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.

Replacing the blinds and the benchtops could make a big difference. White blinds will reflect light and make it feel more spacious. ...and yes the blue benchtop has to go :) Either lighter or darker is the way to go - there are pros and cons either way. Light will reflect light but show scratches and stains. Dark will absorb light but be more forgiving in terms of stains which may be preferable for a rental. Below are some pics for inspiration. The first pic below shows plantation shutters in a kitchen and you can see how it makes a difference to the light streaming in the window. The second pic shows how a dark benchtop can look stylish. We couldn't find an example of a kitchen with timber cabinets to show you. Renovating for a rental property versus your own home is quite different. We always recommend stone benchtops and this is what all of our clients opt for as it gives them the best long term solution. Something to consider but it costs are a factor then a short term solution is probably best for you at the moment. I hope this helps.

Hello K & R have you looked at the Stone Ambassador range of "engineered" Reconstituted Stone who make a large selection in various different white tones. See https://www.stoneambassador.com.au/product-catalogue/ but always best to see these in the flesh so to speak as opposed to the colour you see on a computer screen. Hope this helps, Malcolm.

Hi Deanne, I agree that if you really set your heart on something, you should try to find a way to have it, otherwise every time you look at your kitchen bench, you will always have it in your mind. One possibility to stretch your budget is to keep it to the island bench or peninsular or breakfast bar and have another material for the cooktop bench, if that suits your kitchen layout. For instance, stainless steel will go with but not compete with the stone. Alternatively you could use a plain black engineered stone for the other areas. If the areas are not separated, i.e, you have a 'U' shaped kitchen, you can still use different materials by lowering the cooking bench by 50 or 75mm or raising the Dolormite bench if you are taller than average. Sometimes by having a smaller amount of it and having the contrast, can make it all that more 'precious'. Less is more. Good luck, C.