The Formica Era

Formica was the original plastic laminate countertop material, invented in 1912 by Westinghouse Corporation as an electrical insulation. By the 1950s, it became the go-to choice for affordable, low-maintenance surfaces. Made from layers of resin-saturated craft paper with a decorative top sheet, Formica set the stage for mass-produced countertops. As the patent expired, brands like Wilsonart, Pionite, and Nevamar emerged, offering hundreds of color and pattern choices.

Corian and Solid Surface Revolution

In the 1960s, Dupont introduced Corian, a solid surface acrylic countertop that became widely popular in the 70s and 80s. Initially available in white, Corian evolved to include over a hundred colors. After its patent expired, companies such as Avonite, Hanex, and Wilsonart launched their own variations, making solid surface countertops more accessible at different price points.

Granite’s Rise to Popularity

Granite and marble have long been high-end options, but by the early 2000s, track home builders started using granite as a standard upgrade from laminate or solid surfaces. The most common granite choices at that time were Bianco Antico, Colonial White, Giallo Santo, Lapidus, Baltic Brown, and Uba Tuba. With advancements in pre-cut manufacturing and overseas imports, granite became more affordable and found its way into multi-family apartments as well.

The Quartz Revolution

The quartz countertop industry originated from terrazzo tile manufacturing in Italy, perfected with a mix of 93% quartz aggregate and 7% resin. This combination made quartz highly durable and non-porous. Despite initial resistance from fabricators in 2004 due to its unique cutting and machining requirements, quartz quickly gained favor due to its low maintenance and longevity. Leading brands today include Caesarstone, Silestone, HanStone, and Cambria.

The Future: Porcelain Slabs

Porcelain slabs are the next innovation in countertop surfaces. Made from sand, feldspar, glass, quartz, and Kaolin clay, these slabs are fired at high temperatures, resulting in an ultra-durable, non-porous surface. Current market contenders include Dekton, Ascale, Sapienstone, NeoLith, and Lapitec. Porcelain slabs are ideal for large kitchen islands and can replicate high-end marble at a fraction of the cost. Though still in their infancy in the U.S., porcelain surfaces are expected to grow in popularity.

Galleria of Stone

Location: 750 East Covey Lane #145, Phoenix, AZ 85024
Phone: (602) 354-3229

• Features unique marble, quartz, and porcelain slabs
• Clearly labeled pricing to prevent sticker shock
• Exclusive offerings from Italian brand Antolini

The Stone Collection

Location: 4101 South 38th St., Phoenix, AZ 85040
Phone: (602) 889-2067

• 15,000 sq. ft. showroom with stunning installations
• 100,000 sq. ft. warehouse for full slab viewing
• No appointment required

Cactus Stone

Location: 401 South 50th St., Phoenix, AZ 85034
Phone: (602) 914-2202

• Serving the Valley since 1973
• Scottsdale showroom featuring tile and vignettes
• Currently upgrading showroom to showcase new materials

Arizona Tile

Location: 14700 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Phone: (480) 991-3066

• Multiple locations across the Valley
• Large selection of tile and slab materials
• Spacious, air-conditioned slab viewing area, no appointment necessary

Whether you're upgrading a kitchen or designing a new home, selecting the right countertop surface is a vital decision. From the budget-friendly Formica to the luxurious granite, the modern quartz, and the up-and-coming porcelain slabs, there is a perfect option for every style and budget. Visit one of Phoenix's top showrooms to explore your options and bring your vision to life!