Corian is a particularly good option when it comes to seamless kitchen work surfaces, it has been suggested. A reader question in the Guardian asked whether it is possible to buy a seamless worktop that could fit around a gas pipe. Responding, the newspapers Life style section noted that Corian has a soft, seamless matt sheen and mild scratches can be buffed off easily. It added that Corian worktops for an average kitchen start at around 2,000, including fitting, according to Kitchen Worktops Plus. Elsewhere, the newspaper commended the Maia surface from Homebase which looks like stone but is softer, more heat-resistant and virtually seamless its sold in sections, so will be less flexible around that gaspipe, but competent DIYers can install it - a single worktop costs 469. This worktop might also complement a stylish Franke kitchen sink or set of taps. Meanwhile, writing for the Manila Bulletin recently, interiors expert Carlomar Daoana argued that while kitchens were once solely devoted to preparing and cooking food, they are now a hub of family activity in the home.