The Retro Countertop Trend You'll Be Seeing More Of In 2026

Considering the number of retro designs that have made a comeback in 2025, it's not a surprise that we're seeing more and more people embracing vintage elements in their kitchens. And as we look ahead to 2026, there's one particular style poised for a major return to the spotlight — terrazzo chip kitchen countertops. Originally popular in the 1920s, terrazzo had another big moment in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming a staple of mid-century modern design. Now, with this aesthetic once again reigning supreme, the unique material is set to be one of the biggest kitchen countertop trends in 2026. 

Known for its colorful, spotty appearance, terrazzo is created by mixing chipped materials like marble, quartz, granite, or glass with cement or epoxy. It typically has a smooth finish, yet still brings incredible texture and depth to a space thanks to its blend of natural fragments. One of the reasons terrazzo is making its way back into today's homes is that people are gravitating more towards natural, organic-feeling materials, which terrazzo definitely has elements of. And with conscious design becoming more of a priority for homeowners these days, terrazzo also stands out as an environmentally friendly choice, since many of its chips come from recycled materials. Beyond that, there are plenty of practical benefits to choosing terrazzo for your kitchen countertops. For one, it is incredibly durable and long-lasting. It's also far less prone to staining than marble, and is heat resistant — so you don't have to worry about placing your hot pots and pans directly on the surface.

The great thing about terrazzo chip countertops is the abundance of color variations that are available. But with so many options, you might be wondering how to style them in your kitchen in a way that feels modern. One of the easiest ways to give terrazzo chip a contemporary look is by extending the material to your kitchen backsplash, creating a continuous, cohesive surface. Many homeowners are also tying the chip colors into the rest of their kitchen palette. For example, if your terrazzo features green chips, consider painting your cabinets a coordinating shade of green. The same goes for terrazzo featuring blue chips, red chips, etc. 

Another popular styling approach is pairing terrazzo countertops with wood-toned cabinetry. The warmth of natural wood complements the earthy colors often found in terrazzo. While traditional terrazzo might often be associated as having a white or neutral base, paired with a flurry of colorful chips, these days people are opting for a more defined base color — such as green or dusty pink. For a sleek, ultra-modern look, you could also consider a monochromatic terrazzo, where the entire surface is made up of different shades of the same color. If you love the look of terrazzo but aren't ready for a full kitchen renovation, you can still bring the trend in through decorative accessories — like terrazzo-patterned dishes, cutting boards, or vases.