Skip Stones and Check out 3 Show-Stopping Alternative Kitchen Countertops

These days, it seems like there are just a few main contenders for kitchen countertops: quartz, granite, and marble.

While these materials may be popular, they come with their own set of drawbacks (which you know if you’ve tried to properly clean up an orange juice spill off of a granite countertop). You don’t have to settle for stone countertops when it comes to your unique kitchen design. At Design Studio West, we’ve worked with plenty of alternative countertops, many of which are on display in our showroom in La Jolla.

Let’s explore three jaw-dropping countertop materials that will take your kitchen to a new level of design and functionality.

Alternative Kitchen Countertop #1: Paper

Best for: families, moderate kitchen use

Standout feature: eco-friendly, light

In the game of rocks, paper, scissors, paper always wins over rocks. How about for your kitchen remodel? These days, more consumers are seeking earth-friendly countertops, which not only help protect our natural resources but are also durable and beautiful.

Paper countertops are typically made from 100% post-consumer paper baked with a petroleum-free resin, and the cost is similar to a granite countertop. Companies such as PaperStone and Richlite use recycled paper with a resin to create dense, durable surfaces that feel like a soft stone. A slab of paper-based countertop is lighter than actual stone and is resistant to stains, heat, bacteria, and scratches. In addition, these countertops can be cantilevered and span long surfaces. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly countertop, PaperStone is a solid contender that will hold up under frequent use.

Alternative Kitchen Countertop #2: Stainless Steel

Best for: adult-only households, heavy kitchen use

Standout feature: heavy duty, sleek

You might already have stainless steel appliances. Why not take it a step further and embrace custom stainless steel countertops? The best part? They’re a breeze to clean! Bacteria, mold, and common household germs will disappear with one wipe. This surface is as non-porous as you can get!

If you frequently cook, you can toss out your hot pads and trivets—these countertops are impervious to heat. Worried about dents and scratches? First off, don’t sweat the scratches—they’ll eventually meld together into what home remodelers and builders refer to as “patina,” which gives your counter a better overall look. As for the dents, just choose to work with a professional design studio to ensure you get the right thickness and support for the material. You really can’t beat the sleek look and near-indestructible durability of stainless steel countertops.

Alternative Kitchen Countertop #3: Glass

Best for: adult-only households, light-moderate kitchen use

Standout feature: eco-friendly, unique

Recently, Design Studio West worked with clients to create a one-of-a-kind glass countertop by Vetrazzo. Our clients saved their personal wine and beverage bottles, which Vetrazzo crushed and embedded into the eco-friendly glass countertop—with no toxic chemicals or petroleum products—for a stunning look that can’t be duplicated.  

If you’re into a more uniform look, you can get a recycled glass countertop that’s painted or LED-lit from below. Some degree of care is required compared to stainless steel or paper countertops. Remember this is glass—sharp or heavy objects and glass don’t get along! Overall, a glass countertop is a great option for an alternative custom counter—it’s heat and stain resistant and is versatile enough to boldly stand out or seamlessly blend into your kitchen.

Of course, you don’t have to adhere to one style of kitchen countertop. If you want to mix it up and use all of the above in your kitchen, it can be done. At Design Studio West, you’ll have full control over the remodeling process. We’ll lead you in the right direction, but in the end, we want you to love your kitchen countertops. Get in touch with us today and let us know what your dream kitchen or full home remodel looks like!

For more unique kitchen remodeling ideas, check out our post on 6 Underrated Kitchen Remodeling Ideas That Will Make Your Life Way Easier