In the mid-1920s a revolution swept the world that would forever change the way people viewed domestic architecture — the Frankfurt Kitchen. The forerunner of today’s fitted kitchens, the Frankfurt Kitchen is widely believed to be the first design to incorporate the concept of the work triangle.

Since then, the kitchen has increasingly evolved from the purely utilitarian to the “heart of the home” space we’re familiar with today.

It’s not surprising then that kitchen-related technology, too, has come on in leaps and bounds.

Take benchtops, for example. The myriad of surfaces available today truly beggars belief and it can be a daunting prospect to choose the right material, especially as each type has benefits — either aesthetic or practical — that make it stand out from the rest.

Natural stone or man-made surface

“If you’re looking for an all-round product that offers hard-wearing practicality with built-in good looks, it’s hard to go past an acrylic solid surface option,” says Murray Christensen of Laminex New Zealand.

“One of the best offerings in the market today is HI-MACS by LG Hausys, distributed exclusively in New Zealand through Laminex.”

The benefits of acrylic solid surface benchtops

“HI-MACS offers a visually seamless look, allowing for large areas without visible joints or edges, as well as sinks and basins. Furthermore, as a thermoformable material, HI-MACS can be shaped during fabrication into just about any shape — even down to a 6mm internal radius in some colours — giving total design freedom to create truly bespoke design schemes."

“Additionally, if hygiene and durability are of importance, HI-MACS can withstand usually abrasive cleaners without degrading, ensuring a hygienic surface for food preparation that adheres to all New Zealand food-safe ratings.”

Colour and visual texture: make a statement in the kitchen

“Laminex New Zealand is excited to be offering an impressive range of top-selling decors — including six new finishes not previously available in New Zealand. The range includes a variety of sophisticated, marble, granite and concrete-like finishes as well as boldly intense solid colours and ethereal translucents,” Murray says.

“The translucents are particularly design-focused as they can be teamed with lighting to create dramatic highlights, making them particularly suited to applications such as back-lit splashbacks and feature panels on kitchen islands.”

An all-purpose surface for both indoors and out

“HI-MACS is not just limited to kitchens — or even indoor applications — and can be used as a cladding material for walls and columns. It is also ideal for commercial and hospitality projects where it can be used to create reception desks, bars, sculptural elements and even outdoor furniture."

“As you would expect with such a versatile product, HI-MACS carries an impressive warranty — 15 years — one of the longest warranties of any solid surface manufacturer on the New Zealand market.”