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KITCHENS

4 Kitchen Counter Replacement Tips for a Stunning Upgrade

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You bought your dream home. Now it’s time for you to make it your own.

The appeal of buying a replacement home is that you can design it to meet the needs of the people who will be spending the most time in it.

Adding a new kitchen counter to your dream replacement home can help you upgrade the kitchen and make it more functional while adding charm and character.

Read on to learn more about replacing kitchen countertops and how you can create the perfect space. Read along to learn more!

1. Consider Your Budget

Once you have a good idea of a counter that suits your budget and style, look up installation prices and compare them to DIY installation costs. Make sure to factor in the time and cost of materials to do it yourself. Additionally, if you plan on replacing your countertop yourself, research the amount of time it will take you and plan accordingly so that you don’t overspend.

2. Choose Countertops That Fits Your Aesthetics

Start by considering the room where you’ll place the countertop. Determine whether a modern, contemporary, traditional, or transitional vibe is best for the space. Ask yourself what type of material you’d like to use.

Natural stone, such as granite or marble, is elegant, while synthetic materials, such as plastic laminate or engineered stone, are less expensive. Think about maintenance needs, too; some countertops require more peeling and sealing than others.

Finally, consider the color and patterns available. Consider lighter shades to brighten up the space or darker hues to give it depth. 

3. DIY Options 

One of the most popular options is to use laminate countertops. They come in a variety of colors and styles to fit any kitchen design. Laminate is easily applied with a few tools and can be done over a weekend.

Another option is tile. The tile is durable, easy to clean, and comes in many different colors and design options. Plywood or particleboard is a more economical option and can be customized with different finishes.

If you’re looking for a more earth-friendly choice, look into recycled wood boards for your kitchen countertop replacement. Reclaimed wood will provide a unique look and is great for the environment. Finally, wood butcher blocks are a timeless classic and a great way to bring character to any kitchen. 

4. Hire a Contractor

Look into contractors who specialize in kitchen counter replacement, ask friends and family for references, and use online reviews to make sure they have a good reputation. Determine your budget, provide the general contractor with your vision, and get estimates from each professional. Once you have your quotes, carefully review the contract and make sure it’s a legally binding document.

Ask the contractor for proof of insurance and licenses, as well as references and project photos. Finally, be sure to pay contractors the full amount due when the project is completed to your satisfaction.

Top Things to Consider Before Replacing Kitchen Countertops

Replacing kitchen countertops is a great way to make a huge impact on your kitchen. With the right kind of preparation and countertop material, you can make a stunning upgrade to any old kitchen. Get in touch with professionals to help make your dream kitchen upgrade a reality!

If you find this helpful and want to read more great content, check out our latest blog posts now!

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home renovation, KITCHENS

5 Tricks For Helping Your Older Kitchen Fit Modern Times

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The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home. If your space is lacking in design and function, know you are not alone. An older kitchen with outdated design is a common complaint among homeowners. Look no further to learn our top five tricks for helping your older kitchen fit in with modern times.

Thinking about doing some upgrades to sell your home in the spring market? Learn exactly how to sell your property to get top dollar and understand the importance of hiring a real estate professional to help guide your sale.

Cabinet Refresh

A commonplace that makes an older kitchen feel outdated is the cabinets. Giving your existing cabinets a refresh with a coat of paint can make your kitchen feel modern and clean. Those ultra-warm oak tones of the 90s are plaguing your space giving an outdated appeal. Instead, dive into endless color options for playful and modern design.

Consider selecting a rich tone for your lowers, and a bright and clean shade for the upper cabinets. Or go for a clean and crisp white or light gray all over for an airy look to your space.

You can either hire a professional to paint your cabinets or do it yourself to save some money. Know that if you decide to tackle the project on your own it’s best to do some research and understand that it is not a one-day job.

Metal Upgrade

Cabinet hardware and kitchen fixtures are like the jewellery to your space. These finishing touches may seem like they don’t matter, but they can make a big impact. If you’re stuck with an old outdated finish, or builder-grade cabinet pulls, give them a modern upgrade to bring your older kitchen into today’s times. 

Get creative by mixing metals (maybe consider combining edgy black with timeless brass) for added interest and a high-end design. When selecting your hardware, go for something that is beautiful, but also functional. 

Countertops Matter

A large piece of your kitchen real estate is your countertops. If yours are looking dull and outdated, consider investing in some new ones. If you can’t afford real stone countertops, think about looking into man-made stones or engineered stones. If your space is on the smaller side, you can also ask about purchasing a remanent of a slab for a lower cost. 

If these options are out of your budget, know that Formica countertops have come a long way in the last 30 years. They can give you the look you crave at a fraction of the cost.

Splash of Modern

Another way to upgrade your outdated kitchen is to install a backsplash. Selecting a fun, modern tile can make a big impact on your space. If this is too pricey for your liking, consider using a peel-and-stick version to give the look you’re after at a much more reasonable cost. 

Let There Be Light

Our final tip on updating your kitchen space is to upgrade your lighting. This can be as simple as swapping out your existing fixtures, or hiring a professional to add recessed can lighting for a bright, cheerful finish to your space. Consider adding under-cabinet lights for a moody feel in the evenings, and bright light on your countertops while cooking. Lighting can instantly make a space feel more modern.

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home renovation, KITCHENS

How To Do A DIY Renovation Of Your Kitchen On A Budget

how-to-do-a-diy-renovation-of-your-kitchen-on-a-budget

There comes a point in every homeowner’s life when the kitchen starts to look a bit dated. If you are on a strict budget then you may feel like you just have to live with it since kitchen renovations can be so expensive. The problem is that a dated kitchen will eventually be one that is not very usable as things progressively get worse. 

There are ways to save money on renovations, including the kitchen. In fact, with the right strategies, you can update your kitchen for thousands less than you would expect to spend. Sometimes, a renovation can be a hybrid between an actual renovation and a makeover. Both can make the kitchen more functional. 

In this article, we will go over some of the ways you can save money doing a DIY renovation. 

The cabinets

There are two main things that should be changed in a kitchen renovation. The cabinets and the appliances. The appliances are an obvious one since old ones don’t work well and are not nearly as energy-efficient as new ones. Buying new appliances will essentially pay for themselves. 

However, new cabinets will transform the kitchen in many different ways. You can organize your kitchen to be more useful since you will improve its workflow. And it will also look updated and not like a retro throwback to an earlier time. 

RTA kitchen cabinets are the best choice since they are ready to assemble which makes them ideal for the DIYer. Even if you aren’t very handy, installing cabinets yourself is doable and will save a ton of money. 

The flooring

Putting in a beautiful hardwood floor can be very expensive. The materials cost a lot and it requires a professional since it is usually beyond the ability of most DIYers. However, you can have a beautiful-looking floor that replicates hardwood for a fraction of the price and easily install it yourself. 

There is what is called a floating floor or laminate flooring. These are basically planks with a cover on them to simulate hardwood but are actually laminated plywood. They are called floating floors because they are installed over the existing floor over a styrofoam blanket and actually can move around to a degree. 

They cost a fraction of a hardwood floor and can be installed easily in a day if you work in two. They click and lock on each other so there is nothing to assemble really. The only thing you need to do is cut them at their ends to fit against the wall with a gap so they can expand. 

Give it some paint

Once the cabinets and floors are done, a fresh paint job is going to seal the deal. The look of the kitchen can be tied together well with the right color scheme. It is what will update the look and bring it to modern times instead of looking like a blast from the past. 

Pick the colors that will work best with the color of the floor if you decided to go with a natural wood effect. 

FOR THE KITCHEN…

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COOKING + BAKING, KITCHENS

Essential Cooking Tools Every Kitchen Needs To Have

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Kitting out a kitchen is not the cheapest task around, as a kitchen requires so many essentials to be ideally functional. So, whether you’re a bachelor that’s just starting in your new home, or you’re battling to prepare most meals and dishes, be sure your kitchen has all these essentials. 

Once you have the essentials, you should look at investing in a few kitchen extras that will further enhance functionality. Appliances such as blenders and juicers are handy, and there are tons of other extras that you should also consider. 

Kitchen Knives And Suitable Storage

If you’re currently battling along with a few steak knives or regular kitchen blades, investing in a set of quality kitchen knives can make a massive difference to your culinary skills. 

And while you can purchase a set that will include all the essential knives, you can also buy them individually. The knives you’ll need include a paring knife, a chef’s knife, a serrated bread knife, a carving knife, shears, and a few others. 

And once you have purchased your essential knives, you should also invest in a knife block or a magnetic knife strip for proper storage. In addition, you’ll also need a steel rod and a whetstone to hone and sharpen your blades routinely. 

A Cutting Board

A cutting board is vital to keep your kitchen counters from becoming scratched and damaged over time; chopping, slicing, and dicing is not ideal to do directly on countertops.

And chopping boards are pretty affordable as well, so you should opt for a quality board that will last you a few years. 

Measuring Cups

Measuring cups are another essential you’ll need to follow recipes, whether cooking or baking. These generally come in sets, which is the easiest purchase option. That said, you should also consider a measuring jug and a digital kitchen scale to ensure you can always follow recipes properly. 

A Quality Pot Set

You won’t be able to cook or prepare anything without a pot set. And while there are pocket-friendly options, you should rather avoid these as some are made from inferior materials and won’t last long at all. In contrast, others are made from materials that can be harmful to your health. 

So, when shopping for pots and pans, you should consider which types you will need, the materials they are crafted from, and proper cleaning requirements. 

Crockery

You’ll also need cups, bowls, plates, and mugs in your kitchen. And these can also be purchased in sets. So, just one set is all you’ll probably need. You should also buy a set of drinking glasses.

Other Cooking Tools

A whisk, a potato masher, a spatula, a sieve, and a set of cooking spoons are also essentials that you will need for various uses around the kitchen. Once again, the easiest option is to purchase sets of these as you’ll get all you need in one simple purchase. 

The more cooking tools you have in your kitchen, the more functional it will become. And even though there are always cheaper options available, inferior quality cooking tools never last and often risk health concerns. So, instead, spend a bit extra on quality to ensure your kitchen things can last a lifetime. 

SHOP KITCHEN…

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INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, KITCHENS

How to Give Your Kitchen a Modern Look

how-to-give-your-kitchen-a-modern-look

The kitchen is said to be the most-used room in a home. Many of us gather there for chats, family meals, parties, and cooking, so it must be a room you like the look of and enjoy being in. If your kitchen is looking a bit tired and dated, here are some tips on how to give your kitchen a sleek, modern look. 

Paint it

Nothing cheers up and cleans up a room like a fresh lick of paint. You can paint the walls or, if you are really inspired, paint the kitchen units. The latest trend is to paint the wall cupboards a different color than the base units. Black or navy is very “now” and will give your kitchen an expensive, classy look, especially if you accessorize with gold or rose gold trinkets and utensils. If you don’t want to cast gloom on an already dark kitchen, opt for classic white paint. A white minimalist kitchen always looks clean, spacious, and modern.

Build It In

It is essential for a sleek-looking kitchen that all units are flush with the walls and with each other, and no furniture is sticking out beyond the clean lines. Opt for built-in appliances that are hidden behind doors or give them a built-in look by sealing off all spaces and gaps with gratings or panels. 

Change the Hardware

An inexpensive way to instantly update your kitchen is to replace old wooden cupboard handles with funky new ones. Hardware is available in many different colors and shapes, so look for something modern in polished chrome or even gold. If you can, create a super streamlined look by leaving your doors handleless and furnishing them with push-open fittings. A modern fridge-freezer with stainless steel trim will look like a futuristic machine as it sits snugly beside your units.

Upgrade Appliances

The design of kitchen appliances is continuously evolving. A modern kitchen needs modern devices, so rather than spending money on replacing units, invest in a quality built-in oven or free-standing modern range cooker. Stick to white or stainless steel goods as colored appliances can go out of fashion quickly. 

Accessories can make or break a look. Modern accessories will create a modern look. Clutter does not help create a sleek look, so clear all surfaces and keep worktop adornments to a minimum. Ensure you have plenty of storage in which to hide stuff away from sight. If you are lucky enough to have a walk-in larder or utility room, store small appliances and items you don’t use every day in there.

Accessorize your kitchen

Some geometric ceiling light fittings made from gold or copper wire will provide some color and interest to a monochrome kitchen. Framed abstract prints and wall art can personalize your space so that it isn’t too clinical looking.

Small kitchen appliances like kettles, toasters, and coffee machines are available in futuristic-looking designs, and they can look like works of art sitting on your kitchen worktops.

SHOP KITCHEN FAVORITES…

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home renovation, KITCHENS

5 Factors to review when Upgrading your Kitchen

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When the time comes to upgrade your home, the kitchen is often the number one choice for most families. Most of us consider the kitchen the epicentre of any home. If your budget is limited and a complete renovation is not possible, you can still achieve outstanding results by updating a few specific features. However, having a generous outlook on your expenditure will pay off in the long run.

A kitchen renovation will Increase the Appeal and Value of your Home

There are numerous advantages to improving this key area of your home. The illusion of space can be amplified, you will be able to enjoy modern functional updates, and your productivity will increase. When planning the details of the renovation, you should also plan to update the appliances in the room, which improves functionality dramatically. The alluring project can also enhance aesthetics as even the smallest of changes can make a massive impact. Lastly, remodelling radically increases the value of your home, which will make it quicker and easier to sell.

Upgrade your Appliances

There will be times when appliances stop serving their purpose. One way to upgrade is by replacing appliances with modern and appealing models. You can purchase newer models of ovens, microwaves, and cookware. A review of Made In cookware will help you decide on the best cookware you can buy to upgrade the overall functionality.

Revamp your Cabinets

Cabinets are one of the first features to be upgraded as they are an obvious requirement. They are also the first thing to get stained or damaged. If you want to modernize your cabinets, you can start with the hinges, and latches, as this improves the look significantly. Some homeowners even go so far as installing self-closing cabinet mechanisms which prevent slamming and allow you to take whatever item you want out of the cabinet and walk away without worrying if you have left it open or not.

Sinks, Faucets and Hardware

Sinks, faucets, and hardware are the third most replaced elements. These elements are often upgraded together with counters. New fixtures and more efficient faucets can make anything from washing the dishes after dinner to cleaning vegetables for a salad more pleasant. Enhancing these factors can even make your home more environmentally friendly.

Wall Design

The fourth most common design option that will have a massive impact is the walls. Whether you choose flat paint, a unique painting technique, wallpaper, or paneling, the walls can affect the look and feel of the entire room by influencing the first impression your kitchen can offer. Simple paint is probably one of the most cost-effective ways to spruce up the look as well.

As a homeowner, you cannot start tearing down walls or any permanent fixtures in preparation of making significant changes until you have a budget. Your budget should detail all the relevant costs when doing a complete kitchen remodel. If your budget is somewhat restricting, the modifications as mentioned above will undoubtedly cost far less than a renovation. You can still make impactful changes that will make your kitchen stand out more than before and be the space that you envisioned it to be. The features mentioned above are worth considering and will give you the most flexibility in designing your new dream kitchen.

SHOP KITCHEN …

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KITCHENS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Contemporary Backsplash Ideas

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“My home is mostly contemporary style with some pops of colour throughout. I am planning to add a back splash to my kitchen in the near future but want to make sure it’s a similar style to the rest of my home. What are some contemporary tiles I could consider?”
Great question!
There are so many great products on the market, we know the choices can be overwhelming. A lot of these tiles can be laid in different patterns, some more contemporary than others. Clean lines and a monochromatic colour scheme are what helps to define what a contemporary design is. Here are some great options for a contemporary back splash:
 
 

Subway Tiles:

Probably the most popular choice for a contemporary space.. Subway tiles come in many colours and sizes. You can get smaller or larger. 4×16 or 2×3 and many sizes in between. They come beveled or with a slight texture. They can be laid in a classic brick pattern or for a more contemporary look, try them straight laid. These are a simple, clean option that will brighten up any space. The flexibility to lay them in a variety of patterns makes them a super versatile option for your space.

 

Mosaic Tiles:

Depending on the colour palette that you chose, this can vary from a traditional tile to a  contemporary tile. Again, a monochromatic colour scheme is more contemporary than a variety of bright colours. Sticking to neutrals and shades is sure way to keep the style consistent.
 

Textured Tiles:

All tile doesn’t have to be flat and boring. Adding a wavy geometric tile that is raised adds a different dimension to your design. If you’re a person who likes a monochromatic colour scheme this is probably the best option for you.
   

Slabs:

Adding a solid slab to your back splash is definitely a pricier option, but it is very contemporary, depending on the piece you choose. A marble or solid colour (with subtle veining) is a great choice for a contemporary space. It’s important to ensure that that it complements the existing counter top. The colour and material needs to flow together to make the space look harmonious.
 

Glass Tiles:

Adding a simple, straight or brick laid glass tiles with a subtle colour is a great look for someone who is a little bit more edgy. This option pairs great with high gloss cabinetry. Neutrals are great too! Glass tile comes in many soft colours such as sea foam, aqua and so many other shades. The colour options are truly endless!
 
We love what back splash tiles do to a kitchen – it pulls it all together, like accessories in a room or jewelry with an outfit…back splashes you complete the kitchen,
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KITCHENS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Kitchen Backsplash

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“I moved into my townhouse a year ago.  I love my kitchen!  it’s white with light grey counter top and grey tile floor.  This summer I want to add a back splash but I’m not sure what to choose.  Any advice?”

A white kitchen is classic and a great choice for a smaller space.  It’s light and bright and in terms of resale, it has mass appeal. Adding a backsplash is a simple update that isn’t disruptive to your life at home. A backsplash in a kitchen is like adding jewelry to an outfit – it really pulls it all together.  This year in tile it was all about shape, the colours were all neutral but the shapes were the focus.

For a back splash, you have lots of options.

Subway tile –

this is a classic and you cannot go wrong with this option.  Seen here in a brick or staggered formation it mimics the look of brick.  A typical subway tile is 3″ x 6″ but there are variations in size.  In terms of colour – a soft grey is a good neutral option as is white but you could also go with a charcoal for a more dramatic look.  If you are thinking you might sell in about 3-5 years choose something with some longevity like a neutral tone.

Stainless Steel Tile –

this has a bit more of an industrial edge.  This material works well in a kitchen as it’s easy to clean and maintain.  You will also have a lot of shapes and sizes to choose from.  This also looks great in a kitchen that has stainless steel appliances.

Glass mosaic tile –

this option was super popular a few years ago.  This is still seen today but more tone on tone like the image here.  Various shades of grey and a mix of clear and frosted glass.  Again, a soft look with a bit of texture and shine – ideal for a smaller kitchen.

Marble tile –

Marble is so classic and elegant but we have been seeing it in more modern and contemporary spaces, too.  It is a material that requires a lot of maintenance when installed as a counter top but as a back splash not to so much.  The natural variation and veins make it visually interesting and it look amazing when paired with grey and white.

 

Hexagon tile –

a popular shape in 2015 for backsplashes and floors.  Try this in a neutral tone and it will give even the most ‘tired’ kitchen a fresh look.  The shape is interesting  but not over the top.  Hexagon tiles also look incredible in bathrooms too, in a shower as an accent or on the shower floor.

 

Herringbone formation –

still looking for something a bit different but not totally off the wall? Try a herringbone formation.  Using a subway tile, instead of staggering the tile you lay it in a ‘zig zag’ format.  Herringbone is a pattern we often see in menswear but we are seeing it in tiles.  Stick with a neutral colour palette and a grout that is a few shades lighter (or darker) than the tile so that the pattern shows.  This also looks great on a floor with a 12 x 24 tile.

Arabesque tile –

this is a shape that’s recently popular.  It adds an elegant touch to a kitchen.  Again, use a grout with some pigmentation so that the shape is evident.  It’s lovely in white and soft grey.

Kitchen back splash tiles are that final touch that really pull it all together!

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HOME STAGING, KITCHENS

Home Staging Tips for the Kitchen

home-staging-tips-kitchen

We all know the importance of the kitchen.  It is the heart of the home and when it comes to the real estate market it is a hot spot.  Meaning it is one of the top areas that buyers are looking at when it comes to shopping for a new home. So when it comes to prepping your home for the resale market do not over look the kitchen.  In fact really focus on highlighting it’s features and making it look it’s best!

Here are some ideas

1.  Add some colour.

Yes, you need to declutter those counter tops but add a few splashes of colour here and there.  it will add warmth to the room and photograph well. When I stage a property, we use kitchen accessories like cookbook, small plants and fruit.

Photo from the Old Pained Cottage

2.  Bring attention to the features like an island.

Have matching stools at your island, enough that they fit comfortably (approx 2 feet per stool) and be sure that the stools aren’t overly bulky for the island either.  Also play with some colour with flowers so maybe even place settings

3.  Set the scene.

If you have a dining or eat-in area in the kitchen space – show it off!  Set the table or add a simple centerpiece to bring focus to the area.  Be sure that the furniture fits nicely in the space – not too big, not too small.

4.  Need some updates on a tight budget?

Try smaller budget updates that make an impact like new hardware – an easy install and easy to find in a hardware store.  Update lighting too – over the island, in the eat in area and in the kitchen. The faucet may also benefit from an upgrade too

5.  Keep it clean and clutter free.

Remove notes and flyers, magnets, coupons etc…from your fridge surface it looks messy and cluttered.  Plus it takes away from the rest of the kitchen – it’s distracting

6.  Lighten and brighten.

A dark, dreary kitchen is never a turn-on so keep it light and bright.  Be sure your lighting is on full working order – no broken fixtures or burnt out bulbs but think about paint!  A fresh coat of paint is an instant facelift and in a kitchen it’s a pretty easy project.  Stick to light neutral tones and it will add instant life to your kitchen

7.  Counter top upgrade.

Many buyers are looking for stone countertops.  Granite and quartz are items that will help sell your home faster. Consider installing granite or quartz but if you can’t afford it, try getting a quote for buyers – your agent can pass it along to those who are interested.

8.  Install a simple back splash.

If your home doesn’t have a back splash – consider installing one.  Again, stick with something neutral and timeless, subway tile is an affordable option and it is a classic plus it works with every style.  A back splash can set you apart from the competition, too, many newly built town homes in suburban communities a back splash is an ‘extra’ so many buyers don’t get one.  Stand out from the crowd!

9. Show off functionality.

Small kitchens can still be functional it’s all about storage and set up.  If you are lacking in storage or surface space try adding a furniture piece that can offer both.  In this image – this ‘mobile’ island offers a great prep or serving space (add a chair) plus it has a lower shelf that has some storage.  This piece is perfect because it doesn’t add bulk and the reflective surface adds some brightness too

Photo from Better Homes and Gardens

When it comes to staging your home from the resale market – turn that kitchen into a dream kitchen !  Be sure to include a good clean and fixing any small repairs like shipped doors, squeaky hinges, loose knobs, leaky faucet and more….


SHOP FOR THE KITCHEN…

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BATHROOMS, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, KITCHENS

Countertops can make a huge difference!

granite-counter-tops

Today our granite counter tops arrived!

As I mentioned in my previous blog posting, I am living in a renovation zone but things have picked up and starting to really come together.
 
This afternoon our granite counter tops (kitchen and bathroom) were installed and I cannot get over the difference! We had laminate counter tops in both rooms, the kitchen counter top was a solid grey which was probably not the best choice as it does not hide stains very well and every scratch is seen from a mile away; the bathroom counter top was a laminate but in aqua, white and peach speckled design. My husband and I were looking for a more modern look but we also love the natural look of granite and stone.

Looking for granite Counter tops….

 
We went to a few granite showrooms but everything we saw was quite typical, since our cabinetry was so plain we really wanted something special! We actually went to a granite supplier and had the opportunity to peruse their slabs and select ours directly from their supply. We found the perfect counter tops for our home and now that they are in the transformation is truly incredible.

Granite Counter tops made a huge difference….

What difference can a counter top really make? In our case we selected a slab of granite that was lighter in colour from the original laminate and now our open concept kitchen look enormous. Our stone back splash really stands out and the stainless steel accents add some sparkle. The whole kitchen comes together and is a true show stopper! The bathroom renovation was a complete overhaul (bye bye Barbie bathroom) but my husband was really worried about how the white wall tiles, grey floor tiles and blue glass accent tile would all come together – the ‘biano antico’ granite counter top was the key element for bringing all the pieces together.
 

When it comes to selecting your kitchen counter tops there are no right or wrong

choice but here are some tips:

 

1 – Colour –

 
Typically you want to choose a counter top that on the opposite side of the colour wheel from your cabinets, for example a dark espresso stain looks best with a lighter counter top but if you are selecting from granite you have some flexibility because granite has some many colours and fishers that you can choose from a variety of cabinet colours. But light can absolutely work with light but I always like something to ground the room so it could be the floors, paint or backsplash.

2 – Stay away from a single colour laminate.

 
A solid coloured laminate counter top does not stand the test of time very well, stains and scratches are nearly impossible to hide with this type of counter top. If granite is too pricey, keep in mind that there are many laminate options that look (and can feel) like a granite counter top.

3 – Looking for something different?

 
Try exotic granite or other natural stone such as marble or soapstone or even more cutting edge – concrete. With the increased popularity of granite certain colours are seen more frequently but there is a lot to choose from, so look around at other options.
 

Here are the after photos of my bathroom and kitchen :-

I can’t get over how different the house looks with these new counter tops!
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