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 DesignHomes are a collection of things we love, and sometimes those things can come from places outside the traditional sources, such as your typical home furnishings stores. Increasingly, designers and homeowners alike are discovering the benefits of antique stores. These places, often thought of as the last stop for items no one else wanted, have become a popular shopping stop for those who want to have something unique in their home and enjoy the thrill of “treasure hunting”. More and more design styles are also embracing vintage finds, seeking to blend them together to create something special, such as the grand millennial and mid-century modern styles. Millennials are also enjoying the freedom to branch out in their design choices, creating a home that is customized to their own personality. Antique shopping can be a wonderful way to uncover those special touches that can make all the difference in your home, so let’s explore how to get started and what to do with all of the treasures you find.
Walker WoodworkingMore designers and contractors are incorporating this secondary space into the kitchen to gain square footage and have an area that works as an extension of the kitchen. Let’s dive deeper into what a butler pantry is and what the benefits are for you.
Walker WoodworkingThis is why we have created multiple door profile styles so that each of our clients can find the one that perfectly tells their story to everyone. At times, they are not able to pinpoint one that speaks to them, which is why we offer custom door styles as well. Several of our clients have opted for mullion cabinet doors, which always add a beautiful touch to their space.
Greenbrook DesignRecycling old styles with a modern twist is a phenomenal way to honor the past while creating the future. Nostalgia is a valuable part of the creative process, especially in designing homes, our little personal factory of memories. So, don’t be afraid to try out some of these forgotten interior design styles that are making a comeback. It’s nice to freshen up your whole concept and take a little walk through a time capsule. Let your creativity fly in the limbo of styles, and wonder what else will be new soon.
Walker WoodworkingWe all have an idea of what our dream home would look like, after all, that is what places like Houzz and Pinterest are for, right? You wish you could have those little personalized spaces and upscale feel in your home that makes it stand out from the ordinary. Sometimes we believe that the home we envision is far too luxurious for our budget, but that is not true. But with a little creative thinking, anything is possible! There are many ways to stretch a budget through good planning and a few helpful tricks that can give you the luxury you desire without breaking the bank. Let’s explore the various ways to achieve designing a luxury home on a budget and bring your dreams to life.
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