Selecting the right kitchen countertop is a huge decision. It goes beyond appearance and cost. While it can be tempting to select the most appealing or affordable material, the durability and maintenance requirements should play the top roles in your selection.

Kitchen countertops play a huge and demanding role in any home. Your kitchen is not complete without this feature as it provides you with space for food preparations, which is the core purpose of any kitchen—as such, selecting the right material makes your kitchen efficient and easy to maintain. It also complements other design elements in your kitchen.

However, with so many options in the market, selecting the best countertop can be a daunting task. Here are the top guiding tips to help you in your selection.

How Do You Intend to Use the Countertop?

Determining how you will be using the countertop will significantly help you choose a material that can withstand your daily tasks. For example, if you plan to use it for meal preparations, you need a stain and heatproof material. Also, consider the frequency of use. If you love cooking or hosting parties, you need a countertop that can withstand the pressure without wear and tear.

While at this, consider your family setting.  For instance, if you have young kids who love playing around the kitchen, you should refrain from bright-colored materials. In this case, white granite will not do you justice due to stains from finger-paints and jelly. Black marble will probably be the best choice. Go for material and color that fits your lifestyle for efficiency and to save your money.

Aesthetics

Before rushing to pick any material because it looks good on the picture or in your friend’s kitchen, you should consider your preferred aesthetics. It would be best if you had something that matches the rest of your kitchen. Whether you are designing a kitchen from scratch or renovating an old one, you most likely have an idea of how you want the results to be. Make sure that the countertops you choose will help you attain that look. If you are going for a contemporary look, you can try marble countertops. For a modern look, you could go for granite or quartz countertops. The aesthetic that you want to achieve in the end will significantly impact the right material for the countertop.

Consider the Kitchen Layout

The kitchen is the center of any home, and you, therefore, want to bring the best out of it. It ties the rest of the house together, and as such, the style and layout should standout. Make sure that every aspect in the kitchen complements each other to create a flowing space. If your home has an open layout, the color pallets and finishes should be the same in all rooms. This builds a connection between your kitchen, living room, and other spaces without making it look sophisticated or like you are trying too hard. The best part is that most countertop materials come in different colors, so you can select the one that matches the house’s rest.

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Maintenance and Upkeep

You have to keep the countertops in their prime condition as this will improve your kitchen’s overall appearance. To do so, you need a maintenance and upkeep routine. The best countertop material is not only durable but also easy to maintain. Select one that is easy to clean and keep in the best shape regardless of your lifestyle. If you are in a busy family or love cooking, you should refrain from granite materials as they require regular sealing for stains and water damage prevention. This is because the seals are likely to come off faster, which increases the cost of maintenance. However, granite has a stunning appearance and can increase your home’s resale value.

When considering maintenance and upkeep requirements, you should not let price push you into making the wrong decision. For instance, high-end materials like quartz may seem expensive, but they require minimum maintenance.

Have a Budget

How much are you willing to spend on kitchen countertops? You need to set a budget that you can comfortably afford, keeping in mind that you have to pay for other expenses such as installation and maintenance. However, as much as you want to save money, you should never compromise on the quality. Note that high-quality kitchen countertops can be expensive, but they are worth every penny. Therefore, you must be realistic when setting your budget depending on the size of your kitchen and the material that suits your needs. Low cost might be an indication of poor quality materials. On the other hand, high cost does not guarantee you that the material is the best quality. Take your time and do in-depth research and check what other homeowners have to say about the material’s quality and maintenance requirements.

Seek the Assistance of Experts

Letting an expert guide you in your kitchen countertop selection is crucial, especially if you are a first-timer. The experts have been in the industry for a long time and understand the different countertop materials better than you do. They will advise you based on your lifestyle, budget, and overall needs.

Taking The Next Steps

There are virtually limitless kitchen countertop choices in the market which are made to suit different lifestyle needs and budget. Countertops are a long-term investment, and you should never make a hasty purchase decision. Take your time to go through each type’s pros and cons and narrow down the choices until you find one that suits your kitchen. The reputation of the brand also plays a crucial role in the reliability and durability of the countertops.

At Arch City Granite & Marble, Inc., we take our customers’ satisfaction seriously. We specialize in granite, marble, and quartz countertops fabrication and installation, and you can trust us to customize the countertops to meet your precise needs. We use state-of-the-art technology and CNC machines to fabricate the best quality countertops in the market. Our experts will advise you on the best choice, and we also come handy in installation. Contact us for any inquiries and make your order.
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The post 6 Tips for Selecting Kitchen Countertops [Updated for 2022!] appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

So why do homeowners choose to install new countertops when they already have countertops in the home? Each remodeling project is unique, but we certainly know that reasons to replace countertops follow a few common trends. Countertops are replaced for reasons of both form and function and your reasons are your own. Let’s dive into the many inspirations for installing new countertops in your kitchen or bathroom.

1) Cracks in the Old Countertop

The first and leading reason why to replace countertops is simply that your counters are already damaged. A crack down your stone countertop isn’t just a visual blemish, it can also be a dangerous sharp edge, ready to catch clothing or skin with every pass. Cracked countertops or counter tile is no one’s idea of dream kitchen, and neither is eroding counter edges. If you have a cracked countertop, the best answer is usually to install a brand new unblemished countertop instead of living with that ever-lengthening crack.

2) Rebuilding Your Cabinetry Design

It is possible to remodel your kitchen or bathroom and keep the countertops, but not if you’re also rebuilding the cabinetry. Stone coutnertops are cut to the precise size and shape of your cabinet-tops. Change the shape and design of your cabinets and you also change the shape of countertops that you need. If you are creating a gap, extending your counters, moving the stove, or completely reinventing your kitchen, you will likely need new countertops. And those countertops might as well be beautiful.

3) To Match the New Island Countertop

Installing a new island in your kitchen is also a great reason to replace all of your countertops. You’re going to need a new countertop surface for the island, so naturally, you want the rest of your counters to match. Adding an island to your kitchen is the perfect opportunity to fully upgrade your kitchen’s look and feel. You can repaint your existing cabinetry and choose a countertop that looks beautiful on the island and throughout your kitchen counters.

4) Stained or Discolored Countertops

Countertops can become discolored and damaged over time and in cases of misuse, and this is a powerful reason to replace your counters with new, undamaged stone. Any countertops scorched by un-protected hot pans or stained by careless spills of color-rich liquids can permanently reduce the beauty of your kitchen or bathroom countertops. A new  countertop allows you to reinvent your space and get rid of current counter flaws.

5) Replacing Low-Quality Counter Materials

Of course, some homes did not have high quality countertops to start with. Many older homes were built with laminate or Formica countertops, both now recognizably less desirable in any house. Not only are laminate and Formica countertops known to be low-quality, but they also age poorly making them visibly less attractive over time. Any homeowner looking at shabby low value countertops has every reason to replace those counters with beautiful stone countertops. Replace every counter in your house, as Formica is rarely limited to one installation, reinventing your kitchen and every bathroom.

6)  Changing the Color Scheme

Counters can also have a profound influence on the color scheme of your kitchen or bathroom. The counter, often a creamy neutral, contains shades of true color that should be reflected through the rest of the room’s interior design. If you are about to paint your bathroom an elegant dusty-rose, then marble countertops with pink veins might be the perfect remodeling choice. If you are about to design the azure-blue kitchen you’ve always wanted, then blue quartz could be your ideal countertop upgrade.

7) Dated Countertop Tiles

Some countertops announce the age of a house in a less-than-flattering manner.  Countertops in colors that have fallen out of style, counters made of dated tile, and other styles that clearly show the counter’s age are bad for the overall appearance of the house. There is nothing worse in an otherwise elegant kitchen than a mismatched and dated countertop. This is an extremely common and motivating reason why homeowners choose to renovate their kitchens and bathrooms with new granite, marble, or quartz countertops. 

8) Remodeling with New Fixtures and Features

Adding new features to your bathroom or kitchen can make new countertops an absolute necessity. Adding a second sink to the kitchen, for example, means you can and should install a new slab countertop that fits the new footprint of your counter design. Turning your bathroom into a double-sink or extending your bathroom counter creates a similar necessity. You can even install new features like a butcher-block cutting board or a built-in place for a large blender with a new countertop design.

9) Recovering from Fire and Smoke Damage

As durable as granite countertops may be, even granite can still take fire damage. Fire damage and smoke damage are common in small house-fire emergencies and can wreck the once-beautiful shine of your stone countertops. If your home has recently suffered from a fire or just from smoke damage, then it may be necessary to replace your countertops in the kitchen or bathroom.

10) Upgrading the Entire Kitchen or Bathroom

Last but certainly not least is a full upgrade renovation. If you are completely remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, the countertops are an important part of reinventing your space. A new choice of stone, new color, and a shining smooth new surface can help to transform the look and feel of any room you remodel. Upgrading your kitchen vastly benefits from new countertops and the counter is a vital accent in any bathroom with a classic sink-and-counter design.

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Are you planning to renovate your kitchen or bathroom with all-new countertops? Whether you want classic granite counters, elegant marble counters, or modern quartz, we can help you choose the perfect counter design to best fit your kitchen or bathroom vision.

The post 10 Reasons Why Homeowners Replace Kitchen & Bathroom Countertops appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

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.

Counters are among leading projects to transform a kitchen without a total rebuild. The countertops are the most visible, color-defining element of your kitchen. Expanses of clean, shining counters are what make a kitchen feel inviting, and the latest in hard stone countertops will always generate some enthusiastic buyers. Cabinetry can be updated with fresh paint or stain and new handles to match your beautiful new counters to fully reinvent the look and feel of your kitchen.

Now let’s talk about choosing the best counter materials and design to increase value in your home.

Choosing a Solid Stone Countertop

• Granite
• Marble
• Quartz
• Concrete
• Sandstone

When most people think about upgrading a kitchen, they think gleaming stone countertops. Cool granite or swirling marble are both seen as the definition of a luxury kitchen for the home gourmet.

• Granite

  • Granite counters were once the peak of mansion and penthouse design which then gained in popularity as the stone became more available in the decades after.  Granite is considered extremely hard and the cool gray and sometimes stormy striations are an elegant accent to any neutral or decoratively colored kitchen.

• Marble

  • Marble countertops come in a glowing variety of colors with unique fingerprint-like swirls of veining. However, marble is also a soft stone and in the kitchen, it’s been found a little too-easy to clip with knife tips or scrape with the underside of pans.

• Quartz

  • Quartz countertops are usually seen in white with elegant fractal veining. However, unlike marble it is extremely hard and resistant to scratching and non-porous. Quartz is at the highest price point on the current market. Quartz comes in a full variety of soft colors.

• Concrete

  • Concrete is a pourable solid stone at a significantly lower price point. Concrete is a heavy yet affordable option that is currently seeing a spike in popularity for modern countertop design.

• Soapstone

  • Soapstone is a long-time standard for counters. Soapstone has a cool, smooth texture at a lower price point, but is also well-known as a softer stone that is prone to scratches.

Improving Your Home Value with Granite Countertops

Wondering whether granite countertops increase home value? The answer is usually “yes”, provided your kitchen renovation succeeds in making the entire home feel more modern and welcoming. Granite counters add a touch of class and permanence to a home’s design. The same countertop could make a modern home feel older and an older home feel timelessly modernized.

Granite counters tend to cost between $50 and $100 per square foot. Consider both your current counter space and whether you’d like to add an island during your kitchen renovation.

Improving Kitchen Value with Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops do increase your home value, and not just for style alone. Quartz is harder than marble and smoother than granite. In an age of viral safety, quartz counters can be cleaned down to a molecular level. As crystalline molecules, solid quartz forms a perfectly smooth, non-porous surface with nowhere for germs to hide from spotless kitchen cleaning.

Quartz countertops are veined and gleam like marble, but do not scratch or chip easily. Quartz is also only marginally more costly in its per-foot price range. Quartz counters can be quoted between $60 and $200 per square foot, depending on your chosen style and slab. As a way to improve both the appearance and function of your kitchen, quartz is currently and remains the top choice.

Marble Countertops Increasing the Value of Your Home

There will always be buyers willing to pay for marble. Marble has defined luxury and expensive homes since Ancient Rome. Marble kitchen countertops will be as desired and enjoyed as marble-tiled bathrooms until the end of time. The soft, veined stone is known to be extremely sturdy, though unfortunately easy to scratch. With proper care and regular polishing, marble countertops are often the centerpiece of a luxury kitchen.

Marble always has potential to increase the value of a kitchen design, as long as the rest of the kitchen and home effectively match the lavish counters. However, because marble is also widely available, it enjoys a wide price-point, ranging from $40 to $150 per square foot.

Best Countertop Colors for Home ROI

Most countertops range between white, beige, and gray. Like choosing a wall color, most detail is in the subtle under-tones and the veins in your stone. If your kitchen is designed in warmer tones, you may choose a countertop with a yellow-white hue, while cool-color kitchens often look better to look for a cool blue-tinted white, gray, or natural blue quartz. The best way to increase your home value with countertop color choice is to enhance the home’s desirability with a coordinated color palette.

The best countertops for your home’s value can be decided by the home’s design, value, and the new interior experience you create. By ensuring that your entire home suits the new luxury of your kitchen and countertops, your kitchen remodel provides the most potential value.  Our brand specializes in luxury granite countertops for homeowners in every price point looking to increase the value of your kitchen or home. To explore your full range of options, come view our selection of modern granite countertops. Not sure what you want yet? That’s no problem at all, as countertop experts can help you decide on the perfect color, material, and style for your kitchen. We look forward to consulting with you on your kitchen design and the ideal countertop choice to complete your renovation plans.

The post Increase the Value of Your Home With New Kitchen Countertops appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

Pops of Color

Unique color schemes are the backbone of kitchen design trends this year. From two-tone cabinetry to tiled backsplashes, contrasting counters to earthy tones, 2021 kitchens are all about the color. There are lots of ways you can incorporate more color into your kitchen. Once you’ve decided on a color palette, think about how you want to bring that scheme to life in your kitchen. If you’re looking for a more cohesive look, cabinets, backsplash, and countertops are the way to go. Here are some trendy ideas for incorporating bright color into your kitchen.

• Make your kitchen storage stylish with painted cabinets. You’ll find that cabinets take up a lot of surface area in a kitchen, and they can be the best place to add some color and bring your kitchen vision to life.
• Backsplashes are the perfect backdrop for color, texture, or pattern. Unique tiles, natural stone, or bright colors for a backsplash can make a kitchen feel fresh and new. 
• Smaller accents make a big difference. Copper light fixtures and handles have had their moment in the spotlight in recent kitchen trends.

You can bring in pops of color in smaller ways too. If you have a white countertop, add brightly-colored barstools. Orchids and other flowering plants can also add contrast and liveliness to a kitchen. 

Blue Bahia kitchen island with a straight eased edge to create a contemporary look installed in a Des Peres, Missouri residence

Innovative Storage

Accessibility and functionality are the two main goals of modern kitchen designs, and they’ve risen to the challenge with a completely new take on kitchen storage. With new shelving designs and pantry organization ideas, you can make the most of your space and keep your kitchen clutter-free. These ideas will take your kitchen storage game to the next level.

• Open shelving is a trend that involves mounted shelves with no case. It’s great for items that you use all the time, like small appliances, and dishes. They also serve as a great decorative focal point in the kitchen- you can add plants, keepsakes, and other personal items to bring your personality into the room. It also makes your kitchen feel more spacious and open. Plus, it’s a great way to show off your kitchen wall, if you choose to paint or tile it.
• Make your kitchen look less cluttered with hidden storage. Through cleverly disguised drawers, cabinets, and pull-out trays, you can find room for all the little things that typically take up space on your countertops.

Sleek and Dark

This design trend is all about rich colors, warm accents, and clever lighting. An important aspect of these kitchens is contrast- dark cabinets with a light countertop or backsplash, for example. Pairing a cream-colored granite counter with mahogany cabinets will make the grain in the natural stone really stand out, and gives it the spotlight in the room. This kind of dark and light contrast adds richness and glamour to a space. If you haven’t worked with darker colors in your design before, start with darker tones of colors you already like – a navy blue or olive green. There are simple ways to incorporate darker colors into your kitchen.

• Paint cabinets a darker color to contrast with light countertops.
• Use a darker wall color to make light cabinets pop.
• Bring in dark-colored barstools.
• Furniture like hutches, breakfast tables, and drink carts are another opportunity to play around with darker colors.

Kitchen Island with White Quartz Countertop

Wood Finishes

Wood is making a comeback. For some years, wood fell out of style in favor of more modern cabinet styles. But people are coming back to this earthy material. Wood adds warmth and character to any space, and features prominently in modern design trends. Natural elements have become more important in the kitchen, as they add unique texture to a space. Exposed wood finishes, either through cabinets, butcher block countertops,  or furniture, is a great way to bring natural elements into your kitchen design. It also contrasts well with natural stone and tile that you may be using for counters or backsplashes.

• Solid wood dining tables and breakfast tables, or chairs with visible wood grain finishes are a great option to bring the material into your kitchen.
• If you have open shelving in your kitchen, that’s the perfect place to expose more natural wood. It adds a rustic charm to a kitchen.
• Statement pieces like wooden mixing bowls, storage bins, or planters can incorporate the material in more subtle ways in your design.

Statement Countertops

Countertops are one of the most important part of a kitchen design. Not only must they be functional and durable, they also are a prominent feature of the kitchen’s visual appeal. Decorative countertops have made the list for top kitchen trends this year. With the right material choice, a countertop can tie your entire kitchen together and bring your vision to life. This trend focuses on counters that make a statement, either through color contrast, material, or pattern.

• Granite and marble have always reigned supreme in the world of kitchen countertops. Natural stone adds unique texture to a kitchen and pairs well with modern cabinets and appliances. They also are durable and easy to maintain.
• Wood block countertops add a rustic edge to kitchens. They contrast well with painted cabinets and add warmth.
• Waterfall countertops add drama and a modern look to a kitchen. 

Waterfall Island with Miter Cut Joint

If you are in the market for new countertops in the St. Louis area, explore our gallery. We have a diverse selection of granite and marble so you can find exactly which tone and texture you want for your space. We can guide you through the process of selecting and installing the perfect countertops for your home.

The post Top Five Kitchen Interior Design Trends of 2022 [Updated!] appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

Choosing the perfect countertops to complement your white cabinets should be an enjoyable experience. Granite countertops come in a wide variety of colors and hues that make a bold statement when paired with white cabinets. When choosing granite countertops, consider using these colors with white cabinets.

5 Granite Colors that Look Amazing with Your White Cabinets

Granite countertops provide a beautiful focal point for any kitchen. With a practically endless palette of colors to choose from, it can be difficult to decide exactly what granite colors you should use to complete your kitchen. Luckily, white cabinets provide a lot of attractive options. When choosing the best color of granite for your white kitchen cabinets, consider these choices.

Match with White

Modern kitchens make great use of white on both prep surfaces and walls. Since white granite isn’t perfectly white, there are several types of white granite that pair beautifully with your white cabinets. When making your choice, it’s important to remember that the undertones of your white cabinets should match the undertones of the granite. When seeking warm white granite, look for flecks and veins that are reddish, brown, or gold. Cool whites have flecks and swirls of black, blue, gray, and charcoal. For an added bonus, white on white can make your small kitchen look bigger. Some top choices of white granite that goes with white kitchen cabinets include:

• Alaska White Granite: Composed of a stunning white stone background flecked with frosted white minerals and translucent quartz, this beautiful granite also contains swirls of silver and feldspar for a dramatic complement to your white cabinets.
• Bianco Romano Granite: A sophisticated marble-like appearance makes this a popular granite color for white cabinets.  Gray veins running over a white surface provide an understated classic appeal.

Try Black for a Stunning Contrast

Black countertops provide an eye-catching contrast to your white cabinets. Choosing a drastically different color for your countertops provides a focal point and removes the starkness from a white kitchen. Whether you’re seeking pure, glossy black or granite flecked with colors or swirls of white, black granite pairs with white cabinets for sophistication that never goes out of style. Consider these black granite options to pair with your white cabinets.

• Absolute Black Granite: Glossy black depth with no interruptions, Absolute Black granite provides a stunning contrast against any shade of white cabinets.
• Black Pearl Granite: For a softer look that pairs with warm whites, consider this granite that’s predominately black, but includes flecks of various colors. Black Pearl with a honed surface has a softer finish to create a more subtle contrast.

Warm Browns

To infuse warmth into a kitchen that uses a lot of white, seek granite in shades of brown and gold. Best paired with off-white or warm white cabinets, brown granite adds a focal point to traditional and farmhouse kitchens with white cabinets. These shades also pair nicely with hardwood floors. Some popular brown granite choices include:

• Desert Dream Granite: For a dramatic statement, consider this stunning mix of black and gold swirls streaked with cream. This option provides a black/white contrast with a touch of warmth.
•  Nevasca Mist Granite: Gray and beige swirls together for a natural palette that adds warmth to your white cabinets.
• Colonial Gold Granite: A simple, warm, natural pattern brings warmth to your kitchen while maintaining the light airy feel. A beige background is swirled with gray and gold veining and dotted with burgundy flecks.

Cool Grays

Shades of gray provide a contrast similar to black granite. However, the difference isn’t as stark and provides a softer look to a cool white kitchen. Industrial and modern kitchens often pair nicely with gray granite. These are some top choices of gray granite for white cabinets.

• Gray Mist Granite: Light and dark shades of gray swirled with warmer tones for movement provide a more subtle contrast against white cabinets.
• Silver Waves Granite: With a marble-like appearance, Silver Waves granite has a swirled pattern of black, charcoal, and streaks of white. Similar to a black/white contrast, Silver Waves granite is impossible to miss.

Bold Colors

Since white is an easy option that matches practically anything, it provides a great opportunity to add bold color to your kitchen with colored granite. Green, blue, and even red shades of granite can pull together your kitchen’s color scheme and make a focal point of your countertops. Decorate your kitchen with a variety of hues that match your chosen granite color. When choosing colored granite for your white cabinets, consider these options.

• Blue Pearl: For a dramatic contrast that varies from traditional black granite, Blue Pearl is a stunning choice. Pair this bold color with cool white cabinets and understated backsplash and appliances.
• Blue Bahia: For a softer look with blue countertops, Blue Bahia is composed of light blue granite swirled with beige and black accents. 
• Verde Butterfly Granite: Composed of a crystal-like pattern in tones of greens, grays, and blacks, this granite choice provides a dramatic, original look that complements your white cabinets. 

Choosing the color of granite you want to match your white cabinets is likely to be an enjoyable experience. Most colors of granite pair beautifully with shades of white and create a gorgeous focal point in your kitchen. Once you determine the style you want for your kitchen, you’ll find practically endless color options to choose from. If you’re seeking new countertops in the St. Louis, Missouri area, explore the extensive gallery of beautiful selections from Arch City Granite & Marble. Our expert team can help you decide which shades match your cabinets and help you create a custom look for your kitchen.

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White stone countertops are a classic, timeless option that will make your kitchen pop no matter what look you are trying to bring to your kitchen. Yet, there is often a misconception that white countertops will make a kitchen look sterile or too modern; however, this could not be further from the truth. White countertops bring an elegant look to any space, and they can seamlessly blend in with your home’s current decor. If you are unsure what color countertops would work best in your home, here is a look at just a few of the reasons you should choose white stone countertops.

Timeless Beauty

When choosing a countertop color, you have to think about what will look good in your home for years to come. Replacing your countertops represents a major investment, and you do not want to choose a loud/bright color that may go out of style in a few years. White countertops are then a great option as they provide a timeless look. White countertops have been a staple of kitchen design for years due to their elegance and versatility, and it is unlikely that this is going to change anytime soon. Regardless of changing styles, you will not have to worry about your kitchen looking outdated. 

White is also an extremely versatile countertop option that will blend well with your kitchen and your home’s ever-changing decor. Even if you completely change the color palette and decor in your kitchen, white countertops will complement and enhance your home’s beauty. Choosing white countertops will help your kitchen to stand out for many years to come.    

Increased Home Value

One of the best things about white countertops is that they are extremely marketable and attractive to prospective homebuyers. Due to the lasting popularity of white counters, you will not have to worry about your countertops acting as a deterrent for buyers should you go to sell your home. White countertops are not a fad that may go out of style by the time you sell your home, making them a great long-term investment. Furthermore, buyers know that since white is a neutral color, they will not have to worry about the counters clashing with their chosen decor. 

This means that choosing white countertops can increase your home’s value and make it easier to sell down-the-road. Stone countertops are particularly popular due to their beauty, elegance, and durability. By investing in white stone countertops now, you will see a higher return on investment in your kitchen remodel when you go to sell your home, as buyers will see a gourmet kitchen rather than a fixer-upper.   

Helps Your Kitchen Feel More Bright and Spacious

It is no secret that, when it comes to interior design, dark colors can make a space feel smaller, darker, and more claustrophobic. Having too many dark elements in a small kitchen can be particularly problematic by making an already tight space feel more cramped. If you have a small kitchen, balancing out the space with white countertops can help your kitchen to look and feel brighter and more open. 

Even if you have a large kitchen, white countertops can still help to further expand the look and feel of your kitchen, making your kitchen look even more glamorous than it already did. This can be particularly helpful if you have dark floors, walls, or cabinets, as white countertops can provide the perfect contrast to give your kitchen an airy feel. Even large kitchens can start to feel stuffy if there are too many dark elements at play.     

They Go With Almost Any Cabinets  

We’ve already mentioned that white countertops are a popular option due to the fact that they are a neutral color that can easily blend in with most home decor. This neutrality makes white countertops a great option for homeowners who are looking to replace their countertops without renovating the rest of their kitchen.

When replacing just your countertops, it is important to choose a color that will go well with your current cabinets. White is a perfect choice in this instance, as it goes well with almost any cabinet design/color. For those who prefer a clean look, white cabinets and white countertops can make a great match. Alternatively, white counters can contrast beautifully with black or dark wood cabinets and floors as well. No matter what color your cabinets currently are, you can find a shade of white from snow-white to ivory that will complement your kitchen.  

A Variety of Options

If you associate white countertops with marble you are not alone, as white marble is an extremely popular countertop choice due to the feel of elegance and luxury that it can bring to any kitchen. Marble countertops are particularly popular with bakers because its cool surface makes an ideal work station for making doughs and pastries. However, marble has a tendency to etch and stain, meaning that it may not be the ideal choice for every home.

Fortunately, contrary to popular belief, other stone countertops are available in white. One option that is growing increasingly popular amongst homeowners is quartz. Quartz countertops are actually manmade, as they are a combination of ground-up quartz stone mixed with resin, pigments, and polymers that have been pressed together into a slab. White quartz countertops are not only beautiful, but they are extremely durable and do not etch and stain like marble. However, quartz countertops can be on the pricier side, and some people claim that they do not have the same elegance as natural stone. 

Another option you may not have considered is white granite. While white is not a color many people associate with granite, as granite often brings to mind darker colors such as Ubatuba, white granite is a beautiful option for kitchen counters that comes in a variety of shades, patterns, and colors. Granite has been a popular choice amongst homeowners for years, as it brings natural beauty to any kitchen while also being extremely durable and low-maintenance. However, when picking out granite it is important that you look at the specific slab you will be buying, as colors and patterns can vary greatly from one slab to the next even if they are supposed to be the same type of granite. 

When it comes time to choose new kitchen counters for your home, you may want to consider the beauty, elegance, and versatility of white stone counters. Feel free to explore our gallery to find out more about white countertop options, or contact us for help in choosing the right kitchen counters for your home.  

The post Make A Statement With White Kitchen Countertops appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

Your kitchen is the heart of your home for a variety of reasons. It’s where the family gathers to prepare meals and consume meals and snacks. If you’re the family chef, you likely demand a lot from this one room. When it comes to workspaces in the kitchen, your countertops bear a heavy load. You expect your countertops to stand up to the abuse of heat, food prep, and whatever else life throws at them. Not to mention, it’s essential that these important surfaces look attractive during the process.

Updating your kitchen countertops is a great way to add style to your kitchen and increase the value of your home. Still, it can be an expensive project if you don’t know what materials to use. To get the most from your investment, it’s essential to use styles that won’t become outdated quickly and materials that stand the test of time. 

What’s the Difference Between Countertop Materials?

Countertops come in a wide variety of functional and beautiful materials. Some are natural, others are manufactured, and the maintenance required to keep the materials in top condition varies considerably. The strength and durability of your countertop depend on the material you use. These are some of the most commonly used types of countertops and the differences between them.

• Granite: A natural stone surface with no seams or cracks, granite is durable, heat-safe, and comes in a variety of colors. While some exclusive slabs are expensive, some types of granite are affordable. The surface of granite is porous and a non-porous sealant should be applied as needed.
• Quartz: An engineered stone surface, quartz provides many of the same benefits as natural stone with the added advantage of being non-porous. To find an affordable option compare brand prices.
• Marble: A natural stone surface with many of the same properties as granite, marble offers striking natural patterns. It’s important to note that marble is a porous softer stone surface that must be sealed routinely and can show scars. Marble is an expensive option as well.
• Wood: Favored for creating a warm look in kitchens, wood can provide a butcher block style or solid slab surface. Wood surfaces can be moderately expensive, show knife marks, and require regular maintenance to retain its natural beauty.
• Laminate: Favored for low prices, laminate countertops come in a practically limitless selection of colors and styles. Laminate has a shorter lifespan, isn’t heat safe, and can scratch and fade easily.

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5 Affordable Countertop Options To Increase Your Home’s Value

When shopping for countertops, it’s important to consider that the lowest price isn’t necessarily the most reasonable price. When you’re looking for a semi-permanent or permanent feature in your home, longevity is an essential consideration. Reasonably priced countertops that have to be replaced 3 or more times during your home’s lifespan become considerably more expensive when you add up the costs. This means that not every new countertop will increase your home’s value.

Whether you’re prepared to sell your home, or planning for the future, certain items can increase your home’s value. Some types of cheaper materials might not interest potential home buyers. For instance, new laminate countertops might look attractive, but they’re not heat-safe, and they scratch easily. Similarly, ceramic tile has a reputation for easily stained grout, uneven surfaces, and a delicate surface that’s easily chipped. Prospective homebuyers are typically seeking materials that will last for decades to come.

These durable, affordable options can increase your home’s value. 

• Granite: A very popular material for countertops, granite is often mistaken for one of the most expensive options. Some types of granite are actually cheaper than comparable solid surface materials like wood and stainless steel. Prices of less exclusive granite types can range from $39 to $75 per square foot.
• Quartz: Similar to granite, quartz provides a natural appearance. However, quartz is an engineered stone made from natural stone combined with resin to create a strong countertop material that isn’t porous. Some brands of quartz are considerably more expensive than others, but all brands are of similar quality.
• Mix & Match Materials: Wood is a popular material for countertops, but it can be expensive and requires a lot of maintenance. When a full wood countertop isn’t an option, an affordable countertop with an inset butcher block can provide a way to meet in the middle.
• Solid Surfaces: Countertops with seams and cracks have the potential to harbor bacteria. Homebuyers may give you extra points for countertops that provide a sleek solid surface. Affordable sleek surfaces may include some types of granite, quartz, and concrete.
• Remnants: If you have your heart set on an expensive material for your countertops, you may be able to find a solution with remnants from other projects. Remnants are smaller slabs of granite or other countertop materials that are left over from larger jobs. Expensive materials are often more affordable as remnants.

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Popular Kitchen Countertop Trends Using Natural Stone

There are many reasons that natural stone is a popular choice in countertops. Durability and appearance are some big focal points when it comes to natural stone. Combining the popularity of natural stone with current trends will result in a kitchen appearance that leaves a lasting impression.

Neutral Tones for Longevity

Dark, dramatic surfaces might catch the eye, but such designs are typically a trend. Neutral colors and whites work with practically any style of kitchen and come in a variety of natural materials. Neutral tones are a great match for the current trend of colored cabinets and work with natural or rustic decor just as well. Neutral tones are a classic that you can count on to always coordinate with modern themes.

Natural Patterns that Look Unique

Natural stone materials contain veins and patterns that make it unique. Recreating this look in kitchens provides original and interesting patterns. Granite slabs with unusual patterns or quartz slabs that have been designed to look like natural stone offer countertops with striking character to grab attention. 

Honed and Leathered Surfaces for a Different Look and Feel

In the past, natural stone surfaces were expected to have a gleaming, polished shine. While sleek shiny countertops are still trendy, other surfaces are changing things up. Honed and leathered surfaces provide options with a lower sheen for a more rustic or toned down look. A honed finish provides a smooth, low-sheen surface for a less polished look.  A leathered finish offers a soft sheen that retains the stone’s natural color and hides fingerprints and water spots. Both surfaces have a natural, toned down appearance in comparison to polished finishes.

Finding beautiful, professional countertops that will increase the value of your home without breaking the bank can seem difficult, but it’s not impossible. If you’re seeking new countertops in the St. Louis, Missouri area, explore the extensive gallery of beautiful selections from Arch City Granite & Marble. Our professional team can help you find the look that will transform your entire kitchen at a price you can actually afford.
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Should you accidentally choose an inexperienced installer, you may end up with counters that are not level or have unsightly gaps, which could throw off the look of your entire remodel. Yet, how can you find a reputable countertop installer that you can trust to work on your home? As you begin the home remodeling process, here are a few steps that you can take to help you find an expert granite installer for your project.
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1. Ask Around

A great place to start when looking for a reputable granite installer would be to ask around. It is likely that a friend, family member, neighbor, or coworker has had their countertops replaced in the last few years. If so, you should consider asking them who they worked with and whether they’d recommend them to you. 

Blindly calling countertop installers is rarely the best way to go as it can be difficult to know where to start. However, by asking people you know and trust, you can get personal reviews and first-hand accounts from people who have worked with a contractor before you hire them. This can be a great way to find a quality contractor in your area. Of course, if you are unsuccessful at finding recommendations, a quick internet search can provide you with information and reviews of countertop installers near you, which can be helpful in narrowing down your options. 

2. Meet With Multiple Contractors

As you begin to narrow down your options, it is important that you meet with, and get estimates from, at least 3 countertop installers. Do not make the mistake of immediately choosing the first contractor that you meet with. While you may still find that the first contractor was your best option, getting multiple estimates will allow you to compare your options to make sure that you are getting the highest quality installation at the best price.

When meeting with granite installers, make sure that you take your time and ask as many questions as possible, as this is your chance to find out about the quality of their work. Additionally, asking questions will allow you to learn more about a contractor, and it gives you an opportunity to assess their customer service skills and whether or not they would be easy to work with.  

3. Ask For References and Samples

When interviewing potential contractors, do not hesitate to ask them about their previous work. Take this opportunity to assess the quality of their work by asking to see samples or their seams and installations. This is not an unusual question for a granite contractor to be asked, so do not hesitate to do so. Depending on the installer, they will likely either have a portfolio of pictures from recent jobs, or they may even have a showroom where you can view their work firsthand. This can give you an idea of the quality of their seam and edge work. 

You can also ask prospective countertop installers for references from previous customers who have been satisfied with their work. This will allow you to speak to previous customers who can give you a first-hand account of their experience. Most experienced contractors will be more than happy to provide references, so do not be afraid to ask. A contractor who is more than willing to provide multiple references is likely to be confident in the quality of their work.

4. Find Out About Their Equipment and Techniques

Next, you will want to inquire about a contractor’s equipment and approach, as this can give you great insight into their experience and the quality of their work. A high-quality granite installer will only use top-of-the-line, up-to-date equipment, as this helps to ensure that cuts are clean and accurate. A low-end granite installer may try to cut costs by using outdated equipment, however, this may result in unsightly seams and a less-than-ideal final product. 

Make sure that you also ask about their approach to installing granite. For instance, ask how they plan to protect your home from granite dust and how they determine where to place seams. An experienced contractor will be able to give you a detailed account of how they plan to protect your home throughout the installation, and they will have a plan in place to ensure that your finished countertops look beautiful and do not have seams that stand out.  
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5. Ask To See The Slab

Before you agree to anything, it is critical that you make sure that a granite installer will allow you to look at the entire slab. When picking out granite, it is important that you see the entire piece first, as a small sample may not truly represent the slab. The last thing that you want to have happen is for your finished countertops to have splotches, veins, or colors that you were not expecting. A reputable installer will understand this and will be more than happy to let you see the full slab to ensure that it is up to your liking. If an installer won’t let you see the slab, they may be trying to sell you low-end products that have lots of pitting or splotches, and you will want to look elsewhere.  

6. Make Sure There Aren’t Any Hidden Fees

When choosing a granite installer, it is also important that you read the fine print and make sure that you are aware of any additional fees that may come with the installation. Many budget-conscious homeowners will be lured in by an advertisement for low-cost granite, only to find out that there are additional fees for installation, cutouts for sinks or cooktops, or other miscellaneous fees. The fact is that if a price looks too good to be true, then it probably is. You should then ask for a detailed estimate for your installation. A quality installer will be upfront about what they charge and what your install should cost you.

Contact us for additional tips on how to choose a qualified granite installer in your area as well as to find out how we can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom.  
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The post Top Tips to Help You Choose a Local Granite Installer appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

Granite kitchen island

A classic kitchen island is the perfect finishing touch when it comes to your home kitchen décor. Kitchen islands look great, help create a unified look in your kitchen and can be extremely convenient, whether you need some extra room for ingredients while you are cooking, communal space to enjoy a quick breakfast or a launching point for lunches and supplies when getting your kids off to school.

Is Granite the Right Choice for Your Kitchen Island?

According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, granite remains the preferred kitchen island countertop material for American interior designers. Why? Because in addition to being extremely durable, granite is quite beautiful and can come in styles and colors that blend in seamlessly with a wide range of kitchen decors.

Consider the durability you will need for normal family operations. Will you be doing a lot of cooking on the island? Is its main use going to be for show or dining? Other softer materials may be adequate for more vanity related kitchen island goals, but for an island that will be a family focal point, granite is the way to go.

Work With Experts to Craft the Perfect Granite Island

The island in the center of your kitchen will become the focal point of the room. It’s imperative that you carefully select your stone color and edges so that you truly love your new home addition. Careful selection will also help you improve your home’s value in the long run.

At Arch City, we always have experts on-site during business hours to help you. If you’re looking for granite for your kitchen island, let us know, and one of our experts will provide you with a free stone design consultation. Tell us about your kitchen and your goals for your kitchen island, and we will steer you in the right direction.

If you are ready for a beautiful new kitchen island with a gorgeous granite countertop, there is no time like the present. Come and visit us today at our Page Industrial Blvd showroom. We are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or stop by Saturday after 9 a.m. and before 3 p.m. We look forward to seeing you soon! Feel free to contact us for more information.

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