicate marble with mitred edges, and other great alternatives, such as a white man-made quartz that replicates the look of Carrara marble but is much more resilient than marble or granite and best of all, it doesn’t come with the hefty price tag,” adds Richard.
Another striking look, which can be achieved with the help of stone-effect surfaces, is the waterfall edge. “This is a striking island feature where the kitchen worktop continues at a 90-degree angle, flowing to the floor, and creating a seamless continuation of the quartz or porcelain surface,” explains Mor Krisher, head of design at premium surfaces manufacturer Caesarstone.
If you want to get this look, you will need to choose the material carefully as it has to look like it’s made from one slab. “This is difficult to do with marble, granite, or any other material that contains natural veining as a mismatched pattern will ruin the cascading effect,” advises Mor.
3. Nature-inspired surfaces
Next up on our kitchen worktop trends roundup are the surfaces which draw inspiration from nature – picture concrete-effect, pebble-patterned, and limestone-inspired.
Oliver Webb, director at Cullifords, has noticed the need for creating a sense of escapism in the home. “Connecting to this sense of relaxation, surface choices should be calming, therapeutic and soothing to the touch. Think neutral, natural colours and matte textures that exude a laid-back aesthetic,” he says.
These tactile surfaces pair well with both dark and light-coloured cabinetry, limewash or plaster walls, and natural materials such as jute and rattan. You can achieve any look, from industrial to contemporary and elegant.
4. Dark and moody kitchen worktops
Dare to go bold? The design team at Caesarstone has noticed a surge in the interest for dark surfaces. “Contrary to what people often think, black or dark kitchens aren’t always sombre or austere. Dark colours can be bold and dramatic or warm and cosseting. Black marble-inspired quartz, in particular, has the power to express opulence and drama,” says Mor.
How can you make dark surfaces work in your home? You can go for black units with matching worktops for a cocooning feeling. But if you are working with a more compact space, ensure you pair them with lighter-coloured cabinets and blonde wooden flooring, which will balance them out. “This will help to keep the space feeling open and neutral, which is helpful if your kitchen isn’t vast in size,” adds Mor.
5. Warm-toned work surfaces
“Homeowners are now designing their kitchen to be a warm, comforting and inviting space to bring balance and calm to one of the busiest rooms in the house,” says Joanne Bull, marketing manager at Königstone. If your kitchen style is nice and neutral, then warm-toned worktops are ideal.
They are best complemented by matching warm metallic finishes such as brass, gold or copper, and natural, tactile materials – perfect for Scandinavian style kitchens, for example. Sounds dreamy, right?
“Warmer natural tones that induce a sense of wellbeing and calm into the home have seen a surge in popularity within kitchen design,” agrees Charlotte Hughes, retail manager at Cosentino UK. “This shift toward earthy tones, as opposed to the minimalist, clinical white homes that were previously popular, can be incredibly powerful in conveying tranquillity in a space.”
6. Sustainable worktops
Last, but not least, on our list of kitchen worktop trends are the eco-friendly solutions. If you are currently renovating, we encourage you to invest in worktops that you will love, and know will also last, for years.
“Whatever the aesthetic trend of the moment, it’s crucial to consider the sustainability impact of any worktop,” states David. “Not only should the manufacturing process and the materials used to create the surface be sustainable, but the entire life cycle of the product should be clear,” he says. For example, you can research how your chosen worktops can be recycled at the end of their life. This will ensure they won’t end up in landfill.
“Creating a new appetite for sustainable worktop alternatives, new material options have broadened the scope for modern kitchen design,” explains Julia Steadman, commercial director at Brandt Design. Why invest in eco-friendly worktops? Well, they are lightweight and durable – plus “easy to fit and offer a high capacity for personalisation”, says Julia.
What more could you want, right?
Enjoyed this post? Find out more about porcelain worktops: from pros and cons to care and cost
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