This post shows you the best small kitchen counter ideas to try today!

Counter space is important, especially if you enjoy food prepping from scratch.

I never put much thought into having an aesthetically pleasing counter before because, to me, they were always more functional than decorative.

However, that all changed when I recently renovated my small kitchen and realized there were many counter-design options.

If you are skeptical, keep reading because this article is about to change your mind and equip you with 20 inspirational ideas to use in your kitchen.

Pin it for later! ⤵️

Construct a kitchen peninsula

A kitchen peninsula is an extra worktop extension from the kitchen that offers more space.

Get it in a shiny white laminate material to match the kitchen cabinetry.

Add rattan weave bar stools to the peninsula to make it double up as a dining area.

All-white look

For a clean, pristine kitchen aesthetic, get all-white counters.

This design features white countertops on all sides.

It also has a kitchen divider or peninsula for more workspace.

To accentuate the white, install silver fixtures and appliances.

White and bronzed marble

Marble can elevate white countertops and give them a sophisticated edge.

Start this look with smooth, acrylic counters with sharp edges and clean lines.

Install bronzed polished marble on all the kitchen walls, including the backsplash, then outline the window with orange grout.

Install fluted surfaces

Another way of amplifying glossy counters is by installing fluted walls and cabinets.

Get fluted surfaces with micro-grooves for your cabinets and island.

The cabinets should be cream-colored, while the island should be a light tan brown. Also, ensure the kitchen is well-lit.

Try concrete material

Concrete is a fantastic alternative counter-construction material because of its beautiful speckled appearance.

Get it in a warm ivory color and also cover the sink backsplash.

The upper cabinets should be off-white with a wooden section near the ovens.

Then, add LED under-cabinet lights as well.

Island/counter combination

In case your kitchen’s stove area is too small to use as a workspace, construct a large white island with ample counter space.

Also, build the faucet and sink on the island.

When the island is not being used for food prep, it will act as a dining table.

U-shaped counter

To make the most of your small kitchen, try a U-shaped counter.

It extends over the stove and sink areas to merge with the breakfast Island or peninsula.

Get the counter in a shiny, white acrylic material, and keep the kitchen cabinetsa neutral taupe color.

Rustic farmhouse vibe

Weathered wood countertops will have your kitchen looking like a vintage farmhouse.

All you need is light wood counters with a worn-out look.

Accent the wood with a black-topped island and metallic high chairs.

Get an antique pot rack and accessorize with fresh fruit baskets.

Modern country house counters

For a modern twist on the classic country house kitchen aesthetic, install smooth, polished wood counters on ivory-painted cabinets.

Atop, have classic, beveled shelves and exposed beams at the ceiling.

Add lots of décor including, ornaments, floral arrangements, and hanging pots.

Monochrome black and white

To offset your white counters, install matte black cabinets and cupboards.

Also, use the same color scheme for the central island.

It should have a smooth, white top with sharp edges and gold-trim black bar stools.

Install an LED under-cabinet light strip and a gold-black chandelier.

Light and airy

Light wooden material is fantastic for an airy kitchen space.

Start with white acrylic counters, then install grainy white oak wood cabinets and cupboards.

Install off-white subway tiles on the walls and dark wood panels on the floor.

Lastly, let in natural light with open windows.

Add midnight blue tones

Midnight blue is elegant and bold, so pair it with your white counters for a stunning finished look.

The counters should be shiny and polished, while the navy blue disappearing cabinets have a matte, lusterless finish.

Also, decorate the room with gold highlights and greenery.

Add wooden bar stools

Start with paneled white cabinetry and a glossy subway-tiled backsplash.

Add vertical panels to your kitchen peninsula, then finish the look with brown light wood stools.

Also, get clear glass kitchen pendant lights and potted angel’s breath to decorate the space.

Burnt orange color scheme

Another striking idea for your kitchen counters and work surfaces is a burnt orange color scheme.

Get a plain white peninsula-style counter layout, then wainscot the wall.

The lower half should be made of white mini subway tiles and the top, white plaster.

Add a red-orange border, then install redwood elements.

Marble countertops

Marble is a classic countertop design that easily adds class and elegance to a room.

For maximum effect, have a pure white kitchen with white-painted walls and cabinets.

Install a mini kitchen divider, as well as light grey and white counters and work surfaces.

Add gold accents

Gold hardware and fixtures can subtly add sophistication and luxury to your kitchen.

First, get white paneled cupboards with glossy white counters. Add gold pull-out handles and ceiling lights.

Also, for the island’s bar stools, get metallic gold frames and white cushions.

Decorate with plants

Another great enhancement you can make to your kitchen counters is potted plants.

For this island counter, get a variety of potted plants.

Include different leaf textures and shapes, and even go for faux plants.

Keep their pots and vases simple and chic.

Install a flush panel island

Instead of the conventional kitchen islandcounter design, try a flush panel one.

It features a brown acrylic counter surface with flat panels on the sides.

To complement it, add three white shell bar stools and silver overhead lights.

Moss green and marble counters

For a nature-inspired, organic feel in your kitchen, get moss green colored cabinets and cupboards with silver knobs,then install white marble counters on top.

Add to the wooden theme with wooden bar stools for the island, potted plants, and a skylight on the ceiling.

Install a multi-purpose kitchen counter island

Kitchen islands are incredibly versatile and can be used as a work surface, dining space, and even storage.

Here, we have a beautiful glossy top island with vertical grooves along its dark navy column.

It also has drawers on the side and navy leather armless chairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best materials for small kitchen counters that evoke a luxury feel?

When it comes to creating that luxurious vibe in a small kitchen, materials play a big role!

Marble and quartz countertops are your go-to options for an upscale look.

These materials not only offer a sleek, polished surface but also reflect light, making your kitchen feel more spacious.

If you’re looking for something budget-friendly but still chic, consider granite or high-quality laminate with a marble effect—both can achieve a luxe aesthetic without the heavy price tag.

2. How can I maximize counter space in a small kitchen without sacrificing style?

You don’t have to compromise on style to make the most of a small kitchen counter.

Opt for a minimalist approach by keeping your countertops clear of clutter.

Floating shelves and wall-mounted storage can free up space while adding a touch of elegance. Additionally, choose multi-functional counters—think built-in cutting boards or pull-out counter extensions.

These features not only enhance functionality but also elevate your space to feel like a personalized, luxury cooking spa.

3. Can I mix different countertop materials in a small kitchen for a luxurious effect?

Absolutely! Mixing materials can create a visually stunning contrast in your kitchen.

For instance, pair a marble island with a wooden butcher block counter for a balanced yet sophisticated feel.

The key is to ensure that the tones and textures complement each other.

This not only adds depth to your kitchen’s design but also gives it a unique, high-end appeal that feels thoughtfully curated.

4. What colors should I consider for small kitchen counters to make the space feel more luxurious?

Light colors, such as creamy whites, soft greys, or even pale beige, can make a small kitchen feel more expansive and airy.

If you’re aiming for a luxurious vibe, consider countertops in a polished white marble or light quartz with delicate veining—these hues reflect light beautifully and create a spa-like calmness in your cooking space.

If you prefer a more dramatic flair, opt for deep jewel tones like navy or emerald for accent counters, paired with metallic fixtures for that luxe finishing touch.

5. How can lighting enhance the luxurious feel of my small kitchen counters?

Lighting is key to elevating your kitchen’s luxury factor!

Consider under-cabinet LED lighting to highlight your countertops and create a warm, inviting glow.

Pendant lights with metallic or glass finishes above your counters can also draw attention to your luxurious surfaces, making the space feel more upscale.

Lighting not only sets the mood but can also make your small kitchen counters look more spacious and indulgent, truly enhancing that “cooking spa” vibe.

If you love these ideas, don’t forget to pin the above image to your “Kitchen” board.