I think you have posted this in the wrong section, try design dilemmas and you may get a response. If it is a new installation take it up with you benchtop installer.

Hi Angela. If your existing kitchen works for you, then replacing your benchtop and splashback will definitely work, as well as save you money. Whilst the Caesarstone's Linen is nice, I would recommend Smartstone Amara - it has a marble look, and is one of the more reasonably priced marble-look engineered stones. I have seen it installed and it looks fantastic. With the money saved, I recommend that you invest in some really beautiful tiles for the splashback (even if they are subway style, get really nice ones), some gorgeous new handles, as well as change the colour of your blinds to match as closely as possible the window architraves. A nice new sink and tap (think carefully about undermounted) will also help. Finally, if you can match your existing fronts exactly, then it may also be a good time to change the dishwasher to a fully integrated model. You could also replace the freestanding canopy, etc., as Design Fusion recommends, but that will cost you a quite bit more (it will require not only the new cabinet, but also redoing part of the bulkhead and cornice work), and you may have an issue with the new fronts matching the existing. All the best!

Hi Aria, this method of installation is standard within the industry, otherwise you'd be paying $$$ for additional stone that won't be seen from any ordinary viewing angles. Even my 50mm thick laminated kitchen bench top has the raw board exposed underneath - its hand laminated so they only apply surfaces where necessary to reduce the cost. It's handy to know your concerns like this; I can then forewarn my clients to know what to expect :-)

Kitchens have always been described as the heart of the home. So when you picture your dream kitchen, what sort of images come to mind? Are you loving the Modern Industrial style or maybe a Hamptons style kitchen is your current crush? Whatever you’re in to, we’ve got some amazing inspo for you! With so much inspiration floating around on the net, socials and glossy magazines, it’s so easy to fall into the trap of indecision. And just when you think you’ve nailed down the perfect kitchen, your thrown off track again because some other kitchen design pops up on Instragram. Creating a beautiful moodboard and pinning all your faves is the best way to start. Stalk all your favourite suppliers and designers social pages for up to the minute inspo. So then it’s just a matter of finding a common theme. It could be a cabinetry colour, backsplash tile, kitchen benchtop or even your tapware colour. Build your style from there. Maybe you pinned lots of black cabinetry, concrete benchtops and gunmetal tapware? Sounds like you’re into the Industrial Style. Crushing hard on marble benchtops, shaker style cabinets and polished chrome tapware? You’re definitely leaning towards a Hamptons style kitchen, for sure! If modern is more your style, you’ve probably got loads of neutral, clean finishes on your moodboard. White push-to-open cabinetry, stone benchtops and brushed nickel tapware is probably more your vibe.