How to Choose the Right Countertop for Your Kitchen or Bathroom
Countertops: one of the first things we notice when we walk into a kitchen or bathroom — for better or worse, they define a space.
You know what I’m talking about. Maybe you’ve walked into a friend’s new house and their kitchen left you awestruck. Read between the lines here — you were jealous of their perfect space (it’s fine, we’ve all been there). Then you stop by your brother-in-law’s and think, “This bathroom is okay... but something about it feels a little blah.” Can’t quite put your finger on it? It might be the countertops.
There are so many materials to choose from — where do you even start?
Take a breath. Let’s walk through a few simple considerations and break down the most common countertop materials we use here at Revival.
So… Which Countertop Is Right for You?
Start by asking these 5 questions:
1. Is this going in your kitchen or bathroom?
2. How do you use your kitchen?
Home Chef Feeding A Crew
Hostess With The Mostest
Occasional Cook Who Dabbles
My Kitchen’s For Show (And Takeout)
3. How much wear and tear will your space see?
4. What kind of maintenance are you comfortable with?
5. Do you have photos of countertops you love?
We’re already starting to get a better picture of what might work best for your space.
The 3 Most Popular Countertop Materials We Work With:
1. Quartz: A Fan Favorite
Quartz is engineered stone, and it’s wildly popular for a reason.
Why homeowners love it:
· Durable and low-maintenance
· Doesn’t require sealing
· Wide range of colors and patterns — including marble lookalikes
Keep in mind:
· Not heat-proof (trivets are your best friend)
· Can be more expensive than some natural stones
Best for anyone who wants a beautiful, long-lasting surface without the maintenance.
2. Quartzite: Natural Beauty + Strength
Quartzite is often confused with quartz — but it’s a completely natural stone, and it’s seriously tough.
Why homeowners love it:
· Each slab is one-of-a-kind
· Extremely hard and scratch-resistant
· Holds up to heat — great for serious cooks
Keep in mind:
· Needs to be sealed annually to protect against stains
Ideal if you love the natural movement of stone and need something durable.
3. Marble: Timeless and Elegant
Marble is iconic — and it brings an undeniable elegance to a space.
Why homeowners love it:
· Classic, high-end look
· Each slab has unique veining and character
· Perfect for islands, baking stations, or bathrooms
Keep in mind:
· Softer and more porous than other options
· Susceptible to etching and staining
· Requires regular sealing and gentle cleaners
Perfect if you appreciate patina and want a countertop that ages gracefully.
Other Countertop Materials Worth Exploring
While quartz, quartzite, and marble are our most common installs, there are plenty of other materials to consider depending on your needs and style:
Granite
Still a go-to for many homeowners. It’s incredibly tough, heat-resistant, and more budget-friendly. Some patterns can feel busy, but for the right project, it’s a solid and cost-effective choice
Butcher Block
Warm, natural, and affordable — great for secondary areas like islands or pantries. It does require oiling and isn’t ideal for sink zones, but it adds a ton of charm.
Concrete
Sleek, industrial, and completely custom. Concrete can develop hairline cracks and needs sealing, but if you want a bold look, this delivers.
Soapstone
Velvety, heat-resistant, and darkens beautifully over time. Low-maintenance compared to marble, and very forgiving when it comes to stains.
Final Thought
There’s no universal “best” countertop — just the one that’s right for your home, lifestyle, and aesthetic.
Whether you’re dreaming of a waterfall quartz island, veined natural stone, or a mix of materials, we’re here to help guide you through the options and find the right fit.
📩 Thinking about updating your kitchen or bath? Fill out our contact form — we’d love to help.