In one of our past homes, we had one section next to the stove that was butcher block, but the rest reg. There is def upkeep to one & doing a small section is much easier than a whole top. Wilson Art & Formica have some really great new laminate choices---for example, if you like granite look, you can get it with these but a matte finish which reads better in a country kitchen.

Hi White Elk, that's helpful although not exactly what I was wanting to do. What I am hoping to do is have a microwave above a double oven. Don't want microwave to be higher than 1450mm at the most, and preferably at 1400 and double oven is 895mm, so base of oven would be at about 500. There some photos in houzz which are bit helpful, but I was wondering if anyone had a similar set-up to what I'm describing. Thanks MmQc

not sure you should bd driven by trends,, basins on top allow lower bench height which appears less bulky in small bathroom and puts sink on same level as toiletries on the counter, less bending

Hi Jess, gorgeous kitchen, those stools are really nice especially the first one , I love stools that fit under countertop line so as not to break up flow of kitchen, it’s really a matter of taste and to have what you love.I am sure whatever you choose will look beautiful.