Over the past several decades, the countertop industry has radically changed. In the 1970s, countertops were simply seen as work surfaces: a place to chop vegetables, do homework or use to get ready for the day. Today, countertops are seen as design elements that contribute to the overall aesthetic of the home. And since countertop trends and customer preferences are constantly changing, companies must work hard to stay on the cusp of innovation.
Innovations in style & engineering
This year in the countertop industry, customers are drawn to several styles: traditional, rustic and industrial.
For the traditional stone look, quartz and granite are popular options. These surfaces feature unique coloration and natural beauty. For a budget-friendly alternative to stone, laminate is a great option to consider. Today’s laminate surfaces are created with state-of-the-art engineering to replicate the seamless edge profiles of stone surfaces. For example, VT Industries offers a variety of on-trend edge profiles that create a premium stone look along with hundreds of laminate designs. This wide range of options allows customers to find the perfect look to complement their style, with colors ranging from cool marble to speckled granite.
Customers seeking a rustic style are trying out the Butcher-Block countertop look. These surfaces add a vintage feel and are great for food preparation. However, because of their porous nature, butcher blocks can be difficult to maintain. They also require resealing, are susceptible to mold and stain easily. To get the natural wood look that doesn’t require a rigid cleaning method, customers today are turning to laminate styles. For the Butcher-Block look, many people turn to the Ora edge profile with patterns ranging from smooth, bright oak to deep wood grains that add sophistication to any space, and their engineered durability is perfect for a busy lifestyle.
The industrial look has grown in popularity within the last several years. For this minimalist flair, dark granites and glossy marble surfaces that feature clean, simple lines are trendy options. To get a modern look that fits within your customer’s budget, laminate is the perfect choice. With Dimensions from VT Industries, customers can explore on-trend patterns and innovative edge profiles, like Marbella, that add contemporary style to any room.
The importance of innovation
Countertops are an integral part of the design in today’s homes. As you help customers choose new countertops, consider the traditional, rustic and industrial styles and lead them to the look that matches their vision. That way, your customers get the on-trend beauty they want with the innovation to support it.
To learn more, visit dimensions17.com.