Beyond the Granite Countertop

I mentioned in yesterday's post that granite countertops are on their way out (or have been for quite sometime) - they've been around since the 80's and can really make a kitchen look dated. So what other options are out there for your kitchen counter? Turns out, there are many great alternatives. So many of my clients gravitate toward granite, mainly because it's what almost everyone uses in their kitchen, but also because they aren't aware of what other wonderful materials are out there.

One of my favorites - CaesarStone Quartz Surface. Available in a wide range of colors and textures (a select few shown above).

Caesarstone island from the Concetto collection.

Caesarstone top with a chiseled edge - great for a more rustic look.

Available through 3-Form Material Solutions, 100 Percent® is made from "100% post-consumer recycled high density polyethylene. With over 1000 milk bottles going into each panel, it can help projects earn up to 2 LEED credits for recycled content."

Above - a few samples of the colors and patterns available in the 100 Percent material line.

I've never been a big fan of Corian, but after doing a little research, I discovered they have some pretty decent color and texture selections, as shown in the photos above. Click here to view more of their product.

Soapstone is a metamorphic rock . "Although soft, soapstone is a very dense (non-porous) stone; more so than marble, slate, limestone and even granite. Since soapstone is impenetrable, it will not stain, no liquid will permeate its surface. Other stones, including granite, have a propensity to soil; this is why soapstone (steatite) is widely used in chemistry lab countertops and acid rooms."

I love this bright and airy kitchen and nook. The soapstone reminds me of honed marble - it's beautiful.