The Retro Countertop Style That's Making Your Kitchen Look Outdated

If your kitchen looks a bit off, chances are it has something to do with your countertops. Next to cabinets, your countertops are one of the main stars of your kitchen setup, so how they look can easily make or break the whole room's design. As kitchen trends come and go, it's easy for a countertop style that was once all the rage to now seem a bit out of place in your home. Through the lens of current interior design trends, the once-favored, officially outdated kitchen countertop style is that of the speckled countertop.

While speckled patterns reigned supreme throughout the '90s and 2000s, often in the form of brown or beige speckled granite, the style now tends to come off as too busy. It's known for its dense mix of varied specks, which can quickly become heavy on the eye and overwhelm a space. As kitchen trends have moved towards sleeker, more simplistic designs, the loud, cluttered look of speckled patterns has started losing its place. While it's still a go-to for those who want to nail a retro kitchen aesthetic, this dated countertop trend is getting left behind in modern kitchens in favor of more refined, open patterns.

While you shouldn't rely only on trends if you're hoping for a timeless kitchen look, researching what's currently in style can help you get some inspiration for updating your space. Luckily, current trends seem to be favoring looks that are subtle and versatile enough to feel fresh in your kitchen for years to come. As Kerrie Kelly, CEO and creative director of Kerrie Kelly Studio, explained to Tasting Table, modern kitchen design gives way to more subdued patterns over random specks. Many homeowners are turning to open, flowy patterns that pack a visual punch without overpowering the whole space. Natural stone countertops can often achieve this look.

If your heart is still set on a speckled countertop, or you've already got one and don't want to replace it just yet, Kelly advises choosing a subtler design in more neutral, complementary colors to modernize the look. As she explains, this spin on the dated granite countertop style does a better job of mimicking natural stone, introducing organic texture into your kitchen without the chaos of a busy pattern. For the best results, pair your speckled countertop with simple, neutral elements throughout your kitchen design — think unassuming backsplashes, light cabinet colors, and clean, contemporary cabinet styles. With their simplicity and inherently modern vibes, these elements can help offset the outdated feel of a speckled countertop cramping your kitchen's aesthetic.