Intro.

Let’s be real—bathroom countertops don’t get the same spotlight as kitchens, but they should. They’re where your skincare routine starts, where toothpaste splatters, where you get ready for the day ahead. Bathrooms are where design meets function, and picking the right countertop matters more than you’d initially think.

In below’s post, I’m sharing the top 5 ways I help guide my clients in finding their just-right bathroom countertop. Enjoy!

2. Material Selections & Edge Styles.

Here’s a roundup of the most popular materials I use on projects:

Marble:
My forever favorite. Yes, it’s porous and requires sealing, but I’m obsessed with how it wears over time—as it etches and patinas, it adds character. Great for powder rooms or anywhere you want timeless luxury.
Quartz (Man-made):
A low-maintenance dream. Non-porous, stain-resistant, and comes in just about every style or color you can imagine. Perfect for high-use bathrooms, especially if you don’t want to stress about upkeep.
Granite:
Natural and durable, with lots of movement and variation. Needs sealing but holds up beautifully. More traditional but still a winner in the right space.
Concrete:
Edgy and modern, this is a good option if you’re ok with a little cracking and texture. I love it for a custom, earthy look—especially with natural wood vanities.
Tile:
Budget-friendly and fun for vintage or eclectic bathrooms. Just keep in mind: grout maintenance is real.

Your countertop edge style might feel like a small choice, but it adds a lot of personality and instantly upgrades the look of your countertops. Here are the options I recommend.

A straight edge is clean and modern.
Offset bullnose is soft and classic.
Want a little flair? Go for an ogee or dupont edge.

2. Light or Dark, Honed or Polished?

I tend to lean light since it keeps things feeling fresh, airy, and clean. But a dark countertop can be stunning in the right setting, especially if you’re going for mood, drama, or contrast.

Also worth noting: honed vs polished.

Honed has a matte finish and wears beautifully over time.
Polished is shiny and elegant, but will show water spots and fingerprints more.
Both are great—it just depends on what you’re going for.

3. Can I skimp on the Backsplash?

A backsplash isn’t just functional—it’s a major design moment. Taller is usually better, and you can add extra detail with an arched shape, matching material, or interesting edge.

Note that when I wallpaper powder rooms or have a luxurious plaster wall, I often forego a backsplash all together.

4. Prefab vs. Custom Vanities?

I go custom 90% of the time because most clients want something tailored to their storage needs and style. But I’m all for mixing it up—repurposed vintage cabinets or well-made prefabs can absolutely work, especially in smaller bathrooms. There are so many beautiful prefab options now with amazing countertop pairings. This can also be a great option if you’re tight on time.

5. Bonus Tips From the Field.

Bathrooms are basically steam rooms with a sink, where your #1 enemy is moisture. Between splashes, lotions, and makeup, your countertop must be able to handle moisture. Think non-porous or sealable materials that won’t stain, swell, or warp. Trust me—this is not the place to get high-maintenance unless you’re okay with a little TLC.
Always check how the countertop material looks under your bathroom lighting (natural AND artificial).
Make sure the sink selection works with your countertop thickness and edge.
If you’re doing a vessel sink, lower the vanity height to keep things ergonomic.

At the end of the day, your bathroom countertop should feel like a natural part of the space. Whether it’s a show stopping marble slab or a hardworking concrete top, it’s all about balancing beauty with practicality. And remember, if you love your countertop, you’re already halfway to a great bathroom!

xx

Emily

Bathroom Countertops 101