In this episode, part 1 of benchtops in the series, Frances welcomes her guest, Laura Neville from Cosentino to discuss three main benchtop applications – reconstituted stone, natural stone (by Cosentino), and Dekton.
They outline the differences between the 3 products and why you may choose one over the other, considering functionality, durability, budget, and aesthetics. Fabulous insight is provided on manufacturing differences, cost differences, and application.
SHOW NOTES
Things to consider when choosing for benchtops
• Think about how you are going to use the kitchen 5-10 years’ time
• Durability and longevity of the product
• Budget
• Natural light in the kitchen space
• Finish preference for the benchtop
• Color and Design of the overall kitchen and home
• Maintenance
Reconstituted Stone
Depending on the brand, reconstituted stone is a mix of different minerals that are bound together with an acrylic resin to create a workable surface. It is guaranteed to maintain consistency in aesthetics throughout the slab, so if you are after consistency, this is a great choice. The customization of your kitchen is stone to the look of your stone through choices of colour, texture, and composition.
Cosentino treats nearly all of their reconstituted stone slabs with a coating called N-boost. Its a technology they’ve developed to minimise the porosity of the stone, preventing the absorption of everyday kitchen liquids (including red wine and lemon).
Silestone brand reconstituted stone
Other brands of reconstituted stone
Disadvantages of reconstituted stone
Dekton
A mix of different natural minerals that are liquified, compressed, and baked. It often compared to porcelain but is a different composition. Dekton is classified as an ultra-compact surface. It is more durable as it is completely solid the whole way through. It can be applied to any surface such as kitchen benchtops, stair treads, swimming pools, cabinetry fronts, floors, saunas, and facades.
Pros
Cons
Natural Stone
Sensa by Cosentino
Sensa by Cosentino is a natural stone that consists of granite and quartzite. It is treated with a coating developed called Senguard.
Pros
Cons
You can find Cosentino’s showroom in every major city in Australia. And you can find different colors and sampling across all the products i\on their website. https://www.cosentino.com/
Available services;
Overwhelmed by the amount of decisions that need to be made when creating a stylish, functional, and durable Kitchen? What materials to select, what colours will co-ordinate together, what design is going to best suit space, and your requirements.
We offer several kitchen design packages to assist with your kitchen design – be it a makeover, renovation, or new kitchen. Click the link here to find more:
Get in touch with Frances directly, by booking a chat with her.
Upcoming Event;
Gain essential insight and avoid costly mistakes at the ‘Forever Home Kitchen Masterclass’ Webinar presented by leading interior designer and author of ‘Your Forever Home’, Frances Cosway of White Pebble Interiors. It will be on Thursday, 30th July 2020 at 7:00pm- 8:00 pm AEST.
Click here to register;
Related Resources;
Episode 14: Forever Home LIVE- Joinery Drawings and Why Do Them Early On
Episode 30: Kitchen Design Essentials -Kitchen Design Layouts and Location
Episode 32: Kitchen Design Essentials – The Builder’s Insight
How to Choose the Right Bench Top
Top 5 tips for selecting benchtops
