An Expert Designer's Guide On How To Get The Perfect Kitchen Countertop

Be it a vintage theme or a boho-chic vibe, a wooden counter top is undoubtedly one of the most aesthetic materials to be used in a kitchen. However, wood is more prone to damage because it is softer than tile, stone and metal. Depending on how much and what kind of wear they receive, wood counter tops require refinishing every 10 to 15 years. Scratches and dents are a possibility as well. Treat the wood counter top with Danish oil or linseed oil, which are among the best oils.

Price (approx.): INR 3,000 per square feet (also depends on the thickness and quality of the wood)

Quartz is the most durable material for a kitchen counter top. Quartz counter tops are made from natural stone (leftover rubble from quarrying), which is pulverised and blended with resins to form a slab. It is a material that'll complement most themes, from modern minimalism to even art-deco! Quartz surfaces are also non-absorbent and non-porous, so you don’t have to worry about spilling liquids. And since they are not 100 per cent natural, you won’t encounter mould or mildew. Plus, it never loses its colour or pattern, whereas marble may darken with age. There are many different brands of quartz countertops on the market, such as Caesarstone, Cambria, Silestone, Vicastone, Zodiac, MSI, LG and many more. The difference between quartz counter top brands depends on the colour, slab quality and manufacturer's warranty.

Price (approx.): INR 350 to 400 per square feet

A marble kitchen top is a classic and has become a sign of luxury over the years. However, as good as it looks, it also requires high maintenance. One of the major cons is that with time, the marble may go yellow, so here are some ways you can avoid this degradation in the look. Marble surfaces are vulnerable to acid. They can be kept looking fantastic after daily use by routinely cleaning them with a mild, gentle soap. Building movement, fallen objects and even everyday wear and tear can cause cracks in marble counters. Homeowners must address damage as quickly as possible, for even a small split can expand into a larger one. You can use an epoxy glue or grout to cover up any cracks!

Price (approx.): INR 550 per square feet

One of the oldest materials used for kitchen countertops is granite. It requires the least amount of maintenance of all the materials. For its sheer strength and durability, you can put minimal efforts into cleaning or using it, and it'll not lose its charm. The only downside is that the look of a granite kitchen countertop will be average compared to a marble or quartz countertop. However, if designed well with an amazing finish, it is the cheapest and longest-lasting option for a kitchen counter top.

Price (approx.): INR 150 per square feet

Even while onyx isn't as as strong as other stones, its beauty makes it a fantastic choice. An onyx countertop can be a lovely and functional (it lets lights pass through, which can be used for accent lighting) addition to your kitchen if you're ready to put in a little extra work to maintain it. Spills on onyx should be cleaned up right away to prevent discoloration.

Price (approx.): INR 750 per square feet

Accentuate your kitchen counter tops with this list of the best ceramic tableware brands. Find cute and complementing pieces here to build your cutlery and serveware collection. If you're on the lookout for ways to give your whole kitchen a revamp, here is a list of ways to do it on a budget!