Kitchen countertops should be sturdy and heat-resistant, resistant to moisture and stains, and easy to clean. So far, so obvious. But that’s not all you should look for in a new kitchen countertop. In most kitchens, the countertop is still located between the sink and the hob. And there is usually not much space. For this purpose, the AMK (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Die Moderne Küche e.V.) recommends a width of about 90 cm between the hob and the sink as well as a worktop depth of at least 60 cm, so that all kitchen work can be done smoothly. Of course, more is always possible, but ideally it should not be less, especially since sufficient additional storage space should always be planned; for example, for frequently used cups and glasses or for favorite herbs, spices and oils that are used daily.
DESIGN OR FUNCTION?
Often, people only pay attention to the design at first and neglect the aspects of daily use and functionality. In addition to functionality, the design of the worktop is crucial for the overall impression of the kitchen. However, one inevitably imagines the worktop in its new condition without thinking about what it might look like after five to ten years. Fortunately, there are plenty of options that look good, are durable, and can handle all requirements. Nevertheless, you should always weigh up between design, functionality and price. Which materials are best suited and how to care for the countertop – you can read our tips on how to do this here.
CERAMICS
Ceramic countertops are more robust than those made of granite and are particularly scratch-resistant and heat-resistant. Ceramics are insensitive to acids and resistant to stains, since the material practically does not absorb liquids due to its closed surface. For this reason, the material is extremely hygienic. Ceramics can be produced in very thin plates and therefore appear very light. In addition, the material is available in many colour variations and patterns and is therefore compatible with many kitchen furnishings. Protection and care: Ceramics are particularly easy to care for and can be cleaned with all common means. Since the material is resistant to chemicals, acidic cleaning agents can also be used for cleaning.
NATURAL STONE
When it comes to natural stone countertops, you can choose between granite, marble and slate – stones that look classy and offer an individual surface pattern as well as a wide range of colors. For example, quartzite from Persia, which is also particularly resistant due to its high quartz content. Equally robust: granite. It can withstand temperatures of up to 600 degrees and is particularly resistant to stains and scratches. In addition, the smooth surface of the stone is very easy to clean. Attention red wine! Marble is softer as a stone, making it more susceptible to scratches and other damage, and also more sensitive to stains because it absorbs liquid more easily and is also more sensitive to acids than granite. Protection and care: All natural stones are sensitive to acids and therefore quickly get stains from fruit, for example. Therefore, acid-free cleaners should also be used to clean the surface – special cleaning agents for natural stones are best.
GLASS
A reflective glass surface in the kitchen with its translucent look fits in with a modern furnishing style. Glass is very heat-resistant, but the material is susceptible to scratches. Water stains and grease are quickly visible on the translucent surface, which is why a glass countertop requires a lot of maintenance. Protection and care: Glass worktops can be cleaned with mild detergents, an (eraser) sponge or rag and household glass cleaners. Chemicals or highly corrosive materials should be removed immediately with plenty of water, as they can attack the glass surface.
CONCRETE
A concrete countertop brings loft charm to the kitchen with its rough surface and is also scratch-resistant. However, the material is very heavy and therefore only suitable for stable substructures. Protection and care: In the case of concrete countertops, it makes sense to sand and polish the surface, as this closes the pores of the material and makes it easier to clean the panel. In addition, you protect the material by sealing it with oil or natural wax, but you have to refresh this treatment more often.
TERRAZZO
What’s harder to come by: the top-secret recipe for your mother-in-law’s cheesecake, George Clooney’s phone number, or the address of a supplier of very specific terrazzo countertops you’ve spotted on Instagram? We fear the latter. After all, the names of excellent suppliers of terrazzo worktops and table tops are only passed on by architects and designers under the radar. But of course we like to share, so here are our favorites for the coveted combination of colored marble, natural stone fragments and cement. The craftsmen behind Mineral Art Concept are marble experts, material specialists and colour professionals who specialise in terrazzo. They are exactly the right people to use to pour the material directly into custom-made countertops on site, but they also offer plates that are easier to handle. So, all you have to do is choose the pattern of your dreams. Discreet inclusions and timeless colours: Pierre de Plan offers a fantastic alternative to terrazzo. The speckled quartz top, called “Little Terrazzo”, consists of a concrete-like base with black and transparent granules and is ideal if you bet on vintage but still want it simple. Protection and care: For even more intensive cleaning and care of terrazzo and cast stone, we recommend a gentle gemstone soap.
STAINLESS STEEL
What used to be at home mainly in professional kitchens is now slowly finding its way into fitted kitchens: stainless steel. And for good reason. A stainless steel worktop is considered to be particularly hygienic. So it’s no wonder that stainless steel worktops are also being found more and more often in kitchen planning. Stainless steel looks particularly high-quality if both the worktop and the sink are made of stainless steel. The sink area and work surface then appear to be made of one piece. Protection and care: On a stainless steel countertop, however, fingerprints or bold marks appear very quickly. Over time, unsightly scratches can develop. When using sharp knives, it is therefore advisable to place a cutting board underneath. Stains can be removed with a damp cloth and, if necessary, some household cleaner.
SOLID
Wood brings naturalness to the kitchen, warms visually and creates a homely atmosphere. However, even hard types of wood are not too robust, heavy pots can leave dents, kitchen knives and other sharp-edged objects cuts. Bacteria can collect in the cracks that have formed. Therefore: Never cut directly on the countertop. Wood is only partially heat-resistant, hot pots quickly leave discoloration or even burn marks. Also, the material is susceptible to stains and swells quickly when moisture penetrates. You can protect yourself against this by sealing all joints well – especially those around the sink and hob. Protection and care: To make the natural material more durable, you can either impregnate it with oil or seal it with a special varnish.
CORIAN
Corian is an artificial stone that consists mainly of the mineral aluminum hydroxide and acrylic resin and is characterized by a silky surface. The material is poured into mold and can thus be used in a very variable way – for example, in the form of a worktop that merges seamlessly into the sink. Corian is harder than wood, but kitchen boards should always be used for cutting even on Corian worktops, otherwise scratches will appear on the surface. Also, Corian is only resistant to heat for a short time, hot pots and pans must not be placed on the countertop. Protection and care: Corian is very easy to care for. To keep the surface beautiful for a long time, remove liquids and grease with a damp cloth and with a mild detergent and water.
FENIX
Due to the low light reflection, the surface is extremely matte, has a pleasantly soft feel and offers very good protection against fingerprints and dirt of all kinds. Even with creamed fingers, prints are almost invisible. In addition, Fenix is antistatic, antibacterial, water-repellent and mold-resistant. According to a study, food can be safely processed on it. And the new material is also very durable, resistant and easy to clean. However, Fenix also has a weakness: you should be careful with hot pots and pans and always use a coaster. Protection and care: Fenix can be cleaned with standard household cleaners and also withstands acids well. The material can be used for worktops, kitchen splashbacks, kitchen fronts and sideboards.
LINOLEUM
As a squeaky floor covering in the gym, linoleum is an integral part of many childhood memories and has long since proven its robustness. But as a countertop in the kitchen? Unconditional! The natural product is more than just elastic and, thanks to its benefits, collects more points than some of us used to do in physical education class. Linoleum, thanks to its natural components, brings with it a unique combination of properties that are in great demand in the kitchen. It is resistant to oils and greases, largely insensitive to heat, flame retardant, antibacterial, hygienic, easy to clean. In short: The material is made for the tough everyday kitchen life. Protection and care: Work surfaces made of linoleum are relatively easy to maintain and are easy to clean with a little washing-up liquid and a sponge in daily use.
EDITOR’S TIP:
The right material for every kitchen. Thanks to modern manufacturing processes, there are hardly any limits when it comes to shape, colour and design. Here you can give free rein to your creativity. When choosing a countertop, however, you should not only be guided by the appearance – and of course your budget. Talk to a kitchen planner, get advice from expert people in one of the Poggenpohl Studios. www.poggenpohl.com/de/storelocator
