Countertops are critically important to both the design and functionality of the kitchen, with dealers and designers carrying a wide variety of materials to meet client needs, according to a new KBDN survey. VIEW GALLERY   Countertops have long been a mainstay of kitchen design, whether offering a dramatic focal point, a splash of color, a bit of textural interest, a sense of warmth, a note of visual contrast, or a calming oasis of cool or warm tones that blend seamlessly into the kitchen. Likewise, the growing role of the kitchen has expanded the functional role of countertops from durable food prep surfaces to multifunctional places for cooking, eating, entertaining, doing homework, charging electronics and more. So it’s no surprise that, in a recent survey of kitchen dealers and designers, countertops were highly rated for their importance, both visually and functionally. Additionally, the majority of designers and dealers polled said they sell or specify multiple cou...