Top 5+ Countertop Materials Losing Popularity Quickly

Granite No Longer the Gold Standard

Step into almost any early-2000s kitchen and you’ll find gleaming granite countertops—a badge of luxury that once screamed “dream home.” Fast-forward to today and designers are quietly steering clients away from granite. Why?

For starters, the bold veining and speckled patterns that made granite famous now feel visually busy against the calm, minimalist cabinetry trending in 2025. Granite also demands regular sealing and can stain if you spill wine or coffee and don’t wipe it immediately.

Many families, juggling kids and work, want a countertop that’s forgiving, not one that requires a ritual to keep it flawless. Stagers say granite can even date a home, making it harder to achieve that crisp, updated look that buyers crave.

As interior psychologist Dr. Helen Michaels recently noted, “Our brains crave simplicity and continuity—granite’s wild patterns can create subconscious tension in a space.” Homeowners are now gravitating toward softer, more uniform materials that blend seamlessly with open-concept layouts and serene color palettes.

Laminate Struggles to Impress Modern Buyers

Laminate used to be the clever hack—affordable, colorful, and quick to install. But in today’s market, it’s often seen as the “fast fashion” of countertops: fun for a minute, but not built to last.

Designers report that laminate’s plastic-like feel stands out in the wrong way, especially as more buyers expect at least a hint of luxury, even in starter homes. Laminate chips easily, and its seams can lift or bubble, especially in kitchens that get a lot of use.

Stagers warn that a laminate countertop can drag down your home’s perceived value, making buyers wonder what other corners were cut. In a world where quartz and even butcher block offer more style without breaking the bank, laminate is falling out of favor.

Homeowners aiming for a “luxe on a budget” vibe are skipping laminate for surfaces that look and feel more substantial.

Solid Surface Materials Lose Their Seamless Edge

Remember when Corian and other solid surface materials were all the rage? Their smooth, joint-free look felt futuristic in the 1990s and early 2000s.

But now, homeowners want more than just seamless—they want standout. Solid surfaces can scratch and scorch, and repairing them isn’t always as easy as the brochures promised.

Quartz, porcelain, and even innovative ceramics outperform solid surfaces in nearly every category: they resist stains, require less maintenance, and bring more drama to the design. Many stagers and realtors now advise against solid surfaces because they can look “builder basic” in today’s market, which is obsessed with personality and custom details.

The shift is clear: people want countertops that make a statement and hold up to real life, not just blend in quietly.

Marble Beauty Fades Under Real Life Use

Marble is undeniably stunning, evoking images of Parisian cafés and sunlit bakeries. But in a family kitchen, its reality is less romantic.

Marble scratches easily, etches when exposed to lemon juice or vinegar, and stains with anything as innocent as a blueberry. Maintenance is constant, and even with care, the “patina” marble develops is not always the chic look you imagined.

As engineered quartz and porcelain slabs now mimic marble’s veining with zero upkeep, more homeowners are jumping ship. Realtors share that buyers—especially those with kids or who love to cook—are wary of marble’s fragility.

What was once the ultimate status symbol is now a risky investment, both financially and emotionally, as it can feel like living with a beautiful but unpredictable pet.

Concrete’s Industrial Cool Meets Real-World Challenges

Concrete countertops exploded onto the design scene with their edgy, industrial allure. But the honeymoon is over.

The sheer weight of concrete means cabinets sometimes need reinforcement, adding unexpected costs and complications. Its porous nature means red wine, oil, or even water can leave stubborn stains if not sealed frequently.

Homeowners who loved concrete’s “handcrafted” vibe often found themselves frustrated by hairline cracks or chips that appear over time. Designers now caution that concrete’s look, while striking, can make spaces feel cold or unwelcoming if not perfectly balanced with softer textures.

For those seeking the industrial look without the headaches, quartz and porcelain now offer convincing alternatives—minus the maintenance and risk.

Tile Countertops Outpaced by Sleeker Surfaces

Tile countertops evoke a certain vintage charm, but in the age of open floor plans and uninterrupted sightlines, they’re being left behind. The grout between tiles, once a minor detail, is now seen as a magnet for stains and bacteria, especially in busy kitchens.

Cleaning grout is tedious, and even the most diligent homeowner can’t stop discoloration over time. Modern buyers want a surface that looks smooth and feels hygienic, leading to a decline in tile’s appeal.

Designers say that while handmade tiles are having a moment on backsplashes, for countertops, the trend is toward monolithic slabs that stretch seamlessly from end to end. In real estate listings, tile countertops are increasingly flagged as a “to be replaced” item, marking them as a liability rather than a selling point.

Butcher Block’s High Maintenance Turns Off Buyers

Butcher block countertops exude warmth and a homey, farmhouse vibe. However, the need for regular oiling and vigilance against water damage is causing a shift away from wood.

Knife marks, stains, and even mold can develop if spills aren’t cleaned up instantly. Many families find the upkeep too demanding, especially in busy kitchens where convenience is king.

Stagers note that butcher block can look tired quickly, especially in homes that see a lot of activity. As synthetic wood-look surfaces gain traction, offering the same warmth without the work, homeowners are swapping out butcher block for materials that deliver style and durability in equal measure.

Stainless Steel Feels Too Industrial for Most Homes

Stainless steel countertops once promised a professional chef’s kitchen, but for everyday living, the reality can be harsh. Stainless scratches easily, shows every fingerprint, and can feel cold or clinical in homes designed for comfort.

While still beloved in commercial kitchens, interior designers find that most clients prefer a softer, more inviting look at home. The sound of a dropped spoon or plate on steel is jarring, and the constant battle with smudges wears thin.

As kitchens become the heart of the home, families are choosing materials that feel welcoming and warm, leaving stainless steel behind in favor of more tactile, cozy options.

Soapstone’s Softness Makes It a Tough Sell

Soapstone offers a unique, matte look and is surprisingly heat-resistant. But its softness means it scratches and dents with ease, and over time, it can develop a worn patina that’s not to everyone’s taste.

To maintain its color and luster, soapstone needs regular oiling, which can feel like another chore in a busy household. Designers point out that while soapstone can look beautiful in the right setting, it’s often overshadowed by newer materials that combine durability with style.

Buyers are increasingly hesitant to invest in countertops that require such hands-on care, especially when alternatives deliver the same aesthetic with far less effort.

Glossy Surfaces Lose Favor to Matte Finishes

High-gloss countertops once signaled cutting-edge modern design, reflecting light and creating a sense of space. Now, they’re seen as high-maintenance, showing every watermark, fingerprint, and scratch.

Matte finishes have taken over, offering a softer, more forgiving surface that feels both current and comfortable. According to a recent survey by Houzz, over 65% of homeowners now prefer matte or honed finishes over glossy ones.

Designers say this shift isn’t just about looks—matte surfaces are easier to live with, hiding the day-to-day messes life throws your way. The move toward matte is about embracing a lived-in, relaxed feel that supports how families really use their kitchens.