10 ENGINEERED STONE ALTERNATIVES YOUR KITCHEN WILL LOVE
10 TOP ALTERNATIVES TO ENGINEERED STONE FOR YOUR DREAM BENCHTOP
If you're searching for the perfect benchtop for your new dream kitchen (or bathroom, or laundry!) and haven't yet heard the news, engineered stone benchtops are officially off the market in Australia as of 1st July 2024. We fully support changes that make the industry safer for all and believe this is a positive move.
While this means engineered stone (as we know it) is no longer an option, don't worry! There are still plenty of fabulous alternatives for your kitchen and bathroom benchtops. Your only problem will be deciding which one to choose!
LET'S TAKE A LOOK AT:
10 Top Alternatives to Engineered Stone For Your Dream Benchtop
1) ULTRACOMPACT SURFACES
Ultracompact surfaces are created by putting raw materials found in glass, porcelain, and quartz under extreme heat and pressure to create an almost indestructible material. Patterns printed on the surface can mimic marble, woodgrain, cement and metallics.
Because it’s such a dense material, it’s incredibly strong and non-porous, making it arguably the most durable product on the kitchen benchtop market. And, since it comes in jumbo-sized slabs, you’ll require fewer joins in your benchtop. If you want a thin profile edge, this surface can handle larger spans and overhangs better than other materials. It's also environmentally friendly, recyclable and super easy to clean (it isn't damaged or dulled by harsh chemicals).
But beware, innovation like this comes with a hefty price tag - expect to pay more than you would have for engineered stone.
IMAGE CREDIT: Dekton
IMAGE CREDIT: Dekton
2) PORCELAIN
Crafted from high-quality porcelain clay and fired at extremely high temperatures, porcelain benchtops are coated with a pigmented glaze to give them the appearance of natural stone or marble. The thin slabs are lighter than most natural stone benchtops, making them easier to carry during installation. However, their thinness also makes them a tad more fragile during this process, so stonemasons need to handle them with extra care to avoid cracks.
Porcelain’s non-porous surface is very durable. It can handle hot pots and pans directly on the surface and is suitable for use outdoors.
Porcelain is likely to be the best straight swap from the alternatives to engineered stone here, offering a durable and versatile finish. One aesthetic drawback is that porcelain is only available in a limited range of edge profiles, so if you’re wed to a fancy bevelled edge, porcelain might not be the choice for you.
IMAGE CREDIT: Stone Ambassador
IMAGE CREDIT: Indesign Live
3) NATURAL STONE
Every piece of real, natural stone is unique, with its own mixture of veins, mottles, colours and imperfections. It’s the romance of the 'real thing' that drives people to purchase natural stones of marble and granite over look-a-like materials, which are often more durable, easier to care for… and cheaper.
The downside is that marble is one of the least practical materials for a kitchen. It's porous and requires regular maintenance to keep it looking good. Marble is also a bit soft and brittle, meaning it can chip, scratch and break with normal kitchen activity. If you’re set on using the ‘real deal,’ be prepared to embrace the flaws of your natural stone along with its beauty.
If you're looking for a more durable option, granite is the toughest natural stone and is stain-resistant and heat-resistant.
The good news is that some real marble isn’t as expensive as you might think and, depending on the variety you choose, it can even be cheaper than its high-end imitation counterparts!
IMAGE CREDIT: Signorino
The Kitchen at Bonnie’s Parents’ Balmain Renovation
4) TIMBER
There’s a certain warmth and texture that only timber can bring to a room and this could be through your benchtop! Timber does require a little TLC as it can stain, scratch, and dent quite easily, but that often adds to its overall charm (plus, you can rejuvenate solid timber benchtops with some re-sanding and re-finishing).
Timber isn’t necessarily cheap. Sure, you can pick up some pre-cut, standard-size timber benchtops from Bunnings and IKEA (we’ve done it), but for anything thicker, longer, or custom-shaped, you could end up in the mid to high price range. Depending on how the timber was sourced, it is usually an environmentally friendly option and looks great in many different styles of kitchens, both modern and traditional.
IMAGE CREDIT: Blood and Champagne
5) LAMINATE
It’s come a long way! So, take a look before you turn up your nose. In fact, we’ve recently used it in a powder room at House 16 with amazing results.
Did you know you can now buy laminate that resembles real marble? In addition to the traditional solid colours, brands like Laminex, Formica and Polytec have introduced colours based on popular styles of marble, like Carrara and Calacatta.
It’s also lightweight, making installation much quicker and easier. Make sure you choose ‘post-formed’ laminate – this means the laminate wraps around the edges of your benchtop, avoiding cheap-looking joins and any chance of peeling.
Laminate is the most affordable option on this list by a country mile. However, it is more prone to cuts, scratches and heat marks (which can’t be repaired). It’s very tough if you drop something heavy on it, is stain-resistant and easy to clean (just wipe it down but don’t use abrasive cleaners).
IMAGE CREDIT: Laminex
Laminate vanity benchtop in the Powder Room at Three Birds Renovations House 16
6) CONCRETE
Concrete creates a raw aesthetic that suits an industrial, organic or minimalist look. The major watch out with concrete benchtops is that, like a concrete driveway or path, your benchtop won’t be perfect. Similar to marble, concrete is porous, meaning it will absorb liquids and can stain (in sections where the sealant has worn off). It also doesn’t fare well with hot pans set directly on the surface as the sealant will discolour.
The good news is that concrete can be reasonably repaired but will need ongoing resealing. And contrary to some beliefs, concrete isn’t a cost-saver; it can be a pricey option.
So, if concrete is not cheap, nor durable, and requires ongoing low maintenance anyway, why would anyone buy it? For the LOOK and FEEL! And they’re two very important factors when designing a kitchen. Concrete is unique, and if you’ve got your heart set on it and are going into the purchase with eyes wide open, then we say go for it!
7) SOLD SURFACES (EG. CORIAN)
A solid surface product, such as Corian, can be an excellent option for a benchtop due to its seamless appearance, wide range of colours and patterns and low maintenance requirements. This durable, non-porous material resists stains, mould, and bacteria, making it hygienic and easy to clean, which is perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.
While it’s on the pricier side, its ability to be easily repaired if scratched or damaged, coupled with its moderate heat resistance, makes Corian a versatile and long-lasting choice for homeowners seeking both style and functionality.
IMAGE CREDIT: CASF
IMAGE CREDIT: CASF
8) STAINLESS STEEL
Stainless steel can be a fantastic option for a benchtop, especially for those seeking a sleek, modern, and highly durable surface. It is heat resistant and incredibly resilient to stains and corrosion, making it ideal for kitchens where hygiene and cleanliness are top priorities. Just ask any professional chef!
Stainless steel benchtops are easy to clean and maintain, providing a professional, industrial look that can complement various design styles. However, it’s worth noting that stainless steel can show fingerprints and scratches more easily than other materials, which might require regular upkeep to maintain its pristine appearance.
Overall, its combination of durability, hygiene and style makes stainless steel a great choice for a functional and stylish kitchen benchtop.
IMAGE CREDIT: Alana Landsberry via Homes to Love
IMAGE CREDIT: Brittany Ambridge via Domino.com
9) RECYCLED GLASS
Recycled glass benchtops are made from crushed glass pieces that are set in a resin or concrete base. The glass used in these benchtops typically comes from post-consumer and industrial sources, such as bottles, windows and car windscreens. They are eco-friendly, durable and available in a range of colours and patterns. Recycled glass is resistant to stains and scratches but requires sealing to protect the surface.
While they’re not widely popular in Australia yet, recycled glass benchtops are one to watch going forward.
IMAGE CREDIT: Eco Benchtops
IMAGE CREDIT: IKEA Australia
10) ZERO SILICA ENGINEERED STONE ALTERNATIVES
Just when you thought engineered stone was completely off the table, manufacturers have stepped up to develop innovative products that look and feel just like traditional engineered stone but without crystalline and silica dust. These zero silica options ensure compliance with the new industry standards and provide a safer alternative for stonemasons and workers.
These new-generation materials offer all the benefits of traditional engineered stone, including durability, stunning colours and limitless edge profiles, but without any silica content. They are perfect for those who love the look and functionality of engineered stone but want to ensure their choice is in line with the latest safety regulations.
Talostone MinQ Zero in Arabescato Nero
Talostone MinQ Zero in Arabescato Borghini
FAQs About the Best Alternatives to Engineered Stone Benchtops
Why are engineered stone benchtops banned in Australia?
The Australian government implemented a ban effective from 1st July 2024 primarily due to significant health risks associated with the high crystalline silica content in engineered stone products. When these benchtops are cut, ground, or polished, fine silica dust is released, which, when inhaled, can cause silicosis - a severe and potentially fatal lung disease. The risk is specific to stonemasons with no risk identified to homeowners, post-installation.
What are the most popular materials for silica-free kitchen benchtops?
The most popular materials for kitchens include natural stone (like granite and marble), silica-free engineered stone, laminate, timber, stainless steel, concrete, ultra-compact surfaces and porcelain benchtops.
Is laminate making a comeback for kitchen benchtops?
Laminate is an affordable and versatile option for kitchen benchtops. It comes in a range of colours and patterns, including designs that mimic natural stone. While it's not as durable as stone or quartz, it's easy to clean and maintain. Three Birds recently used Laminex laminate to create a gorgeous fluted vanity in the powder room at House 16.
Are there any new, innovative materials for benchtops?
Yes, recent innovations include zero-silica engineered stone benchtops, which offer the look and feel of traditional engineered stone without crystalline silica. These materials are durable, safe and comply with new Australian industry standards.
How do I choose the right benchtop material for my kitchen?
Consider your lifestyle, budget, and of course, your vision board. Think about how you use your kitchen, the level of maintenance you're willing to commit to and the overall look you want to achieve. Testing samples in your space and viewing the products in manufacturer showrooms and factories can also help you make an informed decision.
Can I save money on my dream benchtop?
Yes, you can! Get your name on a Three Birds Dream Discount Card and you’ll save on everything you need to bring your dream kitchen to life. Three Birds Dream Discount Card cardholders save 20% off everything at Signorino, including their divine natural stone benchtops, and up to $150 cashback per slab at Talostone.
What material will Three Birds use for benchtops at House 17?
Watch this space! House 17 is coming soon so make sure you’re following us to be the first to hear.
Three Birds Renovations House 10 Kitchen with concrete benchtop
THE FINAL WORD: YOU'RE SPOILT FOR CHOICE!
While engineered stone benchtops as we know them are off the table, these 10 fabulous alternatives to engineered stone provide options to suit your style and needs. Whether you're drawn to the indestructibility of ultracompact surfaces, the unique charm of natural stone or the innovative new silica-free engineered stone benchtop, there’s a perfect benchtop material waiting for you.