Goodbye Bulky Countertops: The Minimalist Trend Coming To Kitchens In 2026

Fashion and design trends have a life cycle, influenced a lot these days by social media. But over the past few centuries, countertop design has evolved more through significant engineering advancements than anything else. The bulky countertop trend has dominated kitchen design since the early 1900s, but it's getting squeezed out and replaced with modern countertop materials that can be made much thinner and still provide the same structural integrity. According to designers, we can continue to see more minimalist countertops in 2026, paired with modern large-scale backsplashes made of warm, natural materials like stone, metal, or concrete.

These days, quartz countertops are commonly available in thicknesses of 1, 2, or 3 centimeters, with the thinner materials offering several advantages. Designers are using ultra-thin slabs to create matchy-matchy, all-for-one countertops or half-backsplashes that rise stylishly up the wall. Designer Kassin Adelman, founder and CEO at IDF Studio, told Homes & Gardens, "Mixing clean, solid-color, thin-line counters with a large-scale, organic kitchen backsplash will be a big trend."

Organic backsplashes, made with materials like marble, concrete, or metals, can be used to create warmth and charm in a minimalist space. They add visual interest without overwhelming the minimalist countertop design. By choosing the right countertop material and adding a few personal pieces, you can make the space feel cozy and inviting while maintaining that classy look.

Design trends mature on social media, and you'll find this minimalist countertop and large-scale backsplash combo being used on renovations showcased on platforms like TikTok and Facebook. Homeowners and designers share everything from 1-centimeter stainless steel countertops to marble kitchen walls. You can use these ideas if you're looking for ways to turn your crowded kitchen into a minimalist space, since the countertops and backsplash are a good place to start. 

There are several advantages of using ultra-thin natural stone countertops in your kitchen design. For one, engineered stone and quartzite countertops that are less than half an inch of solid material are much easier to install than those that are two to three times as thick, since they don't weigh nearly as much. This also puts expensive materials like marble within reach of a wider range of homeowners. The lightweight design makes them a good option for backsplashes as well as countertops. 

The minimalist countertop trend that features large-scale backsplashes offers other benefits, such as providing a grout-free appearance that's easier to clean and maintain. Solid backsplashes are also more elegant and less visually distracting, something that's especially helpful if you're highlighting considerable amounts of veining in the marble.