Thanks to their versatility, combined with aesthetics and functionality, porcelain stoneware slabs are becoming an increasingly popular choice for kitchen countertops. Offering a unique combination of strength, stain resistance, and ease of maintenance, these advanced ceramic solutions are ideal for porcelain stoneware kitchen tops, especially given how demanding an environment kitchens can be.
Porcelain stoneware is not only a resistant and durable material, it also provides unparalleled aesthetics. This is because of the extensive variety of finishes and textures available, ranging from the iconic stone and marble effects to the more innovative looks, such as concrete-effect tops.
Furthermore, the possibility of creating a total look, where all the surfaces and units in the kitchen are coordinated with the porcelain stoneware slab for kitchen tops, is unquestionably a plus.
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The ideal choice for your kitchen: why porcelain stoneware is the best solution
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Exceptional sizes, exceptional advantages: porcelain stoneware slabs for kitchen countertops
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How to choose the perfect porcelain stoneware kitchen top
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The new Soft Touch finish: revolutionary comfort in the kitchen
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Stoneware and the others – comparing the design and practicality of different materials for kitchen countertops
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Choosing Optimum extra-large slabs: a sustainable decision in your kitchen
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FAQs – The questions being asked about porcelain stoneware kitchen countertops
The ideal choice for your kitchen: why porcelain stoneware is the best solution
Choosing porcelain stoneware in the kitchen means choosing absolute quality, through an entirely unique blend of resistance, durability, and aesthetic versatility. This material is highly resistant to impacts, high temperatures, and chemicals, making it perfect for the everyday wear and tear of kitchen life.
What’s more, porcelain stoneware does not change over time, maintaining its original beauty for years. Its non-porous surface ensures easy countertop maintenance, with just a damp cloth and neutral detergents needed to keep it clean and shiny.
Another key advantage is that as the compact structure of the material makes it stainproof and scratchproof. As a result, this surfacing material is ideal for anyone who loves cooking regularly and wants a stoneware kitchen top that is always impeccable.
Finally, it is available in numerous finishes, which makes it suitable for every style and aesthetic and allows users to create a total look embracing everything in the room.
Exceptional sizes, exceptional advantages: porcelain stoneware slabs for kitchen countertops
Not only is porcelain stoneware an ideal material for kitchen tops, the exceptional size of these slabs only adds to the appeal of its already positive qualities. Optimum Surfaces offers the largest slabs available on the market, measuring an unrivalled size of 1840×3300 mm.
Our extra-large ceramic slabs for kitchens let you create seamless surfaces with virtually no joints, offering a clean look that is ideal for open-plan kitchens. Furthermore, this minimal use of joints facilitates cleaning and maintenance, making extra-large porcelain stoneware slabs a functional, visually appealing choice.
Products of this size are perfect for those looking for an elegant, essential aesthetic, that opens up spaces and lends the entire kitchen a distinctive feel.
How to choose the perfect porcelain stoneware kitchen top
To get the most out of your porcelain stoneware kitchen top, in terms of both functionality and looks, there are several factors you should bear in mind. First of all, it is important to take impact resistance into account, as this is crucial in the kitchen, where a worktop is constantly subjected to all kinds of harsh treatment. As it is so durable, porcelain stoneware is suitable for those who love a dynamic, functional kitchen.
Secondly, budget is a determining factor. The outlay for porcelain stoneware for kitchen tops is actually a long-term investment thanks to its durability and hence low maintenance costs.
Another aspect to consider is combinability with other materials. Porcelain stoneware can be paired with wood, metal, or other materials to create striking contrasts or tailored colour schemes. Teaming up different materials, such as natural wood and marble-effect porcelain stoneware, is one of the most on-trend applications in kitchen design.
Finally, the wide variety of finishes available is a key aspect that can also influence a user’s decision. The different finishes offered by Optimum for its ceramic surfaces allow you to tailor the kitchen environment to your style and cater to specific practical needs and aesthetic preferences.
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Glossy finish
The glossy finish developed by Optimum for its extra-large (1840×3300 mm) slabs is perfect for those looking for a bright, modern kitchen. Its gleaming surface captures and reflects light, increasing the sense of space and lending the kitchen a sumptuous elegance.
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Matt finish
The matt or Natural finish, on the other hand, is ideal for those who prefer a cleaner, more understated look. Through the technology adopted by Optimum, this kind of surface processing reduces reflections and fingerprints, making it practical and functional, especially in busy kitchens. The natural effect helps create a stylish, welcoming feel that is ideal for both contemporary and more traditional settings.
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New Soft Touch finish
Recently introduced by Optimum for Calacatta Matarazzo, the new Soft Touch finish is designed to create a unique tactile experience, velvety and inviting. This silky surface offers a blend of sophisticated looks and comfort that make the kitchen top a pleasure to use every day. The Soft Touch finish is ideal for those looking for an exclusive solution that combines elegant design with a smooth warmth.
The choice of finish is not the only aspect to take into account when choosing the material for your kitchen countertop; there are also the different edge shapes to explore and you might also want to go for a solution with high visual impact
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Bevelled edge
The straight edge is perfect for those who want a linear, modern aesthetic. This kind of edge lends a sense of cleanliness and simplicity, emphasising the clean lines of the design. More specifically, a straight edge is perfect for contemporary kitchens, where its essentiality helps create a sophisticated, minimalist ambience.
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Bullnose edge
A bullnose edge brings a touch of classic elegance to kitchen countertops. The smooth, slanting lines of this edge create a more refined, traditional look, perfect for those who love detail and craftsmanship. A bevelled edge is versatile and can be used in both classic kitchens and more contemporary contexts, to introduce a sophisticated contrast.
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Waterfall effect with mitred edge
This stunning solution extends the material from the countertop down to the floor through a mitred edge, creating a waterfall effect. This option is perfect for those looking to create a continuous, fluid aesthetic, where the kitchen top blends in perfectly with the surrounding environment. The Waterfall effect is particularly suited to open-plan kitchens, where the linearity of the design is one of its key features.
The new Soft Touch finish: revolutionary comfort in the kitchen
The new Soft Touch finish, presented by Optimum at Cersaie 2024, features a silky smooth, reflection-free matt finish, for the creation of surfaces that delight both the eye and the hand. Designed specifically for kitchen counters, worktops, and furnishings, Soft Touch offers a perfect pairing of functionality and beauty. A stone-effect porcelain stoneware kitchen top with a Soft Touch finish is ideal for anyone looking for a natural aesthetic combined with tactile appeal.
Calacatta Matarazzo with Soft Touch finish: elegance at your fingertips
Calacatta Matarazzo captures the timeless elegance of Brazilian marble, with its harmonious grey veining and extraordinary visual dynamism. Produced as large stoneware slabs, this Optimum Surfaces product offers unparalleled depth that brings out every detail to striking effect.
One absolute novelty is the introduction of the Soft Touch finish, which combines visual elegance with an irresistibly soft touch. This innovation makes Calacatta Matarazzo the ideal choice for applications such as kitchen counter tops, worktops, and kitchen and living room furniture.
Compared to other finishes, such as glossy or satin, Soft Touch stands out for its blend of sophistication and comfort. Its reflection-free surface makes it ideal for settings where users are looking for an understated contemporary beauty without forfeiting functionality.
Integrating the Soft Touch finish into current kitchen design trends
The return of marble-effect porcelain stoneware in kitchens and the inclusion of luxury details are trends that Calacatta Matarazzo embodies to perfection. The matt effect of the Soft Touch finish creates a contemporary mood that aligns with the aspiration of those looking for a unique, sophisticated kitchen.
Calacatta Matarazzo is an ideal addition to both modern and traditional kitchens. Thanks to its versatility, it can be coordinated with different colour schemes and materials, for highly bespoke designs. The matt finishes and silky touch make it ideal for creating an elegant, welcoming atmosphere, in line with today’s trends.
Stoneware and the others – comparing the design and practicality of different materials for kitchen countertops
Compared to materials such as quartz and granite, porcelain stoneware offers greater resistance to high temperatures and stains. This makes it particularly ideal for use in rooms like kitchens, where these properties are essential. Unlike granite, porcelain stoneware is not porous, so it does not absorb liquids and is not prone to permanent staining or bacteria building up.
Not only that, natural stone kitchen tops are also limited in terms of design style. Porcelain stoneware, however, offers an extensive range of tones, textures, and effects, making it extremely adaptable to various aesthetics.
It is also important to remember that porcelain stoneware is antibacterial and hypoallergenic, which makes it perfect for ensuring food safety and exceptional hygiene. Compared to stainless steel, which is commonplace in commercial kitchens, porcelain stoneware offers a warmer, more welcoming alternative, without compromising on strength and durability. While it is extremely hygienic, stainless steel tends to show fingerprints and scratches more easily, while stoneware maintains its original beauty and condition even after years of use.
Choosing Optimum extra-large slabs: a sustainable decision in your kitchen
Optimum Surfaces was founded with the clear desire to base all its production activity on a highly sustainable approach with a low environmental footprint. From the very beginning, the company has been committed to offering innovative, environmentally responsible solutions, adopting cutting-edge technologies to reduce energy consumption and minimise emissions.
One of the main strengths of Optimum’s sustainable approach is our use of high-performance CHP plants in our manufacturing facilities. These mean we can self-produce 100% of the electricity needed. As a result, we are much less dependent on the national grid and also contribute to reducing CO₂ emissions. In addition to this, the company has also implemented technologies to recover hot air during production, thereby further reducing energy consumption and fossil fuel use.
The kiln used is “H₂ Ready”, a tangible sign of Optimum’s firm commitment to ecological progress. Optimum also stands out for its inclusion of recycled materials and processes aimed at minimising waste within its production cycle.
These choices not only mitigate environmental impact, but also constitute an innovative and responsible approach to ceramics manufacturing. Choosing Optimum porcelain stoneware slabs means embracing an aware, environmentally friendly lifestyle without compromising on aesthetics and functionality.
FAQs – The questions being asked about porcelain stoneware kitchen countertops
When people are choosing the best material for kitchen worktops, the following questions about porcelain stoneware come up regularly.
Why is porcelain stoneware so popular for kitchen countertops?
Porcelain stoneware is appreciated for its exceptional durability, design versatility, and antibacterial properties, making it ideal for today’s kitchens.
How can I keep my porcelain stoneware worktop looking as good as new without any effort?
Simply use a damp cloth and neutral detergents to keep it looking glossy; you don’t need to worry about stains or scratches.
Are there any special scratchproof or stain-resistant finishes for porcelain stoneware kitchen worktops?
Yes, Optimum Surfaces offers options – like our “Soft Touch” finish – which are designed to withstand stains, scratches, and everyday wear and tear.
Is porcelain stoneware a good long-term investment?
Due to its durability and resistance, a stoneware countertop maintains its value over time, with very little maintenance.
Is a stoneware worktop safe for preparing food on directly?
Yes, porcelain stoneware is hypoallergenic and antibacterial, which means it is perfect for those who want to prepare food on it safely.
How much does a porcelain stoneware countertop cost compared to other materials?
The cost of a porcelain stoneware countertop can vary depending on the thickness, finish, and size. It generally falls in the mid-price range, offering excellent value for money compared to materials like quartz or granite.
How does porcelain stoneware compare to other worktop materials?
Compared to quartz, porcelain stoneware offers greater heat and stain-resistance. Unlike marble, it is non-porous, making it less likely to absorb liquids or stain. It also requires less maintenance than materials like wood, marble, and stone, and offers a wider range of finishes than stainless steel.
