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.