Polish off your kitchen look with these modern surfaces

Genista Jurgens Genista Jurgens
Apartamento A+D, Estúdio 102 Estúdio 102 ห้องครัว
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Surfaces are one of the most important elements when it comes to home decor, and are an easy way to establish the look of your home. And since we have never before had so many choices between the materials we can use, we have collected seven of the most exciting surfaces available for kitchens today. Whether you prefer butchers block for a more rustic look, or an elegant glass countertop, the material you choose dictates not only the mood and style of the kitchen, but also how you function and work around it.

Granite is great for a busy chef who likes to put hot pans down without giving a second thought about burning the surface underneath. Stainless steel is cost effective, environmentally friendly (it's 100 percent recyclable) and is heat, rust, stain and corrosion resistant. A marble countertop will give your kitchen an instant touch of luxury and grandeur, and will always look classic.  

That's not to forget about concrete, lava stone, vinyl, paper composite, ceramic tile, soap stone, quartz, copper, bamboo, and even Bio-glass. The list stretches on and on, so let's get started with looking closer at some of the options!

1. Granite

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Granite comes in many sizes, colours, patterns and prices. It can range from being slightly mottled, to having semi-precious stones, or labradorite flecks throughout. It can have a yellow-ish flowing pattern, or even be dyed black to enhance it's natural colour. Since it is mined all over the world, it is readily available and won't cost the earth – though you often have to pay for a whole slab, even if you don't require all of it. 

It's a highly durable material that can handle temperatures up to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit (648 Celsius). With it's many colours and patterns to choose from, the choices with how to granite are endless. 

2. Cement

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When you hear the words concrete countertop, you probably don't imagine the one in this colourful kitchen. Surprisingly, cement is extremely versatile. An easy material to add stains, dyes or pigments to, it can be tailored to suit any colour scheme. You can keep it matt, or polish it to a high sheen. 

Cement is similar to Corian – a brand of material that is highly polished and anti-bacterial. But while Corian will scratch over time, concrete is more durable and resistant to dents and bumps. 

3. Marble

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A marble countertop spells out classic elegance and will never date. Suited to a range of styles, it will brighten up a dark kitchen, or balance out bright colours. While it is not known for it's durability (it's prone to scratches and stains), if you don't mind a bit something with patina then it is a great choice. 

Some marble can be very expensive, yes, but the more common marble used in kitchens (Carrara) is one of the most cost effective surfaces out there. And marble offers a brightness and crispness that you just can't get from granite, wood, or quartz. 

4. Paper Composite

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Paper composite is a great way to get the look of cement or stone without having the weight. Not only is it light to hold, it's light on the wallet. Made from paper fibres mixed with resin, it's an inexpensive choice, but it still durable to last. 

Professionals recommend sealing the countertops every six months to keep the surface scratch free as it can be prone to wear and tear after some time. Tones range from very pale grey to a rich charcoal. 

5. Granite Part Two

Apartamento A+D, Estúdio 102 Estúdio 102 ห้องครัว

Because the styles of granite available are so diverse, we wanted to include another version of it. A slab of granite itself can be flame finished, brushed or leathered. That's not to mention the effect you can achieve when you add it next to other materials. Here – it is a wonderful anchor tying the many surfaces surrounding it together. 

The wooden cabinets, the tiled splash board, the glass wall and stone back board all come together because of the rich, darkness of the granite. It's a popular choice in many kitchens for a reason!  

For alternatives to granite, try: sodalite, zinc, limestone or onyx. 

6. Formica Laminate

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What may look light a light granite, is actually a laminate from Formica. Available in thousands of styles, patterns and colours, a laminate countertop is an easy and budget friendly way to go. It is light, durable and friendly for hiding stains and grime that might build up in a busy household!

For a similar look, a recycled glass and cement countertop would also be a great option. 

7. Soapstone

An excellent alternative to granite is soapstone. While it hasn't reached the same heights in the popularity polls as granite, or even marble, it is just as elegant, and perhaps more humble and easy-going. It is extremely durable and will last for generations. Something to look out for is that soapstone can be quite pricey as it is usually mined in Brazil.  

Or if your budget is tight, a silestone/zodiac countertop is a cost effective alternative to granite that has a similar look to this great countertop. 

For more excellent kitchen ideas, be sure to take a look at these hot tips

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