Kitchen countertops - design ideas and review of possible materials (105 photos)

When arranging a kitchen, you need to spend more time choosing furniture. Particularly important is the selection of high-quality work surfaces, among which the first place rightfully belongs to the countertop. It bears the main load during the cooking process. Therefore, it must be as strong and durable as possible.

What else you need to pay attention to, how to ensure color matches with the overall style of kitchen design, we will tell you in the article.

Material selection criteria

Some of us make decisions when choosing kitchen furniture solely based on a photo of a kitchen countertop. But this is completely wrong. After all, there are a large number of materials used in the manufacture of headsets. They have a wide variety of properties.

There are a number of parameters that must be taken into account when choosing such an important element as a countertop:

Practicality and functionality. Such a surface should provide maximum comfort when working on it. It should be easy to install and dismantle.

Strength. The material must be reliable - not deteriorate or deform under the influence of mechanical shocks, moisture, different temperature conditions, including extreme ones. The surface of the tabletop should not wear out or lose its properties under the influence of biogenic factors and detergents

Durability. If you have to frequently repair or change the work surface, this means that you have not made the right choice. The working plane must be used without loss of its qualities for a long period of time.

Hygiene - raw materials for production must be environmentally friendly, safe for humans, fungi and harmful microorganisms must not accumulate on the surface.

Easy to care for. Select specimens that are easy to care for using a variety of detergents.

Requirements for the selected countertop

The selected kitchen furniture must meet a number of requirements that are important in practical and aesthetic aspects:

1. Strength. The kitchen countertop must withstand significant loads and mechanical stress.
2. Resistance to chemically aggressive components of detergents and abrasive substances. After all, as a rule, worktops are often subjected to wet cleaning due to the constant presence of greasy deposits.
3. Resistant to moisture and temperature changes.
4. Exterior decor is a criterion that is also important for any housewife.

In practice, such parameters as width, longitudinal dimensions and height of the table top are also important. The housewife should be comfortable doing cooking and other household chores.

A separate issue concerns the workspace located under the tabletop. For the kitchen work area, it is better to choose tables equipped with high-quality and practical storage areas. You can find a wide variety of kitchen countertops in the Leroy Merlin store.

Chipboard and MDF

Using chipboard in the manufacture of countertops is an economical option. This is due to the simplest technology - wood particles are pressed into modules at high temperatures, and then lined with plastic of the desired color and texture.

However, this is a fragile option - chipboard is susceptible to moisture, mechanical damage, and cannot withstand contact with excessively heated objects. The service life of such a surface is about 5 years.

MDF is a more technologically advanced material. During manufacturing, the board is laminated on all sides with laminated paper. Such countertops withstand mechanical stress to a greater extent than the previous version.

They are also resistant to moisture and chemicals and easy to care for. But in terms of temperature indicators, the MDF board is not perfect - you cannot place hot dishes on the work surface.

Chipboard work surface

A kitchen countertop made of laminated chipboard is one of the most popular options today. A melamine (plastic) protective coating is applied to the chipboard. The greater the thickness of such a slab, the higher its cost will be. The fullness size varies from 20 mm to 80 mm. The reliability of such a tabletop directly depends on the thickness of the melamine layer.

The thickest layer can be found from European manufacturers (80 mm). Melamine tolerates high temperatures well, does not absorb foreign odors, and this coating can be cleaned with any household chemicals. This working surface is moisture-resistant and impact-resistant. Installation and installation of such a coating is possible with your own hands.

However, such countertops have a short service life. When caring for such a surface, you must adhere to some rules:

• Stains should be removed immediately using a soft, slightly damp cloth.
• Clean matte surfaces only with liquid cleaner.
• Removal of fat using solvents of natural origin only.
• Do not allow moisture to get into the seams.
• Protect the coating from mechanical damage.

Wood

Sets with countertops made of natural materials, such as wood, are characterized by particular aesthetic appeal. Although this is a more expensive option.

The production uses solid hardwood - oak, teak or beech. Such items will last quite a long time - more than 10 years, they have natural color effects, and can be combined with many artificial materials.

But at the same time, susceptibility to impacts remains, treatment with special protective coatings is required, and it is not recommended to use detergents in care.

Making a tabletop with your own hands

Many owners of apartments and private houses, who are fully proficient with a plane and a jigsaw, make beautiful countertops with their own hands. First of all, a project is prepared, a shape, model, material, and color scheme for surfaces are selected.

White kitchens with wooden countertops are interesting, highlighting the details of the interior. All subsequent stages of work are carried out according to the following scheme:

• Markings are made on the selected material, which is most often wood or chipboard panels. Based on a pre-prepared drawing, draw the main marking lines on the back of the workpieces using a construction pencil.
• The parts are cut out with a jigsaw. All cuts and sharp edges are carefully sanded to avoid the risk of injury in the future.
• The next stage is to level all surfaces so that the future model receives an advantageous and stylish design.
• All wooden blanks must be impregnated with special compounds: antiseptic, antipyretic, moisture-resistant and antifungal solutions.
• After drying, proceed directly to assembling the product, using self-tapping screws and metal corners as fasteners.
• If the tabletop contains two materials (for example, wood and metal), the contours of the metal edging are welded. Be sure to cover it with an anti-corrosion compound and decorate it with paint.
• It is also important when preparing iron surfaces and cooking to remove all burrs that could later cause injury.
• The dimensions of the kitchen countertop are selected carefully, taking into account recommendations and building codes. After all, an incorrectly selected height can cause pain in the back and arm muscles.

Much attention is paid to design, because the interior of a room is made up of the smallest details, each of which is important in practice. A spacious kitchen with a dark countertop or a miniature dining room with a bright countertop made of stone chips looks profitable and practical.

The shape for the product is selected depending on the area of ​​the room, the presence of other pieces of furniture and many factors. The undoubted advantages of independent work include the ability of the master to individually select the height of the working surface.

A natural stone

A stone countertop looks quite original in the kitchen. Granite products are popular. It is a dense and hygroscopic material suitable for use in the kitchen.

You can choose work surfaces made of marble, but they will be less dense and more susceptible to scratching.

In general, in terms of strength and durability, such models can compete with other analogues. True, the porous structure is associated with the natural appearance of microcracks, which will become an excellent environment for the development of microorganisms. Therefore, regular cleaning and application of a special protective coating are required.

Countertop options in different styles

The countertop is an element that helps support the chosen style direction, since it takes up a lot of space in the kitchen.

• A white glossy acrylic slab will help soften the rough loft and maintain the emphasis on space and light.
• Cabinets lined with ceramic tiles will fit perfectly into a cozy kitchen decorated in country style.
• Scandinavian style is characterized by an abundance of light colors and a love for natural materials, so wooden or granite countertops are a frequent guest here.

• Classics, which tend towards luxury, are distinguished by extremely expensive materials, which means quartz, marble and granite are ideal for decorating a workspace in the kitchen.
• In a sophisticated - and at the same time homely - Provence, countertops made of tiles or wood will come in handy.

Artificial stone and agglomerate

Artificial countertops are becoming increasingly popular. Stone chips bonded with acrylic resin are applied to a slab of foam glass or chipboard. The products are durable, moisture-resistant, and easily resist damage and abrasion. The surface will also withstand high temperatures.

When using agglomerate, natural stone in the form of crumbs is added to the liquid polymer - particles of marble, quartz or granite. This option is inferior in hygroscopicity to natural stone, but is less fragile compared to artificial stone.

Variety of options

Manufacturers offer a wide range of tops to suit every taste and budget. There are quite a lot of popular models.

Modern countertop materials in the kitchen interior are designed to be not only practical, but also beautiful elements of the decor.

Glass

The material can be laminated or hardened, colored or transparent. The fragility of glass products is deceptive - they are durable and quite strong, and do not require much effort to maintain.

An advantage is also its high decorative value; for example, you can purchase a tabletop designed in the form of a mosaic.

Kitchen table with top

The table is the heart of the whole house. It is with him that people gather for dinner every day. Of course, this piece of furniture has many other uses. Today you will find unique and designer modern tables. These tables deserve special attention because their appearance is very different from traditional models. Original, trendy and modern kitchen tables with tops give the room a completely different look. Such models are ideal for the dining room, living room and kitchen. Comfortable, durable and made from high quality materials, they will last for years to come.

Steel structures

Chipboards can be covered with steel plates. The result is countertops that are resistant to high and low temperatures, are not afraid of chemical compounds, and resist corrosion.

At the same time, a variety of designs is provided - there are models with corrugated, matte and even mirror surfaces. However, they are not very resistant to mechanical stress - they can be deformed by impact or heavy utensils. It also requires careful and regular care.

Original decor ideas

Tabletops purchased, made to order or with your own hands can be decorated in the most unusual and interesting ways:

1. Stencil painting. Today, in art stores you can find a wide variety of stencils made of PVC, cardboard, and silicone for decorating facades, walls and tabletops. Acrylic paints and clear varnish are used as decorative materials.
2. The use of PVC films, the pattern of which imitates various coatings: stone, brickwork, wood.

They also use beautiful veneer covering the countertops, which pleases the eye with a pleasant natural shade and extraordinary texture.

A very interesting model of a tabletop, which is restored by craftsmen using epoxy resin, pigment dyes and a number of additional accessories. Using a similar technique, you can decorate a tabletop on almost any theme.

Features of stylistic design

When choosing the color and texture of the product, you must take into account the kitchen design and room layout. You won’t have any problems choosing a color; for example, IKEA countertops have a wide variety.

Often two-color facades are selected or a tabletop is purchased to match the shade of one of the facades. Both budget and more expensive models can easily be adapted to the color scheme of the apron, floor or walls. For example, the choice can be made in favor of chipboard or MDF to look like wood, or purchase a slab made of natural wood.

If you purchase a tabletop with a plastic coating, then it is advisable to emphasize it with dark shades, for example, the color of dark wood. At the same time, any stains from dishes will be easily masked.

It is recommended to choose countertops made of artificial stone in which the crumb fraction is larger. This will hide possible damage.

Moreover, if acrylic stone provides more opportunities for varying the color variety and shape of the surface, then the agglomerate will make it possible to produce only a rectangular slab. And having a large number of corners is not always acceptable in the kitchen, especially if there are children in the family.

Color solutions

If you have already decided on the material for the countertop, then it’s time to choose its color. After all, the colors of kitchen countertops should not disturb the ensemble of the room and be perceived as a single whole with the kitchen.

If your kitchen cabinets are dark colors, then a light or white countertop will look good. When the kitchen is made in light colors, then a dark countertop or even black one looks nice. White or shaded surfaces also combine well with colored kitchens.

It is also important to consider the color and material of the kitchen apron. For example, an interesting idea when the apron and tabletop are made of the same color and materials, but different in texture. Also, in more classic interiors, you can play with the contrasting color scheme of the countertop and apron.

Read: Kitchen design 5 sq.m. — 95 photos of practical interior for a small kitchen

Tabletop dimensions

Not only the color of the countertop is important, but also its size. Its thickness is especially appreciated. It is recommended to choose those models that meet the 30-60 mm standard for this parameter.

More powerful samples are stronger, but their cost can also increase significantly. The weight of the product also increases, which will require strengthening the facade and cabinets to ensure fastening strength and reliability in operation.

The surface width is usually more than 600 mm and is equal to the standard depth of the cabinets. However, it is often recommended to choose wider models that exceed the width of the cabinet by 10-20 mm. This way you won't touch handles or decorative patterns.

When choosing the length, you need to take into account the size of the room. For spacious rooms, you can order larger models, but for small ones, you will have to save on size.

Combination of colors and shades

For the material itself and the care of the countertop, the color or shade is not important. But it plays a big role in kitchen design.

• Which dining table to choose for the kitchen?
• Kitchen set for your kitchen

• How to choose a bathroom for the kitchen?

Before choosing a countertop and its color, pay attention to the style and harmonious combination of colors of the kitchen.

Recommendations for color combinations:

• If the color of the furniture, especially cabinets, is dark, then it is better to choose a light countertop, and vice versa.
• If the kitchen is colored, then the countertop should be light.
• Before deciding on the color of the countertop, consider the color of the apron itself. It is desirable that they match.
• An excellent option would be an apron of the same material as the tabletop, not taking into account the drawings.

Care of the work surface

When installing a tabletop, do not forget about the importance of such an element as the baseboard for the tabletop. It reliably closes the junction of the wall with the working module, prevents food or moisture from entering the gap, and hides infrastructure elements.

But the surface itself also needs to be looked after. The substances and devices used must be as gentle as possible. Thus, abrasives should not be used on laminated or plastic surfaces; do not rub them with a hard sponge. A more suitable technique would be to simply wipe with a soft sponge and a mild detergent.

When processing wood, chemicals should be avoided. It is enough to wipe such surfaces with a cloth with water and regularly treat them with special oils.

When using models made of chipboard or MDF, you must avoid the accumulation of water on the stove, especially in the work area near the sink. Regular grinding and treatment with special polishes will prolong the life and preserve the appearance of natural and artificial stone.

When buying a new kitchen set, pay attention to choosing a countertop from the highest quality material that would suit your budget and room design. And our recommendations will help you make the right choice.

Kitchen cabinet and countertop

The kitchen is primarily a utility room. Aesthetics are an important element of a thoughtful decorating process, but functionality is just as important in determining how willing you are to use it. As a meeting place, the kitchen should be inviting, warm and spacious, but also equipped with sufficient utensils, supplies and spices. For this reason, a key element of interior design are kitchen base cabinets, which are used less frequently than countertops but are equally important in the furniture hierarchy. Equipping the cooking area with sufficient quantities guarantees ease of use. Floor cabinets with countertops and drawers provide kitchen users with the comfort and organization they need in a key room in the home.

Kitchen cabinet 60 or 80 cm

While wall-mounted products are a significant convenience for owners of small kitchens, a permanent 60 or 80 cm kitchen cabinet with a worktop and drawers is considered an obvious decorative element regardless of the size of the room. First of all, using this type of furniture is much easier. Floor-standing cabinets typically offer much greater storage capacity than wall-mounted units, meaning they can accommodate a large number of items inside even when the kitchen is run by a true cooking enthusiast. Especially in the case of a lower corner kitchen cabinet, you should make sure that the dimensions suit you before purchasing.

Kitchen cabinet with countertop and drawers

If you use a variety of tools and raw materials in the kitchen, or simply have a large family for whom you often cook, then you probably know about the troubles associated with lack of space. Well-chosen, high-quality kitchen cabinets can solve the problem of comfortable cooking forever. When setting up your kitchen, it is worth remembering the importance of any additional storage areas and shelves that make it easier and more enjoyable to use. Particularly useful in this context are standing kitchen cabinets with worktops and 80 cm wide drawers, which provide optimal separation of crockery and cutlery, helping to keep things tidy.

A cabinet with a countertop can be used as a housing for a refrigerator or other device needed in the kitchen. This will be appreciated by perfectionists who prefer uniformity in the materials used. A freestanding kitchen cabinet is the perfect place to place an elegant oven. Shelving saves space, and freestanding equipment takes up much more space that could be spent on other high-bottom kitchen cabinets.

The large number of additional spaces and compartments makes kitchen management much easier. It's worth equipping yourself with furniture that allows you to organize individual items efficiently without running the risk of unnecessary clutter.

Photos of kitchen countertops

A good choice is MDF

Manufacturing is similar to the previous example, only the base is tile, which is distinguished by its density and the absence of harmful impurities. Advantages:

1. Environmental components.
2. Rich colors with imitation of any texture.
3. Microorganisms do not multiply.
4. Budget cost.

The disadvantages are susceptibility to mechanical deterioration and sensitivity to humidity, which results in swelling of the joints.

Harmony of colors when purchasing countertops

Color is an important point for the kitchen interior; it does not affect the surface properties and functionality.

When choosing shades and patterns, you should adhere to the color of the façade parts, cabinets and furniture in general. In order for the joint design to be harmonious.

Acrylic

By mixing colored pigments and mineral chips with acrylic resins, a strong composition of any shape is obtained that stands out:

• respectable appearance;
• lack of connections;
• hygiene;
• long service life without loss of color;
• easy repair of cracks or chips.

Disadvantages - the material is subject to temperature and acid influences, and reacts to shock. Cutting on it is impossible, and installation is difficult.

Note!

• 
  Water filter for the kitchen: functions and benefits of a water filter in the kitchen. Types of filters and mechanisms, their pros and cons (photo + video)

• Kitchen in high-tech style: 135 photos and video master class on organizing space and design

• Kitchen in modern style - 160 photos of the best design options and features of the style

Combination of design and kitchen styling

Products made from fiberboard and MDF look stylistically interesting in the interior; they have a wide range of shades and textures.

When decorating in a modern style, plastic or unnatural stone, for example red, would be appropriate. Minimalism and hi-tech are beautiful in the combination of glass and steel.

The classic decor will be complemented by solid wood or natural stone. A combination of cabinet fronts made of exotic wood and a table made of natural stone.

When choosing a countertop for the kitchen, you should take into account all the requirements: the facade of the cabinets, the design of the room, and calculate the acceptable cost. But the main thing is that you need to choose exactly the tabletop that you like.

Functional tree

High-quality wood is resistant to water and has a noble appearance. Such a kitchen countertop is truly irreplaceable in the interior of a classic-style kitchen. Pros:

• pleasant appearance and texture;
• the top can be renewed by sanding;
• the price will not hit your pocket when selecting common tree species.

This fabric needs care. Impregnation is carried out, otherwise it will dry out and sag. Reduced fire resistance - marks from the dishes leaving the fire will remain forever.

Note!

• 
  U-shaped kitchen: pros and cons of the U-shaped layout. Methods of arranging furniture, dividing into working and dining areas. Photos and videos of design ideas

• Kitchen facades: TOP 180 photos and video reviews of kitchen facades. Types of frames, criteria for choosing materials and color solutions

• Short curtains for the kitchen - features of using short curtains in small and large kitchens. Advantages and disadvantages of fabric materials (photo + video)

If the joining lines are not protected, it will cause swelling and fungus.