From Bold to Sleek
In the realm of kitchen design, one trend is standing out above the rest: the shift toward slimmer, sleeker kitchen benchtops.
Once the domain of heavy thick bench tops; typically 40mm and 60mm, designers and homeowners alike are now gravitating towards the elegance and modern appeal using thinner profiles; 20mm thick bench tops typically.
The trend for thicker, chunkier 40mm and 60mm kitchen benchtops has dominated the scene for many years. These bench tops were seen as a symbol of luxury, primarily because they represented a significant investment in material. Their substantial visual weight gave kitchens an aura of richness and grandeur that was hard to deny.
But like all design trends, this too is changing. What was once seen as a feature of opulence is now increasingly viewed as clunky and overly traditional. While there's no denying the robust appeal of these thick bench tops, they do tend to overwhelm the aesthetics of the kitchen, making it appear smaller and less spacious.
Enter the 20mm benchtop. Sleek, modern, and versatile, these thinner benchtops are quickly becoming the favourite choice of designers and homeowners. The reasons for this shift are many.
Modern Aesthetics: The slim profile of 20mm benchtops offers a clean, minimalist aesthetic that aligns perfectly with modern kitchen designs. These benchtops lend themselves well to streamlined, contemporary settings, allowing other design elements to shine without being overshadowed.
Versatility: Thinner benchtops are less visually dominating, making them more adaptable to a variety of kitchen styles. Whether you're going for an industrial, Scandinavian, or even farmhouse look, a 20mm benchtop can seamlessly blend into the design.
Spatial Illusion: Lighter benchtops, both in terms of physical weight and visual perception, contribute to a sense of openness and space in the kitchen. This can be particularly beneficial in smaller kitchens where creating an illusion of space is critical.
Cost-effectiveness: Although material costs vary, opting for a thinner benchtop can often result in financial savings. The reduced material usage not only brings down the initial cost but also results in lower transportation and installation costs.
Environmental Considerations: Less material usage also means a smaller environmental footprint. As sustainability becomes increasingly important, choosing a 20mm benchtop can be a more eco-friendly option.
One might raise concerns about the durability of these thinner benchtops. However, advancements in material technology mean that 20mm benchtops can be just as sturdy and long-lasting as their thicker counterparts. When chosing a material for you benchtops you want to make sure the materials are designed to withstand the wear and tear of everyday kitchen use. Moreover, modern sealants ensure that these benchtops are resistant to stains and scratches.
While 40mm and 60mm benchtops aren't going to disappear overnight, it's clear that the tide of design preference is shifting towards the sleeker, more modern 20mm options. The blend of aesthetics, versatility, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness that these thinner benchtops offer is hard to overlook.
As homeowners continue to seek out designs that embody modern minimalism, the trend of 20mm benchtops is likely to become increasingly prevalent. So, if you're planning a kitchen renovation, it might be worth considering this trendsetting option for your benchtops.
Dylan Ingram
Senior Designer at Design Build