Choosing The Right Colour Granite For Your Kitchen | Shaw Stone

Granite is by far one of the most popular materials employed within kitchen worktops. Not only is this an extremely durable surface, but the sheer variety of colours and patterns ensure that even the most demanding design requirements can be achieved. However, it can also be quite difficult to make an informed decision due to this very same plethora of options. Not only will you have to take into account personal preferences, but it is important to point out that a handful of guidelines need to be followed in order to ensure that the best choice is made. Let’s take a look at how the colours of granite worktops can have an impact upon your surrounding kitchen environment as well as what factors need to be addressed.

Light or Dark Granite Colours for Kitchens?

Before moving on to examining factors such as patterns and visual textures, it is wise to consider whether light or dark granite is the most suited for your kitchen. One of the benefits attributed to darker tones is that they offer a sleek ambience and they are often easier to maintain. However, they can also cause a smaller space to appear slightly cramped. If your kitchen does not have access to a great deal of light, dark granite worktops can exacerbate this situation.

On the contrary, lighter colours are excellent choices if you are hoping to maximise the illusion of space within your kitchen. This arises from the fact that they are able to effectively reflect any ambient light. The only possible drawback is that stains are more noticeable on lighter surfaces. Thus, more maintenance may be needed. If you are looking for a balance between light and dark, middle-of-the-road alternatives such as brown and beige could, therefore, represent logical solutions.

Selecting the Appropriate Pattern

One of the most attractive features of granite is that it is available in a handful of different patterns which include:

  • – Soled
  • – Speckled
  • – Marbled


Solid granite is often a wise choice if you happen to be dealing with smaller spaces, as more complicated patterns can make the kitchen appear too “busy”. Alternatively, a speckled surface is a great way to punctuate the area; providing you with an impressive means to accent nearby elements such as trim and cabinets. You can also select from a wide array of tonal variations. Marbled surfaces represent a compromise between the two options mentioned above. While you will still be provided with a stunning pattern, smoother and more subdued grains boast a softer visual appeal.

Choosing Kitchen Colour Schemes to Emphasise the Worktop

A bit of coordination can go a long way when addressing the colours of granite worktops. Try to find a visual balance in order to achieve a bespoke sense of symmetry. Here are some examples of this approach:

  • – Lighter cabinets can be paired with darker granite surfaces.
  • – Dark hardwood cabinets (such as mahogany) can work well with lighter or neutral-toned granite.
  • – Complimentary colours such as green cabinets or crown mouldings can be used in synergy with red, white or organically toned surfaces.

Each of these methods will provide a unique sense of contrast within your kitchen while simultaneously breaking up the existing space. It is a good idea to experiment with the colours of granite worktops by procuring small pieces in order to determine which is the most suited for the environment.

Final Considerations

The numerous colours of granite worktops ensure that you will be able to encounter the best solution for your needs. Still, we need to keep in mind that regular maintenance is critical if you hope to guarantee that these granite colours for kitchens will remain vibrant for decades. If cared for properly, the immortal appeal of this stone will provide a unique appeal that is not possible through the use of alternative materials.

Whether you are hoping to learn more about choosing kitchen colour schemes or if you would like to appreciate the kaleidoscope of variations currently available, please speak with a representative at Shaw Stone. We offer a wealth of unique options and our team is always more than happy to provide you with additional advice.