Granite Countertops And Other Countertop Choices
Durable Granite Tops Remain Popular Choice
By Mary Beth Breckenridge
Beacon Journal staff writer
There's a counter evolution going on.
 Countertops are becoming a kitchen focal point, a
decorative punch that doubles as a functional work surface. And while granite remains the surface of desire for many homeowners, other materials such as recycled
glass, quartzite and even wood are topping the counters of the trendiest kitchens.
Countertops are ''where a lot of the design is happening
today. Ten years ago it was all about the cabinets,'' said Lyn Peterson, a Scarsdale, N.Y., interior designer who raises style aspirations with her new book, Real Life Kitchens.
This is where function and form collide. Countertops not only have to look good, but they also
have to stand up to all manner of abuse and everyday wear.
For that reason, it's important to balance functionality, durability and looks when you're
choosing a countertop material, said Bob Kieft, one of the partners in Kitchen Design Group in
Bath Township. And don't forget cost: That to-die-for rare granite just might put your kitchen renovation budget out of reach, whereas a more common type will keep costs in check.
Then there's what Peterson calls the ''it'' factor, the quality that draws you to a particular
material. Granite Countertops have the greatest visual impact of all kitchen surfaces, so you
should choose a material that pleases your senses, Peterson said in an e-mail interview. ''Without beauty, there is no design and certainly no 'joy in cooking,''' she said.
Here's a look at some of the choices available:
Plastic laminate countertops
Granite countertops
Solid surface countertops
Quartz countertops
Wood countertops
Concrete countertops
Some other countertop choices
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