Stainless steel countertops in kitchen sink areas could be a good alternative for those finding it difficult to find a granite option they like. That is the opinion of designer Raji Radhakrishnan, who offered the advice to a homeowner writing in to the Washington Posts Home Front column. The individual, based in the US state of Virginia noted that he wanted to extend the propertys current granite worktop, but has been unable to find a similar material. According to Mr Radhakrishnan, a stainless steel option might be a good alternative and could be more useful for food preparation tasks. Just be prepared to have some (beautiful) scratches and wear showing! he warned. The expert also recommended a butcher block surface for those who spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Interior designer on BBC1s DIY SOS Julia Kendell recently stated that kitchen countertops are becoming more interesting, as increasing numbers of people move away from drab cream-coloured design.