7 Designs You Didn't Know Were Possible with Granite and Quartz
Granite and quartz are heavy and notoriously hard to work with materials, causing many DIYers without the proper tools or several muscular friends to opt for lighter, less-durable countertops. One of the most important lessons learned in life, is that cheap stuff gets replaced and quality items can last a lifetime. While the initial investment may be higher than laminate, granite and quartz countertops are a sought-after aesthetic that when done by professionals, can have some very interesting options that may seem impossible.
Matching Cuts
The overall design of a kitchen is important, as the kitchen lies at the heart of a home. It is a place for guests to gather and an excellent space to entertain, so aesthetic appeal is essential. Custom cut countertops create a unique design, adding to the flow of the kitchen while maintaining a decorative theme, especially when matched with a good set of cabinets. A common mistake made by homeowners is not visually inspecting slabs of granite before purchase, leading to mismatched slabs that result in a chaotic design. Before investing in any pricy addition to a home, always inspect the product with your own eyes—especially if more than one slab is needed. When considering a custom cut countertop, trust the professionals at a reputable business rather than attempting a custom cut on a pricey slab of granite. Design options can be virtually tested before installation, so that customers have a good idea of what the end-product will look like before any work begins.
Flush Countertops
Have you ever snagged a piece of clothing on that annoying, protruding, outdated edge on your kitchen counter? Flush countertops, an uncommon feature in older houses, are a simple solution to this annoying, somewhat hazardous issue. The standard overhang on kitchen countertops is about one-and-a-half inches; however, modern is in fashion—and modern countertop are flush, meaning there are no protruding edges to bump into. The original purpose of overhang on countertops is to protect cabinetry from spills; however, the added barrier is not always successful at fulfilling its intended purpose. Flush countertops add a sleek, modern look to an existing kitchen, while mitigating annoyances. Homeowners should always view a house as an investment. After all, everyone wants to get as much out of a home as possible when it comes time to sell; therefore, subtle upgrades, such as flush countertops, can add value and functionality to a home, making it more visually appealing to potential buyers, and more comfortable for current residents.
Raised Sinks
There are a lot of minor details first-time home buyers overlook, but areas that experience heavy use, like the bathroom, need to be as close to perfect as possible. A sink that lies below waist-level for a normal sized adult means lots of bending, limited storage space, and is altogether impractical. Raised sinks offer homeowners increased comfort, additional storage space, and aesthetic appeal, particularly when paired with a nice surface, such as granite. A home is the most important material possession a family has, and the bathrooms and kitchen are the two areas in a home with the most return on investments. A fashionable trend found in modern homes are vessel sinks, derived from the first style of sink found in homes—the basin and pitcher. Providing a fusion of fashion and affordability, vessel sinks are highly customizable, with a variety of shapes, sizes, color, and materials available to ensure that your new sink seamlessly matches the rest of the bathroom.
Enclosed Floating Vanity
Enclosed floating vanities are a relatively new idea in home fashion that offer homeowners a space to put on makeup, without having another large piece of furniture to clutter up a space. Bathrooms need to be cleaned frequently, and floating vanities make maintaining cleanliness easier, while adding cosmetic appeal to the space. By extending the flooring to the wall, floating a vanity makes a space appear bigger, and makes organization easier. Additional design options are also available, as some homeowners prefer to incorporate floating shelves under the vanity for additional storage space. This look is elegant, minimalist, and modern, particularly when paired with a floating sink. Having more exposed wall-space means homeowners can display other aesthetic features, such as tiling. Why cover up those beautiful brand-new tiles with cabinetry when they could be elegantly displayed? Additional functionality benefits include height accommodations, as the vanity can be specifically tailored to the preferences of the user, while breaking up some of the wood elements in the design.
Stone Tabletops
The coffee table is the centerpiece of the living room, tying together decorative elements with furniture, and adding to the cosmetic appeal of the living area. When selecting a coffee table, quality is essential, and those who purchase a good product the first time, will only have to purchase the product once. Granite coffee tables, side tables, and furniture tops portray elegance and strength. A poorly placed cup will not cause a ring to appear, and stone surfaces are less prone to scratching and chipping than their wooden counterparts. Matched granite surfaces maintain the integrity of your home and are equipped to handle far more than glass or wood surfaces. Before incorporating granite into the living room, it is important to understand that granite is a heavy surface, and protection is vital before placing a heavy table anywhere in a room. Rugs are recommended to protect flooring from any scratches that may occur if the table were to move, as it is heavy, and granite will mar weaker surfaces, particularly hard wood flooring; however, granite surfaces will last. The coffee table is a communal area, and many drinks and snacks will find their way onto a coffee table throughout the duration of its life; therefore, having a durable table is important. Granite is resistant to dents, scratching, and water damage, unlike tables made from wood or glass.
Fireplaces
When shopping for a fireplace, many surface options are available; however, in a modern home, there is no better hearth than one made from granite. While the cost can be high, granite hearths are an attention-getter that have a strange way of calling people to them. The smooth, finished surface is more comfortable to touch than brick, and offers a coveted sleek design. Hearths can be made of any sturdy substance that is resistant to flame; however, there is no match for granite hearths in terms of quality or eloquence. The installation of a granite hearth is best left to the professionals, as the materials will be heavy and require a custom fitment to ensure functionality and proper installation. Before purchasing a new hearth, the surrounding flooring should be taken into consideration to alleviate any clashes in design.
Waterfall Edge
Waterfall edges carry the countertop down to the flooring, creating a natural design that works well with modern and contemporary kitchen designs. By extending the countertop to the floor, a seamless transition is created, making the space appear more cohesive. Waterfall countertops are common in modern designs; however, it is important to understand that this design may not be perfect for every home. The additional material required for installation is an expense, and the edge typically works well in an up-to-date space, rather than adding them to a traditional-style kitchen that lacks modern elements. If modern or contemporary is the desired outcome, waterfall edges should be considered in the design. They offer a luxurious appeal, while offering added concealment for items kept in storage, and their appearance will be a spectacle for any guests and family members who visit your home.
