When designing a new kitchen, selecting the right materials for benchtops and cabinetry is crucial. Your choices impact durability, maintenance, cost, and overall aesthetic. Let’s explore some of the most popular options available in New Zealand to help you make an informed decision.
Benchtop Materials: Pros and Cons
| Material | Durability | Maintenance | Cost | Style |
| Granite or Marble | Highly durable, scratch and heat-resistant. May crack or chip if exposed to heavy impact. Susceptible to staining if not sealed properly. | Requires sealing to prevent stains. Needs occasional maintenance and resealing. Clean with pH-balanced cleaners to avoid damage. | $$$$ | Luxurious, natural stone with unique patterns |
| Engineered Stone (Caesarstone, Silestone) | Scratch and stain-resistant, more uniform than natural stone. Less likely to chip or crack. Not heat-resistant; hot items can damage the surface. | Low maintenance, easy to clean. Non-porous surface requires no sealing. Clean with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive pads. | $$-$$$ | Modern, sleek appearance with a variety of colours, 20mm and 30mm thick |
| Laminate (Melteca, Formica) | Resistant to stains, moisture, and impact. Prone to chipping and scratching over time. Sensitive to heat and may warp or melt. | Easy to maintain but can be damaged by heat. Clean with mild cleaners. Avoid abrasive tools and harsh chemicals. | $$ | Affordable, wide range of styles and finishes |
| Porcelain | Extremely durable, heat and scratch-resistant. Can be brittle and may crack or chip under heavy impact. | Low maintenance, non-porous surface. Clean with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive tools and harsh chemicals. | $$$$ | Sleek, modern, and available in various finishes – thin (12mm) polished edge or built up mitred edge |
| Solid Surface (Acrylic) (Corian, HIMACS by Laminex) | Durable, resistant to staining, non-porous. Less prone to chipping and scratching compared to laminate. Can be damaged by excessive heat. | Low maintenance, easy to clean. Non-porous surface requires no sealing. Clean with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive pads and harsh chemicals. Can be refinished if scratched. | $$-$$$ | Modern, seamless look with a variety of colors and finishes |
| Solid Surface (e.g., Corian, Avonite) | Non-porous, resistant to stains and mildew. Can scratch but is easily repairable. | Low maintenance, can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Can be refinished if scratched. | $$-$$$ | Seamless look, available in a variety of colors and finishes |
| Concrete | Very durable, resistant to scratches and heat. Can crack over time but can be repaired. | Requires sealing to prevent stains. Needs occasional resealing. Clean with mild soap and water. | $$-$$$ | Industrial, modern look. Can be customized with different pigments and textures |
| Stainless Steel | Extremely durable, heat and stain-resistant. Prone to scratching and fingerprints. | Low maintenance, easy to clean. Wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Buff out scratches if needed. | $$$ | Sleek, modern, and professional look. Often used in commercial kitchens |
| Butcher Block (Laminated or Solid Timber) | Warm and resilient. Can be scratched and dented but can also be sanded and refinished. | Requires regular oiling to maintain condition. Clean with mild soap and water. | $-$$$$ | Rustic, warm, and inviting. Can be used as an accent countertop or for the entire kitchen |
Cabinetry Materials: Pros and Cons
| Material | Durability | Maintenance | Cost | Style |
| Melteca/Laminate | Resistant to moisture, easy to clean | Low maintenance | $ | Wide colour selection, including realistic woodgrains, modern and cost-effective **[links] |
| Shaker MDF with Painted Finish or Thermoformed Finish | Durable, smooth finish | Requires careful cleaning to avoid chips | $$-$$$ | Customisable in any colour, suits classic and contemporary kitchens. Many, many door profile styles ^^[link to gallery] |
| Acrylic | Highly durable, seamless edges | Easy to clean, scratch-resistant. | $$$ | High-gloss or matte finishes for a sleek, modern look. Can be handleless |
**can link to primepanels, Laminex Melteca and Bestwood sites as clients cannot get these products and all three I can get nearly all of through TDC (my manufacturer)
^^links to about door styles – but – how do I just post the pictures on my website with no links so they cant source or see my supplier? Durostyle Doors and Panels, thermoformed doors – Panelform, New Zealand
Cabinetry Doors and Drawer Faces
At PB Kitchens, we predominantly use Laminex, Bestwood, and Prime Panel doors, which offer high durability, a vast range of colours and textures, and excellent resistance to wear and tear. These materials are ideal for achieving a sleek, modern kitchen while maintaining affordability and quality.
For a more traditional or classic look, Shaker-style doors are a popular choice. These feature a recessed panel design, adding depth and character to the cabinetry. While they bring timeless elegance, they do require more cleaning due to the panel grooves, which can collect dust and grease over time. They can be painted or come thermoformed. [Click here for a list of style examples]
Acrylic Doors are a premium finish, offering super-high UltraGloss or Matt UltraTouch finishes for an ultra-modern finish! They can be handle-less for a very clean look.
How NZ’s Climate Affects Material Performance
New Zealand’s varying climate, with humidity levels in coastal and rural areas, can impact material longevity. Timber may expand or contract with temperature fluctuations, so proper sealing is essential. Engineered stone and laminate hold up well in diverse conditions, making them popular choices for durability and practicality.
Expert Advice for Choosing the Right Materials
Every home and budget is different, so consider what suits your lifestyle. If you want a low-maintenance solution, engineered stone for benchtops and laminate for cabinetry may be ideal. For a premium, bespoke look, timber elements and granite can add timeless appeal.
At PB Kitchens, we help you choose the perfect materials for your kitchen, ensuring style, function, and longevity. Check out our render examples for inspiration, or contact us today for a design consultation!