The Enduring Allure of Stone: Texture, Depth and Drama in the Modern Kitchen

Image: Viola Marble PP5858

At Formica Group, we’ve channelled this evolution into our new worktop range Formica^® Originals Worktops, reinterpreting natural materials through the lens of design innovation. The result is a collection that celebrates the beauty of stone, with the practicality and performance of laminate.

To find out more about the inspiration and thinking behind the new Formica Originals Worktop Collection, we caught up with European Design Lead, Nina Bailey, who has been at the heart of its creative development.

From Raw to Refined: A New Direction for Stone Surfaces

Over the past few seasons, we’ve seen the industrial look evolve into something calmer and more elegant. What was once defined by sharp concrete and exposed finishes has softened into ‘Quiet Industrial’, a trend that blends texture with serenity.

“Concrete and other raw materials are reimagined to create a serene, calming ambience, blending industrial elements with elegance. Stone and clay take centre stage, from the timeless elegance of veined marbles to the organic texture of blended composites.”, said Nina.

This shift is mirrored in the growing popularity of organic materials with a tactile sensibility. From smooth veined marbles to the subtle patina of natural travertine, designers are embracing stones that offer depth and character without overpowering the space. These surfaces don’t just define a worktop, they anchor the entire design story.

The Statement Stone: Bold, Beautiful, and Functional

Across exhibitions such as Eurocucina 2024, one theme has dominated: bold-veined marble. It’s graphic, architectural, and inherently luxurious. The appeal lies in its duality. A surface that’s both decorative and functional, timeless yet expressive.

“Graphic and bold marbles remain a defining statement in kitchen design, particularly on worktops and islands”, Nina explains.

In our new collection, Viola Marble (PP5858) embodies this look. Inspired by Calacatta Viola, it pairs a crisp white base with warm black and grey veining, bringing an elegant drama that still feels approachable. For darker palettes, Sahara Noir (PP9921) introduces terracotta-toned veins across a charcoal base — a striking yet versatile design that pairs beautifully with warm metals and matte cabinetry.

For a more understated approach, Patine Chalk (PP9923) captures the essence of ‘Quiet Industrial’ through its soft, plaster-like tonality. Its subtle surface variation evokes a sense of calm, ideal for pairing with natural woods and muted accents. And as travertine continues its resurgence, Tumbled Travertine (PP5812) offers a timeless, organic aesthetic that feels effortlessly modern.

Designing with Depth and Contrast

What unites these surfaces is their ability to create visual depth. Whether used across expansive kitchen islands or as vertical splashbacks, these designs bring movement and interest without overwhelming the space.

Nina highlighted, “When used on kitchen islands, bold-veined marbles create a natural divide, enhancing the flow of open-plan spaces while adding a touch of dramatic elegance. Today’s homeowners are embracing luxurious touches to elevate everyday living, blending sophistication with comfort, known as ‘Hospitality Inspired’ design”.

Layering contrasting textures such as matte cabinets against gloss marbles, or soft-grained woods alongside concrete tones, adds a sense of depth and sophistication. It’s a palette that suits both the ‘Hospitality inspired’ home and commercial environments, where texture and tactility elevate the user experience.

The Practical Side of Performance

While natural stones remain aspirational, laminate offers a functional alternative that delivers aesthetic realism without compromise. Each Formica Originals worktop design captures the intricacy of veining, subtle shifts in tone, and tactile finishes that respond beautifully to light, all with the ease of a finished product ready to install, with easy everyday maintenance and exceptional durability.

Image: Patine Chalk PP9923

Where to Begin

Whether you’re designing a serene, textural kitchen or a bold, statement space, the new stone decors from the Formica Originals Worktop Collection, bring flexibility and finesse.

To appreciate the full nuance of each surface, such as the soft sheen of Patine Chalk or the dramatic veining of Viola Marble, we always recommend ordering a sample through our website. You can view all textures on our Surface in 360 tool, but seeing and feeling the finish in person is the best way to experience how texture, tone, and light interact in your design.