Kitchen Design Blog

Is Corian Outdated in 2018?

Written by Carrie | Jan 31, 2018

In our experience, Corian® is one of those "sleeper" countertop selections. It never seems to get ahead of the glitz and glamor of natural stone or quartz countertops in the online trend sources, yet it continues to be one of our best-sellers—and with good reason!

 
 
 
 

The kitchen above features a multi-tiered Corian countertop, in their lovely Sandalwood color, already proving that this solid surface material can compete when it comes to looks. But, what about functionality and durability? Let's face it, your top kitchen countertop choices should always revolve around function, form and return on investment.

 

Reasons Corian Is Well-Suited for Contemporary Kitchens

Corian's selling points are pretty impressive:

  • Durability
  • Stain-resistance
  • Easy to buff, if it scratches
  • Resistant to heat
  • Coordinates with any kitchen design
  • There's a wide variety of Corian colors

These benefits make it a strong contender for reasonably-priced, low-maintenance countertops. But, did you know that Corian also can be utilized for backsplashes and sinks? Here are some of the reasons why Corian is a versatile, and stylish option for current and contemporary kitchen designs.

 

Corian’s Tumbleweed Solid Surface Countertop

It's Popular

If kitchen trends are important to you, you'll be happy to know that Corian is still considered one of the most popular solid-surface countertop options by the folks at homeadvisor.com. They have their pulse on America's remodeling tastes, choices and trends so that statement is backed by bona-fide data culled from thousands of kitchen designers across the country. We continue to see the same results reflected in our customers' selections for their kitchen remodels.

It's Versatile

There are a few ways Corian can be considered a versatile option. First, there are so many Corian colors and patterns that there is a style for every design taste. It looks at home in a traditional farmhouse kitchen as much as it does in a sleek modern design, adjacent to stainless steel appliances. There's a Corian option for every style.

 

Corian Solid Surface Countertop in Silt and Kitchen Sink in Cameo White

Second, it's versatile in terms of cooking and baking. Chefs like it because its non-porous surface promotes a clean, healthy cooking environment. Likewise, bakers enjoy the fact that dough can be mixed and rolled right on the surface.

And third, it's versatile in terms of functionality. Corian sinks and backsplashes are more popular than ever. As a kitchen sink, they look beautiful, and virtually seamless when under-mount installed with a Corian countertop. And, as a backsplash, you can have your durability, and have your stylish subway tile too, with a routed Corian backspash. This product is espcially attractive when you consider the lack of tile grout, and ease of cleaning. Corian also looks great without the routing, as a flat surface backsplash.

 

Corian Solid Surface Countertop in Sonora and Backsplash in Sandalwood, Left, Backsplash in Rain Cloud, Right

It's Durable

Perhaps one of Corian's greatest selling points is unrivaled durabilitythere are equals, but no betters. It is super hard and almost impervious to cracking or chipping (we'd like to say it IS impervious but we have a feeling that the right slam on a corner from a sledge hammer may do noticeable damage). While it can "scratch," it's nothing compared to granite or marble countertop scratches. Unlike those stone countertop analogs, you can just grab a sponge and some Bar Keeper's Friend, give that Corian a little love, and the scratches will disappear.

As one Corian-fan remarked in a Houzz forum, "my sister...lived in the house [with Corian kitchen countertops] for 10 years, and the countertops have now been through at least three...long-term renters. The countertops were gorgeous. They are still gorgeous...And those counters MUST be nearly thirty years old now." That's an accurate testimony, based on our customers' reviews as well.

 

Corian Solid Surface Backsplash in Rain Cloud and Countertop in Maui

It's a Good Investment

Return on investment is something to consider as well. A quick Google search will show that Corian has been praised by authorites like Fortune.com, Huffington Post, Forbes.com, Houzz, and others as one of the best choices for getting a good return on your investment. We agree; not only in terms of resale value, but also long-term and longevity.

 

Corian’s Mojave Solid Surface Countertop and Backsplash

It's been around for so long now, and with the trends continually changing, it's easy to get caught up in thinking Corian is outdated. That stigma really counldn't be further from the truth. It's as popular as ever in 2018, utilized in different capacities across kitchens the world over, and it's not likely going anywhere soon. Are you ready to fall in love with Corian? Request an in-home consultation from Kitchen Magic and be prepared to swoon.