An Interview with a Carrara Marble Kitchen Owner

I tell you all over and over that we have the best customers...because we do!
Well, we also have the best blog readers.  Seriously, you guys are really great.  I get so many kind emails & comments every single day.
My very favorite part of running this blog though, is seeing your finished projects!  To see your finished kitchens & baths and know that we've helped, even in a small way, by providing you information and inspiring photos, makes all the time and effort that this blog requires totally worth it!

A few months ago a comment on one of my posts by Janet from The Army Mom blog caught my eye.  I headed over to her blog and fell in love with her fun personality and writing style.  I was also really impressed with her kitchen transformation.
I emailed Janet and asked her if she'd mind doing a little interview about her kitchen that we could feature here on our blog and I got THE BEST EMAIL I HAVE EVER RECEIVED back from her.  Here's a paragraph from her email to give you an idea of why it made my week..."I must tell you that I spent A LOT of time at your blog during my research - In fact, I called my husband over to show him photos and to have him read snippets of your posts so often, he began to refer to your blog my boyfriend! As you already know, I l-o-v-e Carrara marble so I couldn't get enough of the photos and mentions of it on your blog"
We all cracked up about our blog being her "boyfriend"!

So, to make a long story longer, Janet agreed to answer my questions about her kitchen and let me post the Before & After pics.

Enjoy!

  Janet's kitchen 'After'.  Photo: The Army Mom.

 Steph: You turned a dark and dated kitchen into a fabulous bright and beautiful kitchen.  What is your favorite part of your white kitchen?
Janet:  Honestly, the island is my favorite part of my white kitchen. Primarily because we nearly tripled the work surface and of course, because my Carrara marble wishes FINALLY came true!

While the existing island was too terribly small to be functional, replacing it with a larger one wasn't feasible, due to the space constraints of our kitchen/the (narrow) room. Of course, I would have loved to gut the kitchen and start over; however, since the entire house needed remodeling and, this California transplant couldn't imagine living in the South (humidity) without sinking a pool in the yard, we had to consider our budget. Nevertheless, had I been able to gut the kitchen down to wall studs, it would certainly look very different than it does today - It would still be all-white and I would still use Carrara marble... Only more of it! By expanding the work surface of our existing island, I got just what I was after, which was more work surface. By adding Carrara, I got my Dream island!

Here's a picture of Janet's kitchen 'Before'....

Photo: The Army Mom.   To see more Before pics go here.

Steph:  Why did you use Corian on your perimeter countertops and Carrara marble on the island?
Janet:  Frankly, because I listened to, "the experts" and did not follow my heart.  I listened to those who told me first that using Carrara would absolutely obliterate our budget, (NOT true) and secondly, that natural Carrara is reserved for homeowners that want their kitchens to look pretty... Not for avid hobby chefs and bakers that intend to actually USE their kitchen. Also, NOT true! Additionally, my husband, a warranty manager for a national home builders at the time, believed natural stone was too cold, on top of being high maintenance. Again, while one could certainly argue that Corian is warmer than natural marble, and Corian's done a nice job of mimicking the look of carrara with their "Rain Cloud" style selection, the fact of the matter is that nothing is more beautiful or worthy of the investment you'll make in your home than natural stone and/or marble. Knowing what I know today: That high-quality natural stone and marble does NOT always cost more than their synthetic cousins, (hello, Surface Products of Charlotte, NC!) and that care and maintenance does not need to consume you, I would have remained true to what I really wanted for my kitchen and not even considered Corian!   

This is Janet's perimeter countertop that is Rain Cloud Corian.  The sample sitting on it is real Carrara marble.  Pretty close in color right?  Photo: The Army Mom.

Steph: Of the two surfaces (Carrara marble & Corian), which do you feel is holding up better?
Janet:  In terms of asthetic appeal, I must say that hand's down, my marble is holding up better than my Corian! While Corian is nearly indestructible, after all, it can be filled and sanded down to remove blemishes, pits, chips, knife marks, etc., there's no denying that it is dull and looks very flat. Perhaps the dull finish is simply a characteristic of the style we chose, (Rain Cloud) which is meant to resemble Carrara; however, almost immediately, the Corian lost its shine/sparkle and over time, with even VERY careful use, it revealed itself to be what it is... a lifeless impostor to natural marble. As an aside, I want to mention that I also regret choosing the integrated sink option with the Corian. It is not usually mentioned, but the fact is, Corian will develop spider-vein like cracks in the corner and around the drains if it comes into contact with very hot water... Which is a problem when you need to drain pasta!

Now, my Carrara on the other hand is holding up beautifully! Unlike Corian, it immediately stands out as the star of my kitchen. When visitors enter my kitchen they IMMEDIATELY comment on the Carrara. I hear lots of, "Wow's" and my favorite is still, "oh!... You have marble in the kitchen" a comment that is often accompanied by a tone that conveys a slight hint of envy. And why not? There's a depth and a movement to Carrara that draws you in and makes you want to love it. I find it's very much like an ocean view, it changes with the light and calms, no matter what your mood... It's true what they say, Carrara is viewed by many as a status symbol and even a little goes a long, long way!

Photo: The Army Mom

Steph:  Have you had any problems with etching or staining on your Carrara marble?
Janet:  Actually, yes! My Carrara has etched... Of course, I didn't do it because I know better. And, in his defense, my husband knew better too. But that didn't stop him from squeezing lemon all over his salmon - on a plate that just happened to be sitting on my new cararra island. Fortunately, there are only three tiny, tiny etched spots and if I didn't point them out to you, you'd never, ever be able to pick them out. And, even after sitting on the marble for hours, the etching is so slight, you can barely feel it.
Most marble fabricators, (and especially Corian salesmen!) will point out that etching can occur, but they usually demonstrate it by leaving a cut lemon half on a sample piece of Carrara, which after a few days reveals etching that cannot be repaired. However, I find that if wiped up immediately or at least the same day, tomato, lemon, orange and other acidic juices won't etch my carrara marble. Now, in terms of staining, no problems there! I've had frozen blueberries roll across the surface of my marble, but as long as I'm right behind them with a damp towel, there is no permanent staining. As picky as I can be, I can honestly say that I am NEVER fretting about my Carrara! 

Let me also say this... I decided when I installed the Carrara to let it live and to live with it. While I've certainly have my moments of wanting my home to look museum-perfect, I've relaxed more as I've gotten older and I realize today that there is a lot to be said for things that look their age, (including me!) While I'd prefer the $3,000.00 leather chair in our den was not discolored near the top of the back cushion, it makes me smile each time I remember how comfortable and content my husband always looks while his head rests in that spot while he's engrossed in a book he can't put down. Same goes for my Carrara marble. I know the memories to cherish in the years to come about how much I loved using my Carrara will far, far outweigh any of the momentary frustration I may experience after it suffers a stain here, or an etch there. If I leave my home and, my Carrara with it well worn, etched, pitted and stained, it will only mean that I lived my life there to the fullest.

Photo: The Army Mom

Steph:  Do you regret using marble in your kitchen?
Janet:  Absolutely not! My only regret is that I didn't use it on all the counter tops in my kitchen. Had I known marble is often less expensive and not as difficult to maintain as the experts say, Corian would have never been an option.

Photo: The Army Mom

Steph:  Any regrets on your kitchen remodel as a whole?
Janet:  No. I make it a rule to only learn from my mistakes and to never regret the decisions I make. With that said, do I wish money wasn't an object so that I could have blown out a wall and added the wall-ovens and sub-z I've always fantasized about having in my kitchen? Sure! But all in all, for less $12,000.00, (less than $18k, including appliances) I believe we achieved everything necessary in our remodel to update our dark, 70's-era kitchen. As a former Realtor, (currently licensed/not active) I took my own advice and did not over-improve my home for our neighborhood. I spent according to our budget and to our home's character. I chose white because like Carrara, white goes with everything, is easily adapted to trends, and frankly, like the white sheets and towels I insist upon for use in my home, it simply makes me happy!

Photo: The Army Mom

Steph:  What edge detail did you select for your Carrara?
Janet:  I chose a 1/4-inch beveled edge. Anne, my saleswoman at Surface Products recommended it as the best, (strongest) finished edge that is less prone to chips/breakage. Since adding the much bigger island top, it's also much closer to the dishwasher, cabinets and sink, which also increases the likelihood that a pot/pan could be bumped into it. Regardless of the choice I made for durability, I love also the classic look and feel of this edge. Also, I chose a polished finish versus the honed option. After the honed marble cake stand I purchased from William's Sonoma arrived damaged, (the base was crumbled like blue cheese!) I decided polished Carrara would give me not just the look I was after but also the smooth surface we bakers desire when working with pie crust and certain doughs! :) 

Photo: The Army Mom

 Steph:  Tell me about your fabricator/installer.
Janet:  I wouldn't be nearly as happy as I am with my Carrara marble island were it not for the expert advice and, Best-in-Class customer service I received from Anne and her husband and staff at Surface Products in Charlotte, NC. They offer remnants and full slabs of the most beautiful marble and granite you'd ever hope to see and prices to fit every budget. The fact that they support our troops and donate their time and materials to build homes for our veterans is just another reason this Army Ranger Mom loves them!

A photo of Janet's island being fabricated in Surface Products' shop.  Photo: The Army Mom.

Steph: Would you use marble in a future kitchen?
Janet:  Absolutely! Now that I know better, I will do better in the future. However, until the next opportunity for me to do so comes along, I want to do all I can to encourage others considering marble for their home to trust that it is the right choice! Even after second-guessing myself and choosing Corian for my kitchen counter tops, I never settled or stopped longing for Carrara.  So I starting making it right by first adding a little slab to the step in my shower, (you can see it here) and then by adding it to the island in my kitchen. Today, if cost were not a concern, I would gladly, (and quickly!) replace the Corian in my kitchen with creamy, vibrant, white and alive Carrara!

Photo: The Army Mom

Thanks again Janet for taking the time to educate our readers about your experience with a marble kitchen!

My favorite part of Janet's blog is that traffic to her blog helps increase ad revenue that is paid to her through a featured publisher agreement with BlogHer.  All revenue generated by her blog is directly donated (100%!) to Wounded Warrior Project.
Additionally, she takes no tax write offs for these donations, opting to donate what she would get back to Wounded Warrior Project.  How amazing is that?
Janet also wanted to let you know that if you participate in United Way Giving through your employer, Wounded Warrior Project is one of the charities you can designate to receive your donation too. Although, giving directly eliminates the administration fee United Way keeps. Nevertheless, she encourages everyone to learn more here.
If you can please support this amazing charity by making a donation of your time and/or any amount of money they might be able to share by going to their website.
You can read more about Janet and why she is so passionate about the Wounded Warrior Project on her blog.

To see more pictures of her beautiful kitchen and to read more about her kitchen remodel be sure to visit her blog.

Guest Post: Boost up your kitchen. Use focal points

Today I get to catch up on a few things and leave you with a guest post.  Enjoy!

Re-designing the kitchen can add colors to the furnishing and style in your home. One way to do this is using expertise of a service provider. Another option is looking at the kitchen with critic’s eye and feel the required changes as if viewing it for the first time. This would allow you to get fresh ideas on how to improve it aesthetically and functionally.

Several modern designs and unique finishing options are available in wood and glazed glass. These could be used as focal points while re-modeling the kitchen area. The sink area, the back-splash and the cabinets can also be used as focal points to build the design of the kitchen.

There are several kinds of wood that one could choose for the cabinets in a kitchen - cherry, maple, exclusive coatings and stains. It is a great idea to begin designing a kitchen based on the cabinets as these are indeed the focus in most viewers’ minds. Old cupboards can take up a lot of space and also give an ancient look in a modern setting.

If there are old cupboards, one can get these replaced with new designs and more compatible cabinets. Another key area is the sink area and the counter-top in a kitchen. One of the most popular and sought after designs is a kitchen with a steel sink and a granite counter-top. This is a very quick way to complete a re-design project in a very short span of time.

Another area that could be a focal point in a kitchenette design would be the back-splash area above the counter-top. This could be a spectacular back-splash using travertine, granite, custom glass or slate. If the wall is well decorated or painted brightly, one could add unique patterned tiles to the back-splash area and give a vibrant and stylish look to the area.

This would not only ease clean-up but it also gives a boost to the visual appeal of the kitchen. Flooring tiles could be positioned in a slant so that it gives a trendy look to the place. 

General tips:

Dangling up pots and pans provide an elegant and space-saving storage. In the same manner, use the interiors of the cabinet doors to dangle stuff and save the clutter outside. Reducing the clutter is a sure way to enhance the impact of the focal point. There are many utensils and other kitchen stuff that are used only occasionally. Such things can be stowed away in an overhead cabinet built to the roof.

Kitchen Contractors:

You can also go for professional assistance in case you are not sure about the design and the interior you want in the kitchen.

Having a few good contractors glance at the kitchen could generate good ideas. They could also give insight on the latest products or designs available. You should keep the tenure as well as the financial aspect in mind while considering such project. The contractor could come up with a plan for speedy completion or for a long term fix as per requirements.

There are myriad ways to improvise on a kitchen design. You could make the most of it by narrowing down the options and keeping the focus down to one or two areas in the complete kitchenette design. 

About The Author: Kate is a blogger by profession. She loves reading, writing and shopping. Recently she read an article on best microwave in a magazine. These days she is busy writing on most expensive house for her blog.

Guest Post: The Wet Bar and It's Bar Sinks

Today we have a Guest Post about Bar Sinks.  To read my post Fun Bar Sinks that I wrote in February go here.  

For those who live to entertain, a wet bar and bar sink are a sure bet to take your home to the next level and make it the perfect venue for an incredible evening with your guests. And the best part is, with a well decorated wet bar awaiting you in your basement, you don’t even need extravagant, high-priced luxury real estate in a picturesque Connecticut town (or some other state in New England) to have guests flocking to your new home hot spot. Just gather up some fun guests, tasty drinks and your wet bar will be filled with smiles and your bar sink with empty glasses in no time (when you throw a party at home, the only DD you need is a designated dishwasher).
Before we go too far, you may be wondering why have a wet bar? Well, if being the beloved host isn’t enough, some of your hobbies may really benefit from having a wet bar. If you’re already a home brewer or want to learn to be a better home brewer or are into wine making at home, then having a wet bar to serve your drinks is only logical (just make sure you have a wine chiller, too). If you’ve already devoted a lot to making your basement a great hangout spot, adding drink serving capabilities can kick it up a notch or three. Building a wet bar at home can also be a fun do-it-yourself project with your friends and family that can yield lots of quality bonding time and create some great memories. Lastly, building a wet bar with a cool bar sink can increase the value of your home if you ever decide to put it on the market.
So now that we have you motivated to get going on your own home wet bar, it’s time to talk about the bar sink that will accompany it. Earlier this year, we wrote about Fun Bar Sinks, and while previously these cornerstones of granite greatness may have been relegated to "just get it done" status, you now know there are some cool bar sinks out there that may have you thinking twice for what deserves a place at your wet bar. In this edition, we’re back with more cool wet bar sinks, as well as some sinks for those who want a more traditional or classic look to their wet bar.

1. 
   

   Kohler K-6448-NA Crevasse Bar Sink with Cynchronus Rinsing Technology

   
   This prep sink is great not just for a wet bar, but for any kitchen prep work. The beauty of this stainless steel sink from Kohler is its ability to quickly and easily get rid of waste with the touch of a button. Simply press the button on top and watch your waste slide right into the garbage disposal. So whether you’re cutting up some citrus for a drink or veggies for a dip, you can get right back to the party, make clean up and disposal a breeze, and impress your guests with the touch of a button.
   
   
   
   
2. 
   

   Houzer CTB-2385 Contempo Zero Radius Undermount Trough Bar Sink

   
   This art deco inspired urban chic bar sink from Houzer is the ideal sink for the tasteful minimalist who demands a contemporary design. Made of stainless steel and with a lifetime warranty, this sink is perfect for those who want a contemporary look to their wet bar.
   
   
   
   
3. 
   

   Bates and Bates B1414H.2 Moderna Octagonal Bar Sink with Hammertone Pattern

   
   This bar sink from Bates and Bates defines a classic and luxurious feel with its elegance. The Hammertone pattern and wide variety of materials that it is manufactured in, from copper and bronze to nickel and silver, means there is a choice for everyone. The impression it will make on your guests combined with its quality and durability will make you glad you splurged for this beauty.
   
   
   
   
4. 
   

   Elkay MYSTIC 2717CB 31" Undermount Single Bowl Stainless Steel Bar Sink

   
   Whether you use it as a bar sink or a prep sink, this highly functional and innovatively designed bar sink from Elkay is a highly functional sink you will enjoy using. With its convenient placement of a cutting board and charming aesthetic, you’ll be sure to use this sink as often as you can. Be prepared for a lot of positive comments from your guests about this sink at your wet bar.
   
   
   
   
5. 
   

   Blanco 440204 Diamond Anthracite Silgranit Drop In Bar Sink

   
   As we get closer to your traditional sink, we bring you this extremely durable bar sink from Blanco. The black finish on this granite bar sink gives it a striking look from afar, but as we get up close, its hygienic qualities allow it to resist absorbing odors and bacteria and give it a unique stone feel resistant to scratches and stains. A classic look with a modern twist, super durability, and cleanliness make this bar sink a great choice for your home wet bar.
   
   
6. 
   

   Moen 22245 Camelot Stainless Steel Bar Sink with Faucet

   
   This is the ultimate classic bar sink from Moen. Its simple stainless steel finish and overall design make this no frills approach perfect for those on a budget but still want the kind of quality Moen is known for.
   
   

So those are our list of cool new bar sinks for your home wet bar. What did you think? Please leave your comments below, and if you enjoyed this article, share it with your friends and family on Facebook, Twitter, or any other sites you use, we’d really appreciate it.

BIO: Daniel Rosenhaus writes for AERO Manufacturing a leading manufacturer of industrial and commercial grade stainless steel sinks. . However, he always likes to keep up on the fun side of remodeling for his home and has just recently finished his new home wet bar and looks forward to entertaining guests in his kitchen and not in a showroom.

Guest Post: Granite Gurus: Amazing Granite Ware, Everywhere!

Today I get to take the day off and turn the blog over to Arcadian Lighting for a Guest Post.
Enjoy!  -Steph

Hi all! I'm Jenn and I'm one of the lucky writers at Arcadian Lighting, an e-commerce website that specializes in top lighting ideas and light fixture trends around the world. I write about home decor every day and one thing that I've learned is this: some of the most striking elements in interior design come straight from Mother Nature, and that includes granite. I love the look and feel of granite, and I frequent The Granite Gurus to stay on top of this unique industry. I'm excited to present readers with my own granite post today - thanks for having me! Granite on countertops and other work surfaces may be a relatively newer trend, however amazing granite ware was found everywhere in the last 19th and early 20th centuries, and today it's making a major comeback. Displayed in kitchens and dining rooms, and illuminated by a great light fixture, these eight spaces feature amazing granite ware everywhere.

1 A chic collection

This antique cupboard is opened to reveal a colourful collection of granite ware bowls, while a louver door is also tucked with mugs in the same material.

2 A mix of old and new

The dinnerware is decidedly modern but the granite ware coffee pot is used to showcase a bouquet of fresh daisies. The white, blue, and yellow setting is a stylish presentation of old and new.

3 On a lamp

These unique ceiling lights feature granite ware shades and would mesh beautifully in a classic country kitchen. The pendant light shape gives it an updated boost.

4 Blue and white granite ware

Granite ware pitchers displayed on open kitchen shelving pull double-duty as not only vessels but also decor. The contemporary ceiling light balances out the classic look of the space.

5 As plant pots

Antique-looking granite on modern-day plant pots is an interesting juxtaposition and would be a great addition indoors and out.

6 Going green

The swirly pattern of this green granite ware is a fun twist on the traditional yet it still features the blue lip that granite ware is known for.

7 Marvellous materials

Granite ware is mixed with coloured glass, crystal, and china for a veritable melange of dinnerware and glassware spanning the centuries.

8 Tea pot

This granite ware teapot pulls double-duty as a planter - perched on an antique red stool is adds loads of personality to the corner of this deck. Lighting up your granite ware on your mind?

Check out some of our unique light fixtures at Arcadian Lighting for some inspiration!!

Images: ( 1/ 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 )

Guest Post: How Granite Can Enhance The Feng Shui On Your House

Five or six years ago I took an interesting class on Feng Shui.  I've enjoyed reading and learning more about it ever since.  When I was contacted by the Feng Shui at Work website asking if they could do a Guest Post on our blog of course I said yes.
Enjoy!

Photo: Home & Garden

Granite can greatly enhance the feng shui in your house. For those of you wondering exactly what feng shui is, it is an ancient Chinese system designed to maximize the positive chi within a home. Chi is an energy or life force that can promote a more relaxing atmosphere. Granite is a beautiful material that can contribute to a feng shui design by acting as the earth element. 

Granite is a natural material that is very unique. There are specks of gold, white, black, yellow, tan, and other earthy colors. Although granite is never a solid color, it can be purchased in a wide variety of dominant colors. For example, a black granite counter will have specks of other colors upon closer inspection, but the main color will be black. This extraordinary quality adds dimension and luxury to any room. 

Kitchens are representative of prosperity, nourishment, and wealth in feng shui. Granite countertops create a presence with unique richness and beauty. Consider a granite island if your kitchen has the space. Not only will it provide more cabinet storage and counter space, it will also allow the cook to be closer to the guests. In feng shui, a cook should not be facing a wall as in most homes today.

If granite countertops aren’t an option for you, consider granite floors. Durability will never become an issue, leaving only positive energy to flow across your beautiful, unique floor. The earth tones maintain neutrality, leaving endless options for the rest of the décor.

The versatility also leaves options of granite for your bathroom. This is often one of the most complicating rooms to apply feng shui. The water element is overpowering in a bathroom leaving the room feeling unbalanced. Granite is an earthy element which can help to bring back tranquility and peace to a room that is known for ungrounded energy.

A granite fireplace can balance the fire and earth elements while being a beautiful focal point. Gathering around the fireplace is relaxing enough without feng shui, but balancing the elements helps to create a constant flow of peace and tranquility within the home. If one of the elements is too strong, as in the case of a fireplace, the energy will avert and the feng shui mission will be failed.

Granite is a diverse material that can be used virtually anywhere in your home to assist in balancing the elements and create a relaxing experience. We spend half our lives inside our homes, and they should give us positive feelings to aid in our overall health. Feng shui has been around for centuries. It’s hard to deny its power. Enhancing the experience with granite will be an investment not only in your home, but also in your overall health and happiness.

BIO: Michael Schnippering is the founder of of Feng Shui at Work. He is committed to the true art and science of Feng Shui. Over the years his Feng Shui practice has taken him to various parts of the United States, Germany, France, Spain, Colombia and Argentina.

Guest Post: What Egyptian Pyramids and Your Kitchen Countertops Have in Common

This is the best Guest Post I've ever featured.  I was so excited to read it based on the title.  I hope you enjoy it as well...

Countertops have long been the defining feature of a modern kitchen. Which surface you choose says a lot about your taste and the quality of the kitchen. When making the critical decision of choosing the material that makes your kitchen really stand-out, most people would agree that granite provides a lot more natural beauty and durability than say tile or laminate. However, when you add granite to your home’s interior you are by no means a pioneer of using this beautiful stone to enhance your home. You are, in fact, joining a group of distinguished and discriminating builders that date back to the 26th century BC. Since that time, many prestigious buildings have been constructed using granite. Let’s take a look at some of your kitchen countertop’s famous ancestors.

The Egyptian Pyramids

The Egyptians knew something about granite long before any of us graced this earth; they knew that granite was a beautiful surface to accent their grandest structures dedicated to fallen Pharaohs. Interior walls, sarcophagi, and other features from Egyptian buildings were made of granite. So when you lean up against your kitchen countertops, remember that your granite was the same surface used to honor the likes of King Tut, Khufu and Khafre. Fittingly, the title of “Pharaoh” means “Great House”. Indeed, their house and your house are great thanks to granite.

Hindu Temples

 Many large Hindu temples in southern India were made of granite. The Brihadeeswarar Temple was the world’s first complete granite temple and remains one of India’s most glorious architectural feats. It was built 1,000 years ago as a display of the emperor's vision of his power and his relationship to the universal order. Who doesn’t need a touch of universal order in their kitchen?

Mormon Temple

 In downtown Salt Lake City Utah stands a beautiful granite temple built by the Mormons (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) in the 1800s. The rock was quarried in a nearby canyon and hauled 20 miles by oxen to the construction site. It is considered sacred by church members and is capped off by a golden angel on top. With granite countertops, your kitchen will be fit for an angel.

Clearly, granite has a very distinguished history and you are in good company when you put granite countertops in your kitchen.
This guest post is from Brandon Mercury at Your Local Security. He regularly writes about home improvement, design and security.

Guest Post: Granite in Traditional Kitchens

Today I'm happy to take the day off and turn the blog over to Arcadian Home Decor.
Enjoy!

Hi all! I’m Jennifer and I write for Arcadian Home Decor, a site that chronicles the work of top interior designers and home decor trends around the world. I've been writing about home decor since graduating university and have loved it ever since. I'm addicted to patterned fabrics, Jonathan Adler, chaise lounges, old doors, milk glass jars, antiques, and chandeliers. The Granite Gurus blog makes me want to cover my entire house in stunning granite, not just my countertops. But in the meantime, here are some beautiful granite in traditional kitchens. Thanks for letting me write this guest post!

What's one of the most incredible, versatile home decor accessories made by Mother Nature? Yep, it's granite. And there's no better place to steal the show than installing granite in traditional kitchens. Although a relatively recent countertop material, granite looks incredible when integrated in a classic kitchen, installed with traditional cabinetry, which provides a striking contrast between new and old.

A touch of red

Kitchen Design via

The beige granite against the white cupboards, flanked by table decor like red glassware, creates a beautiful symmetrical space.

Gorgeous glow

picasa via

One of the best features of granite is its glossy finish, and with oversized hanging lanterns above, the light is reflected brilliantly in its surface. Meanwhile, the dark chocolate brown cabinets provide the perfect backdrop.

Stylish slab

Luxe Couture Interiors via

Just a touch of granite on top of a sturdy kitchen island is all this modest space needs - the checker black and white floors lend a retro feel to the room.

A touch of turquoise

Kitchen Remodel Designs via

The clean white lines of the traditional cabinetry really pop against the bright turquoise walls, while wood stone granite is both aesthetically pleasing as well as durable. Home accessories like the wall clock and framed prints are pretty details.

White and chrome chic

Elle Decor via

A mix of coloured granite is always an attractive choice for different areas of a kitchen - here, white granite is used on the island while black granite covers other workspaces.

Subtle simplicity

Stacy Nance Interiors via

Various materials such as wood, granite and stainless steel bring together the classic and contemporary features of this kitchen/dining area. The table decorations are also marvellous.

A touch of stone

The Kitchen Installation Company via

One of the best things about granite is how adaptable it is - the black granite shown here meshes perfectly with all of the exposed wood along with the stone-detailed island.

Butter and cream

Kitchen Tile Backsplashes via

Neutral-coloured kitchens like this are soothing as well as elegant - the custom-built cabinets keep this nook of a space from feeling overcrowded.

Content provided by Arcadian Home Decor, a site that specializes in top quality home accessories at extremely affordable prices. Come visit us today!

8 Gorgeous Granite Tables

Today's post is a Guest Post from Joanna at Design Shuffle.

Everyone loves granite countertops for their beauty and durability. Granite tables have the same beauty and durability and are available in every style to fit your décor. Custom granite tops can be cut to order for an existing table base. Think about decorating ideas such as using a granite table in your dining room, living room, entry or bedroom design. Granite is a smart choice for table tops throughout the home. Here are eight gorgeous tables with granite tops.

Granite Coutertops via

A granite top dining table provides a dramatic and resilient backdrop for family dinners. Granite's non-porous surface means you won't have to worry about spills and stains.

Home Decorators via

Black granite is a traditional choice for formal and antique tables. This small side table or nightstand is formal enough for a living room or master bedroom.

The Empire Furniture via

An antique gueridon table is topped with black granite. The black granite complements the bronze base for an elegant look. No need to worry about watermarks on a granite table top.

NY Showplace via

A white granite top will resist stains and chips much more than a white marble top. This brass console table from the 1940s would look great in a hall or entry.

Century Furniture via

This Asian style Ming coffee table by Oscar de la Renta has a brushed black granite top. The matte finish works well with the natural wood of the base for a natural feeling. Perfect decorating idea for any granite lover.

NY Showplace via

A vintage modern granite and bronze coffee table has clean lines that keep the focus on the pattern of the granite. Granite can work with any style furniture, so go ahead dream up all kinds of interior design ideas using this versatile material.

Gardeners Heaven via

Granite tables come in a range of finishes, from polished to honed to sandblasted. This grey sandblasted granite table has clean, industrial lines.

Sunshine Patio via

Granite's durable surface is a smart choice for an outdoor table. This mosaic style granite table top has a bold pattern that will create a focal point on your deck or patio.

This post comes courtesy of Design Shuffle, where you can find top tier interior designs from around the world.

5 Creative Ways to Use Granite in the Kitchen

This is a guest post from Arcadian Lighting. Enjoy!

When it comes to practical and durable materials, granite usually tops the list. Versatile and easy to maintain, granite’s resiliency makes it a popular material of choice in kitchens. While no one doubts the enduring nature of granite, many tend to bypass it in favor of more aesthetically pleasing materials like marble. And no one can blame them since who doesn’t want their kitchen islands or floors to complement their lighting fixtures to achieve a more harmonized design approach? However, aesthetics and practicality are not mutually exclusive to each other and granite can be used creatively in the kitchen to make a strong visual impact. Listed below are some of the more creative ways to incorporate granite in your kitchen.

Granite Kitchen Countertops

Granite Black Modern Kitchen Countertop (via)

Kitchen countertops and granite are synonymous with each other and for good reason. It is no secret that granite is heat-resistant and stain-resistant to food and grease. Thankfully, these days aesthetics don’t have to be sacrificed in the name of functionality. It doesn’t matter what your design affinity is since there is no dearth of granite based kitchen countertops. Those who prefer contemporary décor can opt for a chic black granite countertop whereas traditional design aficionados can opt for a more conventional option.

Granite Door Knobs For Kitchen Cabinets

Natural Stone Knobs (via)

Inject a dash of ingenuity in your kitchen without breaking the bank. Opt for granite doorknobs that match your kitchen slab, your flooring or even your kitchen island lights! Mainely Knobs is a good place to start since it has an impressive collection of natural stone knobs.

Granite Kitchen Sinks

Rangemaster Cubix Kitchen Sink (via)

If you really want to make your kitchen standout, then invest in a good quality sink that is also reflective of the overall décor. Modern mavens can opt for something like the Rangemaster Cubix Sink (above), which is minimalistic, yet maintains a solid practical appeal. Or perhaps the Salus Outdoor Kitchen Sink by Stone Forest (below), which has a more rustic appeal. Both sinks highlight the versatility of granite and how it can be used to design creative and beautiful kitchen sinks that don’t necessarily follow the conventional design norms.

Salus Kitchen Sink (via)

Granite Flooring

Absolute Black Granite (via)

Most modern day kitchens have granite floors as they can withstand practically everything; be it heat, spills, stains and even shoe scuffs. But another reason they are popular are because granite comes in a plethora of styles and patterns and one can also opt for granite tiles instead of larger slabs or even mix and match both of them to achieve an individualistic look.

Granite Kitchen Backsplash

Kitchen Backsplash for Small Kitchen Design (via)

Kitchen backsplashes not only add value to your homes but also bring in a decorative element and granite wins, hands down, with its rich texture. A good way to begin is to match the granite tiles with your appliances, light fixtures and cabinets and opt for something that is charming yet coherent with your overall décor.

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