Granite is still popular. There are many colours so choose carefully. Some can look dated as you've mentioned. Colours like Black Pearl are classics and wouldn't date but some of the red browns personally look awful.

Engineered stone is very popular and probably will be for years due to it's keen pricing and the consistent colours if you need more down the track. It will still match quite well but with granite being a natural product it can vary from batch to batch, origin, etc..

Thanks jbantick,

Black is a great fall back position. I agree the reds and browns pretty awful.

I'm looking for something striking but subtle. Tillets here in Adelaide march you out to the factory floor to sort through the slabs, you get the chance to select just the right slab and say where you want it cut.

I quite like the hands on approach, that way I can make sure that the markings are moving in the right direction, I want it travelling down the slab not across, giving it a more lineal look.

I'll post the pics when it is all done. Sorted the sink and tap today, nearly gather all the materials.

pineapplerose51 - Granite is very forgiving and durable for use in a high traffic kitchen. Man made stones have come a long way and have gorgeous colours and finish which can lead you to this stone. Have a think about how long you want the stone to last and how much you use your kitchen as well as who else uses the kitchen and how they would "treat / live with the stone". Some families have a bustle and busy actions in the kitchen so chips and bumps happen and others have a quiet process in this space - take the time to research the stone on our website to assist you with your decision - www.themarbleman.com.au | 1300 627 626 | The Marble Man - we repair stone surfaces so know what can happen to stone

Hi Pineapplerose,

I think there may be a few layers to your dilemma.

The first is about fashion and taste (as it should be!!)

Mid brown or lighter colours will provide a more contemporary look but you'd be best to surround it with fittings and finishes that with a modern shout out. That is, you can stylise the bench top further with your selections.

The second is to look at composite stone products which will give you far more choice - usually with a lower price. Note: 'Granite-look' composite stone benchtops are a premium product but well worth the spend.

An important question to ask about composite stone benchtops is the % of resign used as this will indicate how stain resistant it will be. (Note: the only products that are 100% stain resistant are glass or stainless steel)

If you'd like some kitchen design inspiration, see: 101 Kitchen and Bathroom Design Ideas

Good luck: Richard@themakeovergroup (Melbourne)