Beyond the trend: natural stone countertops remain timeless
While tiled bathroom sinks have surged in popularity, the enduring appeal of natural stone countertops persists. From sophisticated soapstone to durable granite and versatile quartz, homeowners are seeking surfaces that blend aesthetics with lasting value.
The best countertop materials for your bathroom
The powder room featured in Cary Ray Interiors boasts a custom soapstone countertop and sink – a choice reflecting a move away from fleeting trends and toward timeless elegance. But the pursuit of a beautiful bathroom countertop goes far beyond mere visual appeal. Practicality, budget, and longevity are paramount considerations.
Lindsey Black of Lindsey Black Interiors in Memphis, Tennessee, highlights the classic appeal of marble. “You can never go wrong with it,” she says, acknowledging its ability to both make a bold statement or provide a subtle backdrop. However, she cautions about its susceptibility to staining and etching, urging regular resealing to maintain its pristine look. Marble’s inherent versatility allows it to dictate the mood of a bathroom, depending on color and veining.
Quartzite, a stone resembling marble, offers increased durability. Momoko Wong of Momo Wong Design in Denver explains, “It’s an incredibly dense stone, so it holds up better than more porous alternatives.” While stunningly beautiful, especially in pure white varieties fetching up to $10,000 per slab, quartzite sits at a higher price point.
Granite remains a popular choice due to its affordability and ease of cleaning. Wong points out its robustness, noting that it’s less prone to etching and staining than marble. Unique granite slabs can truly elevate a bathroom's design, offering a focal point.
Quartz, lauded for its low maintenance and resistance to staining and etching, often serves as a subtle accent rather than the star of the show, according to Black. However, a growing trend favors quartz that mimics the look of natural stone.
Concrete presents a more industrial or polished aesthetic, offering customization and durability. Black advises careful consideration of weight when designing vanities and supports, and emphasizes the need for sealing to prevent staining. She finds it particularly well-suited for pool bathrooms due to its unique feel and resilience in damp environments.
Designers Lissette Fernandez and Chelsea Murawski of Together Home champion soapstone, describing it as the “little black dress” of bathroom countertops. Its range of gray to near-black hues allows for adaptability across different bathroom styles. “We love contrasting the earthy, graphic element of the soapstone with polished nickel hardware,” Fernandez says. While remarkably durable, annual resealing is necessary.
The choice hinges on a balance between aesthetics and practicality. A countertop is not just a surface; it’s an investment in the enduring character of a Home. And in a market saturated with fleeting trends, the timeless quality of natural stone continues to resonate.