I would clad it in horizontal wide timber flooring planks. Myself I'd go a grey, weathered timber like an oak, the engineered flooring can be bout in packs, so a single pack would create a feature inexpenssively. It will provide the oppotunity to introduce timber details in furnishings or kitchen accessories. Natural timber softens modern interiors, relaxes and adds character to traditional looks like provincial or hamptons styles. The wide plank will enhance the flow as a walk through, but still provide an intersting visual texture to the adjoining lounge area.

I feel that Caesarstone and Quantam Quartz are comparable in terms of quality. In terms of colour, I prefer Alpine White. Snow seems too warm/cream for me. But it depends on your surrounds. Also check out Smartstone Nieve White, the colour of which I prefer to Snow and Alpine White. More white and less flecky

How exciting renovating your kitchen. Making it your own. Changing the old for the new. Learning all about stone and how you can use it in the home. So much to learn, so much choice, so many different types of stone for benchtops on the market. The Marble Man specialise in repairs polishing and sealing stone with 27 years experience working with all stone - natural and manmade - can assist you with information on stone. Take the time to learn about stone - www.themarbleman.com.au. Give The Marble Man technicians a call 1300 627 626. We can advise you on Natural marble, granite, limestone, travertine and engineered stone - such as those manufactured and sold by various brands. All produce outstanding, high quality stone to be used for kitchen benchtops, bathroom vanities and other uses in the home or commercial environment. It is important to look after stone. All stone for benchtops, bar tops, vanity units and tables require regular care to keep them looking clean and attractive. Some natural stone benchtops are porous and if not sealed can be susceptible to staining. The Marble Man specialises in removing stains from kitchen benchtops, bathroom vanities, bar tops and tables using a poultice or special cleaning products. Our trained technicians will assess your stone to determine the level of cleaning it requires and recommend the right products to keep your stone benchtops looking like new. Give The Marble Man technicians a call 1300 627 626. Take the time to learn about stone - www.themarbleman.com.au.

I've long been concerned about the formaldehyde in laminates, which also continues to outgas after installation, but until recently questions about it were met with a blank stare. A few years ago I was pleased to see a sign in the kitchen section of Masters making a claim regarding that (I think it was the first time I saw the E0 rating?) but when I asked for information about it no-one knew what it meant and eventually they suggested I talk to their 'supplier' which turned out to be the hardware supplier who knew nothing about the laminates. Very disappointing when retailers of better safer products fail to take the opportunity to educate customers and promote those products. Good on you Anne Marie for wanting to ask intelligent questions. (I could start a whole new thread....)