This kitchen is very much the wife’s domain. She led the charge when briefing the principal designer at Picchio Interiors, Anna Wood. “She wanted a kitchen with the functionality to make a busy lifestyle with three kids easier, that also exuded enough warmth and charm to feel like a daily sanctuary,” says Anna. With an adjoining pantry as the workhorse in the background, the kitchen could operate as a showpiece and a place for entertaining. And that’s where the hidden bar comes in…

Peek inside the hidden bar

Hidden behind closed doors is another highlight. “My clients are very social people and when they requested a designated place to store their glassware and spirit bottles we decided on a concealed bar with retractable doors,” says Anna. The wall inside features metallic gold hexagonal mosaic tiles from Earp Bros, which adds a surprise dash of sparkle.

“We thought it would be fun to use bold materiality behind the doors of the secret bar nook”

Anna Wood, designer

The homeowners are thrilled with the result. “They love the vast feeling of space, the functionality, the huge amount of storage so that their kitchen is now clutter-free, how the design style reflects their personality. And of course the hidden bar!”

(If your kitchen isn’t large enough for its own hidden bar, try one of these bar carts instead!)

Marble benchtop and splashback

A large island topped with Carrara marble from CDK Stone is a standout feature. “We wanted to use a single slab to let the unique veining of the stone take centre stage,” says Anna. With ample storage elsewhere, overhead cupboards were forgone. This allows the rangehood to command attention. It has a flared silhouette with a skirt around the base. This is made from the same marble as the benchtop and splashback.

Stylish task lighting

“A variety of light sources and quality fittings and fixtures is a must,” says Anna. She selected ‘Boston’ functional double arm wall lights from The Montauk Lighting Co in Hand-Rubbed Antique Brass for
ambient lighting. “Wall sconces or LED strip lighting enable a client to dial up or down the light depending on the time of day, task or mood,” she adds.

Joinery, finishes and hardware

Shaker-style joinery adds timeless style. Timber grain cabinets from Farmers Doors were chosen for the kitchen and pantry. In the kitchen, the finishes are Porter’s Paints Black Cockatoo and Dulux Natural White. These are paired with ‘Brass Solid Knurled T Bar’ handles in Satin Brass by Forge Hardware Studio and Meir tapware in Tiger Bronze. The bar stools are by Rachel Donath.

Inside the butler’s pantry

In the pantry, cabinets in Dulux Natural White have a 2-pac finish, with a woven brass mesh insert on the overhead cabinets. Caesarstone Palm Shade was used on the benchtop beside a splashback of penny round honed marble tiles in Ming Green from National Tiles.

Interior design: Picchio Interiors, picchio.com.au.
Builder: Glenvill Homes, glenvillhomes.com.au.
Cabinetry: Clamor Cabinets, clamorcabinets.com.au.

Source book

The post Can you keep a secret? This kitchen has a hidden bar appeared first on Home Beautiful.

How do sparkling water makers work?

Most sparkling water makers have two main components: a freestanding cylindrical machine that sits on benchtops and a bottle that attaches to the machine. Some sparkling water makers need to be plugged in to power outlets, while others are cordless. It might seem like magic that takes still water and turns it into a sparkling delight, but it’s simple science. Once the bottle of water is attached to the machine, a carbon dioxide cylinder releases gas into the liquid, leading to carbonation (in other words, creating bubbles). As long as you keep the cap on securely, your drink should remain fizzy for up to two weeks.

How much does a sparkling water maker cost?

Depending on the style you purchase, a sparkling water maker can set you back as little as $50 or up to $499, according to Choice. The gas cylinder usually costs around $35, but most companies, such as SodaStream, offer exchange programs. This means that if you return your old cylinder, you can get a new one for $20 instead of the usual retail price. If you want to add flavoured syrups to your sparkling water, this will of course increase the cost.

Our picks of the best sparkling water maker

01

Aarke Carbonator 3 in Copper

$299, Aarke

Best for: Colour options

The Aarke Carbonator 3 is a versatile sparkling water maker, designed to suit any kitchen with colour options in glossy and matte shades. The appliance is also very slim, making it suitable for kitchens of all sizes (especially those with little bench or cupboard space). We love the Copper option for the little touch of luxe and warmth it can bring to your room.

Sizes: 41.4cm (H) x 15.3 cm (W) x 25.8cm (D)

Colours: Matte Grey, Steel, Copper, Gold, Matte White, Sand and Matte Black

Materials: Stainless steel, premium PET non-toxic plastic

Key features:

• Slim and compact design
• Available in seven colours
• Compatible with standard Australian and New Zealand CO2 cylinders
• Carbonates up to 60L of water per gas cylinder
• 800mL bottle included
• Gas cylinder is not included

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02

Breville InFizz Fusion in Brushed Stainless Steel

$299, Breville

Best for: Carbonating a wide range of drinks, not just water.

Why stop at carbonating water? Thanks to Breville’s InFizz Fusion, there’s no limit on the bubbles you can create in liquids. From juice to tea, cocktails to wine and even soft drinks that have gone flat, this sparkling water maker does it all. It also comes with a two-year warranty for ease of mind.

Sizes: 43cm (H) x 15cm (W) x 26cm (D)

Colours: Brushed Stainless Steel, Black Truffle and Sea Salt

Materials: Stainless steel, BPA-free bottles

Key features:

• Stainless steel cap and base
• Magnetic stainless steel to keep the drip tray in place
• Die-cast lever
• Easy twist and lock system with an ergonomic ring pull
• 1L bottle included
• Availabe in three colours

Shop Now

03

SodaStream Art Sparkling Water Maker in Black

$169, Myer

Best for: Fast and easy cylinder insertion.

This SodaStream sparkling water maker has a sleek and classic design with a lever that evokes retro charm. Available in black and white, each with a stainless steel trim, this appliance is versatile and looks at home in any kitchen. It’s also cordless, which makes it all the more convenient.

Sizes: 18.4cm (W) x 29.7cm (D) x 44.4cm (H)

Colours: Black and White

Materials: Stainless steel trim and BPA-free carbonation bottle

Key features:

• Slim retro design
• Quick connect technology for easy cylinder insertion
• Cordless
• Dishwasher safe bottle
• BPA-free carbonation bottles

Shop Now

04

Philips GoZero Soda and Sparkling Water Maker in Black

$109, Myer

Best for: Built-in safety relief valve.

Ease and convenience is what the Philips GoZero Sparkling Water Maker is all about. It doesn’t need electricity to work, meaning you don’t need to place it near an outlet and it functions in three easy steps: fill the bottle, twist it in place and press the button! It also comes with a safety guarantee, thanks to the built-in safety relief valve which automatically releases the pressure inside the bottle.

Sizes: 24cm (D) x 12.5cm (W) x 42.4cm (H)

Colours: Black and White

Materials: Stainless steel, plastic and BPA-free PET bottle

Key features:

• Safety guarantee
• Cordless
• 2-year warranty
• Stainless steel drip tray
• Compact design

Shop Now

05

Aarke Carbonator Pro in Steel

$499, Aarke

Best for: Stainless steel design.

If you want to avoid black in your kitchen appliances, this is the perfect sparkling water maker for you. The Aarke carbonator pro in Steel gives a modern stainless steel appeal to your room. Also available in Sand, a matte neutral beige shade, this design is compact and comes with a glass bottle. Simply push the bottle inside the sparkling water maker to lock it in place.

Sizes: 50.2cm (H) x 17.3cm (W) x 29.6cm (D)

Colours: Steel, Sand and Matte Black

Materials: Stainless steel and glass

Key features:

• Glass bottle
• Dishwasher safe
• Cordless
• Unique push-to-lock feature
• Carbonates up to 60L of water per gas cylinder
• Compatible with standard Australian and New Zealand CO2 cylinders

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06

SodaStream Duo Sparkling Water Machine in Metallic Black

$299, Myer

Best for: Dual bottles for indoor and outdoor use

The SodaStream duo is designed to suit Aussie lifestyles, which effortlessly blend the interior and exterior zones. The sparkling water maker comes with a 1L glass bottle (intended for indoor use) and a 1L plastic bottle (intended for outdoor use and on-the-go convenience). The compact design can fit in any kitchen cupboard, while the aesthetic is intended to suit any interior style. It even features a stainless steel flask into which the bottles are placed.

Sizes: 44cm (H) x 15.8cm (W) x 31cm (D)

Colours: Metallic Black

Materials: Stainless steel, glass and plastic bottles

Key features:

• Dishwasher safe
• 1L glass bottle and 1L plastic bottle
• Cordless
• Dual carbonation system
• Quick Connect technology
• Stainless steel flask

Shop Now

07

SodaStream Art Sparkling Water Maker in Misty Blue

$149 (usually $179), Minimax

Best for: Beautiful bright blue hue.

If you like to collect kitchen appliances that are as stylish as they are functional, the SodaStream art sparkling water maker in Misty Blue is absolutely perfect for you. This machine has all the convenience of Quick Connect technology, sleek design and cordless power, but it’s also a delight to look at thanks to the powder blue shade it is made in. The retro-inspired lever adds even more charm.

Sizes: 43.1cm (H) x 16.9cm (W) x 24.5cm (D)

Colours: Misty Blue

Materials: Stainless steel trim and BPA-free carbonation bottle

Key features:

• Blue colour
• Cordless
• Retro-inspired design
• Quick Connect technology
• Dishwasher safe bottle
• BPA-free bottle

Shop Now

08

Philips Micro X-Clean Filtration Sparkling Water Station

$699, Myer

Best for: Dual function.

Why buy a sparkling water maker that only creates sparkling water when you can buy one with a dual function that provides you with hot water as well? The Philips Micro X-Clean Filtration Sparkling Water Station serves so many functions in one. It creates lovely, bubbly sparkling water with a cordless carbonating process, while also cooling and filtering water. Best of all, it even has instant heating technology so you can enjoy a hot beverage, all in the one machine.

Sizes: 44.8cm (D) x 20cm (W) x 40.8cm (H)

Colours: Black

Key features:

• Ultra silent technology
• Instant heating
• Dual function
• Reduces chlorine, limescale, heavy metals and microplastics
• Cordless
• 2 year warranty
• Temperature settings

Shop Now

The post The best sparkling water maker: our top 8 picks appeared first on Home Beautiful.

While we’re not ready to throw plant-based milks out of the equation completely (because, after all, we still need our coffee…) – in the name of health and saving our hard-earned cash – finding ways to make our own nut milk is intriguing. But the question is, how do you make your own nut milk?

How do you make your own soy or nut milk?

Making your own nut milk at home is actually rather simple – with a short ingredient list (water and your preferred nut) and a bit of bravery, you’ll have fresh nut milk ready to be enjoyed.

Traditionally, making nut milk consists of the use of a heavy-duty blender to blend up your nuts and water and then sifting or squeezing this blended ‘nut mix’ through a fine strainer or cheesecloth to reveal silky-smooth (ish) nut milk. This process sounds simple – and is simple – but it can get messy. That’s why we have specialised nut milk makers to help us.

With the help of specialised nut-milk-making appliances (like the ones we’ll get to below), homemade nut milk can be ready at the touch of a button in less than five minutes. And with some models offering self-cleaning modes, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made your own nut milks all this time.

The best soy milk makers 2024

01

Vegan Revolution nut milk maker

$157.19 at Amazon

This nut milk maker by Vegan Revolution is popular amongst plant-based milk enthusiasts. This four-in-one unit will help you easily create non-dairy milk at home – choose from one of its preset programs, and you’re good to go. The Vegan Revolution nut milk maker features no frills, easy-to-use buttons so you can make your favourite recipes without a hitch.

Key features:

• 4-in-1 machine
• Simple intuitive button operation

Shop Now

02

SoyaJoy G5 8-in-1 milk maker

$199 at Amazon

The SoyaJoy G5 is more than a nut milk maker. You can create soy milk from soaked or dry beans, as well as other nut milks, raw blends, porridge, pureed soups and more. It features a capacious 1.6L cooking chamber crafted from stainless steel that is long-lasting and durable. Plus, with its intelligent sensors, you can rest assured that your precious nut milk creation will never boil over.

Key features:

• Stainless steel 1.6L cooking chamber
• 8-in-1 multi-maker – make soy milk from dry or soaked soybeans, nut milk, raw blends, porridge, pureed soups, and more.
• Precision grinding funnel for maximal extraction
• Intelligent sensors

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03

Joyoung soy milk maker

$285 at Amazon

Joyoung is known for its high-quality soy milk makers, and this unit is no exception. Designed to create an array of different drink recipes from soy milk to porridge, you can master your own recipe easily with this intuitive unit. Praised for its quiet operation and silky-smooth milks by reviews on Amazon, this Joyoung soy milk maker is a high-quality option that is well worth considering.

Key features:

• Touchscreen display
• Preset recipe functions
• Portable design

Shop Now

04

Chef’n nut milk maker

$57.66 at Amazon

Making your plant-based milks at home doesn’t need to be complicated – and this simple nut-milk maker from Chef’n is here to prove just that. Featuring a high-quality reusable filter and carafe, simply blend your preferred nuts in a separate blender and filter it with the Chef’n nut milk maker to reveal silky-smooth nut milk, ready to enjoy. Plus, it comes with a snap-on leak-proof silicone lid, so you can keep it in the fridge easily, too.

Key features:

• Snap on leak-proof silicone lid
• Easy to transport and store in fridge
• Reusable filter

Shop Now

05

Nutmixr oat, nut and soy milk maker

$269 (usually $349) at Nutmixr

Turn raw ingredients into delicious plant-based milk in minutes with this small but mighty nut milk maker from Nutmixr. Whether you prefer oat, rice, soy, or coconut milk with your coffee, this unit can create fresh plant-based milk in just under five minutes. Plus, there is also a heat mode to make rice or soy milk.

The Nutmixr nut milk maker will help you create healthier, homemade nut milks that are free from preservatives, gums and/or oils (which are often found in packaged nut milks).

Key features:

• Make nut milks in just under 5 minutes
• Self cleaning mode
• Heat mode for soy or rice milks

Shop Now

Is it worth it to make your own soy milk?

As mentioned, making your own soy milk is a lot easier than you think – with the help of a handy nut milk maker, of course. And like all homemade recipes, making your own soy milk means you know there are no ‘nasties’ like preservatives or additives. Plus, as the raw ingredient of soybeans are relatively affordable, you can make a large volume of soy milk for the same price of small carton of a supermarket-branded soy milk. In conclusion, it’s worth it to make your own soy milk if you have the right tools to do so.

Is a soy milk maker worth it?

Whether a kitchen appliance or gadget is ‘worth it’ depends on personal preference and needs. If you drink soy milk (or other plant-based milks) regularly, you may find that creating your own soy milk is not only nutritious but also cost-saving (bar the initial investment of the machine). Thus, making a soy milk maker is worth your money. However, if you dabble in plant-based milk on occasion, the up-front investment of a machine may not be worth it.

Related article:

• The clever way you can clean your blender without taking it apart

The post 5 nut milk makers that are just so(y) good appeared first on Home Beautiful.

How to choose the right benchtop material

Whatever your lifestyle, the kitchen is a highly trafficked zone, so finding the right material is crucial. Danielle Bonello-Dunsford, founder and principal designer of Danielle Victoria Design Studio, encourages owners to think of it as an investment. “You want to be able to cook without worrying about damaging the benchtop,” she says. “All materials mark and scratch, however, choosing a hardwearing surface is a key factor in the design selection.”

Different materials suit many different applications, so before you get swept away choosing a colour, consider how your kitchen is used. Most materials are durable and hard-wearing, but some require a little more care than others.

Budgeting for your benchtop

Cost is a big consideration, not just for the material but also for installation. Porcelain, for example, requires specialised tradespeople.

“Because it is so hard and dense, if it was dropped, it would just shatter,” says Prue Gordon, interior architect at Melbourne’s Bryant Alsop Architects.

“It needs special tools to cut it and stonemasons who are happy working with engineered stone are not necessarily happy cutting porcelain.” Always make sure your estimate includes installation before you sign on the line.

Matching your benchtop to your home’s style

The final step is finding a look you’ll love. Prue Gordon of Bryant Alsop Architects, takes her benchtop lead from the flooring.

“It’s a case of who’s using the kitchen, whether there are kids, and what the home’s design style is,” she says.

Consider too, how the colour and finish will flow throughout your home, a factor particularly important in an open-plan zone.

Kitchen benchtop materials compared (with pricing)

1. Natural stone benchtop materials

The beauty of stone – such as Statuarietto marble or Juparana granite – is as a natural material, each slab is unique. This materials provides a luxurious, striking and timeless look to your kitchen.

Marble is popular but it’s easily stained by things such as red wine, vinegar, coffee, spices (hello, turmeric!). This is due to its porous nature meaning sealing is required to prevent staining and heat damage. However, Neolith offers benchtops that are made from sintered stone, not quarried stone, resulting in minimal maintenance and no sealing.

“Unlike quarried stone, Neolith does not involve direct mining from the earth,” explains Kate Deakin-Bell, marketing manager at Neolith. “Instead, we source high-quality minerals and combine them in a carbon-neutral environment to create Neolith surfaces. Our production process is highly sustainable: we recycle waste by reusing discarded content, utilise up to 98% recycled water, and capture any carbon produced during manufacturing to reuse as an energy source. In essence, Neolith encapsulates the best properties of every natural stone and marble, all within a single, eco-friendly surface product that is much gentler on the earth and far more resistant.”

When it comes to maintenance, cleaning is incredibly easy. “You can use standard surface sprays or a simple mixture of soap and warm water. For tougher stains, we highly recommend using products from The Pink Stuff, which works exceptionally well,” adds Kate Deakin-Bell.

The finish for either marble benchtops or stone benchtops can be gloss (polished) or honed (matt) and it’s best to visit the warehouse and choose the slab you want so you know exactly what you’re getting.

Cost of natural stone benchtop materials

Since natural stone is at the higher end of the price range, interior designer Danielle Dunsford suggests contrasting it with another material, “so that your natural stone island pops and becomes the feature.”

Pricing depends on where the stone is from, what type it is and the thickness of the slab. Neolith ranges from $300/sqm to $700/sqm. Marble ranges from $800 to $2200 per square metre and granite from about $700 to $1700 per square metre, including installation, but will attract additional costs for cuts for undermount sinks, where edges need to be carefully finished. A sink cut-out usually costs $250 and drainage grooves about $350.

2. Stainless steel benchtop materials

Stainless steel gives a sleek, minimalist and modern look to a kitchen. As an alloy of iron that has been treated to be rust-resistant, it is also heat- and stain-resistant, and flexible enough to be shaped however you desire.

The material is very hard-wearing and hygienic, which is why it’s used in restaurant kitchens. Splashbacks and sinks can be completely integrated, so there’s no cracks for nasties to loiter in. Going for high-grade, thicker stainless steel benches mean they can be re-polished every five to 10 years, giving you the look of a brand new benchtop. “I love stainless steel, but you have to be the type of person who’s happy with the little scratches after a couple of years,” said Prue Gordon.

As far as daily maintenance goes, Kylie Forbes, creative director of Cantilever Interiors says, “It needs a wet, then dry cloth to soak any water marks. A feature that can be polarising is the patina that it attracts over time. Fine scratches develop, but with time settle into a worn-in feel.”

Cost of stainless steel benchtop materials

While stainless steel can be associated with more utilitarian looks, Kylie says, “introducing curves into the design enhances its softness”. It carries a premium price point, ranging from $1200 to $3600/lineal metre, including manufacture, supply and installation.

3. Polished concrete benchtop materials

Concrete benchtops are formed and poured on site, and considering their weight, you may require additional sub-floor structural work for support. However, they have a wonderfully raw finish (that’s now being imitated by other materials) and can even have heating built into them. Concrete benchtops also need to be sealed before using and finishes can vary from very rough to more refined, plus they can be coloured by tinting the mix.

Cost of polished concrete benchtop materials

This is definitely a project best done by professionals and will cost about $1000 to $1750 per square metre depending on the complexity of the formwork and the finish.

4. Timber benchtop materials

Timber benchtops, such as American Oak top, are formed from one solid length or pieces that have been laminated together (butcher’s block style). The surface of wooden/timber benchtops needs to be finished before using and, if oiled, will absorb spills. 

Warm and characterful, timber adds beautiful, organic appeal to the kitchen. Similar to the veining in stone, the grain of timber can create texture and visual interest. Style-wise, timber is a versatile material that can look equally at home in contemporary settings as well as country-style kitchens. As it can be painted or stained, it can suit a wide range of colour palettes, too. Another benefit is the patina – as timber acquires nicks and dents, it looks more unique and charming.

Bamboo benchtops are on the rise in the timber market. Hardwoods, like walnut, oak and beech are always popular, while native materials include blackbutt, spotted gum and jarrah. Kaboodle Kitchen mainly uses American oak and bamboo. As far as maintenance goes, Giorgia Manenti from Kaboodle Kitchen recommends resealing timber every two years. “This ensures they’re resistant to moisture and stains.”

The big advantage of this material is that every couple of years you can have it re-finished to remove any marks, and the benchtop will be as good as new.

Cost of timber benchtop materials

It depends on the type of timber you choose, and whether you go to a kitchen specialist, Bunnings or IKEA but prices range from $550 to $950 per square metre.

5. Engineered stone benchtop materials

Appearing under brand names including Caesarstone, Silestone, Quantum Quartz in Gobi Black and Essastone, engineered stone is made from mostly crushed quartz held together with resin. It is available in a variety of colours and finishes. It is also sold by the slab, which does limit its length to 3000mm. 

In 2024, a nation-wide ban was put in place, preventing persons from carrying out work on, or with engineered stone including manufacturing, supplying, processing and installing engineered stone. Here’s everything you need to know about engineered stone’s silicosis risk.

As a result of this ban, companies such as Cesarstone have committed to silica-free surfaces. Caesarstone’s mineral crystalline silica-free surfaces are made using natural minerals and recycled materials, such as glass.

Cost of engineered stone benchtop materials

Prices for Caesarstone’s mineral surfaces range from $650/sqm to $1350/sqm, including basic fabrication and installation. For porcelain, costs range from $700/sqm to $1050/sqm, including basic fabrication and installation.

6. Laminate benchtop materials

Laminate is incredibly customisable, so there’s no one classic look. The material involves layers of printed paper or fabric being infused with resin and then bonded together. The material is then glued to a particleboard or MDF substrate to form the laminate. Laminates are budget-friendly and offer a seemingly endless range of colours and finishes, including marble and stone-look that are almost as good as the real thing.

This material is generally easy to clean, requiring only a mild detergent and water. However, be sure not to use harsh or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the surface of the laminate.

“If you’re clever with your design, you can use laminates beautifully. Forget spending $8000 on a stone benchtop, let’s spend $1500 and do something amazing!,” said Brett Patterson.

Cost of laminate benchtop materials

Laminates are generally sold by the linear metre and in various widths (from 600mm to 1200mm), with prices from $120 per linear metre for a 600mm benchtop in a standard finish to $440 per lineal metre for a 1000mm to 1200mm benchtop in a premium finish.

7. Porcelain benchtop materials

Newly arrived on the benchtop scene, porcelain is marketed under the brand name Neolith. Made of powdered clay and coloured pigments and bonded together at very high temperatures, porcelain can be created with different textures, from glossy to matt, and can also be printed with finishes that resemble stone, timber, concrete and rusted metal. 

It is extremely dense and non-porous, plus it’s very resistant to heat, which means it’s great to use around cooktops. Another advantage is it can be used outdoors, so your alfresco kitchen can have the same look as indoors. 

Porcelain is made in larger slabs than engineered stone and in much thinner profiles. This taps into the current trend away from slab-like benchtops. However, it’s extremely heavy and you will need to work with your joiner to ensure cabinetry can take the weight.

Cost of porcelain benchtop materials

Roughly the same base cost as natural stone, but generally more for installation, as it requires specialist installers and tools.

The post 7 popular kitchen benchtop materials compared (with pricing) appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Often cheaper than natural marble and considered more durable because it’s scratch-resistant and less porous, engineered stone has been a handy alternative benchtop material. This is especially true in hardworking areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. While industry leaders are disappointed with the decision, it seems safe to say that Australia’s love affair with engineered stone is officially over.

When did the ban on engineered stone start?

The prohibition commenced on 1 July 2024. It prevents persons from carrying out work on, or with engineered stone including manufacturing, supplying, processing and installing engineered stone. The ban does not apply to the repair, minor modification, removal or disposal of engineered stone already installed.

Bunnings and IKEA have already removed engineered stone from shelves. Following the announcement of the ban on 14th November 2023, Safe Work Australia has welcomed the decision which it says will save lives and will begin work to draft amendments to Work Health and Safety Regulations prohibiting the use of engineered stone. Safe Work Australia will also develop a national framework to ensure the safety of anyone modifying or removing existing engineered stone products.

What happens to engineered stone products already specified?

Until the commencement of the prohibition of the use of engineered stone, workers and businesses can continue to work with the stone, “in a controlled way” says Safe Work Australia. These methods include protective equipment for workers and the use of a wet cutting system, dust extraction and appropriate ventilation at the work site.

Can we still use imported engineered stone?

Regardless of where engineered stone is manufactured, the fine dust produced when cutting, shaping or polishing the product puts workers at risk of developing silicosis. According to reports the federal government also plans to ban imported engineered stone, however, details are yet to be understood of how this will take effect.

What is silicosis?

Silicosis is a previously rare, long-term lung disease caused by inhaling a fine dust containing silica (also known as respirable crystalline silica, or RCS). Quartz is a type of crystalline silica. Silicosis can be fatal, while exposure to silica dust can also lead to lung cancer and other diseases. Once fabricated and installed in your home, however, engineered stone doesn’t pose any health risks.

Modelling by Curtin University predicts that up to 10,000 Australians will develop lung cancer, and 103,000 with silicosis, in their lifetime after inhaling silica dust. It’s estimated that more than half a million Aussies are currently exposed to it at work. This is why silica dust has been dubbed ‘the new asbestos’.

It’s not just workers that could be affected. Although their lifetime exposure will be lower, DIY renovators can now cut and install certain lightweight, silica-containing engineered stone products at home themselves.

Why was the engineered stone ban put in place?

Ministers agreed to the ban and it was announced on 14th December 2023. This came after federal, state and territory ministers asked Safe Work Australia to “scope out” what a ban would look like back in February 2023. Safe Work are now drafting amendments to regulations for workplaces to manage silica dust, and how to safely remove or demolish bench tops in the future. The national construction union, the CFMEU, welcomed the ban on engineered stone. They told the ABC the ban would save lives and, “stop the deadly scourge of silicosis in its tracks”.

In October 2023 Commonwealth, state and territory ministers met and agreed to Safe Work Australia publishing their findings. The Impact Statement provided an analysis of the regulatory impacts of a ban on engineered stone under WHS laws. This includes engineered stone containing 40% or more crystalline silica.

The report’s finding called for more stringent industry regulation and recommended a complete prohibition on the use of engineered stone. A total ban highlights the serious risk of silicosis posed by working with engineered stone (even those with 40% or more crystalline silica, for which there is no evidence to prove poses less risk to worker health and safety). It also urges persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs), including designers, importers and manufacturers, to eliminate or minimise the risks to workers and others when working with engineered stone.

Is banning engineered stone the answer?

“Banning engineered stone is absolutely the right decision because we have mountains of scientific evidence that demonstrate the product can’t be worked on safely,” says Kate Cole OAM, an engineer and scientist with a focus on crystalline silica. There are safety measures in place, she concedes. These include wet cutting, using tools that extract dust and wearing high-quality respiratory masks. The issue is that they’re not being adhered to by all players.

“Manufactured stone businesses are typically small-to-medium enterprises, or SMEs, with six to 10 workers on average. What we have seen over many years is poor safety standards adopted across the industry. Dry cutting is abominable, but even with wet cutting, the exposure (to silica dust) is still high. A line in the sand must be drawn.”

What are the alternatives to engineered stone?

Silica dust isn’t just found in engineered stone benchtops. It can also be present in natural stone, bricks, tiles, concrete, mortar and some plastic material. It’s the proportion of silica dust content that matters.

Marble, for example, contains 2% silica; granite typically contains 30%; sandstone contains between 70 and 95%. Engineered stone contains up to 97%. If you’re shopping for a new benchtop, choosing a stone with a lower percentage of silica will reduce the risk to workers.

For example:

• Cosentino’s engineered stone products Silestone Q10 and Q40 contain less than 10% and 40% crystalline silica, respectively.
• Caesarstone’s Porcelain range also boasts less than 40% silica.
• Timber, stainless steel and laminate contain little or no silica.

“There are lots of other alternatives,” says Kate. “If none of them will work, then there are low-silica products. At the end of the day, not using stone that contains a high amount of quartz is the real message here.” 

Further reading   

• safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/hazards/crystalline-silica-and-silicosis¹/prohibition-use-engineered-stone
• healthdirect.gov.au/silicosis
• cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/workplace-cancer/silica-dust
• curtin.edu.au/news/media-release/10000-aussie-workers-set-to-develop-lung-cancer-from-silica-dust-study/
• safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/hazards/crystalline-silica-and-silicosis
• abc.net.au/news/2023-02-28/silicosis-risk-engineered-stone-push-federal-government-ban/102031358
• theconversation.com/renovating-your-kitchen-help-australias-tradies-avoid-silicosis-by-not-choosing-artificial-stone-156208
• australianunions.org.au/2023/02/23/silica-dust-leads-to-death-sentences-for-workers/
• cosentino.com/en-au/news/cosentino-statement-on-silestone/
• caesarstone.com.au/caesarstone-health-safety/

The post Australia bans engineered stone benchtops: what you need to know appeared first on Home Beautiful.

From rustic terracotta tiles to smooth concrete, alluring veined marble or timber planks, there’s an endless variety of splashbacks for kitchens using materials, colours, finishes and layouts to dictate the overall style of the heart of your home. To achieve the splashback of your dreams, eschew mainstream styles and opt for a unique design that suits your home and lifestyle, plus expresses your personality. Read on to see our pick of popular kitchen splashback ideas making, well, a splash.

Marble Splashback

Home to two chefs, this kitchen has a charming aesthetic. “When a splashback is in a niche or enclosed space it can work well to fill the space with a splashback of the same material as the benchtop. In this case, the stone has been capped with shelves to create a dresser-like feel,” ~ Merlin Wright, design director of Plain English.

Sumptuous marble surfaces are a lesson in luxury. Case in point? The elegant marble splashbacks and benchtops in the Shaker-inspired kitchen of this New York apartment, streaked with eye-catching dark veining. Designed by British cabinetmaker Plain English, this Georgian-inspired kitchen fuses modern appliances – spot the Miele induction cooktop – with vintage finds and heritage design, such as the detailed brass hardware, handy styled shelving and Folgate cabinetry doused in a soft white hue. Grounded by dark timber flooring, which complements the marble tones, this serene space might just be the ‘America’s sweetheart’ of kitchen design.

Kitchen Window Splashback

The best kitchen splashback ideas push conventional design to incorporate form and function and this kitchen window splashback does just that. Using a clever mix of materials to introduce texture, the combination of louvred glass and sleek hardware shifts the focus to the outside, extending the lush green tones of the garden indoors. The elongated proportions of the window is reflected in cabinetry, extra-long marble subway tiles and drawer profiles for a seamless, elegant look.

Tile Splashback 

“Tiles are a great way to introduce current trends, and also add something entirely different to a kitchen,” says Charlotte Riggs of Bondi Kitchens & Joinery. The ceramic Vallelunga & Co ‘I-Sense’ tiles from Elite Bathware create a beautiful backdrop to this dark and moody kitchen on the Lower North Shore of Sydney. 

Charlotte Riggs, director of the team responsible for the design and joinery here, says: “Not only does the shape of the tile draw attention in a good way, but the horizontal layout creates length. And the small pops of colour with the flowers also soften the moodiness of the black.” Metallics and timber stools add extra layers of texture. The ceramic slabs used for this splashback are crafted using HD printing and modern ceramic techniques.

“These unique and bold tiles add a textural contrast to the shaker profile of the doors, and are the perfect example of making a traditional shaker kitchen a little more edgy,”

Charlotte of Bondi Kitchens & Joinery.

Subway Tile Splashback

A wraparound splashback delivers a sense of unity in this farmhouse-style kitchen designed by Light and Dwell. Reminiscent of shimmering scales, the smooth sea of glazed subway tiles creates a neutral scene where bold autumnal colours can reign supreme. Copper pots and pans hang from a brass rail, aged brass tapware and a duo of tactile pendant lights add character and visual harmony, while a vintage-style runner softens the space from the ground up.

Meanwhile, double candle wall sconces imbue the space with ambience and cosiness. In a large kitchen space like this, tiles laid horizontally create length. They could be stacked at a 45-degree angle to produce the illusion of movement in a tighter space.

Panelled Splashback

The tongue and groove splashback brings a handcrafted aesthetic into this sunlit, cottage kitchen designed by Plain English. “In this kitchen, the panelling adds visual interest and has been painted with a washable paint to make it the most minimal form of splashback,” says Merlin Wright of Plain English.

The long timber panels are painted in the brand’s Boiled Dishcloth shade of paint to allow the timber island and curved seats to steal centrestage, imbuing the room with pastel shades of mint green, sky blue and fairy floss pink. Two wooden shelves accented in Plain English’s Cotton Pinny hue run the length of the splashback (with the bottom shelf transitioning to metal as it passes over the cooker). Striped lampshades anchor each end of the long benchtop in the Georgian-inspired space.

The post Kitchen splashback ideas: everything you need to feed your senses appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Engineered stone benchtops are one of the most popular types of benchtops, and they’re renowned for being low-maintenance and easy care, continuing to shine like a brand new surface. Also known as quartz, engineered stone benchtops are made from quartz (or sometimes granite) granules, marble dust or glass chips mixed with a resin or polyester base. One of its biggest benefits is that it doesn’t scratch easily, although it is prone to the occasional chip, and it can stain if spills aren’t wiped up in a timely manner.

Some manufacturers of engineered stone sell a range of specialty cleaning products to keep your kitchen benchtops fresh, but there are also plenty of hacks that will help. From tried and true to new and innovative, here’s how to give your kitchen benchtop a little TLC from time to time.

How to clean up spills and spots

• Act fast to ensure they don’t leave a stain.
• Soak up spill and wipe away with paper towel.
• Wipe clean with a warm soapy cloth or use a specially formulated stone spray cleaner (such as Freedom’s Stone Daily Cleaner), cream cleanser or ready-to-use surface wipes.
• Buff with a clean, dry cloth.

Stains to be wary of

• Tumeric
• Red wine
• Pumpkin
• Pasta sauce
• Tandoori paste
• Permanent markers

Products that can damage engineered stone surfaces

• Bleach
• Nail polish remover.
• Oil-based soap bars and spray cleaners.
• Scourers or abrasive cleaners.
• Hot pots and roasting trays.

The post The secret to cleaning your stone benchtops appeared first on Home Beautiful.

And, if you buy your bread pre-sliced…it really doesn’t get easier than putting the slices in their designated slot in the toaster and waiting a few short minutes to be greeted with beautifully toasted bread. 

Whether it’s smashed avo on sourdough, a cream cheese and jam bagel, or a simple peanut butter and honey toast, ensuring your pieces of bread are toasted to perfection comes down to the very appliance at hand.

Which is better, a 2-slice or a 4-slice toaster?

A popular question many have when choosing a toaster is whether to go for a two-slice or a four-slice toaster. 

If you live in a single or two-person household, a two-slice toaster may be substantial enough for everyday use. However, if you live in a larger household, we’d recommend going for a four-slice toaster to save yourself the stress (and time spent waiting) in the morning.

But what if you only want two slices of toast in the morning? Wouldn’t a four-slice toaster be a waste of electricity and energy? Fret not, most four-slice toasters can be used in a similar manner as a two-slice toaster.

A four-slice toaster often has separate controls for each ‘pair’. This means you can use only two slots if that’s all you need, or if you need to toast a bagel longer than sourdough, for example, you can attend to both at the same time. 

Apart from capacity, there are no major differences between a two-slice and a four-slice toaster. But, if you are short on cupboard or kitchen counter space, a two-slice toaster may be more suitable.

The best 4-slice toasters to shop in Australia 2024

01

The Smart Toast (4-slice), Breville

$249

Mornings are made easier for the entire household with the Smart Toast four-slice toaster from Breville. Featuring four extra wide slots to suit a variety of bread and pastries and innovative auto features such as ‘A Bit More’ and ‘Lift And Look’, this unit will offer flawless toasting every time.

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02

DeLonghi Ballerina 4-slice toaster in Laguna Green, The Good Guys

$134

Prepare English muffins and frozen waffles with this elegant toaster from DeLonghi. With a removable crumb tray and high lift functionality, it’s a solid pick for any kitchen. Plus, we can’t get over its glossy ribbed design that is inspired by Venetian glasswork.

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03

Dualit Newgen 4-slice toaster in copper, David Jones

$474 (usually $549)

When we think of toasters…Dualit comes to mind. Designed and hand-built in England, the Dualit Newgen four-slice toaster features the brand’s unique patented ProHeat elements with a protective ‘amour-plated’ layer that covers the filaments. It’s a unit made for serious toast enjoyers.

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04

Artisan 4-slice automatic toaster in Pistachio, KitchenAid

$249 (usually $299)

KitchenAid is always here to add a pop of colour to your kitchen, and this time we’re obsessed with this pale pistachio-hued four-slice toaster. Golden pieces of toast and crumpets at the touch of a button – what more could you want? The Artisan four-slice toaster features seven shade settings, extra-wide slots and multi-function buttons such as keep warm, crumpet, defrost and reheat. Our favourite part is its motorised lift button that gently lowers and raises your bread and its ability to save personalised recipes.

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05

Sunbeam Simply Shine 4-slice toaster in cream, The Good Guys

$89

The Sunbeam Simply Shine four-slice toaster has variable browning control so you can make your perfect slice, every morning. With an easy-to-use dial control and rounded beige finish, this toaster will look right at home in any modern kitchen.

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06

DeLonghi Icona Capitals 4-slice toaster in Sydney White, The Good Guys

$149

Whether you like your bread lightly toasted or you prefer it crispy brown, the DeLonghi Icona Capitals four-slice toaster allows you to make your toast to your taste with its variable browning control. Plus, with its integrated cord storage compartment and non-slip feet, it means you can have this unit on display (if your kitchen benchtop allows), or tuck it away neatly in your cupboard.

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07

Russell Hobbs Brooklyn 4-slice toaster in black, Myer

$87.20 (usually $109)

In a sleek black and stainless steel finish, the Brooklyn toaster is a modern addition to your kitchen (and your morning routine). And, if you’re always finding yourself fishing for your pieces of bread, its high-lift function means you can easily transport your toasted goodies to your plate – just one less thing to worry about when it comes to making your next avocado toast.

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How do you pick a good toaster?

Choosing a toaster for your kitchen will depend on a variety of factors, such as frequency of use and capacity. If you have a large family to cater to, especially in the morning, then a four-slice toaster, in our opinion, is a must. Moreover, the slot size must be big enough for the bread you like to toast. If you love artisan loaves, finding a toaster with thicker and longer slots is worth considering.

Besides choosing from a two-slice and a four-slice toaster and ensuring the slots are big enough for your needs, below are a few other factors to consider to ensure you pick the perfect toaster for you.

• Settings: make sure your toaster has adjustable browning settings
• Even toasting: Look for dual-sided toasting elements
• Ease of cleaning: Look for crumb trays for easy cleaning
• Safety features: Auto shut-off or cancel buttons, and cool-touch exteriors are essential

The post 7 best four-slice toasters that are made for busy households appeared first on Home Beautiful.

How do you care for and maintain timber benchtops? 

“A timber benchtop needs to be sealed when installed, and recoated when the coating starts to wear off,” advises Luke. “Timber benchtops are more vulnerable to scratches, chipping and staining so it’s important to be attentive when it comes to maintaining and using the surface.”

There’s also the option to sand and reseal kitchen benchtops down the track. “To ensure that your worktop ages gracefully, treat it regularly with wood treatment oil,” suggests Daniel. “It gives the surface a beautiful sheen, protects the wood and prolongs the life of the worktop.” Once your timber benchtop’s in use, always ensure spills are wiped up straight away, says Daniel.

How do you prevent marking or staining a timber benchtop? 

“Timber benchtops are softer than other benchtop materials, making them more vulnerable to scratches, chipping and staining. So it’s important to be aware of maintaining the surface to ensure longevity,” says Luke. “To prevent water damage, wipe up any sitting water after use.”

“Also refrain from placing anything too hot directly onto the timber surface,” he warns. “Ensure that the timber remains sealed and that the coating hasn’t worn away, to maintain durability.”

“Keep your worktop looking as good as new by using a chopping board and a heat mat (trivet) to protect the surface from heat and cut marks,” Daniel suggests.

What types of wood are used to make timber benchtops? 

Depending on the look you’re after, there are countless natural timbers to choose from. Bunnings alone (including the Kaboodle range) offers almost 50 different styles, with bamboo and timber variations in wood, depth, size and finishes.

Hardwoods such as walnut, oak and beech are popular as they’re strong and durable. Jarrah also has a high resistance to weather, rot and termites so can be used outdoors, too.

“Oak is an exceedingly strong and durable hardwood with a prominent grain,” says Daniel. “It darkens beautifully with age acquiring a golden-brown undertone.”

Made with a focus on sustainability, IKEA timber worktops are finished with a 3-millimetre layer of solid wood, which covers a particleboard core, making the benchtop feel and look the same as solid wood. “With this technique, we can create new unique expressions and use less wood, which reduces the impact on the environment,” says Daniel.

The post The pros and cons of a timber benchtop appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Yes, we’re talking about pizza. And no, we’re not talking about the greasy take-out option (though there is a time and place for a takeaway pizza). We mean pizza that is fresh, delicious, and, well, homemade.

That’s where an electric pizza oven comes to the rescue. Be prepared to wow your guests – every time – with the help of this kitchen must-have. And if you love the idea of choosing your favourite toppings and creating the most exceptional pizzas of all time – right in your backyard, no less – then you’re at the right place. Below, we’ve picked out the best electric pizza ovens that deserve a spot on your kitchen benchtop this season (and beyond).

The best electric pizza ovens 2024

01

Breville the Smart Oven Pizzaiolo

$999 at The Good Guys

Best for: replicating wood-fired pizzas

The Smart Oven Pizzaiolo by Breville offers brick oven performance all in a compact electric benchtop oven. Its Element iQ system steers power to wherever it is needed, so optimum cooking performance is always achieved. It mimics the three types of heat generated from a wood-fired pizza oven (conductive heat for base charring, radiant heat for leopard-spotted crusts, and convective heat for perfectly baked toppings), so you can enjoy wood-fired styled pizzas sans the bulky outdoor brick pizza oven.

Key features:

• Element IQ system that adjusts heating elements to ensure your pizza is cooked to perfection
• Three heat types generated – conductive, radiant, and convective – to mimic wood-fired pizza
• Preset cooking functions available
• Manual mode for fully customisable recipes
• Double-pane heat-resistant front window

Also available at:

• $1199 from Breville
• $999 from Bing Lee
• $899 from David Jones
• $899 from Amazon

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02

Cusinart Pizzeria Pro pizza oven

$379 at The Good Guys

Best for: large family-sized pizzas

Pizza night is on the agenda thanks to Cuisinart’s easy-to-use electric pizza oven. Baking pizzas up to 30cm, this oven features a ceramic pizza stone that provides even heat distribution to ensure perfectly crispy crusts are a constant. Plus, with its viewing window and interior lights, you can watch the magic happen, too.

Key features:

• 170 – 380 degrees Celsius temperature range
• Ceramic pizza stone
• Bakes pizzas up to 30 cm
• Independent timer and auto shut-off capabilities

Also available at:

• $429 from Myer

Shop now

03

Ooni Volt 12 electric pizza oven

$1499 at Ooni

Best for: pizza enthusiasts

When we talk about pizza ovens, Ooni is a brand that is often top of mind. Ooni is known for its stellar lineup of outdoor pizza ovens, but did you know they also offer an electric pizza oven too? The Volt 12 is Ooni’s only electric pizza oven offering, and it does not disappoint. Versatile for both indoor and outdoor use, this unit features a triple-paned borosilicate glass door, adjustable dials that control top and bottom elements, and a generous 33cm cooking area. So, if you’re serious about your pizzas and looking to enjoy restaurant-quality pizza at home, investing in the Volt 12 electric pizza oven is a great idea.

Key features:

• Heat-retaining triple-paned borosilicate glass door
• Adjustable dials to control top and bottom elements
• Fits on a standard kitchen countertop
• Generous 33cm cooking area
• Reaches 450 degrees Celsius in 20 minutes

Available at:

• $1499 from Ooni Australia – comes with 5 year warranty
• $1499 from The BBQ Store

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04

Cozze 13″ pizza oven

$549 at Amazon

Best for: modern kitchens

Summer is not complete without a balmy afternoon spent on your patio or garden. Better yet? With a refreshing beverage in hand while you wait for a freshly baked pizza to indulge in. The Cozze 13″ pizza oven is portable, easy-to-use, and can make delicious pizzas for large get-togethers or just for one. Plus, its sleek white finish makes it a modern addition to any kitchen.

Key features:

• 3 electric heating zones will heat up your pizza oven in 20 minutes
• Digital temperature gauge
• Portable design
• Designed for pizzas up to 34cm
• No assembly required

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05

Baccarat The Gourmet Slice XL pizza oven

$169.99 at Amazon

Best for: Those looking for an affordable option

For under $200, this pizza oven from Baccarat is almost too good to be true. Constructed from premium steel with a removable ceramic baking stone that ensures even heat distribution, you’ll always have delightful, restaurant-quality pizza. Plus, it’s a great option for get-togethers as it can make delicious pizzas that are up to 40cm in diameter in less than five minutes.

Key features:

• XL 40cm capacity
• Simple dial system to set temperatures for top and base that reach up to 400 degrees Celcius
• Made from premium steel with a removable ceramic baking stone
• Tempered glass viewing window

Also available at:

• $349.99 from MyHouse
• $169.99 from Kogan

Shop now

Are electric pizza ovens any good?

Not everyone has the luxury (or space) of installing an outdoor pizza oven in their backyard. That’s where an electric pizza oven comes in. They’re portable, easy-to-use and compact. And with electric pizza ovens nowadays mimicking the cooking methods of traditional wood-fired pizza ovens, achieving deliciously authentic homemade pizzas is possible. In short, electric pizza ovens are just as good as wood-fired or gas-powered pizza ovens, creating results that are pretty much identical.

Related articles:

• A buyer’s guide to the best ovens for every type of home cook
• These are the best air fryers for satisfying and easy weeknight dinners

The post 6 exceptional electric pizza ovens that are perfect for summer entertaining appeared first on Home Beautiful.

There’s nothing ‘black and white’ about monochrome kitchens these days. The design world has moved on a little from the chessboard lewk, so think ‘marle’ (yes, like the sweaters), greige (grey meets beige), almost-black (such as Dulux Domino) and every shade in between. Mixing textures will add depth, such as natural stone, VJ panelling, stainless steel and sheer curtains.  

Check out these inspirational kitchens for tips on how to carry off the monochrome vibe with catwalk prowess.

A monochrome kitchen shines with a marble island bench

Luxe Carrara marble from Gladstones Granite evokes a stormy sky in this Melbourne kitchen, above, in a renovated home that was built in the Spanish Costa Del Sol style. The 2-pac cabinetry is in Dulux Natural White and the Grazia & Co ‘Dita’ stools add a black accent to this calm, monochrome kitchen.

Dark cabinets add texture to this monochrome kitchen

The fluted cabinets in this striking kitchen on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, above, work harmoniously with the island bench of Calacatta Statuario marble, which sits on a Scandinavian Profile base in Dulux Mt Aspiring.

A dark and moody home bar to die for

Technically, this is a home bar (above) and not a kitchen per se, but the edgy joinery in Dulux Monument paired with a dramatic Talostone bench in Super White meant it deserved a place in our list. The rest of the home adheres to this magic monochrome scheme, allowing artworks and soft furnishings to shine.

A Hamptons-inspired kitchen in Perth with depth and drama

‘Hamptons’ doesn’t always mean white, as seen in this striking Perth kitchen, above. The dark cabinets are finished with Polytec Thermolaminate in ‘Tempest’, while the Polytec ‘Venette’ cabinetry in Ultra White is sleek and pure matte. Kethy ‘Fornel’ gold handles give the kitchen a Midas touch, contrasting with a Franke sink in Onyx. Herringbone marble tiles pull it all together.

A practical black and white kitchen with a Tuckey table

A bespoke Mark Tuckey dining table is the hero of this monochrome kitchen (above): because it’s on castors it can be easily moved to the island bench, making the bench super-sized. Takahashi Asako ‘170’ dining chairs from Curious Grace complement the dark floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, from New Age Veneers in ‘Smoked Ash’.

A cosy kitchen is given a striking monochrome makeover

The challenge for interior designer Chelsea Hing was to incorporate a living zone, pantry and cooking space into a compact but chic kitchen (above). She succeeded, including a luxurious honed Carrara marble benchtop, Corporate Culture ‘Caravaggio P2’ pendant lights, stainless steel workspace, dark cabinetry and whitewashed timber floors.

The post 7 great ideas for a monochrome kitchen appeared first on Home Beautiful.

It worked, but times have changed and we’ve realised not everyone wants the same thing from their kitchen space. Just as some people love to entertain guests and others happily spend hours baking up a solitary storm, so too will their dream kitchens have quite different needs.

Enter the ‘zone’ method, a more versatile approach that allows a kitchen to be customised to suit the specific needs of each home chef. If you’re planning a kitchen layout, zoning is a practical way to go. Here are five different zones to consider, plus the top appliances and tricks to tailor them to your exact needs.

The cooking zone

One of the fundamentals of every great kitchen, the cooking zone usually comprises an oven, cooktop and microwave. You might stack them vertically with the oven sitting under the cooktop, or you may prefer to separate them so the oven can be mounted at a custom height. Either way, allow plenty of bench space around these appliances and keep frequently used cooking utensils stored within easy reach.

When planning your cooking zone, be realistic about the type of food you cook and how you like to prepare it. For example, if you enjoy chatting to other members of your household while you cook, consider positioning your cooking zone appliances in a kitchen island, instead of around the perimeter. The Westinghouse WHI955BD 90cm Induction Cooktop is ideal for this, as it heats up quickly but the safer induction surface doesn’t feel hot to the touch. Home chefs also love the cooktop’s cutting-edge BoilProtect feature, which detects rising bubbles in boiling water and automatically reduces to a low simmer to prevent boiling over (BoilProtect applies to stainless steel and enamelled pots filled with water only).

Alternatively, a freestanding cooker offers extra versatility and generally boasts a large cooking capacity that’s brilliant for bigger households. The Westinghouse WFEP9757DD 90cm Freestanding Electric Cooker combines a safe and efficient 5-zone induction cooktop with a spacious 125-litre oven complete with 10 innovative functions to take your cooking zone to the next level. These include an AirFry function to cook crispy, crunchy foods with less oil, and Roast +Steam for the juiciest roast dinner you’ll ever cook.

The baking zone

The right oven is also a centrepiece of this zone but if you take baking seriously, you’ll want to kit out the area with some specific features. Be sure to install additional powerpoints and extra bench space in your baking zone so you can use a mixer or food processor. Store other tools – such as measuring cups, whisks, rolling pins and baking pans – nearby so you can seamlessly transfer your mixture from bowl to pan to oven.

Speaking of the oven, Westinghouse is always happy to help bakers achieve their very best results. The new Westinghouse WVEP6918DD 60cm Pyrolytic Oven boasts 19 different cooking programs including a Bake +Steam function that gives bread, cakes, pastries and scones a crispier crust, fluffier centre and the perfect rise. 

The consumables zone

Having a well-organised space to store food keeps every kitchen running efficiently. Ideally, your fridge/freezer and pantry should be grouped together so you can easily move between the two when preparing food. Adding bench space nearby makes the consumables zone even more practical when you’re unpacking groceries.

The drinks zone

Ready to get creative? A drinks zone can be adapted to suit your beverage of choice. Ice on tap? No problem. The Westinghouse 564L French door fridge in matte charcoal black (WQE5650BA) has an automatic icemaker. If you’re a coffee devotee, set aside space to create your own barista-style hub, complete with espresso machine, bean grinder and an airtight container to keep your beans fresh. Position your favourite mug nearby so everything is exactly where it should be to brew the perfect cup.

If cocktails are more your speed, set up a dedicated cart or cabinet to house your preferred spirits plus a set of bar tools such as a shaker, strainer and muddler. Give this zone extra flair by adding your favourite decorative cocktail glasses.  

The cleaning zone

Just as important as your cooking areas, a well-planned cleaning zone allows you to scrape and stack dirty dishes with ease. Ideally it will be ordered from left to right, moving from garbage and food waste bins to the sink and then on to the dishwasher. Fast wash cycles make for entertaining or high-rotation use dishes is made easy with the Westinghouse Freestanding Dishwasher in Dark Stainless (WSF6608KXA).

One appliance you don’t need to worry about scrubbing clean is your oven, thanks to the pyrolytic self-cleaning function in Westinghouse’s new Kitchen range of electric ovens. Simply tap the button and leave the oven to heat to an incredibly high temperature, turning grease and splashes into ash that is easily wiped away.

The post 5 zones to consider when planning your dream kitchen appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Kitchen benches can be grand, petite, on a freestanding island or, in the case of many apartments, attached to a U-shaped kitchen. They can be topped with marble or another natural stone, timber, stainless steel, concrete, engineered stone, laminate… the list goes on. Underneath kitchen islands, you can incorporate cabinets, storage or shelves in myriad finishes, colours and profiles. 

When it comes to designing your dream kitchen bench, there are copious combinations of surfaces and materials to choose from. It’s equal parts exciting and bamboozling. But your first step is undoubtedly collating inspirational examples of picture-perfect kitchen benches.   

Ready to have your socks blown right off? Here are 10 of the best kitchen benchtop ideas to emerge from the pages of Home Beautiful. 

1. A Hamptons kitchen island bench that’s the hero of the home 

This spacious kitchen on Sydney’s Northern Beaches wasn’t always as free-flowing. “Before, the kitchen was in the middle of the house, with no light and flow,” says owner Lynne. “Now, as part of the open-plan design, it’s my favourite room… It gives me so much joy, with its colours, generous scale, abundant light and storage. It’s a pleasure to cook in.” Kitchen islands in close proximity to entertaining zones ensure hosts aren’t isolated when prepping food or mixing drinks.

The white of the kitchen cabinets, painted in Dulux Snowy Mountains Quarter, is balanced out by the blue island bench in Dulux Ship’s Officer. The bench is generous enough to accommodate three pendant lights.      

2. Timber and concrete are a cool combo in this kitchen bench

A feast for the senses, the kitchen island bench in this Mornington Peninsula home has been crafted from glass fibre-reinforced concrete and recycled ironbark. The pendant light was made by owner John. “The kitchen has been designed to be highly functional but with very clean, simple lines,” says owner Liz.    

3. This kitchen island benchtop was inspired by the French provincial aesthetic 

Relocated during the home’s renovation, this French provincial-style kitchen now enjoys sunny north-eastern light. At its heart is, of course, a stellar island bench topped by marble, which was a non-negotiable on the owner’s wish list.

Interior designer Danielle Bonello-Dunsford, of Danielle Victoria Design Studio selected Calacatta Oro, while the benchtops are Caesarstone Organic White. The ‘Palladium’ pendants in Antique Brass are from Emac & Lawton and the Temple & Webster ‘Panagiota’ stools offer a comfy spot to perch. 

4. An Art Deco home boasts a boundary-pushing kitchen island

After many years of living in this Melbourne Art Deco house, the owners transformed this space into a U-shaped kitchen with a curved island bench that ticks all the design boxes. The kitchen benchtop, designed by GIA Renovations, is Quantum Quartz ‘Statuario Quartz’ and the feature column is finished in matte finger tiles from Urban Edge Ceramics.

The navy cabinets are painted in Dulux Supernatural. Competing with the kitchen bench for ‘hero’ status is Menu’s ‘Dancing Pendant’ light.

5. Size doesn’t matter in this beachy white and timber kitchen 

The owners of this coastal cottage feel like they’re on holiday every day, and central to that vibe is a compact kitchen with a modest island bench. However it provides everything Matthew, an architect, and Emma need. “It’s not the biggest kitchen ever,” remarks Matthew, “but it’s proportional to the rest of the house.”

The magical view from the kitchen benchtop and light-filled space is enhanced by an array of Velux skylights and doors that slide away on the outside. “I love how open it is,” says Emma. “I can prepare food but still be connected to the festivities outside.”

6. A kitchen island bench with dining extension and window seat to boot 

This island bench doubles as a dining table, and with a characterful bay window seat, there are plenty of seating options in this spectacular kitchen by interior designer Leanne Smeallie of Ampersand Interiors. The kitchen benchtop is grey Atlantic Stone from SNB Stone and is complemented beautifully by joinery painted in Dulux Hat Stand. A modern Anna Charlesworth 4-Bowl Circle pendant light references traditional chandeliers.

7. This white kitchen is warmed up with marble and timber benchtops

When interior designer Melissa Balzan first walked through this Melbourne home – built in the late 1980s – it was a bit dark and dated. Granite kitchen benchtops were replaced with generous slabs of Statuarietto marble, from Gladstones Granite & Marble, as well as a built-in timber dining table. Shaker-style 2-pac cabinetry in Dulux Natural White keeps things light, bright and timeless.     

Completing the picture is a shapely Laal ‘Conehome Mega Arch’ pendant light and Mattiazzi ‘Leva’ chairs from District.

8. A show-stopping green marble kitchen island bench

In this romantic cottage, one of the owners’ favourite features is, unsurprisingly, the kitchen island bench. Ice Green marble from Signorino spills over a waterfall edge while kitchen joinery, painted in creamy Dulux Buff It, provides loads of storage. The other kitchen benchtops are finished in Carrara marble. 

9. Open shelving makes this Scandi-style kitchen island sing 

Functionality meets form in this renovated white kitchen, which adjoins the dining area and enjoys views of the garden and deck. “It’s lovely getting all that natural light while you are cooking away, and still feel like you are being included with what’s going on outside,” says owner Britt.

The kitchen island is topped in Quantum Quartz ‘Michelangelo’, with under-bench shelves in Laminex ‘Classic Oak’ offering a niche for crockery, cookbooks or decor. Stools from JD Lee Furniture round off a top breakfast spot.

10. A kitchen island bench awash with timber and stone 

In this kitchen, Polytec cabinetry in Sepia Oak is paired with Arabescato marble from WK Stone to create drama and warmth. “I’ve always loved marble,” says owner Melanie, of her beloved kitchen island. It’s here that she enjoys arranging, “big, colourful platters” when entertaining. 

The rangehood is encased in the same marble that graces the benchtops, transforming a kitchen essential into a statement. “It’s like a piece of art for me,” says Melanie, who names it as one of her home’s favourite features.

The post 10 drool-worthy kitchen island bench ideas to inspire your kitchen revamp appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Interior designer Rina Cohen of RCI Designs suggests drawing inspiration from your interior and considering the various elements within your kitchen design, such as cabinetry profiles, hardware and tapware. Is your style classic and decorative, or more modern and minimalist? Do you prefer a slimmer profile or a more substantial, solid-looking benchtop? An initial decision is the general profile shape, either square or rounded, and from there you can refine the specific look. 

“Not all benchtop materials and profiles are compatible,” says Rina. “All come with various limitations and advantages, so you need to weigh up aesthetics, functionality and practicality to find the right profile to meet your needs and desired look.” 

Our cheat sheet can help you ponder the perfect profile for your space. 

Round benchtop profiles

Round benchtop proffiles including a rolled, bullnose or pencil edge often complement a classic country or Hamptons-style kitchen, recommends Tameka Moffat of Tameka Moffat Designs. “Another benefit of curves is their gentle, user-friendly feel, which can make them particularly appealing in homes with young children or elderly people,” she says.

Pencil round

Usually applied to most sharp edges, it softens the feel and aids in preventing any chipping.

Half round

This is a half-rounded bullnose-style profile, which generally comes in a thickness between 20mm and 30mm.

Bullnose

Available in full or half-rounded styles, a bullnose edge is generally used for laminate material benchtops in a standard thickness of around 32mm. Typically, it’s less susceptible to chipping compared to square edges. 

Dupont

A Dupont profile delivers a classic look that is just right for more traditional kitchens. This profile can also be used with an added square profile underneath, for extra detail. It suits any stone, but this edge is made for marble.

Lambs tongue

This detailed look with undulating curves can be used in tandem with other profiles. Most stones are suitable in a thickness of 20mm and up.  

Square benchtop profiles

For a modern look, Tameka suggests angular profiles, which evoke a clean, minimalist aesthetic. From simple, cost-effective wraparound laminated square edges to a striking mitred waterfall edge, there are options to suit a range of styles and budgets. 

Aris

A popular finish with an angled edge, it can be laminated or mitred for a sleek, modern look. 

Mitred

Most natural and engineered 20mm stones can be cut at a 45-degree angle and joined to form a classy corner. “A mitred join is less noticeable than a laminated edge, but if a pencil round is applied to a porcelain slab, it removes the ‘design’ printed on the surface to reveal a solid colour,” says Graeme Metcalfe of Dan Kitchens Australia. 

Waterfall

A waterfall benchtop refers to a bench that cascades down the sides of a cabinet or central island bench.

Are detailed benchtop profiles durable?

It’s worth chatting with a kitchen designer or joiner/stonemason to understand the durability and compatibility of material and profile combinations.

“Some detailed profiles such as half-bullnose, which are pointed or tapered, can be prone to chipping, which can be exacerbated if using a softer stone such as marble,” says Graeme. “Some laminate finishes and thin porcelain slabs may not work with certain profiles, either, as they may be too hard or brittle.” 

Are detailed benchtop edges expensive?

Pricing often depends on the complexity of the profile and the material. Single slabs with a simple-edge profile are the most cost-effective, while detailed profiles and laminated benches where several pieces are joined together are more expensive, due to the additional labour and materials.

“A more budget-friendly option might be a Polytec benchtop with a rolled edge profile in a standard 20-32mm thickness,” says Tameka Moffat. “For a high-end look with a price tag to match, natural stone such as marble or quartz in a generous 30-40mm thickness creates a beautiful side view and luxurious aesthetic, particularly if teamed with a waterfall or slab end.”

How thick does a bench need to be for a detailed edge?

Standard 20mm-thick benchtops are capable of most basic profiles, whereas slim 12mm-thick porcelain surfaces are quite limiting as they’re more fragile and can’t overhang without support. “To achieve a more luxurious solid look,” says designer Graeme Metcalf of Dan Kitchens Australia, “stonemasons can fabricate a mitred apron for square profiles, or ‘laminate’ (layer) the edge by stacking several pieces of 20mm stone for more detailed profiles.” 

Should you use the same benchtop profile everywhere? 

“As the island is often a focal point, it can be effective to use a wider 60mm benchtop and detailed profile, to enhance wow-factor and keep rear workbenches simpler, slimmer and more cost-effective,” says Tameka.

The post A guide to the latest kitchen benchtop edge profiles appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The three savvy and stylish friends initially came together to create a genius business enterprise where they bought and flipped homes for profit. Operations expert Erin, designer Bonnie, and business and marketing guru Lana ditched their corporate day jobs to join forces and make a mark on the home renovation scene and haven’t looked back.

Since their early ground-breaking renovations where they transformed tired suburban brick houses into made-for-market dream homes, the Three Birds have gone on to renovate loads more properties — including their own ‘forever homes’ — and show no signs of slowing.

There’s a lot to be said for their enduring style. While on the surface it may look, to the untrained eye, like a simple white wash, what lies beneath the Three Birds’ fresh aesthetic is a clever stable of winning colours, textures and finishes that can completely transform a home. And it’s always evolving. 

Bonnie, Lana and Erin have accomplished a lot in such a short time, and the renovation-sensation trio are always happy to share what they’ve learned along the way. Here, the Three Birds zero-in on what’s arguably the most important part of the home: the kitchen island bench.  

How to choose the material for your benchtop

Natural and engineered stone are popular kitchen benchtop materials, but there are alternatives, such as laminate, concrete, stainless steel, timber and more. We love timber kitchen benchtops and have used this in earlier projects when trying to save costs.

Consider on-trend concrete; enthusiasts love it for its raw aesthetic, which suits an industrial, organic or minimalist look. We used it in ‘House 10’. While it’s great for many purposes, concrete does have pros and cons in the kitchen.

If you’re unsure of which way to go, ask your local real estate agent or jump online to see what types of kitchen island bench are in the homes being sold in that suburb.

Choosing a stone benchtop profile

How do you measure for a kitchen island bench? 

Obviously the size of your kitchen island depends on the size and layout of your kitchen. However, aim for 1200mm between your main wall and island; if space is tight you can get away with a minimum of 900mm. 

A standard bench height is 900mm, but as generations get taller, so do benches. It’s now quite normal to find heights of 910 to 920mm. 

In terms of kitchen island seating — whether for having breakfast with the kids or margaritas with the girls — the ideal overhang depth required for seating at the island is between 300 and 450mm, depending on how wide your island is. You’ll want to allow for at least 600mm of width per person when seated, so that each person has enough elbow room when eating.

If you’re buying stools to nest under your bench, avoid ones that are more than 700mm in height, since this could be a tight squeeze for your thighs! Around 650mm is an ideal height for a bar stool.

How to choose pendant lights for your kitchen island bench

If you’re going to have an island in your kitchen (and we think you should!), the number of pendants you need depends on the size of your island and the size of the pendant lights. We’ve used pendant lights that are just 20cm wide and, at the other end of the spectrum, we’ve also installed a chandelier 1.4m wide in Bonnie’s kitchen! 

Depending on how much lighting you have in the rest of your kitchen, the pendants may need to act as task lighting or they might just be a beautiful statement piece.

Here’s our advice for hanging pendants over a kitchen island bench:

• For an island 1500–1800mm long, go for two average sized pendant lights (under 40cm in diameter) centred over the island.
• For an island 1800–3000mm long, two average-sized pendant lights hung off-centre over the island look great.
• So, in this instance you would space them out as if there were going to be three lights, but only install two.
• For an island over 3000mm long you can definitely consider three average-sized pendants or supersize them and just use two.

Should you have a sink or stove in the kitchen island bench? 

We see this topic debated time and time again by our Three Birds Reno School students; it really comes down to personal preference. Some people love to have their sink and/or stovetop on the kitchen island, so they don’t have their backs to their family or friends while they’re working.

Others prefer to have the mess tucked away on the back bench and keep the island clear for dining and entertaining. Whatever works best for you and your family is the right choice for your kitchen.

What is important is storage, storage, storage. Often there’s room to add a row of hidden cupboards under the kitchen island, on the ‘seating side’ of the island. They might only be shallow but can store things like extra-special glassware.

The post How to design a kitchen island bench appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Engineered stone benchtops are one of the most popular types of benchtops, and they’re renowned for being low-maintenance and easy care, continuing to shine like a brand new surface. Also known as quartz, engineered stone benchtops are made from quartz (or sometimes granite) granules, marble dust or glass chips mixed with a resin or polyester base. One of its biggest benefits is that it doesn’t scratch easily, although it is prone to the occasional chip, and it can stain if spills aren’t wiped up in a timely manner.

Some manufacturers of engineered stone sell a range of specialty cleaning products to keep your kitchen benchtops fresh, but there are also plenty of hacks that will help. From tried and true to new and innovative, here’s how to give your kitchen benchtop a little TLC from time to time.

how to clean up spills and spots

• Act fast to ensure they don’t leave a stain.

• Soak up spill and wipe away with paper towel.

• Wipe clean with a warm soapy cloth or use specialist products such Caesarstone’s spray cleaner, cream cleanser or ready-to-use surface wipes.

• Buff with a clean, dry cloth.

stains to be wary of

• Tumeric

• Red wine

• Pumpkin

• Pasta sauce

• Tandoori paste

• Permanent markers

Products that can damage your engineered stone surface

• Bleach

• Nail polish remover.

• Oil-based soap bars and spray cleaners.

• Scourers or abrasive cleaners.

• Hot pots and roasting trays.

This story originally appeared on homebeautiful.com.au

The post The secret to cleaning your engineered stone benchtops appeared first on Home Beautiful.

No longer shut away behind closed doors, modern kitchens in Australia are not only where meals are made but also where much of the action happens – from homework to household admin and from family meals to entertaining. All of which means the kitchen benchtop materials used need to be both practical and good-looking, whether you are an enthusiastic gourmand, a short-order family cook, or a takeaway connoisseur. And nothing gets a bigger workout than your benchtop.

Here’s our pick of the tough but terrific materials that will give you kitchen counter bliss.

things to consider

Hard choices

Different materials suit many different applications, so before you get swept away choosing a colour, consider how your kitchen is used. Most materials are durable and hard-wearing, but some require a little more care than others. Marble has been having a moment recently, but it’s actually fairly soft and absorbent, meaning you’re constantly on the lookout for spills, or need to accept it will show its history.

Counting pennies

Cost is a big consideration, not just for the material but also for installation. Porcelain, for example, does require specialised tradespeople. “Because it is so hard and dense, if it was dropped, it would just shatter,” says Prue Gordon, interior architect at Melbourne’s Bryant Alsop Architects. “It needs special tools to cut it and stonemasons who are happy working with engineered stone are not necessarily happy cutting porcelain.” Always make sure your estimate includes installation before you sign on the line.

Personal touches

The final step is finding a look you’ll love. Prue Gordon of Bryant Alsop Architects, takes her benchtop lead from the flooring. “It’s a case of who’s using the kitchen, whether there are kids, and what the home’s design style is,” she says. Consider too, how the colour and finish will flow throughout your home, a factor particularly important in an open-plan zone.

7 types to consider

1. Natural stone benchtops

The beauty of stone – such as Statuarietto marble or Juparana granite – is as a natural material, each slab is unique. Marble is popular with enthusiastic cooks as it’s perfect for rolling out pastry, but it’s easily stained by things such as red wine, vinegar, coffee, spices (we’re looking at you, turmeric!) and even water. Granite benchtops are much less porous, making them more stain- and scratch-resistant, and they come in a wide, and very beautiful, selection of colours. The finish for either marble benchtops or stone benchtops can be gloss (polished) or honed (matt) and it’s best to visit the warehouse and choose the slab you want so you know exactly what you’re getting.

Cost: Pricing depends on where the stone is from, what type it is and the thickness of the slab. Marble ranges from $800 to $2200 per square metre and granite from about $700 to $1700 per square metre, including installation, but will attract additional costs for cuts for undermount sinks, where edges need to be carefully finished. A sink cut-out usually costs $250 and drainage grooves about $350.

2. Stainless steel benchtops

Stainless steel is very hard-wearing and hygienic, which is why it’s used in restaurant kitchens. Splashbacks and sinks can be completely integrated, so there’s no cracks for nasties to loiter in, and going for high-grade, thicker stainless steel benches mean they can be re-polished every five to 10 years, giving you the look of a brand new benchtop. “I love stainless steel, but you have to be the type of person who’s happy with the little scratches after a couple of years,” said Prue Gordon.

Cost: For good-quality stainless steel, allow about $900 per square metre and $300 per sink.

3. Polished concrete benchtops

Concrete benchtops are formed and poured on site, and considering their weight, you may require additional sub-floor structural work for support. However, they have a wonderfully raw finish (that’s now being imitated by other materials) and can even have heating built into them. Concrete benchtops also need to be sealed before using and finishes can vary from very rough to more refined, plus they can be coloured by tinting the mix.

Cost: This is definitely a project best done by professionals and will cost about $1000 to $1750 per square metre depending on the complexity of the formwork and the finish.

4. Timber benchtops

Timber benchtops, such as American Oak top, are formed from one solid length or pieces that have been laminated together (butcher’s block style). The surface of wooden/timber benchtops needs to be finished before using and, if oiled, will absorb spills. Bamboo benchtops are on the rise in the timber market. The big advantage is every couple of years you can have it re-finished to remove any marks, and the benchtop will be as good as new. The trend, says Brett Patterson of design and project management company, The Renovation Broker, is towards timber being used as a feature on an island bench, rather than throughout the kitchen.

Cost: It depends on the type of timber you choose, and whether you go to a kitchen specialist, Bunnings or IKEA but prices range from $550 to $950 per square metre.

5. Engineered stone benchtops

Appearing under brand names including Caesarstone, Silestone, Quantum Quartz in Gobi Black and Essastone, engineered stone is made from mostly crushed quartz held together with resin, and is available in a variety of colours and finishes. It is also sold by the slab, which does limit its length to 3000mm. Joins are becoming finer, but if you are installing a longer bench or island, you will need to consider where the join falls. Brett Patterson also recommends pairing engineered stone with low-profile, flush mount sinks so cut edges aren’t chipped and damaged by pots and pans.

Cost: Prices range from $1200 per 3000mm x 1400mm slab for standard colours to $4500 per slab for premium ranges. Undermount sink cut-outs and drainage grooves will cost more.

6. Porcelain benchtops

Newly arrived on the benchtop scene, porcelain is marketed under the brand names Dekton and Neolith. Made of powdered clay and coloured pigments and bonded together at very high temperatures, porcelain can be created with different textures, from glossy to matt, and can also be printed with finishes that resemble stone, timber, concrete and rusted metal. It is extremely dense and non-porous, plus it’s very resistant to heat, which means it’s great to use around cooktops. Another advantage is it can be used outdoors, so your alfresco kitchen can have the same look as indoors. Porcelain, such as this Dekton ‘XGloss’ in Halo, is made in larger slabs than engineered stone and in much thinner profiles, tapping into the current trend away from slab-like benchtops. However, it’s extremely heavy and you will need to work with your joiner to ensure cabinetry can take the weight.

Cost: Roughly the same base cost as natural stone, but generally more for installation, as it requires specialist installers and tools.

7. Laminate benchtops

Laminates are budget-friendly and offer a seemingly endless range of colours and finishes, including marble and stone-look that are almost as good as the real thing, so try Laminex’s ‘Diamond Gloss’ in White Valencia or ‘Impressions’ in Black Spark. The major brand has also recently added an on-trend matt finish to its massive range. “It’s velvety to the touch, has limited reflectiveness and is non-fingerprint marking,” explains Catherine Valente of Laminex. “Plus, it has a really strong sense of warmth.”

“If you’re clever with your design, you can use laminates beautifully. Forget spending $8000 on a stone benchtop, let’s spend $1500 and do something amazing!,” said Brett Patterson.

Cost: Laminates are generally sold by the linear metre and in various widths (from 600mm to 1200mm), with prices from $120 per linear metre for a 600mm benchtop in a standard finish to $440 per lineal metre for a 1000mm to 1200mm benchtop in a premium finish.

This article originally appeared on homebeautiful.com.au

The post Kitchen benchtops: we compare 7 popular surfaces appeared first on Home Beautiful.