Design Notes
Countertops are often underappreciated and underrated in the design world. They are the true workhorses of any space, as they are used regularly and withstand a great deal. We chop, pound, knead, spill, and more all over these smooth surfaces, yet they continue to function day after day. Unfortunately, they are not meant to last forever. Experts recommend replacing them every 10 to 15 years, especially if signs of wear and tear are evident, such as stubborn stains, chips, or cracks. Find a detailed list of reasons here on why you should replace your countertops. When shopping for countertops, itis essential to ask specific questions that can help you determine which one is right for you. To make it easier, we have compiled a list of the top five countertop questions, along with our best answers.
Which Countertop Is Easiest To Maintain?
This is an important quality to consider in your next countertop purchase since no one wants to spend more time cleaning than necessary, especially when you have little ones to care for. It is always an essential question to ask your designer or when you visit your local dealer to pick out your new slab. When it comes to countertops, quartz offers a beautiful look and is one of the easiest to maintain. It does not stain because it is non-porous. There is an added bonus to the non-porous aspect, which minimizes the amount of germs present in the kitchen and can give you peace of mind regarding your family’s health. Countertops made from granite, while always offering a stunning look, do require regular sealing. Quartz is a great choice for those who don’t wish to spend hours trying to keep their countertops clean and maintained. For more comparisons, you can read an article from FloForm, which shares information about several countertop materials.
Which Countertop Is The Most Durable?
When making a decision that involves a large investment, durability is a crucial factor. The goal of any home renovation is to create a space that is functional and perfectly suited to your family’s needs, and it is not something that is done every other year. Choosing a new countertop involves selecting a material that is going to last and stand up to everyday usage. When looking for a countertop that is both elegant and durable, Granite is the number one choice, though natural is not the only option available now. Engineered granite is making a statement in the design world, as it possesses all the desirable qualities of natural stone, but with a few added bonuses, such as enhanced durability. Granite, whether engineered or natural, can withstand high temperatures, meaning it can resist burn marks. It is also able to withstand scratches and dents, making it durable and resilient. It is also a good option for those with health concerns since it can resist bacterial growth. It is worth mentioning that quartz has also been named a top performer when it comes to durability since it is a man-made material. Both are good choices. The decision will come down to what is best suited for your family. This is where an experienced designer can be of help when trying to narrow down your best option.
Where To Put Countertop Seams?
A new countertop can transform your bathroom or kitchen into a space that looks brand new. The solid surface can make everything amazing and give you the added prep space you have been wanting. When you look at countertops, they seem seamless, as if they are just one big piece, but that is the work of a good fabricator and the precision cuts they make. The placement of your countertop seams is an important one and should be given good thought. A large kitchen island can involve multiple pieces that need to be assembled in a way that makes it look like one, preventing issues with dirt buildup if the seams are not installed correctly. Some things to keep in mind when selecting your countertop are the size of the slab. To minimize the number of seams, try to find one that can cover a large portion of the intended area. Places that should be avoided for seam placement include the sink, as it will create a weak spot due to minimal support. Darker-colored slabs can make it easier to hide seams, and having the seams near a natural breakpoint can also help.
Which Countertop Is Heat Resistant?
Kitchen countertops will be exposed to a lot of heat, especially from those who love to cook on a regular basis. Heat-resistant countertops are an important aspect to consider when selecting your new look and will make cooking easier since you are not worried about setting something hot down, like a pot or pan. Granite again tends to come out on top; the natural stone can handle a hot item with ease instead of having to place a trivet or hot pad first. This tolerance to heat comes from the fact that granite is formed under a tremendous amount of high temperature, paired with high pressure. Having the ability to simply enjoy cooking in the kitchen without worrying about a hot pad nearby is a great bonus to a new countertop. Countertops are meant to act as a large prep space where you can spread out and express your creativity with ease. It is also beneficial in the bathroom if you use heated appliances such as a curling iron on a regular basis. This should be one of the top questions you ask your designer when selecting your countertop material.
What Countertop Goes With White Kitchens?
Color is a crucial factor when choosing new countertops, as they are meant to last a long time and are not easily replaced every other year, making this decision significant. White kitchens remain a popular choice for cabinet colors as they pair well with other colors and blend with just about every style, including traditional and minimalism. While there is no truly right answer since your home is a reflection of you and should be enjoyed, designers caution against using only one color. Contrast is a beautiful element of design, intended to add visual interest and depth to a space. Dark countertops look absolutely stunning against white cabinets, both in the kitchen and bathroom. They can also complement a darker island, such as blue and even red, and provide contrast to the white perimeter. If you are not fond of the dark color scheme, you can opt for a soft gray or even off-white countertop, which allows you to stay in the lighter realm without blending everything together. Countertops come in a wide array of colors today, ensuring there is an option perfect for you and your taste.
Greenbrook DesignEvery home has a story, and it is mainly told through interior design. Each element plays a part in conveying what matters most to you and reflects a part of your personality. Over the years, an increasing number of individuals have stepped outside the traditional design box and incorporated elements that hold meaning for them or are connected to a cherished memory. This shift has led more companies to expand their product line to include unique items made from various materials. Designers have followed suit and are looking for ways to deliver a tailored look for each client. These results sometimes give rise to interior design trends, and 2023 has some fun and elegant ones. Let’s see if any of them interest you as you prepare to hit the refresh button in your home.
Walker Woodworking It’s a New Year, a new you… But does your resolution list include some remodeling? If it does, it’s probably best to start with your kitchen – from the floors and work your way up. Kitchen floors are often victims of damage throughout the year, and now is the perfect time to give them a fresh new look. Let them shine like you’re going to the following year! There are numerous flooring options to consider for your new kitchen. So, if you don’t know where to start, we’re here to help!
Greenbrook DesignOne of the most exciting and anticipated times of the year has arrived, as numerous paint and design companies announce their Color of the Year choices. Designers and manufacturers alike look forward to this pronouncement as it provides inspiration and even direction for the coming year. Many companies use these colors to shape the new products that will be released in the coming year, and homeowners often enjoy incorporating them throughout their homes for added enjoyment
Paint companies like Sherwin-Williams have already announced their amazing Color of the Year choice, Redend Point, which draws from nature’s calm color palette. Benjamin Moore’s choice of Raspberry Blush, though, is closer in shade to the color selection made by the one company everyone in the fashion world looks to, Pantone. Designers and manufacturers alike waited with eagerness to hear Pantone’s color of the year announcement, and for 2023, their choice was Viva Magenta, a color described as a “crimson red tone that presents a balance between warm and cool. This hybrid of red and pink is a reflection of our current world’s relationship of living in both a physical and digital world. More and more homeowners are learning to blend their work and home lifestyles, which have become deeply entwined over the last couple of years. We know that color is much more than a splash of paint on a wall or cabinet; it speaks a language all its own, something Pantone seems to grasp and express well. So what influence will 2023’s Viva Magenta have on us? Let’s explore the answers today.
Greenbrook DesignWhen you first moved into your property, you took the time to come up with the perfect design for a space you’ll call home. However, over time, circumstances change, and so do people. And, now, you’ve found yourself in a situation of wanting to change things up a bit. If you’re wondering how to tell it’s time to redesign your home, sit tight and let us walk you through all the major signs.
Walker Woodworking 
Greenbrook Design