During a kitchen or bath remodel, choosing a countertop can be one of the most exciting parts of the process. However, with so many options, it can be difficult to choose the right one. Two types of counters available, solid surface and quartz, may seem very similar but they actually have their own pros and cons.

Solid-Surface and Quartz Countertops

Solid-surface countertops are created when mineral dust, which usually has a high concentration of marble, is mixed with resins and pigments to create the counters. It is easy to create and can give you completely seamless countertops even if you have a large counter area. The product was introduced by duPont in 1967 under the brand name Corian but there are now other brands available. Quartz countertops are created when ground quartz, one of the strongest substances on Earth, is mixed with resins and pigment. Although the counters are made in a similar fashion, there are several differences between them that you must understand before choosing it for your family.

Ease of Installation

Neither is easily installed by the average do-it-yourselfer. Although solid-surface materials can be cut with ordinary tools it is almost impossible for the average person to find sheets of solid-surface materials. Quartz requires special tools that most people don’t have lying around their home or garage. It is possible to purchase ready-made vanities or small sections of counter designed for bathrooms or small kitchens that may be able to be installed on your own.

Heat Resistance

Both counters contain polymers which make them less heat resistant than granite but most solid-surface counters have a lower heat resistance rating than quartz. It is possible to damage quartz counters with extremely hot pans although it does take significant heat to do so. Damaging your solid-surface counter with a hot pan could actually void the warranty.

Scratch Resistance

Quartz is far more scratch resistant than solid-surface materials. Cutting on a solid-surface counter will result in scratches although they can be buffed out fairly easily. It is recommended that you use cutting boards for quartz more to protect your knives than the surface of the counter.

Neither quartz nor solid-surface materials need sealing and the cost for the two products is similar. If you are looking for countertops for your kitchen or bath remodel, contact us today by filling out the easy online form or giving us a call.

It’s no small wonder that people love granite, and other stone countertop materials like marble and travertine. They’re timeless, they come in a wide variety of colors and patterns to match any décor, and they’re incredibly durable. They’re resistant to scratches, heat and a lot of high-energy impact.

One of the biggest practical niceties of these materials, though, is how easy it is to clean them. Given they’re not porous, they don’t stain if sealed properly, and any material is easily removed, no matter how viscous or dried-on it has become. This cannot be said for most synthetic or organic materials out there.

A question that arises, though, is what cleaning products are and aren’t safe for a granite countertop. Obviously, you want to keep your kitchen or bathroom sanitary, which you instinctively expect to require certain astringent products to be involved. For example, many homeowners wonder if it’s safe to use bleach on granite.

Disinfection

In all reality, granite and other smooth stone countertops don’t need to be disinfected, per se. Not being organic or porous, the use of warm water and, at the most, soap, generally suffices to wipe away any bacteria or viral agents that could be accrued on the surface. Bleach and other strong agents should be used minimally if at all.

Stain Reduction

Granit, marble and travertine generally don’t stain if they’re properly sealed – a process of buffing the surface and applying a sealant. However, should the seal be compromised, mild, shallow staining can occur. Bleach, in this case, can be used to lift these stains before the reapplication of a seal. It need only be used for spot treatment in this case, and very sparingly.

Proper Granite Cleaning

Due to the fact that granite and similar materials are very resistant to bacteria and other organic substances, you should generally use gentle, non-abrasive cleaners. A dedicated granite cleaner is recommended, something like Granite Gold Daily Cleaner ®, but this isn’t necessarily required. The use of warm water and antibacterial soap (dish soap) works well enough, with a soft sponge or cloth.

Things to Never Use on Granite

Granite isn’t invincible, and just as citric acid from lemons, limes, pineapple and tomatoes can etch the surface of it over time, so can some cleaning products. Corrosive or harsh substances like vinegar, ammonia, or anything containing citrus should absolutely be avoided. This goes for coarse, abrasive cleaners like comet as well.
Under no circumstances use steel wool or other rough pads!

The Importance of Sealing

The most important ongoing maintenance for granite is the regular sealing of it. Under most circumstances, this merely involves the application of a granite sealer product after cleaning. These seals get sprayed in in 3-foot strips, which are then gently wiped in with a clean cloth. This process should be done 2-3 times in a row.
Buffing is only required of etching has occurred from acids or abrasives.

So, Can You Use Bleach?

Long story short, you can use bleach to lift stains from granite, but it should not be used as an all-purpose cleaner. To learn more about granite safety and care, fill out our contact form or call us today!

Often called bulkheads, a kitchen soffit is a box-shaped structure designed to hide wiring and mechanical components between the cabinets and ceiling. Although they are normally found in kitchens, they may also exist in other rooms in our home. Older kitchens sometimes have soffits that extend past the cabinets which some homeowners find unattractive. In some cases, a soffit can make your kitchen feel dated or claustrophobic. Unfortunately, you may not be able to remove the soffit so you must come up with ways to hide them.

Removing a Kitchen Soffit

In some cases, you may be able to remove the soffits in your kitchen. Before beginning, turn off all power to the kitchen and mark spots that cannot be removed. You cannot remove ductwork and other popping, so you want to clearly mark them to be sure you don’t cause any damage. Remove any decorative pieces as well as crown molding. Once you have completed those tasks, you will need to remove the kitchen cabinets. It is important to note that removing soffits can be very messy as you must remove a significant amount of drywall. Most of the soffit will be empty behind it so removing it will require sawing and hammers. It can take some time to remove all of the soffit that you can, leaving only the sections that hide vents or pipes.

Make the Soffit Thicker

If you cannot remove the soffit, you may want to consider making the soffit thicker. Although this seems to be counterproductive, a thick soffit will act as a border around the kitchen and help it blend in with existing cabinetry. This makes it appear as if it is just an extension of the wall giving your kitchen a dynamic look.

Decorative Additions

Adding decorative additions, such as crown molding, is another way to soften the look. Crown molding especially adds sophistication and elegance as well s dimension. It creates the look of a border in a way that never really goes out of style. You can also add extensions to create the look of a beam or pillar. This may require some construction strategy but you can also achieve the look by painting the soffit a different color. Adding beams around the kitchen that match the soffit help it blend even more.

Change the Cabinets

Although you may not be able to remove your soffit, you can change your cabinets. If your soffit sticks out beyond the cabinets, purchase new ones that match or extend past the soffit. Remove some of the cabinets and install shelves to give the kitchen a more open look. You can also remove cabinets and create a nook using the soffit. Add some cubbies or a small table to the nook for a cute look.

If you are dealing with soffit issues, contact Flemington Granite today. You can arrange for an appointment by calling or filling out the easy form online.

When it comes time to remodel your kitchen or if you are building a new home, choosing colors for your kitchen is one of the most exciting things you will have to do. In addition to choosing colors for flooring walls and cabinets, you will need to choose a color for the finish on your appliances. The color of your refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, even your washer and dryer, can have an impact on the room. It can be difficult to choose the right finish when you are standing in the showroom because this is when the appliance looks its best. Spills, splatters or smoky meals can take a toll on a finish. These tips can help you choose the appliance finish that will work best for you and your family.

Match Your Décor

The first thing to do is match your appliance finish to your home’s décor. If you already have a microwave and wine cooler in stainless steel, you will probably want to continue with a uniform look throughout the room. If you have a farmhouse-style kitchen, you won’t want sleek, modern appliances. You will probably want to go with white or gold. Older style kitchens work better with appliances that are not shiny. A retro kitchen style based in the 60s or 70s might call for colors like bronze or avocado.

Be Bold

There is nothing wrong with being bold in your appliance color choice. Rose gold or copper can look beautiful in many different kitchen styles. The colors are warm and pleasant. Several manufacturers are offering bright colors, like blue and orange to bring a pop of color into the kitchen. Paired with white cabinets, these colors will stand out.

Don’t Avoid White

White appliances are making a comeback and if you are trying to save money, this is good news. A white appliance can save you $100 or more over stainless steel finishes. The interior of the appliance is the same so all you are changing is the finish. Manufacturers are now promoting white appliance lines that have attractive chrome accents for a modern look.

Dirt and Grime

One thing to consider when choosing an appliance finish is how well it hides dirt and grime, especially if you have children. There are slate and black slate finishes now that hid fingerprints and smudges well. There are also matte finishes that hide smudges better than shiny surfaces.

If you need advice on choosing the right appliance finish for your kitchen, complete the simple online form or give us a call today. Our customer service representatives can guide you through the process and help you choose the perfect finish for your family.

Your kitchen is one of the most important areas of your home. It’s a social gathering place for your family, often the same for company when they visit, and it’s where you spend much of your free time as you prepare meals, and much more. This is one of the reasons why a kitchen is a make or break factor in the value of a home, and is often one of the first things to be remodeled when making your home truly yours.

However, when one thinks about remodeling the kitchen, they often think about their cabinets, countertops and appliances. People often overlook the significance of cabinet hardware itself, and the difference a simple change of this can make in the overall atmosphere, personality and value of a kitchen.

So, what do we mean by cabinet hardware exactly? We obviously don’t mean the physical cabinets themselves, which are a whole other ball game. We’re actually referring to the knobs, hinges, frames and handles attached to your cabinets. These are obviously very functionally important, but people often underestimate the importance of the materials you choose for this, as well as the complementing aesthetic to go with the rest of your kitchen’s motif.

There are an infinite number of styles when it comes to cabinet hardware, and it’s entirely possible to mix and match these to great effect. However, regardless of the general aesthetic style you choose, you find yourself presented with three basic choices when it comes to base material. These are from, nickel, and stainless steel.

In the past, there have been a great many other popular materials such as brass, iron, and even wood. However, these materials are susceptible to wear and tear, especially wood.

So, which of these three modern materials is best for you? Well, there’s no one right answer to that question. Let’s take a look at all three, and weigh their pros and cons, and with that information, hopefully you can determine which of these is best for your specific needs.

Nickel

Nickel, as a material, is often misunderstood. Few if any examples of cabinet hardware are solid nickel, as it’s not a very practical metal in its pure state. It has, however, long been used as a plating material to cover something composed of a different metal base. This is in fact why the American five cent coin has colloquially come to be known as a nickel – traditionally, this coin has been plated with nickel, with copper or steel as a base depending on time period.

Nickel cabinet hardware can take on a variety of appearances from a smooth polish, a modern brushed aesthetic, or an antiqued, faded and aged appearance. When it comes to styles, it’s probably one of the more diverse of the choices as a result.

However, it’s not as durable as something like stainless steel. It can flake, it can scratch, and in some cases, it can even be corroded depending on what it’s been exposed to. This means that if durability and longevity are your primary concerns, you may not want to consider nickel.

Aside from these vulnerabilities, nickel is best suited in either contrasting kitchens where darker cabinets are countertops are present, or complementing lighter, softer and warmer kitchens. With its ability to take on a silvery or coppery tone, it’s a popular choice when going for a more traditional or country style of kitchen.

Chrome

Like nickel, chrome is a composite material. It’s usually a or iron plated with chromium. Unlike nickel, chrome is less diverse in the appearances that it can take on. When people think of chrome, they think of gleaming, polished and shiny metal. It was once a very popular material for the trim of vehicles for this reason.

Chrome is less susceptible to corrosion, but the plating can peel and flake over time. The biggest problem with chrome, however, is the difficulty involved in removing stains, tarnishing and fingerprints. It takes quite a bit of effort to buff and polish chrome fixtures and cabinet hardware. This has been one of the larger contributors to its decline in popularity in recent times.

Despite being largely less popular than the other materials at the moment, it does have its appeal. It can achieve a distinct modern and contemporary look, and does complement lighter, area and highly sunlit kitchens where it can blend in naturally.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is different in its composition from the other two. It’s usually a steel alloy reinforced with chromium or nickel to add to its durability and resistance to chemical influences. Stainless steel is lightweight, durable and probably one of the more affordable materials as well.

Stainless does have a distinct look, being soft and reflective, sometimes brushed. It doesn’t have the gleam associated with chrome, nor does it have the versatility and appearance possible with nickel.

The advantage of stainless is obvious in its very name. It doesn’t flake, it’s very easy to clean, it doesn’t tarnish nor corrode under normal circumstances. This means that of the materials, it has the greatest longevity. The trade-off is that it doesn’t really fit in to quite as many diverse styles of kitchen due to its distinct look.

Stainless steel is often associated with contemporary kitchens, due in large part to the popular styles of kitchen hardware as far as form factor goes when using this material. However, don’t let that rule it out if you’re going for a traditional kitchen. It’s entirely possible to blend durable, attractive stainless steel cabinet hardware into a traditional kitchen if you choose the proper style of handles, and have the right color coordination for it to blend nicely. A complementing kitchen with warmer earth tones has been known to work quite well with this.

To learn more about the importance of your cabinet hardware, and how to best coordinate it with your planned kitchen, fill out our contact form. We love to tell you about the many popular styles of cabinet hardware, and the plethora of other, novel and modern materials that you have to choose from. We’re here to help.

We all know that styles change just as much in home décor as it does with clothing, art, music or just about anything else. One of the parts of the home where this change happens faster than just about anywhere else is in a bathroom or kitchen. Styles of, countertops, motifs of color and of course the aesthetic appearance of appliances changes as easily as the winds it can seem.

However, one thing that seems to be a constant is the appeal of stone countertops, especially quartz, granite and Corian. These materials have an elegance about them, one often associated with well, sophistication and an almost paradoxical timeless modernity.

What is a waterfall edge?

What does change, however, is how these countertops are styled. In recent years, you’ve undoubtedly noticed the popularity of a unique implementation where the counter doesn’t simply stop at the edge, but on most or all sides, it continues all the way down to the floor. There’s a name for this, the waterfall edge.

This bold style isn’t just popular because it looks nice – in so many ways, it solves a lot of practical problems that you probably didn’t even realize you had.

Why you need waterfall edges:

This style, as said above, solves some practical problems you probably didn’t know you had. In the past, we’ve all just learn to live with the visibility of electrical lines, storage compartments, and other utilitarian aspects of our kitchen that were just impossible to effectively hide.

Previously, attempts to get around this has been accomplished by encasing things like kitchen islands in wood, but this material very easy to damage, and the aesthetic it produces has been in style for several decades now. However, waterfall edges your countertops, especially when it comes to your kitchen island, solve this problem while being durable, elegant and pleasing.
When using a particularly durable material, they also provide extra protection.

The best material for your waterfall edge:

You’re going to want a very durable, low maintenance material for this. While Corian is a suitable material, it is somewhat more fragile than natural stone, and is susceptible to scratching which means that while it is an option, and an affordable one at that, it’s probably not the most ideal.

Granite and marble are more durable than Corian, but are still porous, and susceptible to chipping and etching, meaning when they’re practically walls as they are with waterfall edges, they’re still not the most ideal solution.

Quartz is a completely different animal. This silica stone is incredibly hard, doesn’t easily scratch, and isn’t porous enough to be easily stained. As a result, while it’s the most expensive of the three most popular materials, it’s also the most ideal for this particular style.

Is this expensive?

Of course, any practical homeowner is going to immediately want to know how much more expensive this modern style is going to be. Sadly, it’s impossible to give a definitive answer to this question, as it depends on a great many factors. At the end of the day, additional materials result in additional costs, so you can of course expect to pay more for a waterfall edge than for standard styles of countertop. Other factors such as surface area needed, material being used etc. play heavily into this, which is why there’s no one answer to this question.

Also, possibly more importantly, the higher-quality installation services will cost more as well. However, you don’t want to cut corners on this. You want a skilled expert who understands not just the material, but how to preserve the integrity of the stone, install it in a way that it will remain firmly in place, and achieve the aesthetic you’re seeking.

To learn all about waterfall edges, a host of other material choices, and many other equally bold and beautiful styles of countertop, fill out our contact form. We’re all about helping you achieve that dream kitchen you’ve always wanted, without bankrupting you in the process.

In modern times, the quality of your kitchen can be a real make or break factor in the value of your house and how quickly it can sell. But, let’s not forget that the resale value of the house isn’t the only important thing when it’s time to update your kitchen. Most people who are renovating their kitchen are doing so for their own use, so when you make important choices, it’s actually far more important that they meet your needs and tastes above and beyond any resale value they may contribute.

Modernly, there are three popular materials for kitchen countertops. No, Formica isn’t one of them – today, it’s all about quartz, granite or Corian. These durable, smooth, elegant materials at a sense of opulence and timelessness to your kitchen unmatched by any other synthetic material on the market. But, which one of these is best for you?

In reality, it’s all about what your goals and priorities are when it comes to updating your kitchen. Are you looking for the optimal luxury, the optimal durability and ease of maintenance, or the most affordability for your project? The fact of the matter is, depending on which of these is more important, the right material will vary greatly.

Below, were going to tackle each of these different goals, and weigh out which of the three stands out the most in that category. The results may surprise you a little in some cases. First, though, this take a brief moment to look over what these materials are on a fundamental level.

Granite and quartz are natural, hard silicate stones containing significant amounts of crystalline material. This crystalline material, known as grains or veins, is what adds that distinctive pattern we all associate with them, as well as other stones such as marble.

Corian is a different concept altogether, being an acrylic manufactured by mixing and compressing various minerals together through some unique processes that are a bit too complicated to get into here. It is, by all intents and purposes, artificial granite or quartz essentially. However, unlike other synthetics, it’s extremely durable and can be rather hard to tell apart from natural stone unless you really know what you’re looking for.

For Luxury and Opulence:

Stereotypically, granted is associated with the homes of the wealthy, due largely to its very prohibitive price in the past. Quartz, due mostly to its visual similarities to marble or granite, has no such stereotype associated with it despite its equally common use in wealthier homes in the past.

Corian is comparatively newer due to being an invented synthetic, but visually, it is strikingly similar to the other two materials, meaning that that same opulence aesthetic can be achieved.
They all create the same sleek, trim and streamlined look, and coordinate excellently with just about any type of cabinets, providing the colors complement or contrast properly.

The winner for luxury and opulence – a three-way tie.

For Low Maintenance and Long-Lasting Durability:

One of the big reasons these materials have become popular despite some of them being costly is there durability. If your kitchen is a busy place, you’re going to want countertops they can withstand a lot of abuse, as well as a lot Of muck that may be present for quite some time before you have a chance to clean it off.

There are basically two factors that determine how durable as materials are – their hardness and how porous they are.

Quartz is an extremely hard material, few other stones aside from diamonds are much harder. It’s not remotely porous, and is pretty much impossible to etch, meaning no scratches, cracks or chips are going to form in a quartz countertop unless you take a jackhammer to it – and good luck even then!

Granite is also very hard, but it’s a rather porous material, meaning that it will stain more easily, and is more susceptible to scratches and cracks. This means it will have to be cleaned more regularly, and you will have to be sure to use cutting boards when preparing food on granite.

Corian isn’t quite as hard as quartz or granite, but it has an excellent resistance to heat and scratching due to the process through which it’s made preventing it from being porous and creating a unique molecular structure internally. It can scratch, but unlike granite, he scratches can be buffed out with minimal effort.

The winner for low maintenance and long-lasting durability – quartz.

Going Green:

Of course, we all want to be environmentally sound when choosing the materials for our homes. No one in modern times is going to argue that we are having a significant impact on our planet, and it has never been more important to bear that in mind. Any natural stone has to be quarried, which has a lasting effect on the local environment where it’s mined.
Quartz is usually mind locally in the United States, where strict regulations prevent excess use of chemical or fossil fuels, and strict environmental practices are enforced in choosing mining sites, as well as reducing impact by filling in and reforesting depleted areas. It’s also one of the most common hard minerals in existence, making it easy to find environmentally sound locations from which to extract it.

Corian does not have to be mined, as it’s a manufactured, synthetic material. The minerals used in its creation are all normally considered waste products from other processes, meaning that in a sense, it’s a smart form of recycling. However, some of the chemicals used in the creation process can be rather nasty, and if not disposed of properly, can be very toxic to the local ecosystem. This doesn’t mean that Corian isn’t environmentally sound, but if this is a significant factor in your choice of materials, be sure to investigate the manufacturer and their practices when going with Corian.

Granite is harder to come by, and much more difficult to mine. It also often has to be shipped from very distant locations, which not only makes it more expensive, but requires much more use of fossil fuels to transport it. Frankly, granite is not a very environmentally sound material, though even it is receiving a lot of reforms.

The winner for going green – quartz yet again.

For Affordability:

Of course, most people are going to be concerned above all with their budget. Only the wealthy can prioritize opulence or durability over cost, especially in this economy.
Despite being more locally mined, quartz tends to be ready expensive due to how hard the material is, therefore how heavy it is and difficult to cut it can be.
Granite is only marginally softer than quartz, and while it has to be shipped from farther away, it’s a little cheaper, though it still a costly material.
Corian is generally very inexpensive, due to being a synthetic, the materials for which are themselves rather affordable.

The winner for affordability – Corian.

Obviously, quartz has a lot of strong points going for it, while granite has its appeal as well. For those on a budget, Corian is hands-down the easiest decision to make. However, there are many other factors to consider when choosing your countertop material, and there are plenty of other types of stone and material out there to choose from. Fill out our contact form, so we can help inform you in even greater depth as to what materials might be right for you.

If you work from home or know someone who does, you know how difficult it is to juggle a home business workload without having to hop from room to room to find what you need to get through a work day.

With so many more people working from home these days and possibly commuting a few days a week as well, an in-home office has become almost a necessity for getting things done and tying up loose ends.

An office in a home was once thought of as a luxury but now it is more commonplace. Instead of a separate room in a large house, a home office is now usually situated in an area that is more conducive to other activities, which often turns out to be the kitchen. If a home doesn’t have a spare room or designated spot where there is access to a message board, an internet connection or charging capacities for iPhones, tablets, games, laptops and other devices, it is definitely going to be harder for any type of office to run smoothly.

Kitchen Designation

A kitchen office with a desk is a smart solution for any of your business and family needs, especially if there is no other area in your home that can function as an office. It is a good space to easily set up a kitchen desk, or a designated spot for a built-in with a desk, drawers, shelving, and a place for charging and posting messages and other information. Most modular desk sets come with sufficient power strips incorporated within them that are easily accessed for use with a number of gadgets. In addition, a built-in or modular setup will allow for protection of the various items that require charging from being exposed to kitchen grease, moisture and everyday spills, which can happen when different devices are charging on a countertop.

Kitchen Homework

A kitchen office also helps to facilitate homework completion. Placing food products on shelves and preparing food usually coincides with children completing school assignments, so it is a good place to both get food ready for dinner and monitor homework tasks. With a designated spot for homework activities, children are more likely to stay on task as well as ask questions if they need help with homework.

Easy to Stay Organized

A kitchen desk can be specifically designed to meet your needs and, at the same time, keep you organized. When kitchen countertops are used to store office related paperwork and personal items, things can quickly get jumbled, misplaced and piled under mounds of paper. It can be easy to stay organized when there is a central area in a kitchen that is set aside for only office related materials and devices.

Also, with an office being located in the kitchen, it is easier to check on last minute work details as well as watch what’s cooking on the stove without the worries of ruining breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Drawbacks

There are drawbacks to utilizing a kitchen area as an office, particularly if a kitchen is smaller or the space available simply can’t accommodate a built-in office or modular arrangement. Too close of a fit can have everyone running into one another while trying to use the space at the same time.

Another problem is the possible mess from food debris, spitting oil, spilled drinks and food odors. Any desk area should definitely be situated away from a stove, microwave, sink and countertops. A poorly designed office area can definitely play havoc with office and school paperwork being soiled and damaged.

Added clutter in a desk area can easily pile up and create problems. If a desk isn’t designed right or made roomy enough for filing away materials and personal items, the paperwork can quickly accumulate. Limited drawer space and a lack of a closed off area for storage can make it difficult to deal with clutter overload.

If you are thinking about setting up a home office in your kitchen area but aren’t sure how to go about it, complete the online contact form and an expert in office design will get back to you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

Remodeling a kitchen can be fun and exciting, but it can also be confusing. One of the things you may need to decide is if you prefer a more timeless look in your kitchen or want to go the trendy route. Before you make the decision, you need to know some facts about each decorating style.

Trendy vs. Timeless

A timeless kitchen can be described as one with core elements that won’t need to be changed in less than ten years. The core elements include flooring, countertops and cabinets that are extremely well-crafted and stick to basic designs that have been used in kitchens for decades. Colors are often neutral and cabinets are simple, yet sturdy. Trendy kitchens include elements that are popular at that moment, but may not withstand the test of time. In the past, these have included wrought iron accents, glazed or ornate cabinets and appliances in colors like avocado or gold.

Benefits of Trendy Kitchens

Because a trendy kitchen looks like those featured in magazines and on television, they do offer better curb appeal for buyers. Your kitchen will look modern and up-to-date. In addition, many trends become timeless while others make a repeat performance many decades later. Things like stripes, polka dots and chevrons are trending today but have been popular in kitchen design in the past as well.

Problems with Trendy Kitchens

The biggest problems with creating a trendy kitchen may not be trendy in a year. Trends have a habit of going out of style and some of them do so fairly quickly. If you think back to kitchens during the 1970s, you get an idea of how trends can go out of style and give your kitchen a dated look sooner than you would like. Trends can also be more expensive because you will want to update every few years.

Benefits of Timeless Kitchens

Timeless kitchens are cost-effective even though high-quality kitchen features are more expensive. This is because they will not need to be replaced as quickly, saving you money over the long run. Most home buyers prefer kitchens with a timeless look because they understand they can add trends that meet their decorating style. It is much easier to add trendy accents in a timeless kitchen than to add timeless accents in a trendy kitchen.

Problems with Timeless Kitchens

One of the most common statements made about timeless kitchens is that they seem boring. As mentioned, they are also more expensive initially because the kitchen features are much more durable. However, it is possible to find high-quality kitchen cabinets, flooring and appliances that won’t break the bank if you shop around.

Blending Both

The best option is to create a kitchen that is a blend of trendy and timeless elements. Open shelving has been used in kitchens for centuries and is a current trend. It is possible to use a cabinet box to create an open look but arranged so that adding doors down the road is an easy task. You can add charging stations for electronics even if your kitchen is designed with a country farmhouse theme. Televisions in kitchens have been trending for many years and today there are options that allow the television to be hidden or collapsed to open up counterspace.

Whether your taste leans toward today’s trends or you prefer a kitchen that is more timeless, we can help you achieve your dream. Contact us by filling out the simple form or give us a call today to learn more.

Remodeling your kitchen can be a fun, exciting project, especially if you love to cook. If you have always wanted a gourmet kitchen designed for famous chefs, it may surprise you to learn that it is not that difficult to achieve that goal. Kitchen design experts who have created stunning kitchens for some of the best chefs in the world say that the questions they are asked are not that different than those asked by the average home cook, such as the amount of storage and where appliances will be located. However, there are some tips you can learn from top chefs when it comes to designing your own kitchen.

Choose the Sink Location First

The sink is the most used item in every kitchen which is why you want to be sure it is placed in a functional location. Sinks need preparation space around them, so avoid placing it next to a large appliance. Most top chefs choose deep sinks, so it is easier to hide those dirty dishes or wash large pots.

Consider Adding an Island

If you have large enough kitchen, adding an island, or even a peninsula that faces a dining area, can be very helpful. If you enjoy friends and family gathered in the kitchen while you prepare food, placing a cooktop on an island is the perfect way to be the center of attention during dinner prep. Islands and peninsulas also add additional preparation space which allows you to recruit helpers as you prepare meals.

Choose Durable Countertops

Hard food preparation surfaces are a must for any top chef’s kitchen. Choose natural stone like granite, quartz or marble. If your countertop gets used often, you may want to choose quartz which is extremely durable, resistant to scratches and chips. Pastry chefs may prefer marble as the coolness of the stone makes it easier to manipulate dough.

Useful but Attractive Appliances

Most professional chefs want specific types of appliances in their home kitchen. Many times, these appliances, like heavy-duty stoves or large refrigerators, are designed for commercial kitchens for heavy duty use and not for aesthetics. However, it is possible to get commercial-grade appliances with attractive finishes. By pairing the right cabinetry, you can avoid the stark, cold look of a commercial kitchen and still have the heavy-duty equipment you want.

Avoid Cabinet Hardware

Although a drawer pull may seem to make things easier while working in your kitchen, they actually create more issues than they are worth. While leaning against a counter working, it is not comfortable to have a drawer handle pressed into your stomach. Eliminating door pulls gives your cabinetry a sleek, clean surface. Search for cabinets with integrated pulls or touch-to-open options.

Solid Cabinet Doors

Although glass-front or open cabinets may be charming, it can be difficult to use on a day-to-day basis. Instead, choose concealed storage spaces in your kitchen. Even if you have beautiful plates or other items you enjoy displaying, you want to keep the dust to a minimum in your kitchen, something that is difficult with open cabinets. With glass-front cabinets, you must keep everything stored in that cabinet neat and organized since it is visible.

These are just a few tips taken from experts who work with the pros. If you need assistance designing your dream kitchen, contact us today by phone or by completing the simple online form. Our expert team can help you create a kitchen that is exactly what you and your family need.

There are different types of black countertops for your kitchen and they are not all necessarily fabricated from granite. In addition to granite, there may be similar stones involved like basalt, grabbro and others which have features that are like granite. These different stone types just happen to be grouped under the generalized label of black granite.

So, where does black granite fit in the picture? Like any other stone, it is put through a process once it is cut. The finishing is the trick as there are options with either a polished, sleek and shiny appearance or a more honed or matte finish.

Honed Granite

Black granite in a honed finish does not go through the buffing and polishing procedure that traditional polished granite does. Its surface is left with a satin or flatter finish that projects a more relaxed effect, yet still radiates elegance; however, there will be imperfections with a honed finish, but those flaws will bring out the understated textures and colors of the piece, which many homeowners feel are the distinguishing and appealing features of honed granite.

Polished Granite

Polished black granite goes through a buffing and polishing procedure that produces a mirrored effect that gives countertops a clean and shiny appearance. The granite is further enhanced by the natural particles within the stone that are visible and attractive in appearance. It provides a clean and traditional look that has graced kitchen countertops for a number of years.

In contrast to honed granite, the polishing procedure allows a granite piece to be sealed, which makes the surface easier to maintain, plus resistant to stains. Polished granite surfaces can better accommodate continual use and the daily wear and tear of life in the kitchen, and when the surfaces have been appropriately sealed, any kind of wear is minimized.

A post shared by flemington granite (@flemingtongranite) on Jul 8, 2016 at 6:00am PDT

Black Granite Selections

There are a number of black granite types and a few that are currently grabbing the attention of homeowners include:

– Black Galaxy is actually a gabbro material from India, which is consistently black with sparkling mineral effects. It can easily smudge but its rich and glorious dark colors offset any maintenance issues.

– Black Pearl has luster and shimmer that reflect the beauty of a real pearl. Elements of various colors, particularly black, gold and gray, give this durable granite piece the nod for either interior or exterior use in a home, and it can be fabricated in a number of finishes.

– Absolute Black granite is another beautiful and elegant selection from India. It is true and consistently black in its color and texture and is a perfect interior or exterior choice for countertop or flooring use.

– Agatha Black – Though bold and magnificent, Agatha Black has white, wave-like veins running through it which adds a textural aspect and richness of this black granite selection. It, too, can be utilized in or outdoors and is stable enough for business use.

– Impala Black hails from South Africa and its patterns and shades of gray and black make it a perfect selection for interior or exterior use. Whether its kitchen countertops, walls, flooring or outdoor projects, this durable black granite choice will coordinate with most any home project.

With the numerous choices in black granite countertops, there is no reason to not find one that suits your taste and needs, but if you have questions concerning black granite types and styles, or just questions in general, complete the online contact form and an expert will get back to you with the answers you need.

Your granite countertops can be enhanced with a backsplash that is an extension of your granite countertop slab. A uniform and consistent look can be achieved with the expansion of a backsplash area, plus the eye is drawn from the starting point of the countertop up to the backsplash area, which creates an important focal point in a kitchen. The look enriches the granite and the overall space.

A post shared by flemington granite (@flemingtongranite) on Sep 20, 2017 at 6:57am PDT

Backsplash Materials and Installation

If you are installing granite countertops in your kitchen and want to take advantage of further utilization of the granite slab for a backsplash, you can simply use additional materials from your countertop slab, as they will be approximately the same thickness, which usually is coordinated with a shorter or standard backsplash selection.

With installation, the backsplash will be placed on the countertop and will be adhered to the backsplash wall with a silicone product. In order to seal the angles where the backsplash joins with the wall and the countertops, caulk is used to seal the various junctures.

With professional installation, a full height granite backsplash is only installed after the countertops are in place. Measurements then have to be taken to determine the remaining space of the area between the countertops and any existing cabinets. Again, these measurements are taken once the countertops have been installed. This is an important aspect as there can be small differences in the width of granite pieces.

Main Advantage

There is one main advantage to utilizing a granite backsplash, either in standard or full height, and that is the cleaning and maintenance aspect. With a one dimensional surface, like granite, it is much easier to remove stains from food, grease and other debris when you have an area that is free of tile and grout, both of which have to be cleaned on a regular basis. The process is much faster and quicker when all you have to do is spray or wipe with a natural granite cleaner on one smooth area.

Choosing Height

Choosing the best height for your granite backsplash is one of individual taste, convenience, decorative sense, cost and logistics.

Standard Height

A shorter, standard 4-inch backsplash is going to be less costly as well as convenient. Adding a small amount of granite to a countertop budget is going to minimally impact what has been budgeted for countertops. The shorter backsplash can also be installed along with the countertops, so no time is lost waiting on tiling and other installations.

There is also adaptability for decorative design ideas with a shorter backsplash, as considerably more wall space will be available to use paint, tile, wallpaper, architectural pieces or other elements to style and enliven the area.

The only downside to a shorter backsplash is that the wall above it is vulnerable to food debris, grease, and other stains, but this problem can be eliminated with the use of a full length backsplash that is placed in back of an oven or range area. The shorter or standard backsplash can still be used in the remaining countertop areas of a kitchen.

A post shared by flemington granite (@flemingtongranite) on Jul 22, 2016 at 5:08am PDT

Full Height

A full height backsplash will be more expensive than a shorter, standard backsplash, and it will require additional time for installation. Full height backsplashes are also not that easy to remove if a homeowner wants to make decorative changes with tile or other materials.

There is also the possibility of utilizing other types of natural material other than granite for a full height effect. Granite can still be used on the countertops while marble or other natural stone can be utilized for the backsplash. This could get expensive, but it is another way to create both and elongated backsplash and an interesting and novel look for a kitchen space.

Whether you choose a standard granite backsplash or a full height backsplash, your kitchen area walls will stay clean and pristine looking for years, as will your countertops. If you are still unsure as to what is a better choice for you and your kitchen, complete the online contact form and a representative will get back to you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

You’re looking at your kitchen counters, drawers and cabinets and thinking to yourself, what am I going to do to stop this endless clutter surrounding me on any given day? There’s mail piling up on one end of the counter, dishes are in a drainer inside the sink, and pots, pans and dishes are pushing up against already bulging cabinets, plus the drawers are overstuffed with coupons, utensils, change and everything else under the sun.

What do you do to alleviate this never ending nightmare of clutter and free up desperately needed space for what your kitchen was meant to be? Preparing meals and snacks and getting in and out of cabinets and drawers in an easy manner should be the goals behind any functioning kitchen, but how do you make a clean start?

Answers to the Clutter Dilemma

There are answers to the kitchen clutter dilemma, and it can be achieved by simply emptying, purging, reorganizing and utilizing kitchen organizational hardware, such as inside shelving units, racks and other stackable containers that can make decluttering and rearranging a kitchen a much simpler and less stressful process.

Cabinets and Drawers

Decluttering should start with emptying out each and every kitchen cabinet and drawer. In order to alleviate that overwhelming feeling of clearing a cluttered cabinet or drawer, slowly initiate the process one cabinet and drawer at a time. Take a look at what has been removed and determine what is no longer needed, useful or just plain worn out and nonfunctional.

Excesses

If you find yourself with an excess of dinnerware settings, glasses, cups, tableware, canisters, jars, tea towels, plastic ware, food storage containers and small appliances, and anything else that is worthy of donating or recycling, pack them up and drop them off at thrift shops, shelters, charities or recycling bins. There is always the thought of a yard sale as well. Don’t feel guilty about getting rid of excess, or throwing away anything that is truly worn out and unusable. Many of these items are easily replaced if the need arises.

Designated Areas

Once the clearing and purging process is completed, store essential and basic items in clean cabinets and drawers where they can be easily accessed. For example, place cups, glasses, plates, tableware and utensils in cabinets and drawers in the vicinity of the dishwasher (or sink) and the oven area where both cooking, cleaning/washing and serving occur. Put mugs in a cabinet near the coffee maker or teakettle. If your kitchen has an island, and it is close to the dishwasher and stove, use the shelving and drawers there to store any of these items that require immediate access.

In storing any of these items, such as utensils, use drawer inset dividers to isolate knives, gadgets, and other kitchen utensils in a neat and compact way. The same is true for cabinets. Find varying sizes of racks, dividers and stackable shelving for compartmentalizing almost anything from dishes and pans to frequently used appliances.

Cookware Decluttering

Like other kitchen items that create clutter, pots and pans that are rusty, scratched, mismatched or worn out should be discarded or recycled. Again, keep the essentials that are consistently used, say three or four graduated pan sizes and lids, including skillets and matching lids.

If an overhead baker’s rack is nonexistent, then find sturdy plastic racks for placing pans in vertical positions within cabinets that are in the general vicinity of the oven. This makes for compact storage and quick and quiet access as well as direct connection with stove top and oven use.

Kitchen Counter Clutter

To rid kitchen counters of extraneous items and clutter, take a plastic container or box, and remove everything from the counters that doesn’t belong there or is unnecessary. Find where the excess belongs throughout the house or get rid of it altogether, like junk mail or broken toys.

For any remaining items that need to stay in the counter area, find a cabinet or drawer and organize it with either a partitioned drawer organizer or stair step type of cabinet organizer and put the incidental items in or on them. Also, use baskets, plastic bins or other receptacles to store countertop clutter that is eventually going to be tossed or placed elsewhere.

Tops of Counters

When a kitchen pantry is not available for food storage, keep the most utilized staples,like sugar, flour, coffee, salt, pasta and other consistently used food and basic baking essentials in sealed glass or ceramic containers on the counter area. Label them with decorative labels that can be changed out if necessary. Glass or see-through containers make for easier retrieval, plus they bring character and a decorative look to a counter area.

Everyday utensils like spatulas, serving spoons, frequently used knives, hand can openers, scoops, whisks, wooden spoons and other items can be stored in stoneware containers on a counter-top as well, for easy access and a decorative aspect.

The Refrigerator

Decluttering a refrigerator is everyone’s least favorite project, but it doesn’t have to be if foods past their expiration dates are tossed when they should be. Eliminate anything in a freezer that is dated beyond a year or items that are covered in icy crystals or frost.

In the refrigerator itself, get rid of anything that has reached its expiration date as well as moldy, wilted or leftover items. Check any condiments for drying, putrid smells or anything that smacks of “discard me quickly.”

Once everything has been discarded, and the refrigerator is vacant, clean the refrigerator and drawers and designate areas within the refrigerator for drinks, snacks and leftovers.

The Pantry

If you have a pantry, get rid of ground spices and other related items that are older than six months and if you use whole spices, they should be tossed after a year. Any dry goods and other pantry foods should be given six months for storage. Once you have evaluated the dates of various pantry foods, group the foods on the shelves by canned goods, pastas, rice, packaged foods and mixes, baking supplies and any other foods that should be separated. Also, if extended shelving is available in a pantry area, store larger kitchen appliances, serving pieces and cookbooks there for easy retrieval.

If you have further questions on how to declutter your kitchen area and make it more accessible, complete the online contact form and a knowledgeable representative will get back to you with the answers you need to end your clutter worries.

People come in all shapes, sizes and heights, so how do you know what the perfect height for your kitchen counter should be? You want to be sure the counter is the right height for your entire family as well as for people who come to visit who may help you in the kitchen.

Kitchen Countertop Height Industry Standards

There are industry standards when it comes to kitchen counter height. The standard is 36 inches or three feet. If you are remodeling your kitchen, you will find that pre-built base cabinets are 34½ inches –  that will fit most manufacturer’s. Dishwashers, stoves and other built-in appliances are designed for this height as well.

Kitchen Countertop Ergonomic Standards

According to ergonomic experts, your elbow should bend at a 45-degree angle when hands are resting on the counter. If you stand that way and take your own measurements, you can create a counter height that is perfect for you. Just keep in mind that others may also need to use the counters and it may be difficult to find built-in appliances that fit a different height.

Kitchen Countertop Specialty Heights

There are cases when you need to create a counter that is different than the standard. If you are a shorter person, experts say that countertops at 32 inches work best while someone who is very tall would find counters at 38 or 39 inches more comfortable. The standard wheelchair height is 29 inches, so a counter that is between 31 and 34 inches is ideal. It is possible to create customized counters with different levels of countertop. You can have a contractor cut the base cabinets down lower to accommodate a wheelchair or for someone who is very short who needs special counter heights.

Consider an Island

If your family consists of people of varying heights, consider installing a kitchen island. You can add an island that is a different height than the counter surface. In addition, if you want the island to be used for meals, the height would need to be 42 inches to accommodate bar stools. By adding an island that is taller than the counter, you can accommodate different heights in your family who may be helping to prepare meals.

Although you want to be sure your kitchen counter is ergonomic and works well for your family’s needs, you also want to keep in mind how long you will remain in your home as well as how the different heights could affect the resale value of your home. For more information on countertop heights, complete the simple form online or give us a call.