There is an abundance of countertop materials to choose from when building or remodeling your kitchen. However, most people only consider things like stone or laminate. Because of this, there’s a range of more unique and less-known materials out there that you can use to create the custom countertops you dream of. One of those lesser known material options is concrete.
Concrete countertops have grown in popularity in recent years, though they are still much less common than other options. Some homeowners prefer to contact professionals to design custom concrete countertops, while others undertake the task of making their own DIY concrete countertops with a bit of store-bought concrete mix.
Though there are pros and cons to each method, one thing is for certain: a list of concrete countertop ideas is the best place to start.
A Clean and Sleek White Kitchen With Light-Toned Concrete Countertops
Light gray concrete countertops perfectly complement a stark white kitchen, allowing you to mix and match various materials, colors, and finishes for the hardware and appliances. The natural gray color pairs wonderfully with a wide range of shades, which is ideal if you like to change up the look of your home’s interior frequently.
In this example kitchen, brassy-gold fixtures and wood accents are paired with white cabinets, walls, and subway tiles for a classic blend of contemporary and traditional design aesthetics. The concrete countertop is custom-fit for the space and covered in a thin layer of clear epoxy to protect and preserve the surface.
Styled by Emma Fisher, photographed by Jonas Berg for Stadshem
Dark Natural Wood Cabinets and Shelves Paired With Concrete Counters Featuring Subtle Abstract Patterning
Kitchen countertops with a bit of natural ornamentation in the finish are a timeless choice for any kitchen. Some uneven patterning can bring a level of depth to the space and serve as a great source of visual interest. Skilled craftsmen can even create a concrete countertop design that mimics the appearance of marble, granite, or other types of stone at a fraction of the price.
This kitchen pairs decorative concrete countertops with dark wood cabinets and deep copper hardware for a stunning, yet simple, appearance. The basin of the sink has also been poured from the same concrete for a seamless look. By using white walls as a backdrop and open shelves instead of large cabinets, the top and bottom halves of the room appear slightly off-balance while also maintaining harmony.
via Ask Og Eng
A Smooth, Modern Kitchen With a Thin Concrete Countertop and Square Subway Tiles
One way to blend industrial style with contemporary design is to place concrete countertops alongside a classic subway tile backsplash and modern cabinetry. Using a narrow layer of concrete instead of a bold slab can change up the entire feel of the room, as can the type of concrete products and sealer used. Though some may worry about the durability of a thinner layer of concrete, this is typically not an issue with the right installation and care.
Here, the concrete countertop is discrete, acting as a supporting element and allowing the focal point to fall onto the cooking area. Additionally, the counter has a slight shine but is not gleaming, which creates a more natural, lived-in feel.
via Entrance Makleri
Dark Colored Concrete Countertops in an Open-Plan Kitchen for a Slightly Luxurious Touch
Darker concrete countertops can add character to a kitchen unlike anything else. This is perfect for open-plan, multi-use spaces that could use a bit of visual separation without impeding the usability of the room. Similar to some of the previous concrete countertop ideas we’ve looked at, you can also customize your own concrete countertops by blending two different colors or choosing a unique finish.
This kitchen uses two pieces of solid concrete for a counter surface and a matching backsplash. The finish on these slabs mimics brushed stainless steel and this combined with the brassy-gold faucet results in a stunning and luxurious kitchen area.
via Bjurfors
Concrete Countertops Paired With Bare Wood Cabinetry for a Look That’s Natural, Rustic, and Raw
To fully embrace the handmade appearance of DIY concrete countertops, try pairing them with cabinetry made of unfinished plywood or other raw materials. Simple sanded wood is the ultimate answer for anyone looking for a rustic, homestead style and can be stained or left completely natural to suit your tastes.
This kitchen is the perfect example of how one can combine multiple DIY projects in a single room in a way that appears purposeful and cohesive. Concrete countertops are found around the entire space with light wood cabinetry and bold black pendant lights complementing one another. The concrete bar features a small section of suspended concrete, something that’s sure to impress guests.
via Historiska Hem
Dark Cabinets and Brown Concrete Countertops With Stainless Steel Appliances for a Bold Appearance
Light-colored and white concrete countertops are typically the go-to choice for most homeowners. However, as we’ve seen previously, custom concrete countertops are available in a wide range of colors, meaning that you can achieve nearly any color palette you want. Because of this, concrete countertops are one of the most versatile countertop materials on the market with nearly unparalleled durability.
These concrete countertops and matching kitchen island showcase color and finish similar to that of popular butcher block surfaces. Dark-toned cabinets, white walls, and stainless steel appliances all play off of each other and each complement the countertops in a unique way. This bold and dramatic kitchen is balanced well and is sure to stand the test of time.
Styled by Clindholm, photographed by Frederic Boukari, for Historiska Hem
A Bright White Kitchen With Black Accents and Subtle Concrete Countertops
If you’re beginning to be drawn more and more to concrete countertops but aren’t quite sold on the appearance, choosing a much more subtle design may be the option for you. When done correctly, you can pair concrete countertops with a variety of other kitchen elements to make them appear more discrete and less obviously like concrete.
This example kitchen does this very well. The bright white shiplap walls, light wood touches, black accents, and stainless steel appliances come together in such a way that you must look twice to notice exactly what the countertops are made of. White walls, cabinetry, ceiling, and pale wood flooring reflect light and make the space cheerful while letting the black pop.
via Entrance Makleri
All-Over Concrete That Mimics Natural Stone for a Minimalist, Ultra-Modern Kitchen
Finally, if you absolutely love the look and feel of concrete countertops and want to truly go all out, you may want to embrace an industrial-style, full concrete kitchen. Since concrete can be set in nearly any shape, you can create a completely custom kitchen island with a large basin sink as shown below, or even built-in cooktops.
This house showcases the versatility of smooth, professional concrete. Textured walls and upper cabinets create a seamless transition to concrete countertops and flooring. The brassy hardware on the drawers and faucet complement the material in a way much different than silver hardware would. Overall, the resulting design is a blend of industrial and ultramodern styling perfect for those on the cutting edge of trends.
via Fantastic Frank
Work with Thick Concrete Countertops for a Bold Effect in a Minimal Kitchen
A thick concrete countertop is a great choice if you want to create a unique finish to your minimal, simple, and white kitchen space. The concrete in the example below is paired with steel wall shelving and a full tile backsplash for a subtle industrial effect.
Styled by Petra Yngfalk, photographed by Therese Jahnson for Historiska Hem
Mix Concrete Countertops with Metals for an Elegant Look
A concrete countertop’s rough and industrial style can be offset by using a mixture of other materials. In the kitchen example below, white cabinets and a white tile backsplash add a lighter touch to the palette, while the brass shelving and metal hardware add a certain elegance to the mix.
Styled by Anna van Keppel, photographed by Mia Borgelin for Historiska Hem
