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Compact Laminate Worktop Buying Guide

For those who want a hardwearing, low-maintenance, and affordable alternative to solid stone surfaces, synthetic can be the way to go and this compact laminate worktops buying guide offers a complete run-down of the benefits these counters offer. Featuring a round-up of the colours and finishes available, we also cover planning considerations to keep in mind when designing a space with this material. With a laminated surface that is easy to wipe clean, these counters are a great choice for a modern home and combine everyday practicality with a premium aesthetic.

What are the benefits of compact laminate?

Hardwearing

Enjoy ongoing durability thanks to this water, heat, and stain-resistant material, which is manufactured for long-lasting quality in a cooking space.

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Hardwearing

Designed to withstand the demands of a busy cooking area or utility room, these counters will suffer no damage from laundry splashes or food spills. Water resistance also means that compact laminate can be paired with an undermount bowl, including vintage-inspired butler and Belfast designs. Tough and hardwearing, this feature will remain in top condition for many years to come, making it an enduring investment for any cooking space.
Affordable

Update a living area for less with this budget-friendly alternative to solid stone. It replicates the pattern and colour of natural materials at a lower price.

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Affordable

Made with cost-conscious homeowners in mind, compact laminate counters combine the superior appeal of a solid surface with all the practical benefits of a manufactured product. It offers an authentic-looking reproduction of more premium stone – an excellent option for those who want to create a high-end interior design on a smaller budget.

Ultra modern

Enhance a contemporary scheme by introducing this innovative counter style, which features an on-trend, square edge and slimline profile.

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Ultra-modern

The clean lines of a square-edged counter will bring any design right up to date. Thinner than a traditional worksurface, compact laminate has a minimalist aesthetic thanks to its shallow silhouette. This also makes it a smart choice in a smaller room where understated features can help enhance the sense of space.
Easy to clean

For fast clean-ups after dinner, compact laminate has a wipe-clean surface that makes it simple to stay on top of chores and keep a room pristine.

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Easy to clean

Featuring a solid, non-porous exterior, these counters are more resistant to stains, mould, and mildew. To clear away everyday spills, simply wipe it with a mild detergent and water, then dry with a clean cloth. With no need for specialist chemicals or solutions, busy families and adventurous chefs will love how easy this material is to care for.

What colours are available?

Black

Embrace the trend for dark accents by introducing a bold sweep of black to craft a statement work area.

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Black

Deep-toned surfaces are a good starting point for various design schemes. Pair with neutral hues to craft a timeless monochrome look or use engineered elements for an industrial-inspired space.

Explore black compact laminate worktops
Copper

Enrich a scheme with a copper-toned counter, which will introduce an aged finish and warm tone to a room.

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Copper

Copper finishes remain in fashion and can be found across interior design, from home accessories to counters. Stone patterns and warm metallic hues combine to create a fusion of nature and luxury for a cooking area packed with character. Couple these tones with pared-back cupboards to elevate a simple look.

Explore copper compact laminate worktops

Grey

For a versatile design that can complement a broad palette, go for a compact laminate counter in grey.

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Grey

Pale greys make dark spaces appear brighter and match other soft neutrals to create a subtle tonal scheme. Meanwhile, darker shades offer an alternative to black and can make a bold statement or form the basis for a monochrome interior. Options include concrete-effect patterns that channel industrial, engineered style.

Explore grey compact laminate worktops
White

Choose white for a clean and fresh aesthetic. This much-loved neutral is both timeless and on trend.

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White

The versatility of white is one of the reasons it remains so popular. This shade works equally well in a small layout where it will boost the sense of light and space, or in an open living area where it can enhance an understated scheme. To level-up the luxurious appeal of a room, opt for a marble-effect counter that mimics the pattern of this iconic material.

Explore white compact laminate worktops

What finishes are available?

Textured

Add natural charm to a cooking area with a textured counter that mirrors the patterns and tactile quality of real stone – with a budget-friendly cost.

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Textured

Layering textures is a clever way to bring a boutique look to life at home. Stone-effect finishes add visual interest and offer an affordable shortcut to a premium design. The lifelike patterns found with textured, compact laminate surfaces capture the character of organic materials while providing a more uniform aesthetic.
- Matt
  
  Modernise a design with matt that adds a pared-back style, that reduces glare and visual distractions.
  
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  Matt
  
  Matt has a sheen-free appearance that softens the impact of bold shades and enhances the appeal of neutral tones. These low-key designs are great for creating a more tranquil feel in a busy cooking zone, which further complements the slim profile and understated look characteristic of compact laminate.
- Smooth
  
  Pick a smooth counter to turn the workspace into an understated design feature that is easy to keep clean.
  
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  Smooth
  
  A smooth appearance allows the colour and pattern of compact laminate to take centre stage, with a choice of styles available that mimic the character of natural stone. The even surface is less likely to collect dust or dirt and can be easily wiped down when spills occur.

Planning considerations

Length

Compact laminate is only available in 3m lengths, so remember to factor this in when planning a design. This larger size suits all spaces and minimises joins.

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Length

The length of these counters ensures that there is plenty of material to cover a standard row of cupboards, which means installation can be completed with fewer visible joins. This ensures great value for money, cuts down on waste, and creates an uninterrupted run of workspace that looks smart and sleek.
- Specialist tools
  
  Like solid stone, compact laminate requires special kit to cut and fit, so make sure to call in the experts.
  
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  Specialist tools
  
  Professional installation is a must when choosing one of these counters and guarantees safe fitting and a smart finish. Made of multiple layers, these surfaces are heavy and need an extra pair of hands to be lifted into place, which is worth noting when planning a design. With solid surface fitting available from our local depots, we can take on the hard work, freeing up a trade professional to focus on other tasks.
  
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- Drain grooves
  
  To prevent water sitting on the surface, ask a fitter to cut draining grooves alongside an undermount bowl.
  
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  Draining grooves
  
  Compact laminate can be used with under-mount sinks that sit below the surface. These styles are made without a draining board, so grooves can be routed into the counter to help water drain away. This can be done without impacting the appearance, thanks to a consistent colour that runs throughout this material.