Commencing operation in 2016, Tru Stone has built a wealth of knowledge and experience in stonemasonry. “Today we specialise in custom-made marble, granite, quartzite, porcelain and reconstituted stone benchtops for residential and commercial use,”
they say. “Continuing to develop and adapt as the industry grows and changes, we love tackling and innovative designs to further our experience and expertise.”

Although man-made stones such as Stone Ambassador’s Zenith Surfaces continue to be a popular selection for budget conscious projects, Tru Stone have noticed a rise in clients seeking the unique features in natural stone. But with a vast array of options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know what the best option is for your kitchen.

FROM GRANITE TO QUARTZ
“When advising clients on selecting stone for their kitchens and bathrooms, we always recommend they consider their lifestyle and how they use these spaces,” Tru Stone says. “Kitchens in particular are high-traffic areas that experience a lot of wear and tear, so durability is key.”

Some types of stone are more high maintenance and less resistant to daily use, so it’s important to choose materials that align with both your aesthetic preferences and your practical needs. “For kitchen spaces, we typically recommend granite, quartzite and reconstituted stone,” Tru Stone advises. These are well regarded for their durability and ability to withstand the rigors of a busy kitchen. “Granite and quartzite, being natural stone, are also much more heat-resistant 

than many other options, making them ideal for cooking environments,” they add. “While marble is beautiful, it’s a much softer stone, which makes it more susceptible to staining and etching from acidic substances, spices and oils.”

However, creating a kitchen that is visually appealing to you is also important. “Selecting the right stone for your space plays a vital role in shaping the overall aesthetic and feel of the room,” Tru Stone says. “The colour, texture and pattern of the stone can either enhance or clash with the other elements in the space, so it’s important to consider how the stone interacts with your cabinetry, flooring and wall colours.”

UNIQUE VS. UNIFORM AESTHETICS
“Natural stones like granite, marble and quartzite are highly valued for their unique aesthetic appeal,” Tru Stone notes. Each slab is one-of-a-kind, quarried directly from the earth, so no two pieces are the same. “The natural variation can create a more intricate detailed look, with beautiful veining, patterns and colourations that give these stones a distinctive and luxurious feel,” they outline. “For many people, this uniqueness is a key part of the appeal of natural stones, as it adds character and originality to any space.” However, as these stones are naturally formed, fissures and imperfect markings can be present. “It is important that clients are aware these cannot be avoided and are part of the beauty of natural stone,” Tru Stone explains.

In contrast, man-made stones offer a more consistent look. “Once the design is created every slab is virtually identical which makes it easier to achieve a uniform appearance across multiple surfaces, particularly in large installations where consistency is key,” Tru Stone says. “Man-made stone also comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns, including options that mimic the look of natural stone.” As these slabs are manufactured, the designs can evolve as new trends emerge, meaning that simpler designs can be created, appealing to those seeking a more contemporary or minimalist style.

Images courtesy of Tru Stone