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Wood Countertops, Concrete Countertops
Wood Countertops
 Wood is emerging as a popular countertop choice in upscale
kitchens, Kieft said. But think beyond maple butcher block. Many of the woods being used today are exotic species such as wenge,
a dark brown wood with darker veining, and zebra wood, with its dramatic contrasting stripes.
Wood is warm both in appearance and to the touch, and it's
quieter than other surfaces. You won't hear a ringing sound when you set a glass on wood, Kieft noted.
Wood can be used for working surfaces, but expect it to wear, he said. Peterson raised concern over bacteria and said she wouldn't use it for a food
-preparation surface.
Many people choose wood instead for accent countertops, such as surfaces used primarily
for eating or display. One good thing: It can be sanded and renewed time and again, Kieft said.
Nairn considers a wood countertop ''an heirloom piece'' that takes on a patina from use
and age. Depending on the type and thickness of the wood, its cost can exceed granite, she and Kieft said. more wood countertop info
Concrete Countertops
Concrete countertops are stylized and artsy, a sort of industrial-chic accent for an
upscale kitchen.
Its appeal is largely in its imperfection. With its pronounced seams and tendency to
develop fine cracks over time, it is to polished granite what a well-worn bomber jacket is to a cashmere topcoat.
What's fun about concrete is its range of vibrant colors and its possibilities for creativity.
Kitchen Design Group, for example, displays a counter with a subtly textured, leatherlike surface and a single leaf imprinted in the concrete.
Concrete has some drawbacks, however: It's prone to scratching, it can break, it can't
hold hot things and it's pricey — as much as 30 percent higher than some granites, Kieft said, although Nairn said the prices are roughly equal.
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