As interest in natural stone increases in the light of a ban on engineered stone, so, too, does the demand for options that combine the beauty of stone with enhanced performance.
Smartstone’s Sintered Collection is a response to the market’s evolving needs, offering an innovative surface that blends the look and feel of natural stone with the durability of modern materials. With advanced manufacturing techniques, Smartstone has created a highperformance alternative that’s both costeffective and environmentally friendly, meeting the demand for luxury without the upkeep.
The Sintered Collection, created through Smartstone’s proprietary sintering process, replicates millions of years of the earth’s metamorphic processes. Intense heat of 1,200°C and immense pressure – some 30,000 tonnes – bind natural minerals to create an ultra-compact, non-porous material that resists scratches, stains and heat. Unlike natural stone, which is porous and requires regular sealing, sintered stone is virtually maintenance-free, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.
The collection features 24 curated surfaces that replicate the world’s most beautiful marbles and natural stones, with the added benefit of durability. “While we faced the challenge of discontinuing the supply of engineered stone, we welcome the opportunity to offer the market an affordable alternative to both natural stone and quartz-based surfaces,” says Madelina Kalpou, Smartstone’s national architectural manager.
From the elegant veins of Calacatta to the sleek sophistication of Grafite Titanio, each surface is designed with impeccable accuracy using advanced printing technologies. Through-body veining technology allows seamless joins and continuous vein flow, creating a natural stone aesthetic that traditional porcelain could never achieve.
Offering slabs in 20-millimetre thickness, the Sintered Collection provides increased stability and durability compared to standard 12-millimetre porcelain surfaces. The slabs do not require a substrate, making them easier to handle and install. This innovative design feature further enhances the practicality of sintered stone for both residential and commercial projects.
The collection also meets the growing demand for high-quality, cost-effective solutions in the Australian market. The ban on engineered stone has led to a rapid shift towards alternative materials, and sintered stone has emerged as a true contender in this evolving landscape. Sintered stone slabs are produced in a matter of hours, whereas natural stones, such as marble and granite, take thousands of years to form.
Whether for benchtops, splashbacks or vanities, Smartstone’s Sintered Collection offers a refined, sustainable surface solution that combines performance with beauty.
