As the demand for affordable and social housing continues to grow across New Zealand, architects and developers are increasingly focused on materials that balance durability, low maintenance, design flexibility and long-term value.

Cosentino’s surface solutions — including Dekton and Silestone — are being specified across residential developments for their performance-driven properties and versatility across kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and communal spaces.

Dekton is an ultra-compact porcelain surface designed to withstand high-use environments. Its resistance to stains, scratches, UV exposure and heat makes it particularly suitable for multi-residential and affordable housing projects where durability and lifecycle performance are key considerations. With minimal maintenance requirements and long-term colour stability, Dekton can help reduce replacement and upkeep costs over time.

Silestone offers a low-silica mineral surface solution that combines durability with a broad design palette suitable for contemporary residential applications. Available in a range of neutral and natural finishes, Silestone supports standardisation across multi-unit developments while still allowing architects and designers to create warm and functional interiors.

Cosentino surfaces are suitable for a variety of applications including benchtops, splashbacks, bathroom vanities, wall linings and exterior facades, allowing consistency of materiality throughout a project. Large-format slab sizes can also support installation efficiency by reducing joins and simplifying fabrication.

With an increasing focus on long-term building performance and efficient construction outcomes, material selection plays an important role in supporting housing delivery targets. Cosentino continues to work closely with architects, designers and builders across New Zealand to provide surface solutions that meet the demands of modern residential design while supporting durability, efficiency and ease of maintenance.

Featured Cosentino surfaces suitable for affordable and social housing applications include:

• Dekton — ultra-compact porcelain surface suitable for benchtops, facades, wall cladding and high-use interior applications.
• Silestone — low-silica mineral surface designed for kitchens, bathrooms and residential interiors.

Applications include:

• Multi-residential developments
• Townhouses
• Apartment projects
• Build-to-rent and social housing projects