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7 Alternatives to Engineered Stone Benchtops | Complete Guide for Kitchen Projects
As the heart of your home, your kitchen deserves a benchtop that is not only aesthetically pleasing but safe from the moment you select it. In late December 2023, Australia made a world-first decision to ban engineered stone following an increase in silicosis cases. As of 1st July 2024, the use of engineered stone will be prohibited, but what does this mean for your upcoming projects? We’re taking a closer look at this important change in the industry while also providing you with alternative options for your kitchen benchtops.
Why Was Engineered Stone Banned?
According to Safe Work Australia, the recommendation to ban engineered stone was proposed to protect thousands of workers from respirable crystalline silica (silica dust). Workers are exposed to silica whenever it is airborne and they can breathe it in. Learn more about the prohibition on the use of engineered stone.
What is Silica?
According to Safe Work Australia, silica dust is produced when materials or products containing silica such as stone, bricks, concrete, or tiles are cut, drilled, polished, or ground. Particles of silica dust are incredibly small, so you may not know you are breathing them in, but they can lodge deep into the installer’s lungs and cause serious or fatal health issues. Learn more about silica.
What About Engineered Stone That Has Been Previously Installed?
According to Safe Work Australia, the repairs, minor modification, removal, and disposal of engineered stone products installed before the prohibition will not be subject to the prohibition. Discover more about the ban on engineered stone including important Q&As and resources.
It’s important to research the alternative options you choose to ensure they correspond with the current industry guidelines. This isn’t just limited to engineering stone, but some alternative materials. Discover more on identifying silica on the Safe Work Australia website.
Mood board by Kanla Perla on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Mood board by Studio Smith Interiors on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Laminate
Laminate benchtops have been around forever, but have come a long way in terms of quality and design. These cost-effective options come in a variety of patterns, including ones that mimic the look of wood, stone, or even concrete. Laminates non-porous surface makes it easy to clean and resistant to stains, plus the installation process is straightforward, offering a quick and affordable makeover for your space - need we say more?
We love laminate as an alternative to engineered stone benchtops as it's an innovative product that offers so many benefits for your kitchen. Our advice is to go with a quality brand that offers durability with their products and, luckily, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to options for laminate benchtops.
We recommend looking into companies, such as ForestOne, that are paving the way forward within the interior design and construction industries. Key elements such as responsibly sourced, 100% silica-free products, open up so many possibilities for your future projects.
Image credit: ForestOne | Denham Court House by Jelena Matic Interiors
Natural Stone
If you prefer a touch of luxury, natural stone benchtops, like marble and granite, are excellent choices. As natural stone comes from the earth, each slab is completely unique, adding a sense of exclusivity to your home. Natural stone benchtops are at the higher end of the budget, but their durability and timeless appearance make them a worthwhile investment. However, it's important to note that natural stone will require regular sealing to maintain its beauty and resist to stains.
We recommend companies, such as CDK Stone, who offer an incredibly luxurious range with a huge variety of styles, so you don’t have to compromise on aesthetics or quality for your next project.
View our full benchtop product library featuring an extensive selection of stylish and quality solutions.
Image credit: CDK Stone | Calacatta Oro
Timber
Bring the outdoors in with timber benchtops. They add warmth, and natural beauty to your kitchen and are perfect for creating a cosy, rustic feel. Plus, timber benchtops are super versatile as they come in various types of wood and finishes, making them customisable to your style and space. Although they require regular maintenance to avoid scratches and water damage, the effort is rewarded with their classic, evergreen appeal.
Image credit: Bay Design Co. | Four Winds | Sally Singh Photography
Terrazzo
We love terrazzo on walls and floors, but how about for your benchtop? Terrazzo benchtops are currently huge in the interior design world mainly due to their visual interest and maximalist elements. But aside from their aesthetics, terrazzo benchtops can be incredibly durable and eco-friendly, as they are often made from recycled materials. It can also be customised with different colours and size of chips to allow for a unique, artistic touch to your kitchen. Its seamless finish also makes it a hygienic option, with no grout lines where bacteria can hide.
It’s important to research the material of the terrazzo you’re selecting. Look for one made from natural materials with a cement base.
If you’re currently thinking about your next project, we have all the kitchen splashback inspiration.
Mood board by Kanla Perla on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Mood board by Lucy Lear Interior Designer on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Tiles
Tiled benchtops offer endless design possibilities. From ceramic tiles to porcelain, glass, and stone, the incredible range of tile options means you can create a truly bespoke look for your space. Not to mention tiles are heat-resistant, durable, and relatively easy to replace if damaged. However, it’s important to consider the grout of your benchtop, which requires regular maintenance and cleaning to prevent staining and to maintain a fresh look.
Image credit: CDK Stone | Mirage Lake Quartzite
Polished Concrete
If you’re looking for a modern, industrial edge, look no further than polished concrete benchtops. They provide a sleek, minimalist look and can be customised with different pigments to suit your space. Not only is polished concrete a practical choice for your kitchen thanks to its robust nature, but it also adds a cool, sophisticated touch.
Mood board by Project Four Interiors on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Mood board by Michaelalael on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
Corian
Corian, a solid surface material, is gaining popularity due to its versatility and seamless appearance. It can be shaped into almost any shape and comes in a wide range of colours and patterns, including ones that mimic natural stone. Corian is non-porous, making it easy to clean and resistant to stains and mould. It's also repairable, meaning scratches and burns can often be sanded out - win-win!
Mood board by Vienna Rose Interiors on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.
With the industry changes coming into play, it’s important to find an alternative benchtop solution that you’re going to love for the lifespan of this product. We hope you’ve found some valuable solutions for your kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry. If you need more inspiration, why not visit our mood board library filled with thousands of projects from our design community?
