After watching years of home shows one might think that the only acceptable kitchen countertop in the world is granite. There are the endless potential homeowners cooing over the granite or being disappointed when a kitchen doesn’t have the hearty stone. I think it’s time to let everyone in on a little secret...wood. Wood counters can be warm and wonderful, durable and full of character. Surprisingly, wood counters can also morph into a variety of design styles. They can be either humble and exhibit country-style or they can be sophisticated and very highend. Maple, oak and cedar are the most durable and can be stained and sealed with an enamel for further protection. Keep in mind that while wood counters can look smashing, but they require more maintenance than the average stone counter. 

If you don’t have a time-weathered and worn counter like the image at the top of the post, you can still create a warm tone with deep, rich stain. This traditional kitchen is enhanced by the school house ceiling lights and marble surround at the sink. 

Here is another detail of a deep stained wood counter. If you are unsure about using wood for counters, you may wish to try it out in a utility room or mudroom.

This seemingly untreated wood counter is found in a truly minimalist kitchen. Note that if the wood is left without a stain, finish, and protection, you may want to have a larger porcelain sink to avoid too much water contact with the wood.

I’m crazy about this kitchen. It’s like a fabulous Nineteenth Century butler’s pantry with nooks and crannies. The worn patina on the wood leaves it filled with character and history. The dark tones are lightened with the large window and clear glass lighting.

This antique-style kitchen island has some of the same features of the kitchen above. The warm tones and turned legs give it a sense of history and beauty, while the closed storage and shelves make it functional. 

Country kitchens are the perfect space where wood makes a real statement. The counters seem totally intentional and are balanced across the room with honed wood table and stools. Additionally, warm lighting and a heavy use of fabric keeps this space homey.

This deeply stained stool can recreate the country look in even the most contemporary kitchen.

Don’t get me started with this kitchen...clean, orderly, thoroughly traditional but so crisp it seems modern. It’s like a kitchen as a still life. I love that they have introduced the marble cutting board. Clearly, practicality is truly important in this kitchen.

Here is another way wood countertops can look sophisticated. This Belgian interior is masterful with its use of neutral tones. Again, we see the sink area covered in stone to avoid undue damage to the wooden counters. So whether you want your kitchen to have the patina of a hundreds of years of use or fresh like the kitchen was simply brand new, wood counters could be the next trend you embrace.

Photos courtesy of Belgian Pearls, Pinterest, Cocokelly