8 Updated Laminate Countertop Ideas That Don’t Look Like Laminate

Both durable and less expensive than many other countertop materials, plastic laminate has come a long way from the kitchen of your childhood. Laminate countertop makers are stepping up their game and transforming the way people think about this countertop surface option. Here are 10 updated laminate countertops that don't look at all like laminate.

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Laminate That Looks Like Wood

Like the look of wood but don’t want to deal with the upkeep? Enter laminate that looks like wood. Low-maintenance and scratch- and scuff-resistant, laminate comes in a variety of finishes that can look like everything from maple to oak to cherry. Psst! Here’s how to paint laminate cabinets to update the appearance of your kitchen.

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Laminate that Looks Like Granite

If you like the look of granite but don’t like the price tag, Wilsonart makes laminate countertops that look like granite. This versatile pattern has a unique blend of gray, chocolate and black veining with a cream backdrop. Check out these 13 awesome countertops that aren’t granite.

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Quartz
via merchant

Laminate that Looks Like Quartz

Synonymous with laminate countertops, Formica offers countless styles and colors. If you like the look of quartz, this Bottle Glass Quartz style from Formica may be what you’re looking for. Make your countertops look like new with this unique refinishing process.

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via merchant

Laminate that Looks Like Brick

If you like the look of exposed brick on walls or stone appeals to you, Wilsonart offers laminate countertops that look like whitewashed brick. Unlike natural stone countertops that can be difficult to care for, this laminate can be washed with just a damp cloth or sponge and mild soap or detergent. This buying guide will help you choose the right countertop for your kitchen.

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Laminate with Decorative Edging

From rounded edges to crisp corners, laminate countertops come in a variety of edging styles. Hartson-Kennedy, a cabinet top company, offers nine decorative edging options, including no-drip edges that have a raised, rolled edge to help contain spills. Keep your cat off the kitchen countertop with these 10 DIY tips.

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Ice Glass Laminate

Wilsonart offers laminate countertop material that looks like water frozen into a geometric grid. The surface appears translucent and will certainly add a unique look to any bathroom. The design is also available in green. Follow this expert advice for how to select laminate countertops.

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Laminate in Nostalgic Patterns

Go bold in the kitchen with a laminate countertop in a distinctive pattern. Wilsonart offers a variety of laminate countertop patterns in various colors, including this retro design in a classic boomerang print with black, cyan and pink. These are the pros and cons of various countertop materials.

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Laminate that Looks Like Metal

You can have the look of a stainless steel countertop without the trouble of dealing with constant smudges. This laminate from Wilsonart looks like brushed stainless steel with a light to medium gray tone. Are DIY granite countertops right for you? Find out here.

Rachel Brougham
Rachel Brougham spent years working in newsrooms, for television and newspapers, and has won several awards for her writing. In 2015, she left her full-time job as a newspaper editor to focus on freelance writing and editing. She has been a Family Handyman contributor since 2017.
In 2019, Rachel lived through a major remodeling project on her home, and she uses that experience to inform her Family Handyman content. She's also an avid gardener (both native plants and vegetables), enjoys keeping up with decor trends and spends a lot of time traveling, cooking and hanging out with her family and their giant dog.