RUMOR Designs
NATURAL STONE: GRANITE & MARBLE
Granite and marble are popular choices for kitchen countertops due to their natural beauty and durability. Each slab of stone is unique, offering a perfectly imperfect finish that engineered materials simply cannot mimic. Granite countertops (seen below right) are heat-resistant and scratch-resistant, making them more suitable for busy kitchens. Marble (below left), on the other hand, is more prone to scratches, stains and etching from acidic substances. With that said, regular sealing to protect the surface is advisable for both granite and marble due to their porous nature.
Despite the extra upkeep, natural stone’s timeless appeal makes it a worthwhile investment for many of our clients. Granite is usually priced anywhere between SGD $100-250 per square foot, while marble starts at SGD $200 psf and can go much higher depending on the rarity and thickness of the piece you select.
MARBle
GRANITE
ENGINEERED MATERIALS: QUARTZ & SINTERED STONE
Quartz is an engineered stone made from natural quartz crystals combined with resin. It is highly durable and non-porous, making it resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria. It has been around forever and is one of the most popular kitchen countertop materials out there. Sintered stone, on the other hand, is a relatively new material that offers remarkable durability and versatility. Made from natural minerals subjected to high heat and pressure, sintered stone surfaces are even more resistant to scratches, stains, and heat than quartz is. Both materials are non-porous and are easy to clean with simple soap and water, with no need for sealing.
Quartz and sintered stone are similar options in many ways, so how do you choose? Aesthetics are one differentiator. Quartz offers a variety of design options, while sintered stone (see below right) is often specifically made to mimic natural stones such as marble, and tends to have a more organic look. Price is the other factor. Sintered stone is more durable and eco-friendly than quartz, making it pricier. Quartz is usually priced from $100 psf while sintered stone begins at $180 psf.
QUARTZ
SINTERED STONE
OTHER OPTIONS
If neither natural nor engineered stones quite fit your budget or look, consider alternatives such as KompacPlus and solid surface countertops. They are more limited in terms of design but can still be quite durable and easy to maintain.
KompacPlus is an innovative kitchen countertop material that combines style with durability. It is made from a combination of kraft paper and resin, and is very resistant to water, heat, and scratches, making it easy to maintain. Keep in mind, however, that design options are minimal and joint lines will be visible. Prices start at $100 psf.
Solid surface is another popular option. These slabs are usually made from a blend of acrylic and polyester resins. Solid surface offers a seamless look with invisible joints, which can be particularly appealing for large countertops. It is available in numerous colors and patterns, allowing for better design flexibility. Solid surface is also non-porous and easy to repair if scratched, but less heat-resistant compared to natural stone options. These countertops are usually priced between $75-150 psf.
THE FINAL WORD
Selecting the perfect kitchen countertop material involves many factors including durability, maintenance, budget, and style. At Studio Oxley, we understand how overwhelming this decision can feel. Whether you prefer the luxuriousness of marble, the practicality of quartz, or the versatility of sintered stone, we hope our guide has helped you navigate the options and make a choice that you will enjoy for years to come. Explore more kitchen design tips and inspiration on our blog, or set up a call with us to learn more.
