Countertops: Cherry on top

In an age of high-tech synthetics, Grothouse is working hard to convince consumers that traditional wood countertops are the way to go. Butcher block can take a lot of wear and tear, and can easily be installed, resurfaced or repaired by a homeowner with average carpentry skills.

Just as no two trees are alike, no piece of wood is exactly like another, making for a unique countertop. These countertops come in a variety of thicknesses, profiles, patterns and woods -- from oak and maple to exotic zebrawood. Options include special shape details, drain boards, edge treatments and knife cutouts, as featured in this cherry and maple end-grain checkerboard block.