By Mary Beth Breckenridge Beacon Journal staff writer Published on Saturday, Dec 08, 2007
There's a counter evolution going on.
Countertops are becoming a kitchen focal point, a decorative punch that doubles as a functional work surface. And while granite remains the surface of desire for many homeowners, other materials such as recycled glass, quartzite and even wood are topping the counters of the trendiest kitchens.
Countertops are ''where a lot of the design is happening today. Ten years ago it was all about the cabinets,'' said Lyn Peterson, a Scarsdale, N.Y., interior designer who raises style aspirations with her new book, Real Life Kitchens.
This is where function and form collide. Countertops not only have to look good, but they also have to stand up to all manner of abuse and everyday wear.
For that reason, it's important to balance functionality, durability and looks when you're choosing a countertop material, said Bob Kieft, one of the partners in Kitchen Design Group in Bath Township. And don't forget cost: That to-die-for rare granite just might put your kitchen renovation budget out of reach, whereas a more common type will keep costs in check.
Then there's what Peterson calls the ''it'' factor, the quality that draws you to a particular material. Granite Countertops have the greatest visual impact of all kitchen surfaces, so you should choose a material that pleases your senses, Peterson said in an e-mail interview. ''Without beauty, there is no design and certainly no 'joy in cooking,''' she said.
Countertops are becoming a kitchen focal point, a decorative punch that doubles as a functional work surface. And while granite remains the surface of desire for many homeowners, other materials such as recycled glass, quartzite and even wood are topping the counters of the trendiest kitchens. 
