Choosing a benchtop material can feel overwhelming with so many options out there, especially with the recent ban on high-silica engineered stone in Australia. This change has left many wondering what materials to consider instead. The good news? You don’t have to limit yourself to just one. Mixing materials can add that layered, curated look that brings soul to a space. Here’s a guide to popular benchtop materials, with pros, cons, and price ranges – and a peek at some examples from our projects at The Maybe Forever.

1. Natural Stone

Natural stone, like marble, granite, and quartzite, brings timeless elegance to any kitchen.

At The Maybe Forever, we used Taj Mahal Quartzite for the kitchen island and benchtops, paired with Stone Ambassador’s Firtina (a low-silica engineered stone) in the pantry and laundry to keep a consistent look throughout.

• Pros: Heat and scratch-resistant, unique patterns from natural variations, adds long-term value.
• Cons: Requires sealing to prevent stains, generally more expensive than synthetic materials.
• Cost: $$$$ – Ranges from $500 to $2,000+ per square meter.

2. Stainless Steel

Sleek and practical, stainless steel is commonly seen in professional kitchens but can work beautifully in high-traffic homes, too. For SOUL Farmhouse, we chose stainless steel for its durability—perfect for a holiday rental that needs to withstand heavy use.

• Pros: Heat-resistant, durable, easy to clean.
• Cons: Shows fingerprints, prone to scratches, may feel too industrial for some spaces.
• Cost: $$ – Typically costs around $450 to $900 per square meter.

3. Timber

For a warm, textured look, timber is hard to beat. It’s ideal for creating an inviting, grounded feel, as seen in our SOUL Cottage project. While we didn’t feature timber at The Maybe Forever, it’s a go-to for rustic or farmhouse-inspired spaces.

• Pros: Beautiful patina over time, sustainable, adds warmth to any space.
• Cons: Needs regular upkeep to protect against moisture and scratches.
• Cost: $$ – Ranges from $300 to $1,000 per square meter, depending on the wood type.

4. Concrete

Concrete adds a modern, industrial edge that’s highly customizable. At The PAUSE, we used a custom concrete island, making it the focal point of the kitchen.

• Pros: Heat and scratch-resistant, highly durable, customizable finishes.
• Cons: Can crack if not properly installed, stains if unsealed, requires strong structural support.
• Cost: $$ – Generally between $500 and $1,200 per square meter.

5. Porcelain

Thin yet durable, porcelain works wonderfully in sleek, modern designs.

At The Maybe Forever, we used Stone Ambassadors Vasari porcelain in the boys’ bathrooms in both ‘Atlantis Smoke and Emerald Green  to create a stylish, hard-wearing finish.

• Pros: UV-resistant, scratch and stain-proof, many color and finish options.
• Cons: Prone to chipping at the edges, some colors can be more expensive.
• Cost: $$$ – Typically $700 to $1,500 per square meter.

6. Mineral-Based Engineered Stone

With the ban on high-silica engineered stone, mineral-based alternatives like Stone Ambassador’s Zenith Surfaces offer sustainable, stylish options. Zenith’s recycled glass blend includes up to 89% recycled materials, minimizing environmental impact. While we couldn’t use Zenith at The Maybe Forever as it was before the release of this product, we selected Firtina, a low-silica alternative, which offers a consistent, elegant look.

• Pros: Eco-friendly, scratch-resistant, wide range of colors, no sealing required.
• Cons: Less heat-resistant than natural stone, UV sensitivity in some options.
• Cost: $$$ – Typically $400 to $1,500 per square meter, depending on brand and style.

7. Tiled Benchtops

Tiled benchtops allow for creative color and pattern choices. For The Maybe Forever’s outdoor bar and BBQ area, we chose handmade blue concrete tiles for a vibrant pop of color and fun.

• Pros: Wide variety of colors and patterns, easy to replace individual tiles, cost-effective.
• Cons: Grout can stain and needs maintenance, uneven surfaces if not installed carefully.
• Cost: $ – Usually ranges from $200 to $600 per square meter, based on tile quality and design.

Selecting a benchtop is a significant decision that impacts both the look and functionality of your space. From luxurious natural stones to practical stainless steel, each material has its own strengths. Don’t hesitate to mix and match, creating a benchtop combination that reflects both your style and the way you live in your home.