Now that you've done all you need to plan a kitchen, it's time to get into the delicious details. Points to consider when selecting surface materials for your kitchen include: safety, resilience, hygiene, style, durability, thermal properties, maintenance, light reflection, noise level and installation. Not to mention cost!

The more specific you can be about which points are most important to you, the easier it will be. Just click on the links below to find out more about the right materials and finishes for your perfect kitchen.

Benchtops, splashbacks and insert
Solid timber
Plastic laminate
Stainless steel
Solid surface
Solid-surface veneers
Ceramic tiles
Natural stone

Cabinets
MDF or particle board
Timber
Stainless steel
Doors can be made of the same materials and can include glass, wire and punched- or pressed-metal inserts.

Hard floor surfaces
Glazed tiles
Terracotta (quarry) tiles
Slate
Natural stone
Polished concrete
Timber
Laminate

Soft floor surfaces
Vinyl
Linoleum
Cork
Laminate
Rubber

Walls
Washable acrylic or enamel paint, ceramic tile, stainless steel, laminated panels are all options for walls. If you go for timber or concrete panelling for the kitchen, they must be well sealed against moisture. Find out more on paint and painting.