2021 kitchen designs are all about making your kitchen feel so you. Remember, this space speaks volumes about your personality, so make the most of your revamp by giving your kitchen that special touch! Here are ten unique kitchen ideas for 2021.

Make Bold Moves

Modern interior design is streamlined, sure, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experiment or make bold choices. 

In modern kitchens, in particular, granite countertops provide the perfect opportunity to play with design and try out different patterns. 

The good news is, there are plenty of granite slabs available in the St. Louis area. Walk into a fabricator and pick a granite that will make you exclaim in awe. From the nominalistic Arabescato  Venato to the more opulent Azul Treasure, you’re sure to find a slab that will make your kitchen look truly unique.

Make a Statement With Dark Green Cabinets

Move over, navy blue cabinets: one of the most popular new kitchen trends for 2021 is dark green cabinets. Whether you’re partial to emerald, forest green, or moss, dark green cabinets are a stylish new trend that are certain to be popping up in kitchens all over the country. Accentuate the deep green color of your cabinets with copper handles or fixtures. Nervous about repainting all of your cabinets in deep green? Start small by adding a few forest green appliances to your kitchen before taking the plunge.

Consider A Two-Tone Kitchen

Nothing embodies unique modern kitchens more than the two-tone design trend. The combination of two distinct colors, mainly when used throughout the cabinetry, adds an exciting twist to the overall kitchen aesthetics.

Opt for deeper and darker units with contrasting bright flooring and walls. The mix and match of colors and hues is a simple and effective way to make your kitchen stand out from the crowd.

Now, the two-tone modern kitchen doesn’t just limit itself to colors and paints. Think outside the box! Play around with finishes and textures, be it matte laminate, high-gloss, or wood grains. Use any of these rich textures to add depth and personality to your kitchen space.

Explore Sleek Neutrals

If you’ve been keeping tabs on the latest 2021 kitchen trends, then you possibly know that neutrals such as grey, white, and beige are becoming mainstay interior colors. 

If you want your kitchen to appear sleek and sophisticated, opt for neutral color shades. What’s more, neutral color-palettes give an illusion of more space, meaning your drab and condensed kitchen will look livelier and more functional in them.

Add a Splash of Color

Throw the rulebook out of the window in favor of unique paint-color combinations. The modern kitchen is rife with color opportunities, from cabinets and window treatments to flooring and appliances. As far as unique kitchen ideas go, this is the easiest one to implement.

Start by deciding how much permanent color commitment you’re willing to make. Your easiest and safest bet is painting the kitchen walls.

You can also opt for small color commitments, such as selecting a contrasting wood finish for the island or wallpaper with dominant neutral hues and tiny incorporations of color. All in all, let your creative juices flow. 

Or Try Dark, Dramatic Colors

Whether it’s a backsplash of black subway tile, walls painted deep blue or gray, or an eye-catching kitchen island with a black granite countertop, dark, dramatic colors are a major kitchen trend for 2021. Pair dark colors with wooden accents to achieve a warm, homey feel to your kitchen, or use trendy gold hardware that pops against an inky palette. No matter what you do, adding a coat of dark paint to your kitchen walls or cabinets is a great way to add a dash of on-trend drama and moodiness to your home.

Kitchen Island with White Quartz Countertop

Go Big on the Lighting

Gone are the days when you had to make everything match to achieve a tasteful kitchen style.

Design options with a stylish mix-and-match of favorite materials, textures, and fixtures reflect today’s more casual lifestyles. You no longer need to choose between the classy chandelier and simple light pendants—now you can have both.

Modern kitchens incorporate lighting from different sources. An under-cabinet task lighting helps you see what you’re doing, while an overhead light fixture illuminates the entire space. You can even include light scones to brighten dark corners or provide ambient lighting around the table area. Strategically place a lamp or two on your countertop or island if you want extra warmth. 

Beyond illuminating the kitchen, creative lighting can make your space look and feel warmer, larger, and brighter. What’s more unique than that?

Marble Countertops

Nothing complements deep green cabinets like a gorgeous slab of marble. In a kitchen full of deep, dark colors, a marble countertop is a surefire way to add a dramatic pop of white that will also keep your kitchen feeling bright and cozy. However, experts recommend that you don’t just settle for any plain white marble countertop — the more character and dramatic veining your marble countertop has to offer, the more likely it is to be perfectly on trend in 2021. 

Danby Marble Countertops with White cabinets in Clayton, MO home

Or Consider An Eye-Catching Marble Sink

The most convenient way to make a statement with your kitchen design is to incorporate marble sinks. Marble is highly sustainable, durable, and boasts the ability to withstand passing trends, making it such a good investment.

Strongly-veined marbles, in particular, create an attractive textural contrast between the sink and other polished surfaces, woods, and metals. The end result is an elegant, show-stopping kitchen interior that will make visitors say ‘wow.’

Marble Not Your Style? Try Quartz Countertops

Quartz is the Morgan Freeman of the kitchen world—it just keeps going and going and going. Even in a new decade when some countertop materials have already become outdated (think: plastic laminate, Corian, and tiles), quartz continues to defy odds.  

Engineered quartz is particularly interesting, given that it comes in so many distinct patterns and colors. Opt for the artistic 8531 Profondo Quartz or the stunning grey swirls of the Vena Statuario Bianco Quartz if you want to introduce fresh and appealing visuals to your kitchen.

If you’re in the market for new countertops in the St Louis area, explore our gallery. We have a rich collection of quartz, marble, and granite countertops, so you can be sure to find the exact texture, pattern, and tone you want to make your kitchen stand out. Our friendly team can guide you in the process of choosing and installing the ideal countertops for your home.  

Invest In Environmentally Friendly Features

From energy-efficient windows to solar panels and everything in between, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly features are poised to be one of the major trends in kitchens in 2021. Not only are these features better for the environment, but they can save you money as well: energy-efficient stoves, fridges, dishwashers, and other appliances can shave dollars off your electric, gas, and water bills. Fortunately, enjoying a stylish and trendy kitchen in 2021 can also be great for the planet and your wallet.

Upgrade To Smart Technology

Smart tech is almost a no-brainer when it comes to achieving a unique, modern kitchen in 2021. 

Whether it’s something as simple as a voice-activated speaker or as complex as a multi-cooker, smart tech can make your kitchen life a total breeze. 

To achieve that modern, tasteful look, consider hiding these smart tech appliances with beautiful wood paneling. 

Hide Away Appliances in Drawers

When it comes to kitchen appliances in 2021, a good rule of thumb might be “out of sight, out of mind.” From dishwashers and fridges that blend in with the rest of your kitchen’s cabinetry to drawers that are specially designed to charge your phone while you cook, hiding useful appliances behind stylish doors is a major kitchen trend in 2021. Whether you simply want to avoid the eyesore of an old appliance or improve the high-tech capabilities of your kitchen, there’s no doubt that this is an easy way to stay organized and on-trend in 2021.

Spice It Up With Patterned Backsplash Tiles

Subway tile may be timeless, but kitchen backsplash trends in 2021 indicate that fun patterned backsplash tiles are here to stay. Show off your personality with patterned or textured tiles, which can be a great way to easily customize your kitchen. Additionally, a fun and unexpected backsplash is perfect for adding a dash of personality to a stylish monochromatic kitchen. Consider experimenting with tiles of different shapes and sizes, or use tiles of different colors to create a gradient in your backsplash. No matter what you choose, installing an unorthodox backsplash is a trendy way to add a ton of visual interest to your kitchen.

Typhoon Bordeaux granite island for a butterfly shaped kitchen island installed without seams

Embrace An Organic Style

Forget sleek industrial design and severe metallic finishes: soft, organic touches are in for 2021. From woven light fixtures to indoor herb gardens, organic style is all about bringing the outdoors in and using natural materials to create a comfortable kitchen. If you’re a fan of the trendy organic look, experiment with reclaimed wooden cabinets, install wood-style flooring, or adopt a neutral color palette with shades of white and tan. Do you like the look of organic-style kitchens but don’t know if you’re ready to fully commit to it? Start by introducing some woven or rattan light fixtures or wastebaskets to your kitchen to see how you like the look of natural materials in your home.

Soften Your Look With Curved Islands

As you know, rectangular-shaped kitchen islands are one of the timeless furnishings in the kitchen interior. Lately, however, there has been a growing tendency for more curved and rounded islands (no hard edges, and the ‘wow factor’ is off the charts).

Besides looking very fashionable, the round or curved island design is handy for small kitchens. You can comfortably use it as a storage compartment, small breakfast table, or sitting area. Talk about practicality and uniqueness!

Function Meets Fashion With Statement, Touchless Faucets

One of the latest modern kitchen trends is touchless taps in eye-catching materials, such as brass or chrome. Not only are high-tech faucets easy to use, making cleanup from crafts or cooking easier than ever, but they’re a sleek and exciting addition to any kitchen. If you want to make sure that your faucet stands out as much as possible, considering coordinating it with the other finishes in your kitchen to achieve a polished, cohesive look that’s perfectly on trend for 2021. 

Organize With Pantries and Storage

As concealed storage becomes more popular and modern, streamlined kitchens are on the rise, ensuring that your kitchen is outfitted with plenty of hidden storage space is likely to be a major trend in 2021. Pantries provide more storage for kitchen staples than regular cabinets, which can free up additional space in your kitchen for open shelving, an accent wall, or even a miniature home office. Plus, pantries are easier to organize and access than wall cabinets, making them convenient for just about everyone. If you’re looking to stay on trend while also improving your kitchen’s functionality, installing a pantry might be a great choice for you.

Rethink Upper Cabinets

In the spirit of thinking out of the box, consider ditching bulky cabinetry and settling for open shelving or a blend of the two. 

Open shelves break up the monotony of a long row of upper cabinets, providing you with a spot for exciting, thoughtful displays.

Are You Looking To Update Your Kitchen?

Whether you want to renovate your kitchen to increase its resale value or you’ve been inspired by some of the coolest kitchen countertop trends of 2021, we’re here to help. At Arch City Granite & Marble, we can help you find the perfect countertop for your lifestyle and your personal style. Check out our gallery to get inspired or contact us to get started planning your dream kitchen today!

The post Top 9 Kitchen Countertops Design Trends in 2022 [Updated!!] appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

Quartzite countertops have grown in popularity across the United States. These days, many top designers are reporting that the majority of their clients are choosing this natural stone over granite and other countertop options. When it comes to colors, there are many quartzite shades to choose from. Taj Mahal quartzite, in particular, is one of the crown jewels among natural stone countertops.

With the rising popularity of quartzite, it’s no small wonder that so many homeowners in the St. Louis area want Taj Mahal quartzite countertops in their kitchens. This stone takes its name from India’s great monument because the colors are reminiscent of the Taj Mahal’s beauty.

In fact, there is some misunderstanding about this stone — it is sometimes mistaken for granite, and even though it is named for the Taj Mahal, it isn’t quarried in India. In fact, like most quartzite slabs, this stone comes from Brazil. If you’re interested in Taj Mahal for your kitchen or bathroom, read on to learn all about color variations, cost and more!

The Colors of Taj mahal Quartzite

Close-up view of Taj mahal Quartzite stone

One of the reasons why Taj Mahal quartzite is so popular is that it beautifully replicates the look of marble even though it comes with the hardness and durability of granite. Slabs of Taj Mahal will feature broad waves and swirls of color along with interesting striations — not so much the flecked or mottled look that is common with granite, but smooth marbling throughout the stone. Colors are generally warm in tone, white with creamy tan or beige marbling, or sometimes sandier taupe shades. Overall, this countertop is light in color, and it works well in warm and neutral toned kitchens.

Just like any naturally quarried stone, Taj Mahal quartzite will come in slightly different shades, with several color variations available. Scroll down to see several images of different Taj Mahal slabs and you’ll see what we mean — each has slightly different patterning, and there is some variation in color between one batch of slabs and the next batch.

Four different batches of Taj mahal quartzite slabs with some color and pattern variation are shown below:

Is Taj Mahal Granite?

There is some confusion about the differences between granite and quartzite, and in particular, Taj Mahal quartzite is often called granite, even though these are two separate species of stone. For all practical purposes, granite and quartzite are very similar — both are durable, and both come in a variety of colors and patterns, suitable for kitchen and bathroom countertops.

But there is a difference between granite and quartzite. Quartzite is a metamorphic stone, which means that at some point in its formation, it has undergone a metamorphosis of sorts. Usually, this means the rock was subjected to high heat or pressure while buried deep within the Earth’s crust. Granite is an igneous stone, which is a stone that forms when molten magma cools, solidifies and crystallizes.

What Color Cabinets Work Best with Taj Mahal Quartzite Countertops?

Because of the available shade range and the neutral tones found in many slabs of Taj Mahal quartzite, this is a stone that pairs well with a variety of cabinet colors. Taj Mahal works especially well in white and creamy off-white kitchens, where the pale tan shades of this stone are able to lend their warmth to the color scheme. This stone also makes a striking contrast against natural wood cabinetry, and again, the warm tones in Taj Mahal quartzite are a beautiful complement to most shades found in natural wood.

If you’re considering black, dark gray or navy cabinetry, look for more neutral color variants of this stone to make a nice contrast against dark neutral shades.

Durability and Maintenance

Quartzite is a very hard, dense stone that lasts well in a kitchen environment, just like granite. The main difference between maintaining a quartzite countertop over granite is that quartzite slabs sometimes have small inclusions of a mineral known as calcium carbonate.

This mineral can dissolve and etch the stone’s surface when it comes into contact with acidic foods like ketchup and tomato-based products or orange juice. Not to worry if you do spill tomato sauce on your quartzite counter — simply wipe the counter own in a timely manner to prevent etching. In other words, don’t let spills sit!

How Much Does Taj Mahal Quartzite Cost?

This stone rings up at the higher end of the price range, but it is durable and long lasting enough to make it worth the investment. Part of the reason for the extra cost is that quartzite tends to be rarer than granite, and the process to quarry it is a bit more complex than the process to quarry granite slabs.

With installation, a Taj Mahal kitchen counter will cost between $95 and $100 per square foot — about the same price as very high-end granite countertops.

Taj Mahal Quartzite Lookalikes

If you’re shopping for options, be sure to check out two other types of quartzite that look similar to Taj Mahal Madreperola quartzite and Kalahari quartzite.

At Arch City Granite & Marble of St. Louis, Missouri, we seek out the best batches of Taj Mahal quartzite, and we stock full slabs. This makes it easy to select your new counter because you’ll be able to see the entirety of the stone’s color and pattern, something that can’t be achieved by looking at small samples.

Visit our showroom to see the slabs of Taj Mahal that we have in stock, or call us at 314-426-3100 to speak with our stone specialists, who will be happy to help you choose the perfect stone for your kitchen or bathroom project.

The post Taj Mahal Quartzite: An Elegant Natural Stone from Brazil appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

Lennon Granite

Lennon granite is a breathtaking granite stone that comes from the southern part of Brazil. Greyish in color, this granite is ideal for a variety of different color schemes and kitchen or bathroom designs.

About Lennon Granite

Close up view of Lennon / New Azul Aran granite

Lennon granite is a unique and memorable granite stone, with its blue undertone and shades of brown and grey throughout. The bedrock is white, providing Lennon granite with its light-colored background. 

Lennon granite’s overall grey appearance comes from the most abundant mineral found throughout the stone. In addition to the white, grey and bluish hues, you may also notice some dark brown minerals in the stone as well. Although this type of mineral isn’t as abundant as the others found in Lennon granite, you will still see it running in veins through the stone. The exact shades of brown vary, depending on the slab used.

Lennon granite resembles a very exclusive granite from Spain known as “Azul Aran.” As a result, it is called with the name of “New Azul Aran Granite” in St. Louis area.  However, Lennon granite is easier to find and much less expensive than Azul Aran.

Using Lennon Granite in Your Home

Because of the variations in color in this stone, Lennon granite can fit in well with a wide variety of design schemes and styles. It is appropriate for use in a vintage kitchen, a traditional kitchen or a modern kitchen. Whether you are looking for a granite stone to complement a darker room or a lighter room, Lennon granite is a good choice.

Kitchens are not the only spaces that can benefit from the installation of Lennon granite. As a stunning grey granite option, this stone works well with a range of bathroom designs as well. It can be used for anything from forming a countertop to covering an accent wall.

Key Benefits of Lennon Granite

Lennon granite offers many benefits that make it a popular choice among homeowners and designers alike. For example, this stone is durable and able to withstand extreme variations in weather, such as those found in the St. Louis, Missouri, area.

Because of its complex pattern, Lennon granite is also capable of hiding dirt, fingerprints and other smudges well, which prevents you from needing to clean it as often. Lennon granite does not stain easily, and it will be highly resistant to all stains as long as you follow all of the appropriate maintenance recommendations after installation. 

A wide variety of different cabinet colors will work well with Lennon granite. Some of the most common cabinet colors used with this granite stone include brown, blue, grey and white.

Consult a Stone Design Professional

Although it is one of the more popular granite colors, Lennon granite is only one of several stones available from Arch City Granite & Marble.

We offer a wide variety of granite, quartz, quartzite and marble stone options to meet the needs of virtually any customer. If you are interested in Lennon granite or any other stone, the stone design experts at Arch City Granite & Marble can help you decide which option is best for your needs.

Please contact us today to find the perfect stone for your kitchen or bathroom.

The post Granite Color Spotlight: Lennon Granite from Brazil appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

Have you been thinking about a change in your kitchen? New countertops are one of the biggest impacts you can make, with the least amount of effort. There are a number of different materials available that each offers unique colors, looks and benefits.

If you’ve watched some of the home improvement or real estate shows on television, you may have seen black soapstone. While this is an intriguing option, it does have several drawbacks you want to consider before choosing it for your project.

Luckily, there are alternatives that look just as good with fewer worries.

Soapstone has a unique look, but because it is so soft, it can damage easily. In fact, you can scratch black soapstone with your fingernail if you try hard enough, making it a poor choice for countertops that may see some heavy use.  

A better option instead is granite that looks like soapstone, such as Nero Mist. Nero Mist is a black granite with a soapstone look. It has all the properties of a hard granite, making care much easier.

Although granite does require some effort to maintain, you’ll find plenty of information online to help you keep it looking sharp for years to come.

What Exactly Is Nero Mist?

Full slab Nero Mist granite

We’ve mentioned that Nero Mist is black granite that looks like soapstone, but what is it? It is a honed black granite. Nero mist is very hard and durable. The granite is quarried in Brazil. The stone has a black background with gray flecks and veins. The honed finish has a look very similar to black soapstone. This Brazilian granite is also known as Milky Way granite in St. Louis granite countertops market.

Nero Mist Pricing

Another downfall of soapstone is the price. Even with the other faults, it is still very expensive, at $75 to $90 per square foot installed. Nero Mist offers the benefits of being more durable and is more reasonably priced too, at $59 to $69 per square foot installed.

Using Nero Mist in Your Kitchen

Cabinet colors that can paired with Nero Mist granite

One of the best things about Nero Mist, or Black Soapstone, is the flexibility in decorating. You can easily pair it with white, off-white or gray cabinets. For a more unique look, it can pair with brown or dark wood cabinets (such as cherry).

Nero Mist has a fresh look, but not in the way where it looks overly modern. In this way, there is less worry that Nero Mist will look dated in years to come.

Whether you’re considering Black Soapstone and would like more information about this durable alternative, or you’d just like to chat about all the options available for your kitchen, reach out to us at Arch City Granite & Marble. We look forward to helping you with your next project!

The post Thinking Black Soapstone – Why Not Nero Mist? appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

Alaska White Granite

With its light background coloring and warm hues throughout, Alaska White granite is a striking stone that works well with many different color schemes and designs. This versatile stone can be used inside your home or outside and is ideal for floors, walls, countertops and more. Although it is one of the more expensive granite options available, its flexibility, durability and classic beauty make it well worth the cost.

Alaska White Granite Appearance

Close-up view of Alaska White granite

In general, Alaska White granite is a light colored stone with darker minerals running throughout. However, Alaska White granite slabs can vary in appearance considerably, with some slabs of this granite being much more attractive than others. The most attractive slabs of Alaska White granite have a bright, luminous background that blends shades of silver and white. These slabs have a nice distribution of neutral hues evenly distributed in a pleasing pattern throughout, varying from lighter neutrals to dark browns, blacks andgreys.

Premium Alaska White slabs

Most homeowners prefer the more attractive slabs of granite with a lighter background and an even coloring. As a result, these slabs are often referred to as “premium Alaska White granite.” All Alaska White granite is quarried in Brazil, and the premium batches of Alaska white granite are much more difficult to find than the undesirable batches. In fact, the number of undesirable blocks of this popular granite color is at least twice as high as the number of premium blocks. As a result, owners of quarries containing this type of granite reserve their best slabs for the importers who bring in the largest product quantities. They also sell these premium slabs at a higher price.

Premium Alaska White slab – With more white background and desirable color pattern

A term for more desirable (lighter background with even pattern) batch of any granite color is “Premium Granite”

Commercial grade Alaska White granite

Lesser quality slabs of Alaska White don’t have the same bright background as the more attractive stones. They may also have a less even spread of the other colors found in the granite, including black,greyand brown. These lesser quality slabs of granite tend to have imbalanced, unattractive veins of color running through them as well. These kind of slabs that are not favorite choice of most homeowners, are also referred to as “Commercial grade granite”. In cases where Alaska White granite has a predominant tint of brown instead of white, it may be referred to as “Ice Brown granite.”

Commercial grade (less desirable) Alaska White has darker background with uneven pattern

A slab of granite with uneven and darker pattern not liked by many homeowners, is termed as “Commercial Grade Granite”

Most homeowners prefer the more attractive slabs of granite with a lighter background and an even coloring. As a result, these slabs are often referred to as “premium Alaska White granite.” All Alaska White granite is quarried in Brazil, and the premium batches of Alaska white granite are much more difficult to find than the undesirable batches. In fact, the number of undesirable blocks of this popular granite color is at least twice as high as the number of premium blocks. As a result, owners of quarries containing this type of granite reserve their best slabs for the importers who bring in the largest product quantities. They also sell these premium slabs at a higher price.

The leader of natural stone imports in the United States is MS International. This company imports the largest proportion of granite slabs from other countries, including Brazil. At Arch City Granite, we have a longstanding positive relationship with MS International, allowing us to obtain the most attractive Alaska white granite for our customers. Whennew slabs of Alaska White granite arrive at MS International’s facility, we are able to look through it and purchase only the best slabs, leaving any unattractive granite behind.

Cabinet colors that go well with Alaska White

Like other white granite colors, Alaska White Granite has become more popular among homeowners in recent years. Perhaps the most common use of this stone is in the creation of Alaska White granite countertops. This style of countertop is appropriate in kitchens and bathrooms of all sizes, including smaller kitchens where other countertop choices may not be appropriate. These countertops pair best with cabinets that are white, off-white, black, espresso, coffee,greyor blue.

White and off-white cabinetry matches well with the background coloring of Alaska White granite, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who want a crisp, clean look in the kitchen or bathroom. Black cabinetry picks up the darker hues running through your Alaska White granite countertops while still providing a nice contrast between the cabinetry and the countertops themselves. Like black cabinetry, espresso and coffee colored cabinets can also pick up the colors running through your Alaska White granite countertops. These cabinet color choices also give you a nice contrast, although the color difference isn’t as stark as it would be with black cabinets.Greyand blue cabinets draw attention to thegreyishhues within the granite’s pattern. These cabinet colors provide a softer contrast while still blending nicely with your chosen granite.

In addition to using Alaska White granite in your kitchen or bathroom as a countertop, you can also use it as a backsplash. Because of its light coloring, it can add an illusion of space to the room while simultaneously adding to the design aesthetic. Although this option can be expensive, some homeowners also choose to incorporate Alaska White granite as flooring in the home.

Alaska White Granite Pricing

Alaska White granite price varies according to the retailer and the quality of the stone. In general, the more attractive Alaska White granite stones with a more even spread of colors and a brighter background will cost more than those stones that are not as attractive.

Regardless of the quality of the stone, Alaska White is a granite option that falls into a higher price range than some other available granites. Big Box stores categorize this granite’s price in the “E” or “F” category, with the “A” category being the least expensive. If you are installing a 3 cm Alaska white granite, you can expect to pay anywhere from $68 to $78 per square foot, depending on the category of the stone and the size and complexity of the job.

Key Benefits of Alaska White Granite

Perhaps the most noticeable benefit of Alaska White granite is its stunning color. Its bright background and contrasting mineral pattern make it one of the most popular choices among homeowners. This granite stone is also durable, allowing it to withstand ongoing use both inside and outside of your home. In addition, the mineral pattern on this stone helps to hide dirt and smudges. Furthermore, Alaska White granite is compatible with a wide variety of color schemes, making it a more flexible option for homeowners.

Drawbacks of Alaska White Granite

Like all granite stones, Alaska White is prone to damage if it isn’t cared for properly. As a lighter-colored granite, staining of Alaska White is a natural concern. In order to protect against stains, homeowners should follow all maintenance recommendations. Although Alaska White is a durable granite, chips and other types of damage may still occur in some cases.

Alaska White granite is among the higher-priced granite options, which makes it less affordable for some homeowners. For larger projects, homeowners can expect to spend significantly more money than they would have with a lower-priced granite. Variation in the coloring of the stone may also be seen as a drawback of Alaska White granite. Some stones have unattractive patterns that make them much less desirable. However, as long as you purchase your Alaska white granite from a reputable retailer like Arch City Granite, you can be confident that you will be installing only the best, most attractive slabs in your home.

Similar Granite Colors you may like

Consult the Stone Design Professionals at Arch City Granite & Marble

Arch City Granite & Marble is proud to offer Alaska White granite, as well as a wide variety of other stones. Whether you are interested in granite, marble, quartz or quartzite, we have a range of options to meet your needs. To learn more about our products or to talk to one of our stone design professionals about your home improvement goals, please contact Arch City Granite & Marble today.

The post Alaska White – an Elegant White Granite for Modern Kitchens appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

One of the key factors homeowners will consider before investing in natural stone or quartz kitchen countertops is durability. Granite and quartz counters are designed to stay in your home for many, many years, so it’s important understand how these countertop materials will hold up under everything from normal wear and tear to destructive teenagers to the heavy pots and pans of avid cooks.

It is pretty widely accepted that, among the standard stone and engineered stone counters (granite, quartz, quartzite, soapstone, and marble), granite and quartz are the least likely to be scratched, chipped, stained, or otherwise irreparably marred.

But which of these two counter materials are the most durable? Well, the answer is not exactly straightforward. A lot depends on your lifestyle and where the counters will be. Let’s look at some of the factors that go into a durable counter so that you can make an informed decision about which elements are most important to you.

Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are extremely hard to scratch. In fact, if you cut directly on granite, you are more likely to ruin your knives than to scratch your granite. Some knives can leave unsightly steel marks, so for the sake of your stone and cutlery, we recommend using a cutting board. If you do ever chip or scratch your granite somehow, it can be repaired.

Granite naturally has a low risk for staining, and if you seal it annually, it is stain resistant. That’s one more thing you won’t need to worry about.

Granite counters are completely heat resistant, so you don’t have to worry about granite being damaged in any way by heat. You can comfortably take your pots and pans from the stove or oven and place them directly on the granite.

Granite is extremely weatherproof (that’s why it’s used on so many buildings) and will not fade or discolor under direct sunlight.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz is extremely hard to scratch. Like granite, it will dull your knives, so use a cutting board. Granite and quartz are about equal when it comes to resisting scratches or chips. The only difference is that quartz cannot be repaired (although this doesn’t really matter when you consider the extremely low likelihood of either countertop being damaged in this way).

Quartz countertops are completely stain resistant, and they don’t need to be sealed. So, even if you have a lighter colored quartz counter, you can use it confidently knowing that it’s safe from stains no matter what ingredients get spilled.

One difference between quartz and granite is that quartz counters are only heat resistant up to a certain point. Most quartz manufacturers recommend you use hot-pads as a precaution.

It is usually not recommended to use quartz in outdoor settings as certain colors may fade under intense direct sunlight (they are completely fine indoors even if you have sunlight in the kitchen). If you are considering quartz outdoors, talk to your fabricator about your unique project and how individual quartz choices will hold up.

The bottom line is that both granite and quartz are extremely durable. Both are reliable choices for a hardworking kitchen counter, and the only factors to consider when choosing one or the other based on durability is heat and location.

Both granite and quartz are popular choice for kitchen countertops in St. Louis, Missouri area. Visit Arch City Granite to view the full slabs of granite and quartz before you make your choice.

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Marble is one of the oldest and most beautiful stones available on the market for countertops. It’s a metamorphic stone that is a result of limestone being subjected to immense amount of pressure for long periods of time. Marble’s popularity began in ancient Rome and Greece, where white and off-white marble was used to construct a variety of structures, from hand-held sculptures to massive pillars.

How Marble Got its Start in Ancient Times

The Greeks and Romans chose marble for their structures due its beauty. However, the process of mining marble was quite lengthy. Hammers and wedges were used to release marble from the earth. It was then pulled from its source with the help of pulleys, winches, levers, and wooden beams.

Aside from statues and buildings, colored marble was used to create beautiful tile flooring. The color of marble varies due to different minerals that are present in the stone. For example, pure calcite marble is white. Red marble gets its tone from hematite, and limonite gives marble a green or yellow tone.

How We Use Marble in 2016

Even though Ancient Grecian and Roman times were over 2,000 years ago, most cultures still appreciate marble in present day. Today, marble is used for a variety of structural and aesthetic purposes. Marble is included in the making of modern buildings, places of worship, floors, walls, and of course—countertops.

Marble Countertops: Classic Beauty in The Home

It’s hard to deny that marble countertops add a touch of elegance to nearly every kitchen. Its stark white appearance makes kitchens look clean and strikingly classic. This stone has been a popular aesthetic option for centuries, and it perfectly ties in its classic beauty throughout kitchens across St. Louis and the rest of America.

Another intriguing aspect about marble is that since it’s a natural stone, every countertop is sure to be unique. If you’re a homeowner looking for a countertop that is uniquely designed and custom made for your home, consider marble stone.

Benefits of Marble Countertops (Beyond Beauty)

Even though marble is a beautiful countertop option, there are other reasons why homeowners may choose marble for their kitchen countertops instead of various other stones.

First, marble is one of the longest-lasting countertop stones available on the market. Although it can be expensive, marble countertops essentially pay for themselves as long as they are maintained and properly cared for throughout the years.

Furthermore, marble countertops come in a variety of colors that are well suited for a variety of personal tastes. However, think carefully about installing dark marble countertops in your kitchen—etching is more noticeable on dark marble than light colored marble.

What Are The Downsides to Using Marble For Kitchen Countertops?

Just like any other type of countertop material, there are downsides to using marble as your selected stone. One of the disadvantages of using marble as your kitchen countertop is that it’s a porous and soft stone. This makes marble prone to staining and chipping, which can quickly downgrade its beauty and elegance.

Homeowners who notice small imperfections might be better off choosing an alterative countertop material for their kitchen, such as quartz.

How to Protect And Maintain Your Marble Countertops

The truth is that marble is high maintenance. Although this fact can be off-putting to some, this doesn’t mean that you should discard marble as a countertop choice altogether. There are methods you can use to protect your marble countertops and keep them looking beautiful for years to come.

The first step in protecting and maintaining marble countertops is to properly seal them—and seal often. Unfortunately, spilling a glass of wine can be all that it takes to stain your new marble countertops.

You’ll also need to choose your cleaning products carefully. It’s best to clean your marble countertops with gentle dish detergent, warm water, and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, which can easily cause damage.

Get Ready to Love Your New Marble Countertops

Even though marble isn’t perfect, there are still plenty of reasons to love this natural stone. If you’re interested in marble countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, contact Arch City Granite today at 314-426-3100 or 636-329-8400.

The post The History of Marble Stone And Why It’s so Popular For Countertops appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

Are you looking for a granite slab that can do it all? Andino White granite might be exactly what you’re looking for. This type of granite goes perfectly with kitchen cabinets in a variety of styles and colors. Want to learn more about Andino White granite and the ways that you can use it in your own kitchen? Read on and we’ll show you everything you need to know about this beautiful stone!

About Andino White Granite

Like many of our favorite new granite colors, this type of granite is quarried in Brazil and it features an white to off-white background with hints of gray, black and brown. Some slabs feature large, brilliantly white spots among the darker flecking while others have a more muted, rippled look. Either way, the beautiful mix of colors makes this a highly desirable type of granite, especially for modern kitchens.

The greatest thing about Andino White granite countertops is that they’ll give you a high-end luxury look at a comparatively lower cost than many other types of high end granite. According to Homewyse, the average cost to install a granite countertop in the United States is between $59 and $86 — and if you want something more exotic or a type of granite that is comparable to Andino White, the price can go much higher. If you choose Andino White granite slabs, however, you can expect to pay between $58 and $62 per square foot, and that includes finishing, and the installation costs.

Designing a Kitchen with Andino White Granite

Andino White granite countertops are the perfect option for the black, white and off-white kitchen cabinets that are so popular today. The muted mix of gray and white make for the perfect contrast against both dark and light cabinetry, and the subtle brown tones will give your kitchen just a hint of color.

Where this granite really stands out, however, is in kitchens with espresso cabinetry. Choose white or off-white for the wall color, select appliances with a stainless steel finish and add the finishing touches by using stainless steel doorknobs and drawer pulls. The white, gray and brown tones in this White granite will help you pull the theme together beautifully. If you’d like to add an accent color to the kitchen, add it with the backsplash by choosing granite or ceramic tile with darker brown overtones.

If you’re looking for a more traditional, old-fashioned theme, Andino White granite works wonderfully well with natural oak cabinets. You can still use the same stainless steel appliances, fixtures and hardware, but when it comes to wall colors, you can go with white, off-white or a nice beige tone to bring out the natural browns within the granite.

If you’re interested in White granite countertops or any of our new granite colors, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Arch City Granite & Marble. If you’d like to order your new countertops, or even if you’d like to take a firsthand look at Andino White granite, it is always in stock at our St. Louis and O’Fallon locations. Stop in and see the granite slabs that could be your new kitchen countertops!

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Source: Istockphoto

That can only mean one thing: It’s time to discuss tips and techniques for cleaning an outdoor kitchen.

When they’re done right, outdoor kitchens are designed to be inherently durable and easy to clean, but that doesn’t mean they don’t require some regular maintenance to keep them functioning at optimal levels.

Here are five tips on cleaning an outdoor kitchen that will keep this space functional, clean and ready all summer long:

Don’t let the grill get too greasy

After the burgers and beer have been devoured, you might be tempted to kick back with a nightcap. But before you do, make sure to thoroughly clean your grill. Let it cool, wipe it down with soapy water and avoid using steel wool and chemical cleaners. Doing this will help prevent rust, corrosion and grease fires in the future.

Go easy on the appliances

Many outdoor kitchens feature stainless steel appliances because they are incredibly durable. They are also easy to clean. Again, eschew chemical cleaners and steel wool, which can cause scratches and corrosion. Instead, gently wipe down your appliances with warm soapy water.

Don’t forget the furniture

When you think about cleaning an outdoor kitchen, you problem think about the grill, the appliances and the countertops. But you shouldn’t forget about your furniture. Before you retire for the evening, make sure to cover it up–preferably with vinyl covers that don’t touch the floor and allow moisture to be released. This will help ensure that your furniture is dry, fresh and properly functioning the next time you want to use it.

Free the fireplace

Once the flames are gone and the leftover logs are cool, make sure you make time to clean ashes and soot from your fireplace. This will help keep debris from being blown all over your kitchen by the wind. Soot and ashes are a lot easier to clean up when they are contained to the fireplace.

Care for your countertops

Natural stone such as granite, marble and even soapstone–all of which are available at Arch City Granite & Marble–make for outstanding outdoor countertops. They’re durable, visually stunning, and actually clean up pretty easily (especially with the assistance from the sun and rain). But they also need to be sealed regularly.

If you’re currently in the process of cleaning and refurbishing an outdoor kitchen, be sure to contact us at Arch City Granite for all of your countertop needs.

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Source: Arch City

Light-colored countertops can be bold. You can combine them with white cabinets to create a sleek, contemporary look. You can combine them with deep, dark-colored cabinets to give your kitchen dramatic appeal. And they can be combined with brown-colored cabinets to create a warm, welcoming look and feel.

The trick is to work with a granite fabricator in St. Louis to find a light-colored countertop material that is as durable and sturdy as it is stunning. If you are looking into countertop colors, take a look at these tough, light-colored countertops which are available through a top granite fabricator in St. Louis:

Granite is a beloved countertop material because it is incredibly durable and available in an array of stunning colors, including an array of whites and grays. Take a look at this River White Granite, which has a soft, inviting pattern that would create a calm environment in your kitchen.

You might also want to consider the Bianco Romano Granite, which has a surface with a greater sense of motion, or the White Ice granite, which offers a definite sense of drama.

Marble is another countertop material that comes in amazingly awesome shades of white and gray, and it also offers a tough surface. In addition to marble’s all-natural spectacular beauty, it can also withstand a lot of heat.

Look at this slab, which is available through Arch City Granite & Marble. It’s a classic cut of Carrara White Honed marble that is actually closer to a gray–but either way it will look great in your kitchen.

While it is true that natural stones such as granite, marble and soapstone are crafted to stand the test of time as countertops, it is also true that there are other light-colored countertop materials that offer a certain amount of durability. These include Super White Quartzite, which looks like a natural stone but is actually engineered to be stronger than both marble and granite (but not by much). Quartz countertops are non-porous, hygienic and look sleek and slick.

To learn more about how you can incorporate tough, light countertop materials into your kitchen, contact the best granite fabricator in St. Louis (which also happens to specialize in marble and quartz countertops) at Arch City Granite & Marble.

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