One of the most important choices in designing your kitchen is what kind of countertops you're going to have. It's a decision that goes beyond the purely aesthetic, because besides looking good, countertops also have to be functional, too. The good news, though, for those of you who are on the fence, is that sometimes not choosing is the best choice. Case in point: these 9 kitchens that work more than one countertop finish, with beautiful effects.

Above: Most of the countertops in this kitchen from Wit & Delight are a solid surface designed to look like marble, but the choice of a butcherblock top for the breakfast bar nicely complements the open shelving and gives the kitchen an extra dose of warmth.

Tile and concrete come together beautifully in this kitchen from Lev & Bo (via La Maison de Anna G), for an industrial space with a little added flair.

The tiny bit of marble on the end of the countertop is a beautiful and unexpected detail in this kitchen from Elle Decoration.

A marble island complements butcherblock countertops in this kitchen from Living Agency (via Apartment Therapy).

In this kitchen from Homelife, stainless steel and concrete countertops come together for just the right mix of streamlined modernism and industrial warmth.

This kitchen, in an old house designed by Joris Van Apers, features countertops in two different kinds of stone, and a beautifully worn kitchen island.

Butcherblock and what looks like granite mix in this vintage-styled kitchen from Skona Hem.

This London kitchen, spotted on Houzz, includes countertops in marble, butcherblock, and what looks like concrete.

Marble and light blond wood countertops come together beautifully in this kitchen from Yellowtrace.