5 Impressive Benchtop Surfaces for 2023 and Beyond
5 Impressive Benchtop Surfaces for 2023 and Beyond
2023 is shaping up to be an exciting year for interior design. With new collections of benchtop styles, cutting-edge features, and a wide range of materials to choose from, there have never been so many options. Yet, due to the paradox of choice, sometimes all of these variables can make it even harder to make a decision.
At Archant, we want to simplify these big design considerations. We’ve researched for you and have created a short list of the 5 most impressive benchtop solutions for 2023 and beyond. Now, you may be wondering what the parameters are for making this list. This is straightforward with benchtops and comes down to three main elements in no particular order: Cost, Style, and Durability.
Of course, there are other aspects to consider, but these three big considerations will help to streamline the process for you. As you read, you may notice that not all the products listed here are sold by Archant. Yet, we love to educate our readers with a wider view of what’s available in today’s market. By the end, we hope you have a more focused view of the best benchtops one can buy in New Zealand.
1) Engineered Stone Benchtops
If you’re looking for the beauty of natural stone benchtops but are not impressed with their hefty price tag, we have a solution for you. Engineered stone such as quartz is a rare blend of form and function and come at just a fraction of the price. These revolutionary surfaces offer the widest range of choices in colour and style. Thanks to the non-porous qualities of engineered stone, you can expect durability that’s far superior to most alternatives. They are scratch and stain-resistant so daily household products such as coffee, wine, lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar, and makeup won’t stain. Strong but stylish, quartz tops the list for desirable benchtops in 2023.
2) Stainless Steel Benchtops
When some people think about stainless steel benchtops, they mistakenly limit it to being a commercial benchtop solution. And while they are indeed used in restaurants, they can be a fantastic addition to a residential kitchen as well. This is one of the toughest materials you can design a kitchen around. There’s no need to worry about chips or cracks from applying heavy pressure. Not only is stainless steel a durable option, but they are easy to clean. All of this adds up to make them a long-lasting value. The only thing left to consider is if this material fits into the design aesthetic you’re trying to achieve. Stainless steel excels at many things, but it won’t offer the visual impact of the alternatives listed here.
3) Natural Stone Benchtops
Several materials fit into this category. These include granite, marble, onyx, and travertine to name a few. Many of these have been popular choices in high-end kitchens for many years now. They are long-lasting, stylish, and can even increase a home’s resale value. Each slab is unique since they are extracted from a quarry. If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind benchtop, natural stone may be the right fit. Just be sure to seal the surface as natural stone is generally porous. This can leave a benchtop vulnerable to scratches and stains. When you take the time to seal it each year, natural stone worktops are generally quick to clean. It should also be noted, that while natural stone is quite beautiful, it is the most costly benchtop on this list.
4) Timber Benchtops
There is something so beautiful and organic when you walk into a kitchen with a timber benchtop. the warm, natural look of the wood seems to compliment every aspect of the kitchen in a rustic way. In 2023 and beyond, you can expect to find a variety of colours from light blonde to richer dark tones. And while timber surfaces may not be the hardest material in comparison, it is surprisingly durable. Even deep scratches can be sanded and refinished with varnish making a wooden bench a long-lasting solution. We recommend shopping around as pricing can vary quite a bit depending on location and supplier.
5) Laminate Benchtops
The most cost-effective surface on this list is the laminate benchtop. The savings are partially due to the lower price of raw materials, and the more straightforward installation. In fact, DIY enthusiasts will be able to install it themselves. While the cost savings are a nice benefit, there are other positive aspects of laminate to consider as well.
In 2023, you may be surprised at just how many sophisticated styles are available. Benchtops made from laminate now feature a wide variety of looks and finishes. Some mimic stone and others look like timber. There’s also an endless supply of colour varieties to consider. If you’re buying laminate, you likely don’t require robust durability. Put simply, this material is not built to last a lifetime. Still, the latest collections look quite nice and are easier on the budget.
Which Benchtop Do You Want to Learn More About?
Our team of design experts has helped homeowners all over New Zealand in creating the kitchen of their dreams. With the large variety of incredible solutions to upscale your space, it’s an exciting time to renovate your kitchen. We know these are big decisions and are here to help with your specific benchtop project. Take the next step today and book a one-on-one appointment for any one of our NZ showrooms.
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