Are Granite Countertops Outdated?
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In a recent House Beautiful TikTok video we reviewed what's in and what's out in the world of kitchen design today, according to the pros. From editing down on small appliances to encouraging clients to "stop obsessing over perfect countertops," our followers had thoughts!
While some rushed to the defense of their beloved air fryers, one commenter's reply stuck out: "Why doesn't anyone want granite anymore?"
To find the answer, we polled our favorite kitchen design experts on their current relationship status to granite countertops, and asked what kitchen countertop materials their clients are asking for instead.
Theory 1: It Depends What Kind of Granite
"Well, this is a really old trend! It's been going for the 15 years I've been designing," says Sarah Robertson of Studio Dearborn. "People still love dark granite (jet mist, carbon black), but aren't liking the blotchy spotty granites, which is most others.
Linda Hayslett of LH.Designs agrees: "The typical granite connotation is out, but people don't realize that granite is becoming modernized, and getting better at looking good," she says. "I used a sleek black granite not long ago for a project, and everyone was actually surprised at the fact it was granite because it looked like slate!
Theory 2: Other Materials Are Taking Over
"There are better options out there to suit a client's needs. Quartzite is both harder and less porous than marble and looks just as nice," says Lauren Caron of Studio Laloc. "The next alternative is man-made countertops, which we all know the pros to.For clients that are truly aesthetically-driven, the need for perfection in their counters is out."
My clients are gravitating toward quartzite for its durability and veining, also known as 'movement,'" notes Dearborn. "The movement in quartzite resembles marble, but the material is much more durable. For clients less concerned about durability, or who can fork over the money to have it professionally sealed, marble is still number one. It's beautiful, timeless, and every piece is highly unique—unlike any other material!"
"Clients are leaning towards man-made quartz and porcelain," agrees Hayslett. "Porcelain is making a strong push in the industry of countertops because it can look a lot more like a stone such as marble compared to a quartz. Both can hold heat and clean easily compared to a marble or stone-like countertop."
Theory 3: Bad Memories!
"The other major reason people don't like granite anymore is PTSD from the late 90s to early 2000s where every kitchen had shiny, busy granite countertops," says Caron. "Clients and designers are just tired of that look!"
Read also: How To Pick the Right Kitchen Countertop Material, According to Experts
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