Cement and plaster are replacing granite as the worktop surface of choice, according to interior designer Ludmila Paratian.In a feature for the Times, she said Worktops made from unusual materials such as cement or slate are taking centre stage.High-gloss units are still popular but over the next few years matte materials will return.Writer Lucy Alexander added that polished granite or laminate worktops can look a bit vulgar and be difficult to keep clean.The feature also suggests acid-bright accent colours such as lime, hot pink and pillar-box red for walls, splashbacks, appliances and accessories.Last month Halifax published a survey which revealed that 2.8 million households are living with an unfinished kitchen which was started as a DIY project.Time pressures and financial constraints were blamed for the refurbishment work not being completed.