Stainless steel counter tops are often associated with food preparation areas, hospitals and laboratories due to the easy to clean, almost clinical surface. But this is no reason why they shouldn’t be considered for ‘front of house’ applications in pubs, bars, cafés and restaurants. Stainless steel counter tops can be finished in a number of ways, such as brushed, mirrored, milled and satin, all of which look sleek and stylish.

One of the qualities of stainless steel is that it reflects and scatters light, making even the darkest spaces feel lighter and brighter. It can also be beaten in to curves and domes, allowing almost any shape to be followed, creating a seamless flowing feel if desired. For example, a stainless steel counter can be made with an integral splashback, making an interesting and eye catching alternative to tiled splash backs which is ideal for catering establishments.

Stainless steel counters are also highly heat resistant. Where a hot pan can irrecoverably damage a laminate or wooden counter, stainless steel will not scorch, melt or burn. Nor will it be affected by acidic food stuffs such as lemon which contains citric acid. Stainless steel is easy to keep clinically clean and can be brought back to its original sheen with just a little elbow grease.