Today’s array of kitchen benchtops have certainly evolved over the decades. Gone are the days when benchtops were poky, plain and constricted. Now, benchtops are front-runner trend setters, with a suite of head-turning profiles on offer which boast sophistication and functionality.

Plantation Studio Manager, Di Gaffney, unpacks what is trending with grand island bench profiles and why they are the centrepiece of not only your kitchen, but also your family home.

Topping it off with style

Before deciding on the bench profile for your kitchen, we recommend that you firstly think about the bench top material.

There are an array of more accessible and affordable materials to select from, such as the very popular and versatile Caesarstone™ which is standard with Plantation Homes.

“At Plantation, there is a choice of 53 stunning Caesarstone™ colours to choose from - 6 of which are standard, in not only the kitchen, but also the ensuite, bathroom and powder rooms.

“Caesarstone™ benchtops exude a timeless sophistication in a kitchen. Currently, the most popular Caesarstone™ benchtop is the Cloudburst – a hue which complements an array of kitchen cabinetry colours and styles.” Di adds.

“Laminex® bench tops come in thousand’s of colour choices to harmonise many different styles and trends. They offer look-alike wood grains, marbles, stones and granites, as well as a large selection of flat colours to choose from. Hot on trend is the Green Slate & French Navy perfect for the very popular Hampton, Shaker style kitchens whilst the textured timber grain colours in the chalk finish are striking and stylish and authentic ”

Grand island bench top

The rectangular grand island bench top is by far the most popular bench profile and is also the main feature in all Plantation Homes kitchens. Sleek and sophisticated, the grand island is the epicentre for the family – gathering around it for meals and conversations.

“The grand island bench is the most practical home for the trusty sink where washing up can be done while overseeing the kids doing their homework, having their snacks or working on their latest Lego project. This profile usually sees a Caesarstone™ benchtop in either a 20mm or 40mm thick profile and accompanied by laminate end panels to blend seamlessly with the island bench cabinetry or make a feature in a contrasting colour.” Di says.

“If you want to experience a grand island bench that is head-turning expansive, visit The Majestic at Rochdale world of homes. Measuring at 1400mmW x 3300mmL long, this grand island bench makes the greatest of impacts that will be ideal for a busy family.”

Classy cascades

Di says, “As the name suggests, the waterfall edge to an island bench is when the benchtop surface cascades down on one or both sides of the benchtop to meet the floor. Seamless and streamlined, the waterfall is a sophisticated way to celebrate the benchtop surface while making a beautiful luxe stand out feature in the heart of your home.”

The Valletta 48, on display at World of Homes, Rochdale, is a perfect example of a kitchen featuring a waterfall edge. Elegance is amplified with this bench profile, creating a timeless elegance.

Over the moon with the overhang

“Another attractive and popular profile is a benchtop featuring an overhang, which can easily be used as an eating bar or food preparation counter. Dimensions of the overhang vary, with Plantation Homes recommending at least 450mm. The overhang is also ideal for larger breakfast stools, creating another convenient and comfortable eating area.” Di adds.

The Emperor 42 located at World of Homes in Helensvale, showcases a beautiful island bench with overhang, creating a perfect area for four stools to be tucked neatly into the overhang bench and not compromising on further space in the kitchen.

What’s for breaky?

A breakfast bar included to the island bench adds a very convenient bonus surface which cannot only be used for breaky but also as a less formal spot to work, relax or entertain. The breakfast bar, using a Laminex® feature upstand, can be used to fast track mealtimes as you don’t have to leave the kitchen to get hungry family members satisfied!

The Colorado 37, located at World of Homes, Bridgeman Downs, offers an elevated breakfast bar, perfect for three oversized stools. The breakfast bar contrasts well with the Caesarstone™ island bench and perfectly complements the colour palette of the main kitchen cabinetry. You will be hard pressed to leave the space anytime of the day.