KITCHENS | WRITTEN bY NICHOLE GORDON
This Alternative To Engineered Stone Just Got A Luxury Upgrade.
designers are finally seeing why we have always loved laminate benchtops
Last year, the Australian Government announced a ban on engineered stone that will come into force from July 1 to protect stone workers from silicosis.
This decision has opened the market for durable, affordable alternatives to engineered stone benchtops.
Enter Laminex laminate, a material that has been in the game since the 1950s and is poised to make a significant comeback.
Laminex is spearheading a campaign to shift the public's perception of laminate, showcasing its adaptability and durability as more than just a budget-friendly option. and while I do feel this is a little too late, and kind of feels like a marketing ploy to maintain their global status both financially and as thought leaders, I have always been a lover of laminates and I want to introduce you to why as well as some other brands, too.
As someone who has always appreciated the practicality and aesthetic flexibility of laminate, I'm excited to dive into the nuances of why this material is experiencing a renaissance.
high pressure laminate benchtops have an unmatched colour range you do not see with any other material
One of the standout features of Laminex laminate is its unparalleled colour range.
Traditional materials like stone and engineered products often come with limitations in colour variations, typically sticking to natural hues.
Laminex breaks these boundaries by offering a spectrum of colours that cater to every taste and design vision. From subtle pastels to vibrant primaries, Laminex allows homeowners and designers to experiment with hues that can define a space, accentuate a mood, or complement existing decor.
This extensive colour palette ensures that personalization is at the forefront, giving each kitchen or bathroom project a unique fingerprint.
Innovative ABS Edging changed the game for laminate benchtops, adding a luxury look and feel to the product within homes that feels anything but cheap
The introduction of ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) edging to Laminex laminates marks a significant innovation in the industry.
This advanced edging technique creates an almost invisible join line, eliminating one of the most common drawbacks associated with laminate surfaces: the noticeable square edge join.
ABS edging blends seamlessly with the laminate surface, offering a sleek, continuous look that many homeowners seek. This improvement not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of laminate benchtops but also contributes to their overall durability and resistance to wear and tear.
We design functional, thoughtful,
and beautiful homes, fit for real life.
We design functional, thoughtful, and beautiful homes, fit for real life.
At FBD Interiors, our main focus is creating spaces that are both elevated and realistic for your lifestyle. And we walk through every step of the process right alongside you - whether it’s a room refresh, a new kitchen, or a full home makeover/build.
high pressure laminates Durability and Maintenance rivals engineered stone, but for a fraction of the cost
Laminate isn’t just about aesthetic versatility; it also brings unparalleled durability and ease of maintenance to the table, challenging the preconceptions of its engineered stone counterparts.
Here’s why laminate is gaining traction as a practical and resilient choice for modern homes:
Enhanced Durability: With advancements in manufacturing technology, Laminex laminate now offers a surface that can withstand the rigors of daily kitchen use. Resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, this material has been engineered to maintain its integrity and appearance over time, making it a wise investment for busy households.
Low Maintenance: Unlike natural stone or engineered stone surfaces that require regular sealing and specific cleaning agents, Laminex laminate is remarkably low maintenance. A simple wipe with a damp cloth and a mild detergent is enough to keep laminate benchtops looking pristine, eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming upkeep.
Hygienic Surface: The non-porous nature of laminate makes it resistant to bacteria and mold growth, ensuring a clean and hygienic surface ideal for food preparation. This characteristic is particularly appealing in homes where health and cleanliness are paramount.
Sustainability Factor: Laminex is committed to sustainability, offering laminate options that are environmentally friendly. By choosing Laminex laminate, homeowners are opting for a product that not only looks good but also aligns with eco-conscious values.
The Compelling Case for Laminex Laminate in Modern Kitchens
As a kitchen designer in Hawke's Bay, I've witnessed the transformative power of materials in crafting spaces that are both beautiful and functional. The advent of high-pressure laminate, particularly Laminex laminate, has heralded a new era in kitchen design across New Zealand.
This material is not just a practical solution but a stylish one, offering an array of colourful laminate options that breathe life into modern kitchens.
Why use laminate, you might ask? The answer lies in its exceptional balance of aesthetics, durability, and maintenance ease.
Laminex laminate, with its robust composition and vibrant colour spectrum, provides homeowners with a cost-effective yet luxurious alternative to traditional materials.
It stands out for its ability to withstand the demands of daily use while maintaining its allure, making it an ideal choice for busy, style-conscious households.
In the evolving landscape of kitchen design, Laminex laminate has proven to be a game-changer. Its ability to mimic high-end materials, coupled with a colour range that allows for complete personalization, ensures that every kitchen can be a reflection of individual style and practical needs.
For those of us in the design world, particularly here in Hawke's Bay, Laminex laminate offers a versatile and dynamic medium to create kitchen spaces that are contemporary, functional, and inherently unique.
Embracing Laminex laminate in your kitchen design is not just about choosing a benchtop material; it's about making a statement that values both form and function.
With its luxury upgrade and ever-expanding palette, laminate is setting the standard for modern kitchen aesthetics in New Zealand, proving once again why it's a favourite among homeowners and designers alike.