When selecting materials, colors and other components for a home renovation, many designers start with the tops.  Once this is chosen, you can pull colors and materials with different textures that compliment the top, and give the overall feel that is desired.

This decision can seem overwhelming, because of both the permanence and cost of the material chosen.  Also, if you have ever been in a space from the ’90s, you know all too well how trends can quickly become an eye strain.  Teals, “salmons” and floral patterns  feel out-dated, despite how fresh and new they were when brought in.  We want the life of our renovation to be as long as possible, while still satisfying our need to be trendy.

So….what is there to choose from that is new, and fresh, but won’t be completely out-dated in 5 years?

We have compiled what we feel are the most used choices, and also some up and coming choices for counter tops.

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1. Natural Stone

Natural stone counter tops are as old as dirt, literally.  But, they are a beautiful, classic choice.  Granite is a very common choice in the Calgary renovation market.  After the granite is chosen, cut and polished, it is treated with a sealer that makes it stain resistant. This treatment last about 10 – 15 years, with proper care. There are a variety of colors and styles to choose from.  Gone are the days of the “builder grade” sometimes overly busy patterns.  Natural veined choices and interesting textures are the way of the granite future.  Try “Alaska White” or “Vintage” Granites for the veined look.

 

Or for interesting textures, try “Magma Gold Leather”, “Matrix Leather” or “Sequoia Brown Leather” Granites.  These have a matte finish and are textured to the touch.

There is something exciting about wandering the aisles of slab upon slab of beautiful granite.  Being able to touch and see the actual piece of stone that will become your island or vanity top is rewarding, and a must when choosing your granite.  Give us a call, at Interiors with Elegance, and we can take you on this journey.

2. Solid Surfaces

This choice is often selected due to its versatility and durability.  Products such as Corian, are made of acrylic and, or poly and are highly resistant to stains,scratches and heat.  They are completely repairable and can be made into sinks as well.  Quartz is definitely #1 in this category, and is suggested to once again be named by Consumer Reports as the number one kitchen counter-top material this year! It is made of 90% quartz and only 10% acrylic or epoxy binder!    The wide variety of colors make it possible to be used in modern or transitional or even traditional spaces.

The main difference between the engineered stone such as Quartz and other solid surfaces is that they are much harder and have a depth, clarity and radiance that is noticeable.  The new colors recently released are more natural, with veins that give them the desired look of natural stone.

Our favorites colors are  “Calacatta Nuvo” by Caesarstone for the natural veined look, the new release “Menai” by Cambria,  “Sterling Grey” Hanstone Quartz, and “Alpine Umber” by Samsung Radianz have that great modern look.  Of course, there are a wide variety of colors from lime greens to reds and blues to choose from.

   

   

 

Caesarstone came out with the Motivo line.  These are really cool for backsplashes, fireplace surrounds or tops as well.  A bit more modern but still a great option.

Below is the “White Crocodile”, “Crocodile” and “Stripes”.

  

 

 

 

 

 

3. Concrete

This material may be thought of as being too industrial for most homes.  When concrete was first used in this application, it concerned many because of it’s weight and cracking. Being a new idea, there are bound to be bugs.  They were previously poured on site and were a mess. Time has definitely allowed for concrete countertops to evolve into a beautiful and durable choice.  Precast concrete is usually the way to go.  Your tops will be delivered fully poured, cured and finished.  Cracking is still an issue with concrete, so many fabricators use mesh, rebar or fibreglass to strengthen the concrete.  The great thing about concrete countertops is, they are completely custom.  You can add glass, stone or even lights to them to make them unique to your space.  Finishes can be thick epoxy-like or more natural, and the width is variable.  They are heavy, so reinforcing your cabinetry is a good idea.

 

4. Glass

This is less common but rising in popularity.  The great thing about glass is you can match ANY paint color so it is customizable in that respect, and it can be applied vertically for a backsplash, or as a countertop. This is a unique choice, but there are things to consider first.

• Tempered and Non-Tempered
  Similar to metal, glass can be heat treated to obtain certain properties. Tempered glass has been heat treated to increase its strength.  Annealed glass can be considered non-tempered or not as strong as tempered glass. Some glass countertops may or may not be tempered. You’ll want to discuss this with your fabricator to determine the best type of glass for your application.
• Types of Glass
  These are terms you may encounter with various fabricators as relating to the type of glass they use in their products.
  • Float Glass – Molten glass is “floated” on a bed of molten tin to produce sheets of glass that have a uniform thickness and are very flat and smooth. This is the same process used to make windows.
  • Slump Glass – Glass that’s laid in a mold and heated until it softens and “slumps” into the shape of the mold is called slump glass. This is one process used to give glass sheets texture and variable shape.
  • Kiln-Fired Glass – Glass remnants that are melted in a kiln and recycled into new glass classifies as kiln-fired glass. It’s typically strong and hard but its size is limited by the size of the kiln.

 

With this variety of choices fort counter top materials, you will definitely be able to find what works best for your preferences and lifestyle.  Call us at Interiors with Elegance today and our in house design team can help you determine which is best for you in your Calgary area kitchen or whole home renovation.