The worktop is the most tactile element of any kitchen scheme. Choose the right colour, texture and material to suit your lifestyle and home.
Hardwood, such as walnut and iroko, are traditional favourites but also suit contemporary schemes. You can find affordable, kitchen worktops with some research and asking experts for advice on your choice. You may also want to consider visiting showrooms.
Hardwood
A worktop is the focal point of any kitchen, so it’s important to consider its style as well as its practicality. The material you choose should be hardwearing and long-lasting – but it shouldn’t compromise on design.
Wood worktops are a popular choice in modern homes, with oak and walnut being particularly versatile. When properly oiled, they will last for years and are available in a range of natural colours from light to dark.
More homeowners are opting for real marble worktops, too. It’s a luxurious, classic choice that adds a touch of glamour to any kitchen. These surfaces are cold to the touch, making them ideal for kneading dough or rolling out pastry.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a modern kitchen worktop staple, bringing restaurant-kitchen flair into the home. This heatproof material is hygienic and easily cleaned – meaning any spills from food or drink can be quickly wiped away without leaving a mark. This makes it perfect for busy families.
Unlike other worktop materials, stainless steel can be shaped to create unique designs like gorgeous curves and one-piece runs or seamless wrap-around breakfast bars. It can also be thermoformed to create curved sinks and moulded splashbacks.
Glass
When it comes to deciding what worktops are best for your kitchen, you need to consider both style and function. The surface needs to be able to withstand heat, oil and water while also looking good and fitting within your budget.
Upgrading to a granite or ceramic worktop will create a real statement and is well worth the extra investment. These surfaces are incredibly durable and can withstand daily wear and tear whilst being easy to clean.
Quartz
Quartz is an incredibly popular kitchen worktop choice for modern homes. It comes in a wide range of styles and colours and is hard-wearing, durable, heat resistant and non-porous. This makes it hygienic and easy to clean. It also doesn’t require the regular resealing that granite surfaces need.
Quartz surface worktops are made by mixing extremely hard quartz minerals with high-quality resins, polymers and pigments. These are then combined with industrial mixers to produce a surface that is highly customised.