Black or White Countertops - Which is Better?
The decision between white or black countertops for a new or renovated kitchen can cause a bit of a dilemma.
02/12/2021
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There will always be purists that will state that only white countertops should be installed in a kitchen, but with the increasing popularity of black countertops, there are pros and cons for both. So, which would you prefer - white or black countertops? We look at some countertop options that will help you to make the right decision for your kitchen.
Pros and Cons of Black Countertops
Whether Formica, granite, caesarstone or composite, black countertops have been enjoying the limelight for many years. There are many reasons for their growing popularity, not least of which is the fact that they do not easily show stains. Another reason for their increasing attention is the fact that they are eye-catching, especially in a kitchen in white or light colours.
In a modern or contemporary kitchen, black countertops give the room an edgy vibe that brings out the best in wood finishes.
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Black countertops look stunning in any style of kitchen, and it all depends on the material you select for your countertop. Raven slate Formica, for example, would look gorgeous in a rustic or country kitchen while black granite or composite material would work perfectly well in a modern or contemporary style kitchen.
Both black and white countertops can mix with all other colours and provide dramatic contrast.
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With the current trend for 2-tone kitchens with darker cupboards at floor level and lighter cupboards on walls, a black countertop balances the look between the two.
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If you are thinking of a kitchen re-design in a Shaker style, matt black countertops provide the perfect companion for white cupboards with a matt or low-gloss finish.
Black and white are a classic colour combination no matter where it is used. In an all-white kitchen, black countertops provide a dramatic colour contrast.
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Black countertops in any material offer a bold statement in both a casual or luxurious home. In my kitchen, I have a matt countertop to complement the matt finish on the lower and upper cupboards, but I will be honest and say that they do tend to show greasy fingerprints. Previously, I had black speckled countertops which was a bad idea as I was constantly wiping them down thinking they were dirty.
In this all-grey kitchen, black countertops and white crockery provide the perfect juxtaposition and breathe life into the kitchen.
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For drama, think high-gloss composite, granite or marble countertops.
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Combine black countertops with metallic materials such as brass and copper if the kitchen needs some warmth to prevent it from feeling sterile or cold. The black countertop provides the perfect backdrop for any metallic finish and is eye-catching when paired with stainless steel or chrome accessories.
Many people tend to avoid black countertops in the belief that they show crumbs and dust, but the fact is that both white and black countertops show this, and to be honest, if you can see dust and crumbs on a countertop it needs to be cleaned.
Black is the perfect colour for countertops in an industrial, steampunk or contemporary kitchen.
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Pros and Cons of White Countertops
Timeless for a lot of reasons, white countertops - just as black countertops - go with almost any style or design of kitchen. You can use white countertops in conjunction with white kitchen cupboards or any colour of cupboards for that matter. White is a popular colour for a kitchen countertop not only because it is considered cleaner looking, but also because it helps to lighten up a dark kitchen and gives the visual illusion of a larger space.
White is a colour that we associate with innocence and purity, but it also represents a feeling of happiness. Imagine an all-white kitchen with stainless steel or copper accessories or bring in pops of bold colour with trendy appliances.
White countertops can also be used for impact, especially when paired with dark kitchen cupboards.
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White countertops have the ability to lighten up a dark kitchen, even when used in combination with dark coloured cupboards and they even work well with light coloured cupboards but do not offer the same visual impact. If you want a kitchen that is light and bright then choose white countertops. If you don't want to constantly clean up spills and spots, then go for black or dark countertops.
You achieve far less impact when installing white countertops in a light coloured kitchen.
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In a kitchen with light or dark wood cabinetry, a black countertop will ground the kitchen cupboards while a white countertop seems to float and almost disappear into the surrounding cabinetry. Any white countertop material would look good in a kitchen, but some are more durable than others. White granite, caesarstone or composite will last for many years. White Formica or laminate countertop is an affordable option for anyone undertaking a kitchen facelift or renovation on a budget, plus, you can install a pure white countertop or one that has veins or spatters.
When you have white Formica or laminate countertops, DO use heat pads for hot pots and pans to avoid damaging the surface.
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In a kitchen that does not receive a lot of natural light and is on the small side, white countertops will visually open the space and make it feel larger than it is. The kitchen will also feel airy, as light reflects around the room. Boost up the low light with LED lighting around the perimeter of the kitchen and bright LED lighting on the ceiling.
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