These Will Be The Biggest Kitchen Countertop Trends In 2026

Refreshing your kitchen every few years to keep up with trends is challenging for even the savviest homegrown designer. If you are looking to remodel your kitchen soon, you probably won't be surprised to learn that interior designers are already talking about trends for 2026. Plus, we share our lives through images and videos on social media, meaning people are more kitchen design-savvy than ever. When it comes to major changes like bringing new life to your kitchen countertops, there's a growing need for them to be more than just functional. They should reflect a homeowner's personal design tastes, lifestyle requirements, and offer a way to express personal style while incorporating upcoming trends.

The kitchen remains the heart of the home, and countertops are becoming a way to blend beauty with practicality and make bold statements with timeless appeal. Quartz will continue to dominate the kitchen landscape as a top choice material for 2026, while alternative industrial materials like concrete and stainless steel will increasingly appear in future kitchens. Designers expect people to lean even more into warm, neutral tones while embracing eclectic options like mixing countertop materials in a single kitchen. Here's a closer look at what countertops styles are trending — and why both homeowners and designers are falling in love with them.

Quartz is predicted to be the top choice for kitchen countertops in 2026. It continues to impress with its durability and low maintenance. Quartz has dethroned granite and is predicted to stay at the top for the next few years. Unlike natural stones, quartz is non-porous and doesn't require sealing, so no annual maintenance or special cleaners. Its resistance to staining, chipping, and scratching makes it ideal for busy households. While some types of quartz countertops are best (or worst) for your home's resale value, the desire for the material shows no signs of slowing.

Lava stone is the unexpected gem of kitchen countertops. It's a bold, artisanal material that's gaining traction in high-end and design-forward homes. Made from volcanic rock and glazed by hand, each slab of lava stone is one-of-a-kind. The glossy, crackled finish brings a jewel-like quality to countertops, often in rich, saturated colors or earthy neutrals. But lava stone isn't just about aesthetics — it's naturally heatproof, highly durable, and scratch-resistant, making it as functional as it is artistic. Designers are especially drawn to it for statement islands or focal points in eclectic kitchens.

Concrete countertops are continuing their rise as a favorite for those seeking a raw, architectural vibe in their kitchen. Loved for being highly customizable, concrete surfaces can be made in any shape, tinted in almost any color, and finished smooth or matte. Over time, concrete develops subtle signs of aging, called patina, providing even more character. This evolving surface tells a story, giving the kitchen a lived-in, authentic appeal. For homeowners who appreciate individuality, concrete fits perfectly into industrial, modern, and even rustic design aesthetics.

Once a hallmark of commercial kitchens, stainless steel is increasingly being found in home kitchens. Known for its sanitary, non-porous surface, it's perfect for anyone seeking easy upkeep. Even when fingerprints and watermarks require a quick wipe-down, stainless steel is hard to beat. As one of the most durable kitchen countertop materials, it offers heat resistance and a sleek, industrial look. It also uniquely reflects light, helping smaller kitchens feel brighter and more open. When paired with warmer elements like reclaimed wood or bold cabinetry, stainless steel creates a striking contrast that's both contemporary and timeless.

In 2026, sharp edges are giving way to softer silhouettes, and curved countertops are set to be one of the year's most elegant design trends. Whether it's a rounded island, waterfall edge, or flowing peninsula, these organic shapes encourage better movement and safer navigation, something that's especially valuable in family homes and open-concept spaces. Beyond functionality, curved designs add a sculptural, furniture-like quality to kitchens, elevating the space from utilitarian to artful. Interior designers are embracing curves not just as a trend, but as a way to add warmth and sophistication into modern interiors.

Why choose just one countertop material when you can have two or even three? Kitchen designs that mix countertop materials are revolutionary, allowing homeowners to personalize areas of the kitchen based on functionality and aesthetics. Can't you just picture a butcher block built-in paired with a sleek quartz island, or a marble-topped baking station next to a stainless steel cooking area? This approach not only improves workflow but also introduces interesting layers, textures, and contrasts. Designers love the versatility, while homeowners appreciate the opportunity to craft a kitchen that's unique to their lifestyle.

There's a reason why materials like marble and soapstone never go out of style. In 2026, classic stone countertops are set to experience a renaissance as homeowners seek authenticity and timeless elegance. Marble, with its soft veining and luminous surface, adds an air of refinement to any kitchen. Soapstone, with its smooth, matte finish and deep hues, offers understated beauty. Both stones age gracefully, developing patinas that show the years beautifully. Whether incorporated into traditional or modern kitchens, these natural materials bring a sense of heritage and enduring charm.

The shift from cool grays to warm neutrals reflects a broader trend toward cozy, welcoming interiors. In 2026, tones like sand, taupe, mushroom, and beige are predicted to take center stage in kitchen palettes. These hues serve as a calming backdrop, allowing natural textures and materials like wood, stone, and brass to shine. Designers are leaning into these earth-inspired tones to soften designs and add depth to minimalism. The result is a kitchen that feels grounded, harmonious, and inviting — exactly what today's homeowners are looking for.