Knowledge Centre

Quartz Remains the Everyday Hero

Quartz continues to dominate for good reason. It’s low maintenance, hard-wearing and endlessly versatile.

In 2026, quartz trends lean towards:

• Softer veining that mimics natural stone
• Warmer base tones rather than cold greys
• Subtle movement instead of high contrast patterns

Silestone in particular remains a favourite for clients who want reliable performance with refined design, especially in busy family kitchens.

Granite Makes a Confident Comeback

Granite never really left, but it’s stepping back into the spotlight with more confidence.

Homeowners are embracing granite for its individuality. No two slabs are the same, which appeals to clients who want something genuinely unique rather than perfectly uniform.

In 2026, expect to see:

• Bolder veining
• Rich, earthy tones
• Granite used as a statement island surface

Marble Look Without the Maintenance

Marble remains the ultimate luxury surface, but clients are increasingly realistic about upkeep.

That’s where engineered alternatives and carefully chosen marble installations come in. Used thoughtfully, marble still shines in lower impact areas like islands, baking zones or feature surfaces.

For clients who want the look with less maintenance, quartz and Silestone with marble inspired veining continue to bridge the gap beautifully.

Timber Adds Warmth and Texture

As kitchens evolve in style, timber worktops are making a comeback, especially in kitchens that feel a bit too sleek or minimal.

In 2026, timber is being used to warm up painted cabinetry, create contrast in modern kitchens and define seating and social zones.

Paired with stone or quartz, timber adds warmth to kitchens, making them feel more lived-in and welcoming.

Matte and Honed Finishes Lead the Way

High-gloss surfaces are giving way to finishes that feel more tactile and forgiving.

Across quartz, granite and engineered surfaces, honed and matte finishes are increasingly popular because they reduce glare, hide fingerprints and feel softer and more natural

This trend aligns perfectly with the shift towards relaxed, functional luxury.

Bigger Slabs, Cleaner Lines

Fabrication advances mean larger slabs and fewer joins are more achievable than ever.

For 2026 kitchens, this translates into:

• Cleaner island designs
• Less visual interruption
• A more premium finish overall

This trend applies across quartz, granite, marble and acrylic surfaces alike.

Final Thoughts

Worktop trends for 2026 are all about balance. Beauty and practicality. Statement and subtlety. Natural and engineered.

With quartz, granite, timber, Silestone, marble and acrylic surfaces all under one roof, Algarve Granite is ideally placed to guide clients through these choices with confidence.

The best kitchens next year won’t be defined by a single material, but by how well each surface works in harmony with the others.