Dezeen promotion: Spanish surface manufacturer Compac has revealed five new variations of its quartz surface material, each based on textures and patterns found in the natural environment.
The Unique collection includes surfaces inspired by natural stone. All five closely resemble marble – although they are actually made from engineered quartz.
This man-made stone is considerably more durable than its natural counterpart, making it more suitable for use as a kitchen work surface.
"The mix of quartz, resins and pigments make these surfaces solid with no porosity, high resistance to scratching and low maintenance," Compac told Dezeen.
"For those looking for design without compromising functionality, Compac Quartz brings together these two qualities in a unique and innovative product, perfect for interior decoration."
There are five designs in the collection: Calacatta, Marquina, Venatino, Arabescato and Argento. Each is a shade of white or grey, but they all vary slightly in both tone and pattern.
"The Unique collection represents the beauty of nature. It is born from total respect and admiration to the forms, materials and textures of the environment," Compac said.
"Our creations are inspired by natural stones that can be found in the Italian quarries."
While Calacatta is largely white with grey veins, Marquina is based on dark-coloured rock and the sparkling grains found on its surface.
Venatino and Arabescato are also light in colour, while Argento is a light grey decorated with white vein-like patterns.
Unlike other marble substitutes, the surfaces in Compac's Unique collection have veins that run through the entirety of the stone. And, like true marble, the veining on each slab is unique.
"In our designs, the vein penetrates into the depth of the product, giving it dimension," Compac said.
"This also means [the veins] are visible around the edges of the worktop [as opposed to just its surface]," the brand continued.
Compac was founded in Spain in 1975. Earlier this year, the company collaborated with Paris-based designer Arik Levy to create a sculptural kitchen installation for an exhibition during London Design Festival 2017, which was made using its Ice of Genesis collection that is inspired by the frozen lakes of the artic.