Counter tops play a big part in creating the look a of a kitchen

Sizes and Styles

The standard depth is 600mm and thickness starts from 20mm. Standard height is 900mm but it’s possible to set sections at a lower height. Mixing up worktop materials helps to define zones.

Materials

Wood – Choose an oily hardwood to withstand spills and humidity, but ensure it comes from a sustainable source. Hardwoods also have natural antibacterial qualities that make them suitable as chopping surfaces. Right: This solid beech worktop from Mak Distributers is 40mm thick and costs £82 for a 3m length.

Stone – Marble, limestone and granite are popular choices. However, stone is vulnerable to damage and will be heavy, meaning units and floors may need reinforcing. Right: This fired earth worktop is made from lavastone and is available as part of a kitchen, price on order from Fired Earth.

Stainless steel – The professional choice: tough and hygienic. Worktops can be made to order. However, the high shine will scratch and pick up finger marks. Right: The Ebony stainless steel worktop from Nature Second is 40mm thick and costs £525 per linear metre.

Composite – Can be moulded to virtually any shape, making curvy worktops possible. Hygienic, and come in a huge array of colours and finishes. Right: This worktop from is made from 93 per cent quarts and a mixture of resin mirror and glass. It costs £400 per square metre from Silestone.

Glass – Light-reflecting and often colourful, glass worktops can add a lift to any scheme. Made of safety WORKTOPS glass, a number of UK companies specialise in producing tough worktops that can be matched to any colour of kitchen. Right: This recycled glass worktop costs £400 per linea metre from Eight Inch.

Laminate – An affordable option with easy installation, but laminate worktops are prone to scratching and they are not suitable for undermounted sinks. Right: Pragel laminate worktop from IKEA, each 126x62cm section costs £16.

Eco options – A good alternative to wood for worktops is engineered bamboo, and it has great sustainable credentials. Right: This solid bamboo worktop costs £425 for a H40xW3000xD600 length from MFI.

Words: Ros Anderson Images: Compiled by Adele Bird