Kitchen buying guides

Kitchen Worktops Buying Guide

There are many factors to consider when buying a new counter, from the colour and material to the finish and cost. Read on to discover the features and benefits of each option to understand which one best suits your space. Or get started straight away, by exploring counters in our collection.

Explore kitchen worktops

What are the different types of counters?

Bespoke acrylic

Smooth and warm to the touch, acrylic counters are an inviting option for any home. Once installed, these made-to-measure panels will create discreet join lines for a premium look. These surfaces are also highly resistant to staining, mould, bacteria, and mildew, ensuring they will stand the test of time.

View bespoke acrylic worktops

Bespoke quartz

Designed to the exact requirements of a layout, bespoke quartz surfaces are made from solid stone in a custom size, colour, and profile for complete personalisation. This means homeowners can easily create a surface that is one of a kind, offering a premium aesthetic that is built to last.

See bespoke quartz worktops

Quartz

These work spaces are manufactured from manmade resin and natural minerals for a solid material that is extremely durable and low maintenance. The shiny, polished finish gives a luxe look – great for making a design statement. It also offers a more consistent pattern compared to granite.

Discover quartz worktops

Solid wood

Adding warmth, these counters are made from real timber for a natural feature that will bring organic character to a home. The woodgrain pattern can be customised with stains and refreshed with sanding over time. They also need regular oiling to keep them looking their best.

Find solid wood worktops

Laminate

These work areas are constructed of chipboard that is wrapped in laminate to recreate the look and feel of naturally occurring materials in a low-cost and easy-clean alternative. There are many options available – such as timber, marble, stone and concrete effects – to suit different schemes and emerging trends.

See laminate worktops

Compact laminate

Made from laminate, this material has a solid core that is less susceptible to water ingress, making it a great option for a long-lasting washing area. It has an ultra-thin edge, for a slimline look. Available in a variety of stone effects, these counters are fitted without edging strips, saving time on fitting.

Explore compact laminate worktops

What are the different colours?

White

Keep your space bright by opting for white counters. As well as expanding a neutral scheme, this shade reflects light around a room and can make it appear more open – great for compact or dark areas.

View white worktops

Black

Create a dramatic design by choosing black counters that bring bold tones to a room. The dark shade will span trends and helps to minimise marks and stains – making it easy to maintain.

Find black worktops

Grey

A popular colour within home interiors, versatile grey can complement a pastel palette or soften bolder hues. With grained, matt and gloss textures available, this shade offers plenty of options for a custom look.

Discover grey worktops

Oak

Adding natural accents to a space, oak counters can be tailored to suit many interiors and are a safe bet when designing a cooking area. Oak also offers several timber effects from ash to walnut.

See oak worktops

What are the different types of finish?

Gloss

This high-shine and polished finish brings an opulent look to an interior. It is highly-reflective – great for bouncing light around to make smaller areas feel more open and inviting.

View gloss worktops

Matt

Offering a sheen-free appearance, matt work areas work well in pared-back schemes or for softening dark tones. This muted finish also shows fewer marks, keeping it looking clean and tidy for longer.

See matt worktops

Textured

Some laminate counters come with wood or stone-effect finishes that replicate the feel of natural materials. This is a great way of creating a premium look for less and adding visual interest to a space.

Explore textured worktops

Smooth

Smooth counters offer a stone-like finish to a work area. Its organic influence and slick surface is quick to clean, making it a sound choice for households who want a hygienic space.

Discover smooth worktops

What are the different types of profile available?

Square

Square counters have a straight edge that creates a geometric look, adding leading lines to a design and helping to draw the eye through a room. This gives a contemporary feel and is often matched with thinner edges for a subtle, architectural effect.

Find square worktops

Full bullnose

This shape offers a rounded, fully-curved edge that is often found on thicker counters, offering a sophisticated look. The fluid design is a classic style that makes the edging feel softer and safer – great for families with young children running around.

See full bullnose worktops

Chamfered

Made with a delicately bevelled edge, chamfered counters offer a decorative look for those that want a smart finish. The subtle, sloped style reduces chipping or damage along the edging for a finish that will last many years.

Explore chamfered worktops

What to consider when planning a new work area

Thickness

Counters with a thicker edge give a chunky feel and are popular with households that want a product to stand the test of time. Thin edges offer a sharp and contemporary feel, as well as a luxe look that is right on trend.

See 38mm-thick worktops

Length

Longer lengths can cover larger spaces with fewer joins, creating a smooth, uninterrupted look. Smaller lengths are best used in modular designs, compact spaces, or when adding bespoke features, like open shelving.

View 3m length worktops

Durability and heat resistance

The longevity of each counter varies depending on the material. Natural stone surfaces can withstand high temperatures and are also scratch and stain-resistant. Using a trivet for hot dishes will prevent possible heat damage on all work areas.

See hot rods

Installation

Laminate is a lightweight option that is quick to fit and easy to manoeuvre. Granite and quartz counters require specialist tools to achieve the best fit. We offer a professional solid-surface fitting service to save time and money on a project.

Learn more about our trade services

Aftercare

Solid stone requires re-sealing every two years to keep it at its best. Natural timber requires regular oiling to keep the material watertight and can be re-sanded or stained to refresh its look. For minimal maintenance, laminate is the best option.

Discover worktop aftercare products

Cleaning

With all types of counter material, the best and safest way to keep the surface clean is to regularly wipe it with a cloth dampened in warm soapy water. Brushing crumbs from corners will also prevent dirt from being trapped in joins, keeping them neat and tidy.

Continue the look

Borders

An upstand will cover any gaps between the wall and counter and gives your work area a smart and professional finish. A wide choice of materials and effects is available to achieve the right match and a complementary look.

Explore upstands

Wall boards

Back boards are taller than upstands and help protect the walls from splashes and stains when preparing meals. Easy to wipe clean thanks to the smooth, man-made material, they continue the flow of your work space for a cohesive design.

See backboards

Toughened Coloured Glass Splashbacks - Pewter

Backsplash

Great for keeping the wall behind a cooking area clean, splashbacks are heat resistant and simple to wipe down. They can also be used to add on-trend colours and patterns to a room, or to co-ordinate with other elements within a scheme.

View splashbacks

Ready to get started?

Explore fitted kitchens

Find fitted kitchens

Learn how to buy

Discover how to buy

Howdens depot Winchester with disabled parking bay

Find your local Howdens

Find a depot