subject: Innovation in Modern Kitchen Worktops [print this page] Innovation in Modern Kitchen Worktops Innovation in Modern Kitchen Worktops
A kitchen worktop is one of the most important elements within a kitchen because it is the one item in the room that is used the most. A good quality countertop can last for the lifetime of the house. On the other hand, a poor quality worktop can make an otherwise attractive kitchen very unattractive; it can also breed harmful bacteria, making the surface a health hazard.
In the scheme of kitchen design, countertops are like the icing on the cake. There are numerous materials available that are both high performance and attractive. Performance-wise, quartz countertops which are comprised of 97% quartz and 3% epoxy and binders are superior to other surfaces. Quartz is non-porous (making it food-safe), heatproof, stain proof and impact resistant. Aesthetically speaking, quartz can look just like natural stone, but it is available in "novelty" colours and also in white and black. Bits of mirror can be added in the mix for a dose of sparkle and drama. The main drawback of quartz is the price: it's about eight times more expensive than laminate and about 20% more expensive than natural stone. It may be a pricey product, but it will last for the life of the house (unlike other kitchen worktops).
The technology behind developing and producing worktops has changed a lot within the last 10 years. Laminate - usually the least expensive option - especially has come a long way. Advances in coating and finishes have resulted in a more durable product. Many new laminate products have a scratch and stain resistant coating that lengthens product life. There is also laminate that is textured to look and feel just like stone; this is a great option, at a fraction of the cost, of natural stone. Compared to any other material, laminate has the widest selection of colours and finishes. And if you can't find what you're looking for, custom laminate can also be produced.
Other popular work top materials include resin composite, wood butcher block, natural stone (especially granite), and even recycled glass terrazzo. An emerging trend in kitchen design is mixing different work top materials. Some clients choose to have a separate "zones" within their kitchen dedicated to a specific activity. Also popular is to add a section within the worktop that is wood butcher block or to make the island in butcher block or another contrasting material. The same material but in different colours can be used throughout a kitchen to create visual impact.
Right now is a great time to update your kitchen worktop, because there are more options available now than ever before.
