In kitchens I do, we often save the wood countertop for a
seating area, while the work areas are in stone. It’s nice to put your elbows down
on a wood countertop, and the wood works well for serving and simple tasks. But
not for chopping, or anything involving heat. A kitchen with a combination of
stone for tasks and wood for lighter use works quite well, and looks
attractive. There are new techniques to waterproof wood, so a small sink can be
put in an island with wood countertop. I often recommend we “distress” the wood
a bit, so you don’t feel bad later as it shows signs of use.