It's Official – This Gorgeous Countertop Trend Will Be Taking Over Kitchens In 2026

Designing a new kitchen is one of the most exciting projects you can embark on. One of the key elements of any kitchen design is the countertop. While there are lots of different materials to choose from (which all have their own pros and cons), it's about choosing which countertop is going to best suit you and your family. Like every aspect of interior design, there are trends that come and go each season, but there is one unique countertop trend that we're going to be seeing everywhere in 2026: lava stone countertops.

If you haven't heard of lava stone before, you may be wondering what it is. Lava Stone is a natural volcanic rock that is formed into slabs to make countertops, finished with an enamel glaze, and fired at an extremely high temperature. It has lots of advantages as a kitchen worktop, but there are a few things you should consider first before investing. Does the cost of lava stone fit into your budget? Is it going to be a durable option for you? And are you still going to like it in the distant future despite it being a current hot trend?

Lava stone is a beautiful and durable material that is set to be one of the biggest countertop trends in 2026 and we can definitely see why. It ticks a lot of boxes, including the fact that it's highly heat resistant, it's more durable than most other countertop materials, and it has a unique appearance that is totally customizable, if your budget allows. As trends are moving away from the "all-white" kitchen, it's a great way to incorporate a fun splash of color. Also, being 'eco-friendly' has become a trend in itself and lava stone is without a doubt a sustainable option. Lava stone is naturally occurring and designed to last for years to come, which makes it more environmentally conscious. 

However, there is one major thing that you'll need to consider before incorporating lava stone into your kitchen design for 2026, and that's the cost implications. It is one of the more expensive types of countertops, priced up to $3,000 per square foot and glazed, which puts in on par with real marble. But unlike finicky marble, lava stone is incredibly difficult to stain or damage. So although it is expensive, if this countertop trend is one that you're going to love for years to come (and you don't anticipate getting bored of it), then it could be a worthwhile investment.