Hi Sheila Would you consider metallic-finish tiles? That would tie in with the metal kickplate & other metal surfaces. It would give contrast without added colour. It would remain in the 'neutral' zone that helps this kitchen seem so relaxed. It would also reflect colours to give variety. You can then play with accessories for a colour change as the mood takes you!

Hi iggs85. I see your point re cost and how you think it may look. I'll attach a photo of one of my semi-recessed basins in stone. We had to use semi-recessed due to space restrictions as well. The benches are 440. Are yours narrower? I did Google stone benchtop offcuts. eBay has some in marble and granite. There appear to be businesses that do sell offcuts. Anyway, I think you would certainly be able to find a beautiful laminate you like. There is such a wide range. There are also some that look so much like stone. Will you have vanity cabinets/drawers under the benchtop? If so, what are your thoughts there? Same laminate or different? Have you visited any shops yet to look at samples?

What are Afghan rugs made of?

What is a machine-made rug?