Hello
My first post but I have been reading for months about the above items as I have been planning a long awaited new kitchen. I can report that I am delighted with all of these and as there is so much debate about these things, I thought it may be useful for me to let you know my experience.
Went for Corian on advice of kitchen fitter; he said granite and quartz were good too (and we live in a soft water area which helps). But the clincher was that if anything happens, we can have the worktop repaired easily. Most importantly, if my hob, which is cut into the island is replaced with one of a different size this can be easily dealt with. It's been in a couple of weeks and no, it doesn't stain. Any marks from curry/red wine/teabags etc have come off really easily with Bar Keepers Friend (if a damp cloth didn't get them first time round). It's been well tested and I am slowly getting used to the fact that I don't need to be super careful with it. Hot pans are a no-no though....I am told you can 'get away with it' but I'm not prepared to test (and realistically I would never put a hot pan down on any worktop).
I have white Corian, with a white kitchen so it looks (I think) quite clinical. But that's how I like it. Does not show scratches at all.....and can be sanded lightly (professionally) as often as you like, which will take it back to the original matt finish. It picks up a shine over time. It really is beautiful, doesn't feel plasticky (it feels very solid and like stone).
Induction hob.....I am a convert from gas. Best thing ever to cook with. Quick and reliable plus super clean. I love that if I set something to simmer, once I am happy with it I can walk away and know the gas won't go out and it won't get hotter and hotter. Just a dream to cook with.
Quooker.....luxury item but the kitchen fitter undercut the kitchen supplier on the Corian so I have justified it! Love not having a kettle on the worktop and it is just great to think I want a cuppa and not wait on the kettle. I do want to confirm that the water is boiling (though not all taps are) and certainly the fitter was adamant that Quooker was the best brand. It's safe, child friendly tap and doesn't splash or spit. Found numerous uses including quick 'sterilisation' of chopping boards, blanching veg etc. Love it but as I say, it is completely non-essential. If you have the budget and are gadget minded, you will love it.
Oh and the thing I did skimp on was an extractor fan. Didn't want a big thing hanging above island, downdraft ones were crazy money. I had one at our last house which was broken for 6 years and I didn't feel the need to fix it. To comply with building regs, my builder's popped a £25 quid one in the corner of the room above units. Looks OK actually and at £25 I don't care if I forgot to switch it on. Kitchen fitter did make the point that it probably works better than the expensive circulating air lamp shade nonsenses that I was looking at.
Well, that is my kitchen story. I hope that it might be of help to anyone who like me scrolls through this sight looking for help with what are quite big choices to make.