One of the things that will really make an impact when your new bespoke kitchen design is completed is the type of worktop you choose. There are plenty of different materials out there nowadays and each has its own pros and cons.
Here’s our quick guide on what’s hot at the moment.
Hardwood Worktops
They’re great if you want to create a natural look to your kitchen and there are a lot of different ones to choose from. They’re just right for food preparation areas and islands or breakfast bar type designs.
The thing about hardwood is that it suits almost any design, whether you’re looking for the more traditional or something modern and slightly funky. Hardwood is easy to cut into shape and, as long as it’s sealed properly, you’ll have a worktop that is built to last.
There is a bit more maintenance required than some other worktops on the market today but, if you’re prepared to do that, hardwood is the perfect choice.
Composite Worktops
This is often referred to as engineered stone and is an excellent alternative to more expensive worktops. It’s pretty resistant so it can be installed just about anywhere. There are a wide range of different composite tops and colours nowadays and you can create quite dramatic looks if you want.
Composite is a good option for modern looking kitchens and there’s little in the way of maintenance required. If you want seamless worktops, one option is to have them thermoformed into the exact shape you want. Yes, this is more expensive but the end result is well worth the extra money.
Corian Worktops
These use a mix of acrylic resins to create one piece installations for any part of the kitchen. If you’re looking for unusual shapes and designs, it’s the perfect material to try and comes in a variety of stunning colours. Maintenance is low and any scratches can be easily sanded out and repaired. However, it can be a little on the expensive side.
Stainless Steel
Should you want your kitchen to look modern and functional like all the best restaurants, a little stainless steel will work wonders. Not only is it resistant to heat, it’s easy to clean and perfect for areas like the sink or food preparation. While it’s more expensive than you might think, it is long lasting and durable and should retain its sheen for a good time to come.
Glass Worktops
These have become increasingly popular over the last few years and certainly do add a touch of decadence to any kitchen design. They’re good for areas around the sink or for decorating that all-important breakfast bar and will quickly add a modern feel to your design. The glass is specially toughened and can be cut to practically any shape you like.
Granite Worktops
Those looking for the sublime colour of natural stone often look at something like granite to use for their worktops. Like composite materials, you’re getting something that is durable and hardwearing. It can, however, have trouble with stains such as wine or citrus liquids so some care is needed.
Granite can be cut into a variety of shapes with today’s modern machinery and is a luxury end product that is going to cost significantly more than most other worktops. Having said that, after the initial treatment, it’s fairly easy to maintain and it looks fabulous.
Laminate Worktops
Often seen as the budget option, laminate worktops have come on leaps and bounds over the last decade or so. They’re great for food preparation and work well on areas around cookers and hobs and they can practically mimic almost any other kind of worktop you could mention.
Easy to cut and fit, laminate may not be as durable as granite or even wood, but it is fairly low cost and looks good as long as it’s installed professionally. It’s also a decent option if you have a particularly busy kitchen area.