Aside from budget and look, one of the biggest considerations when choosing a surface for a kitchen or bathroom is durability. Both such spaces are likely to be high traffic areas, so a material that is hard wearing and can withstand general wear and tear as well as being waterproof and heat resistant is important.
First and foremost, look at interior design magazines and websites, such as Pinterest and Instagram, for inspiration. Once you’ve gathered a few ideas of your likes and dislikes, speak to your local kitchen or bathroom retailer who will be able to advise you over care of the surface, its suitability for your room, the range of colours and materials available and how much it will cost.
Quartz is ideal for kitchens and bathroom as it is an incredibly strong material that easily withstands the wear and tear that comes with modern living and is practically maintenance free. Resistant to mildew, and thus to mould and bacteria, quartz is a non-porous material that offers a hygienic solution for moist and humid surroundings. It is also scratch, heat and stain resistant, making it ideal for multifunctional kitchens where, while the household cook prepares dinner, children can do their homework without anyone worrying over damaging the surface. Unlike natural materials, such as stone and wood, quartz requires minimal maintenance to keep it looking as good as new and won’t need to be resealed. In fact, the hard, non-penetrable surface is simple to clean with just soap and water or a mild detergent.
For an individual look it is worth considering surfaces of varying thicknesses, particularly for a larger open-plan area such as the kitchen. Choosing a surface with a thin profile over a run of cabinets and a slightly thicker surface for an island unit, for example, is an effective way of achieving a different look and making the island a focal point of the room. Surfaces can also be fabricated with many different edges which will give a very personal look to any kitchen.
In smaller extensions or those in a basement which lacks natural daylight, a work surface with a polished finish will help bounce light around the room and make it feel brighter. In terms of colours and finishes, lighter shades are dominant in both contemporary and traditional settings, because a light-coloured surface helps to make the space feel bigger. A surface in lighter shades will create something of a blank canvas for other materials and finishes to be introduced around it and acts as a contrast to darker furniture. For example, a white work surface keeps things simple and uncluttered. On the other hand, natural-looking materials such as marble have distinctive markings which make them look like the real thing without the maintenance drawbacks.
With its large range of materials available in a polished or a honed finish, CRL Quartz is available in a 20 and 30mm thickness, ensuring to help achieve the desired look and durability throughout the home.
For more inspiration, visit our gallery.
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