Black Countertops Remain Trendy: Here's How Designers are Employing Them for 2026-Adapted Kitchens
In the world of kitchen design, black countertops have long been a popular choice, but recent trends have seen a shift in the way they are styled and used.
Urvashi Agarwal, who joined the family business in 2009, has been focusing on end users and designers, and she believes that black countertops, when styled correctly, can still bring a sense of drama and refinement to any kitchen.
When it comes to choosing the right material for black countertops, experts recommend natural stones such as granite or quartzite. These materials offer durability, natural heat resistance, and are available in deep black shades. Sintered stones like Dekton Sirius or Dekton Laurent are also excellent options, offering deep, consistent color and extreme resistance to heat, scratching, and staining.
Veined black marble adds movement and drama, especially when complemented by warm-toned cabinetry, aged brass accents, and tactile finishes. For a more nuanced, tactile quality, a leathered countertop or honed black stone can be a great choice. These options allow the richness of the black to enhance the space without overwhelming it.
In terms of design, decorating with neutrals allows for more creative opportunities with black countertops. Pairing black worktops with textural elements like natural timber, stone, or oxidised metal brings a softer, more organic balance. Darker, moody kitchen designs with black counters can be achieved by pairing them with deep greens or navy.
The finish of black countertops plays a crucial role in how they perform in a space. High-gloss finishes can create harsh reflections and make a room feel more enclosed. The trend now is to embrace softer, matte looks for black countertops instead of high-gloss finishes.
Layering materials and introducing warmth can prevent a black countertop space from feeling too stark or enclosed. Black countertops can be styled with lighter cabinetry, warm metallics, and natural light to create a balanced design.
For those looking for a wider selection of stones to view, Stone World, founded in 1990, now stocks a variety of stones including onyx, travertine, quartzite, and slate.
In conclusion, black countertops remain a timeless and impactful choice in kitchen design, offering a sleek and modern look suitable for various design styles. With the right materials, finishes, and design choices, black countertops can bring a sense of drama and refinement to any kitchen while also providing durability and resistance to heat, scratching, and staining.
