=====[srform] Luxury kitchens have long been a status symbol when it comes to home decor. While this typically meant traditional shiny marble or...
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Luxury kitchens have long been a status symbol when it comes to home decor. While this typically meant traditional shiny marble or granite countertops, there’s a new trend in the luxury kitchen sphere: black matte countertops. Combinations like white cabinets with black countertops are now staples of modern design and are inspiring home remodels across the country. Black kitchen countertops give any space a bold, dramatic flair and can elevate bland areas.
Black matte countertops are an upgrade that's forecasted to be popular for many years. So what are you waiting for? Get the look with the help of a kitchen remodeling contractor. ImproveNet can help connect you with contractors in your area, for free! Get started.
What Are Black Matte Countertops?
Matte countertops aren’t made from a specific type of rock or laminate; rather, it is a finish that can be applied to nearly any material. Compared to other glossy finishes like polished granite, matte countertops are not as shiny and reflective. Often called a honed finish, matte countertops are smooth and have a soft, satiny feel to them. Though they don’t reflect as much light as glossier options, black matte countertops redistribute some surrounding light, creating a charming rustic beauty.
Pros Of Black Matte Countertops
Aside from the modern, chic look of black matte countertops, they also offer the following advantages:
- Hides scratches: The natural, subtle look of a matte finish conceals scratches and imperfections. This is because it lacks the reflective quality that seems to magnify blemishes on glossy surfaces.
- Hides dirt and dust: If you’re not big on daily cleaning, having a black countertop can help conceal dust, dirt, and foodstuff buildup on your kitchen counter surface.
- Creates texture in the house: It can be easy to get overloaded with glossy surfaces, especially with open concept floor plans. Matte countertops offer a textural difference to a room, giving the area a level of sophistication.
Cons Of Black Matte Countertops
Though the black matte looks beautiful, it does come with a few disadvantages that you should be aware of:
- Smudges and fingerprints: Compared to their glossy counterparts, fingerprints and similar oily smudges show up more easily on dark matte surfaces.
- Require resealing more frequently: Matte countertops made from concrete or natural stone are more porous than their polished counterparts, and therefore are more susceptible to staining; they also require resealing more often.
- Doesn’t make a space feel bigger: Most of us want our kitchen to appear bigger. Unfortunately, matte countertops don’t help with that. Because absorb more light than they reflect, they don’t create the illusion of space.
What Materials Are Best?
Black matte countertops can fit most budgets and be found in just about any material, therefore your main decision lies in the types of countertops out there.
Out of all of the material options, laminate will be the most affordable. It is easy to clean and durable, but if it becomes damaged, it is difficult to repair. Ceramic tile is also fairly inexpensive and gives you a lot of options between styles, patterns, and color shades. You can prevent grimy, discolored grout by sealing it or choosing larger tiles that require less grout.
Due to the cost savings that many people find, concrete is a growing trend in countertop choices. Because it can be stained, you can customize it to the exact shade that you want in your home. Synthetic solid-surface counters like Corian require little maintenance, are non-porous, and are very durable. Still, some people will prefer the classic stone like granite, quartz, and marble.
Each material comes with its own set of pros and cons. The key is to choose the style that best fits your needs, is within your price range, and works for your home. It’s not hard to be on your way to having your dream kitchen!
Pairings Matter
It’s not hard to get carried away with dark surfaces in a room, creating a drab, uninviting space. Since black matte countertops absorb more light than they reflect back into the room, it’s important to have something in the room that does bounce light around. In both traditional and modern kitchens alike, black countertops pair well with white cabinets. The contrast creates a stunning pop, and the white cabinets open up the space.
To add color, consider adding a playful or bold backsplash. Incorporating accessories like rugs and window curtains are another way to break the monotony if you aren’t a fan of the greyscale look.
Hiring a Professional
Unless you have experience with DIY projects, hiring a contractor is your best bet for a job well done when it comes to kitchen countertop installation. They’ll have the tools necessary to cut and hold the materials in place, and can ensure that the counters are sturdy and level. But not all contractors out there deliver the same quality work. When looking for someone to install your countertops, find one with good references, credentials, and good communication skills.
Ready to revamp your kitchen with black matte countertops? Find a local contractor that installs countertops in your area to get started on your project today!
