Granite is so beautiful because of its versatility. This speckled black and brown stone is composed of similar colors to the image shown above, but the overall effect is entirely different. The black glossy finish is amplified by the subtle specks, but be aware that this texture, in particular, can “hide things that you don’t want to hide,” in the words of reader Megan. Be sure to get down at all angles to ensure the counter is sufficiently clean after a day of cooking and eating.
“While black countertops can impart an elegant and rich aesthetic to a kitchen, practical considerations come into play,” says interior designer Neha Kaimal. “In a high-traffic area like the kitchen, black surfaces tend to highlight watermarks and stains, making it challenging to maintain a consistently clean appearance,” Kaimal warns.
