Your Ultimate Guide to Kitchen Benchtops Brisbane
“While some may see kitchen benchtops as mere countertops, they are the stage upon which we craft the theatre of daily life, where meals become memories and families gather to share in the joys of togetherness.” – Martha Stewart
When it comes to choosing a kitchen benchtop, Brisbane residents are often unsure which option is the right choice for their home. They want to find the right balance between function, aesthetics and durability, without blowing the entire renovation budget on this one element. How can you ensure you make the right decision when it comes to choosing a material for your kitchen bench?
To help you get started, the design experts at Craftbuilt Kitchens have put together our ultimate guide to choosing kitchen benchtops in Brisbane. In this guide, we will introduce you to the most popular benchtop materials on the market and tell you everything you need to know about them.
From pricing to style, to care and maintenance, this guide includes everything worth considering when planning a kitchen benchtop replacement. By the end, you’ll be able to confidently choose the perfect benchtop for your new kitchen.
Which Benchtop Material Should You Choose?
Benchtops form an integral part of any modern kitchen design. Not only are they one of the most visible elements in a kitchen, but they are also used repeatedly on a daily basis. They’re the platform where you prepare meals, the place where you sip your cup of tea or coffee, a favourite location for children to complete their homework and the area where dinner guests congregate to enjoy a cheese platter while they watch you cook.
So, when choosing suitable kitchen benchtops Brisbane residents need to consider a design that not only looks fantastic but that will also be practical for regular use. But kitchen benchtops are now available in a diverse range of styles, colours and materials. With so many different options available (all varying wildly in cost, appearance and durability) how can you make the right decision when choosing your kitchen benchtop replacement?
What to Consider When Choosing Your Kitchen Benchtops
Choosing the right material for your kitchen bench is a personal process. It’s about more than just picking which colour you like best or following the recommendation of a friend or family member. The ideal benchtop for them may be entirely unsuitable for you and your family.
When choosing a kitchen benchtop material, take time to first evaluate several key factors, including:
1. Durability: Opt for a material that can withstand daily wear and tear, and resist scratches, stains and heat damage.
2. Maintenance: Consider the level of maintenance required for upkeep. Some materials may need regular sealing or special cleaning products.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: Choose a material that complements the overall design aesthetic of your kitchen and that fits your personal style preferences.
4. Cost: Determine your budget and select a material that offers the best balance of cost and quality for your needs.
5. Functionality: Evaluate how the benchtop will be used and choose a material that suits your cooking habits and lifestyle. You may prefer a surface that’s easy to clean, resistant to bacteria or suitable for food preparation.
6. Environmental Impact: Consider the eco-friendliness of the material and whether you’d prefer to opt for a more sustainable option, if possible.
7. Longevity: Select a material that will stand the test of time and provide lasting value to your kitchen space.
When you take time to stop and consider these factors, you can more easily choose a benchtop material that meets your practical needs while also enhancing the overall look and feel of your kitchen.
Kitchen Benchtops Brisbane Homeowners Love
Homeowners now have more choices than ever before when it comes to selecting a material for kitchen benchtops in Brisbane. Popular choices include laminate, granite, timber and engineered stone. Those seeking something a bit different may opt for polished concrete, marble or stainless steel. Each material has its own specific pros and cons, so it’s important to look beyond just the basic appearance of a benchtop material.
Laminate Benchtops
For many people, the word “laminate” may conjure images of the peeling kitchen cabinets in their childhood home. But the reality is this product has come a long way. Craftbuilt Kitchens only use high-quality laminate benchtops that are durable and manufactured using the latest technology.
This results in a product that is heat and water-resistant, while also being less likely to stain or scratch. On top of that, they look fantastic, are available in a really broad range of styles and colours (including realistic imitations of natural products, like timber and stone) and are relatively quick and easy to install. These qualities make laminate a popular choice for kitchen benchtops in Brisbane.
Engineered Stone Benchtops
Brands like Caesarstone have become household names when it comes to engineered stone, thanks to their hardwearing and low-maintenance benchtops. Somewhat surprisingly, engineered stone benchtops are actually more durable than those made out of natural stone and can be created in a more diverse range of colours and finishes.
For those seeking a unified and elegant engineered stone finish, Corian benchtops are non-porous, can be installed with seamless joins, are available in a range of colours and textures (including a translucent option) and this product comes with a 10-year limited warranty.
Natural Stone Benchtops
Although not as commonly used as engineered stone, natural stone benchtops are still a popular choice for those who want to add a luxury element to their kitchen.
Natural stone benchtops aren’t as easy to care for as engineered products and require ongoing professional care to keep them looking their best. Some of the most commonly available natural stone benchtops are now made from granite, which doesn’t mark or chip as easily as other natural stones (such as marble).
Timber Benchtops
Timber benchtops have been around for centuries…and for good reason! Timber benchtops are available in a wide range of colours and styles, from simple pine through to eco-friendly bamboo and durable hardwoods. Timber is a great choice for homeowners who want to add a bit of warmth to their kitchen design – it evokes images of rustic home-cooked meals and evenings gathered together as a family.
Polished Concrete Benchtops
Concrete benchtops are a relatively new concept, but the polished finish looks stunning and provides a durable surface that is heat resistant. Polished concrete benchtops may be composed of a glass fibre-reinforced aggregate mix or can be a solid slab of concrete that is poured onsite. Because each polished concrete benchtop is poured to specification, this can be a great material choice for anyone wanting a highly customised product.
Stainless Steel Benchtops
Stainless steel benchtops are incredibly hardwearing and easy to sterilise. While they’ve always been a favourite of professional chefs, many home cooks are starting to appreciate the aesthetic and practical benefits of stainless steel benchtops. Stainless steel is an ideal material for use in kitchens that are aiming for an ‘Industrial’ or ‘Modern’ design.
How Much Will Kitchen Benchtops in Brisbane Cost?
With so many different products now available, there’s a kitchen benchtop material to suit just about every style and budget. When comparing pricing for different materials you’ll soon notice that prices are usually listed as “per square metre”. This provides a standardised way to compare costs across different materials and suppliers.
The “per square metre” pricing method considers the surface area of the material needed to cover the kitchen bench, while also factoring in the manufacturing and fabrication costs associated with producing the material. This kind of pricing structure offers transparency and simplicity in pricing, making it easier for Brisbane homeowners to make informed decisions based on their budget and project requirements.
Laminate Benchtops
If you’d rather spend less on your benchtops (so you’ve got more to invest in your appliances!), then a laminate benchtop could be the right choice (with costs averaging about $350-$650 per square metre). Good quality laminate is water, stain and scratch resistant, delivering a durable product at a more affordable price point.
Engineered Stone Benchtops
Engineered stone kitchen benchtops in Brisbane will have a starting price of approximately $500 per square metre. However, keep in mind that the final cost will also be influenced by your choice of brand (Essastone, Caesarstone and Corian are all popular), the thickness of your benchtop and your choice of finish.
Natural Stone Benchtops
If you have your heart set on a natural stone benchtop, then you’ll need to make a more significant allowance for benchtops in your total renovation budget. Granite benchtops range in price from $650 up to $3,000 per square metre, while a luxury product like marble could cost up to $4,000 per square metre.
Timber Benchtops
When it comes to choosing timber benchtops, you’ll find that the cost will vary greatly depending on what kind of timber you want to use. A highly sought-after hardwood (such as ironbark or jarrah) could cost anywhere from $600-$2,000 per square metre, while a bamboo benchtop will be closer to $550 per square metre.
Concrete Benchtops
If you’re considering concrete benchtops, keep in mind that, while concrete as a material is quite cheap, the installation is a very labour-intensive task, involving forming, pouring and finishing the concrete. As a result, the cost for the supply and installation of a concrete benchtop can be up to $2,500 per square metre.
Stainless Steel Benchtops
Stainless steel benchtops represent excellent value for money because, while costing around $1,000 per square metre, they require little in the way of ongoing maintenance and are incredibly long-lasting. This is just one of the reasons why stainless steel benchtops are so popular with chefs working in commercial kitchens.
To find out more about the cost of kitchen benchtops Brisbane homeowners should contact the expert design team at Craftbuilt Kitchens.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Kitchen Benchtop for Your Kitchen Renovation
When it comes to renovating your kitchen, the kitchen benchtop is an important consideration for several reasons. First, the kitchen benchtop is one of the most visible features in the room — many Brisbane homeowners will base the overall layout and colour scheme of the kitchen around their choice of benchtop. Benchtops are also subject to a lot of wear and tear, so they need to be durable.
Finally, because it’s such a focal point, the right benchtop can really add to the overall look and feel of your kitchen. You want it to complement the rest of your kitchen design, so take time to consider all of your options.
A good kitchen benchtop should last for years, so it’s worth investing in a quality product. Choosing the right benchtop should also be accounted for when determining the total kitchen renovation cost. There are many different types of kitchen benchtops to choose from, so take your time and find the one that’s right for you.
Our Brisbane kitchen design studio can help you find the perfect benchtop for your home. We offer a wide range of materials and colours to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that suits your style. Our team of experts can also help you with installation, so you can be sure the job is done properly.
For quality kitchen benchtops Brisbane residents can rely on, don’t hesitate to reach out to the renovation experts at Craftbuilt Kitchens today!
Need Help With Kitchen Design Ideas?
If you have visited the countless showrooms and kitchen displays Brisbane has to offer and still can’t find what you’re looking for, then don’t give up! Instead, why not come and visit the Craftbuilt Kitchens showroom? We are your one-stop shop for anything kitchen-related, and we are confident that we can help you find what you’re looking for in our showroom.
We use the latest 3D design software to help you visualise exactly how your new benchtop will look once installed. We also have a modern kitchen Design Studio (conveniently located in Stones Corner) that features the latest kitchen appliances, fixtures and benchtop samples.
This means you won’t have to decide on materials and colours using an online display or a printed catalogue – instead, you can view a range of different kitchen benchtop materials with your own eyes. This can give you confidence and peace of mind that, when it comes to your new kitchen benchtop, you’ve made the right decision.
Over 45 Years of Industry Experience
Craftbuilt Kitchens has been installing kitchen benchtops in Brisbane for over 45 years as part of our complete kitchen design and remodel services. Our experienced kitchen designers can help you select the perfect benchtop to suit both your preferred aesthetic and your budget.
For the kitchen benchtops Brisbane residents love, Craftbuilt Kitchens are the ideal choice.
Our Top 4 Tips For Maintaining Your Kitchen Benchtops
Most kitchen benchtops in Brisbane are made from hard wearing materials, but that doesn’t mean they’re impervious to damage. Fortunately, there are some simple things you can do to ensure your kitchen benchtop stays in optimal condition for as long as possible.
1. Clean Up Any Spills As Soon As Possible
Porous benchtop materials (like natural stone or timber) will absorb spilled liquids, which may then result in damage or discolouration. This is particularly the case when it’s an acidic liquid, like citrus or vinegar. To prevent this from happening, make sure all spills are cleaned up promptly.
2. Be Careful With Heat and Sharp Objects
Many kitchen benchtops are now manufactured to be scratch-resistant and heat-resistant. However, this doesn’t mean that you should use a sharp knife to cut directly onto the surface of the benchtop or that you should take a hot saucepan off the stove and place it directly on the benchtop. By using a chopping board or heat protector, you can maintain the surface of your benchtop.
3. Follow Recommendations for Resealing
Some benchtop materials will need to be regularly resealed to keep them in optimal condition. A natural stone benchtop will typically need resealing by a professional once every 5 years. Timber benchtops should be resealed every 1-2 years (depending on the product) but you can usually complete this task yourself. Staying on top of this routine maintenance will help to keep your benchtop looking its best for many years to come.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals can erode and damage the surface of kitchen benchtops, especially if they are made from porous materials like marble, granite or timber. Instead of using abrasive cleaners or strong acids, opt for mild, pH-neutral cleaning solutions that are specifically designed for your benchtop material.
Regularly wiping down your benchtop with a soft cloth and gentle cleaner will preserve its finish and prevent long-term damage, ensuring your kitchen remains both beautiful and functional.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kitchen Benchtop Design
What are some of the latest design trends for kitchens?
Our kitchen designers have seen a real move towards smart kitchen technology (such as voice-activated and auto-safety features). Another standout design trend has been the inclusion of brass finishes, which can bring a touch of retro glamour to even the simplest of kitchen designs.
In addition to these newer trends, our kitchen designers are still reporting an ongoing appreciation of some classic kitchen styles. This includes white and light colour schemes, the incorporation of natural materials and optimised storage spaces.
Can I install a benchtop myself?
Yes, although it may be better to get a professional to do it if you are not experienced in this kind of DIY project (or if you’re using a more labour-intensive product, such as polished concrete). Benchtops typically come with instructions for installation, so be sure to follow the directions closely. You will also need to measure the space accurately before ordering your benchtop, to make sure that the delivered product will fit correctly.
What is the average lifespan of a kitchen benchtop in Brisbane?
The average lifespan of a kitchen benchtop varies depending on the material used, the quality of the initial installation and the level of maintenance it receives. Here are some general estimates for common benchtop materials:
1. Granite: 20+ years with proper care and maintenance.
2. Marble: 25+ years, although it will require ongoing maintenance to prevent staining and etching.
3. Engineered Stone: 15+ years, with general care.
4. Laminate: 10+ years, although it can be prone to chipping and wear over time.
5. Timber: 15+ years, depending on your choice of timber and the level of maintenance.
6. Concrete: 20+ years, with proper sealing and maintenance to prevent cracking and staining.
Please keep in mind that these estimates may vary based on factors like usage, exposure to heat/moisture and how well the benchtop is maintained. Regular cleaning, prompt cleaning of spills and following the manufacturer’s recommended care instructions can significantly extend the life of your kitchen benchtop.
What should I do if my benchtop gets damaged?
If your benchtop gets damaged, you may be able to repair it yourself by using an adhesive sealant or epoxy resin filler. If the damage is more serious, you may need to get a professional to fix it for you.
How do I choose the right colour for my kitchen benchtop?
When choosing the right colour for your kitchen benchtop, consider both your cabinets and walls. You want the two to complement each other, rather than clash. You can also choose a colour that matches your personality or favourite colour. If you’ve got your heart set on a specific colour, then consider how it will look with the lighting in your kitchen (since natural light can affect how colours appear).
Additionally, think about the overall style of your kitchen. Do you want a kitchen that is modern? Rustic? Traditional? Once you’ve decided on an overall style you can then select a benchtop colour that enhances this overall theme.
What is the most common type of kitchen benchtop?
The most common kitchen benchtops Brisbane homeowners choose are typically laminate since it’s a good quality product that is also affordable and easy to install. However, granite is becoming increasingly popular because of its durability and elegant appearance.
I want to make my kitchen renovation more environmentally friendly. Can you help me?
Absolutely. Our experienced kitchen designers can assist you with making your kitchen renovation more eco-friendly. We do this by focusing on brands and materials with sustainable manufacturing processes and by choosing energy-efficient appliances and fixtures.
How much will a kitchen renovation cost?
There are many factors that will influence your renovation budget, including the size of your kitchen, the scope of work and your choice of materials, finishes, inclusions, kitchen cabinets and appliances.
When renovating a kitchen, Brisbane homeowners can expect the following figures:
- A small kitchen renovation typically costs between $20,000 and $30,000.
- A mid-range kitchen renovation would be between $30,000 and $45,000.
- High-end kitchen renovations can cost above $45,000.
For a more detailed estimate of the cost of renovating your kitchen, book a consultation with our experienced design team.
Can my choice of benchtop help to make my small kitchen appear larger?
Yes, it can! To make a small kitchen appear larger, opt for lighter-coloured benchtops, as they can make the space feel more open and airier. It’s also a good idea to incorporate reflective surfaces like polished granite or quartz since these can help to enhance the available natural light. Additionally, consider using a streamlined design with minimal seams and edges to create a more continuous and spacious look.
Craftbuilt Kitchens: A Reputation for Excellence
Craftbuilt Kitchens has been awarded multiple “Best Of Houzz” accolades for Customer Service (in 2020, 2021 and 2022). Businesses are nominated for this award as a result of their verified customer reviews and overall business rating on Houzz (an online platform with over 40 million global members).
Craftbuilt Kitchens is also proud to have received numerous glowing reviews from past clients, including:
“We were very impressed by the professionalism and work standard of all the employees - from the showroom staff through to the installers and associated contractors.”
Keith and Felice Eastwood
20/01/2021
“What made Craftbuilt better than others was they did not fob off the problems, everything was fixed to the standard you would hope.”
Kim-Maree Sargaison
20/01/2021
“I had my beautiful new Craftbuilt kitchen installed over 2 years ago and still love it to bits. My designer Sharon worked with me tirelessly to turn an awkward pokey space with angles and curves that couldn't be changed to create a new open area where all the family could cook, socialise and clean up without getting in each others way. I choose Craftbuilt because they listened to me without pushing me and the whole experience was a relief as I had been planning what to do for a very long time. I now have all the storage I needed in my kitchen that works for all occasions.”
Caroline Rumore
20/01/2021
“We have even recommended Craftbuilt to several of our friends and some of them have also had a second and third kitchen themselves. We simply can’t recommend Craftbuilt highly enough. We also believe that our beautiful cabinetry became great assets when it came to selling each of our homes,”
Jan and John
20/01/2021
“Craftbuilt are great to deal with, nothing was too much trouble and any questions we had were clarified. The end result of our kitchen is beautiful we love it! Thanks so much.”
Nancy Richardson Taia
20/01/2021
Book an Appointment with Craftbuilt Kitchens Today
Book an appointment with us today or head down to our new modern bathroom design studio at 15/76 Old Cleveland Road, Stones Corner to start your Gold Coast bathroom renovations process with us!
For your safety and ours, we request everyone to maintain social distancing measures. Visit our design studio, or you can also call or email to discuss how we can assist with your renovations during these times.
QBCC Licence No: 61004