Understand that "Corian" is only one particular brand of acrylic benchtop, like as with reconstituted stone and laminate material, people often refer to it by the name of the most popular brand name, but their are always different levels and tiers of quality across an array of different companies that manufacture this type of bench top material. We regularly utilise and specific acrylic bench top material on our projects such as below. It's the most seamless and malleable bench top material from a design point of view than any of the other options available. Most of our higher end projects choose to go with it and for good reason, and we've never had an issue with it. Any defects can be relatively easily repaired, the success of which is not so much in regards to the quality of the material, but rather the contractors who work with and install it. So if anyone's had issues it can typically be pegged back to a workmanship or fitting issue, or potentially on a rare occasion if there's an actual defect with the material/product it should be replaced properly/completely rather than just patched up. www.pauldistefanodesign.com

Ok, so we don't need engineered stone in our kitchen, as we have it there already, but we just had more of the same stone installed in our new powder room & ensuite to match the kitchen's earthy colour scheme. We do, however, need to choose a natural granite for our alfresco kitchen as engineered stones are not covered by manufactures' warranty in our situation. So, I stick with engineered and natural stones for the long term bench top of choice.

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?

Some suggestions for you to consider how they go w/Wild Rocks and either of your flooring choices. This list doesn't contain any timber-look textured finishes. Are you considering a timber-look textured? Polytec - Thermolaminated: Pearl Metallic Porcelain Husk Linen Micro Snowfum Vittoria Pearl Gloss Classic White