Choosing the Right Colour Palette for Your Stone Benchtops: Tips for Interior Design

Are you planning a new kitchen, bathroom or commercial space and feeling overwhelmed by colour choices? Your benchtop is one of the biggest visual anchors in any room, so choosing the right palette makes all the difference.

Your stone benchtop sets the tone for your entire space. Whether you’re aiming for a clean, modern feel or something a little more earthy and textured, getting your colours right will help everything flow together beautifully. At Pacific Stone, we see every day how the right combination of colour, texture and finish can completely transform a room.

Here are a few simple tips to help you choose a palette that brings your vision to life.

1. Start with your overall style
Think about the look you’re going for. Having a clear style direction makes shortlisting colours a lot easier.

• Modern and minimal: Clean whites, soft greys and subtle veining work well. They create calm, open spaces that feel fresh and timeless.

• Warm and natural: Taupes, sandy tones and warm greys pair nicely with timber cabinetry and soft lighting.

• Bold and dramatic: Charcoal, deep veining or darker stones bring depth and character, especially in larger kitchens or reception spaces.

2. Consider your room size and light
Natural and artificial light change the appearance of stone throughout the day. This is where visiting our Tauranga showroom helps, as you can view different stones in person and see how each one reacts to light.

• In smaller or shaded rooms, lighter tones can brighten the space and keep it feeling open.

• In large, sun-soaked rooms, both light and dark stones look stunning. Darker stones create contrast, while lighter stones give a soft, luxurious feel.

3. Work with your existing materials
Think about flooring, cabinetry, appliances, paint colours and even hardware. Your benchtop should complement rather than compete. Bringing samples or photos to our showroom is always a good idea.

• Pairing cool-toned cabinetry with cool-toned stone creates a seamless look.

• Warm wood grains love warm neutrals or natural stone patterns.

• If you have a feature colour, choose a stone that grounds it without overpowering the space.

4. Think long-term
Stone benchtops are designed to last, so choose colours you’ll enjoy for years. Classic whites, gentle marbles and soft greys remain popular because they work with changing styles and trends. If you love a more adventurous colour, you can introduce it through accessories or décor.

5. Don’t forget about commercial spaces
For reception desks, offices or retail counters, colour plays a huge role in first impressions. A well-chosen stone can signal professionalism, quality and brand personality. Lighter stones feel clean and refined, while darker tones add sophistication.


If you’re planning a renovation or building project and would like help choosing the perfect stone colour palette, we’d love to chat. Visit our Tauranga showroom, explore our full range online, or get in touch phone us on 07 578 5024. Our team is here to guide you from inspiration to installation.