Why are more designers and homeowners turning away from engineered stone? The beauty of engineered stone has made it a favourite in kitchens and bathrooms but the hidden dangers of silica dust are now the forefront in all media outlets and are changing the way we think about this material. Workers exposed to silica dust risk serious health issues like silicosis and other lung disease. It’s also not as sustainable as natural or recycled alternatives.
So let’s dive into some stylish, practical alternatives and find out the pros and cons of each material
Natural stone (Marble,Granite)
pros:
- Timeless, luxurious look
- Extremely durable
- Adds value to your home
cons
- Requires sealing and ongoing maintenance (especially marble)
- Pricing can range from $200-$600 per sq metre, depending on the type
Ideal for high end classic designs where elegance is key
Recycled Glass
pros
- Made from recycled materials and a great sustainable option
- Available in a wide range of colours and designs
- Durable and non-porous making it easy to maintain
cons
- Can be prone to chipping
- Pricing starts around $150-$400 per square metre
Makes a great bold statements in your kitchen and a great sustainable option
Concrete
pros
- Easily customised for any shape, finish and colour you want
- Heat resistant and durable when sealed properly
cons
- Requires regular sealing to prevent stains
- Can crack if not installed correctly
- Pricing is around $100-$300 per square meter
Great for spaces with an industrial edge
Solid Surface (e.g. Corian)
pros
- Seamless smooth appearance and great if you like integrated sinks and splashbacks
- Easy to repair and maintain
- Low maintenance and non-porous
cons
- More prone to scratches and burns than stone
- Pricing is around $250-$500 per square metre
Ideal for contemporary spaces
Wood
pros
- Warm, inviting aesthetic
- Affordable
- Can be sanded and refinished if damaged
cons
- Prone to water damage if not properly sealed
- Requires regular maintenance especially in humid climates
Ideal for cosy, rustic and farmhouse style home. Can also be used in coastal homes.
Stainless steel
pros
- Hygenic, durable and heat resistant
- Sleek and professional appearance
cons
- Shows scratches and fingerprints
- Pricing is around $350 – $700 per square metre
Laminate
pros
- Affordable, with prices starting around $50–$150 per square metre, depending on the brand and design
- Available in a wide range of colours, textures, and patterns—including styles that mimic stone or wood
- Low maintenance and resistant to stains and scratches
cons
- Less durable than solid surfaces or natural stone; prone to chipping, especially along edges
- Not heat-resistant; placing hot pots or pans directly on the surface can cause damage
- Seams may be visible, particularly with patterned designs
Great for budget renovation or to use in a butlers pantry or laundry where the surface isn’t on display like the main kitchen area
When it comes to benchtops there are many options to suit all styles and budgets.
Let’s chat if you need some help in choosing the best style for your home!