Designs by BSB

Kitchen & Bath resources for consumers

Archive for category Counter Tops

NKBA 2010 Bathroom Design Trends

Apr 20

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Counter Tops, Flooring, Plumbing Products, TRENDS

BATHROOMS

1. In With the Old, Out with the New
Traditional will be the most popular design style in bathrooms in 2010, as contemporary designs will be a distant second, followed by the Shaker style as an even more distant third. Beiges and bones will be the most common colors used in bathrooms, followed by whites and off-whites, and then by browns, indicating a somewhat subdued color palette this year.

2. Ceramic and Granite
Ceramic and porcelain tile will be the dominant flooring materials in bathrooms this year, while natural stone will continue to prove popular as well. Though increasingly popular in kitchens, hardwood flooring won’t become common in bathrooms in 2010. For vanity tops, granite will remain king, with quartz and marble also proving popular options.

3. Simple Fixtures
Perhaps more than ever, the most common color for fixtures will be white. Bisque and off-white will be the only other fixture colors at all common in new or remodeled bathroom. For sinks, simple undermount models will be most popular, followed by integrated sink tops, drop-in sinks, vessel sinks, and pedestal sinks.

4. A Nickel for Every Finish
Faucet finishes in the bathroom are similar to those used in current kitchen designs, with brushed nickel continuing to lead the way in 2010. Polished chrome and satin nickel will also be incorporated into many bathrooms, just as they had been throughout 2009. These faucet finishes will be followed by bronze and stainless steel.

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NKBA 2010 Kitchen Design Trends

Apr 17

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Appliances, Cabinetry, Counter Tops, Flooring, Industry News, Plumbing Products, TRENDS

The National Kitchen & Bath Association has released their design trends for 2010!

… do you like? … agree?  …would you consider these trends TOO trendy?

Traditional is the New Contemporary
Traditional will continue as the most popular kitchen design style in 2010, with contemporary following closely behind, while the Shaker style is seeing a surprisingly strong resurgence. Shades of whites and off-whites will be the most common kitchen colors in 2010, while brown, beige, and bone hues will also be popular.
Cherry on Top
Cherry will remain the most popular wood for kitchen cabinetry, followed closely by maple, while alder increases in use. As for the finishes placed on those cabinets, medium natural, dark natural, glazed, and white painted will all be common. Other colors of painted cabinetry and light natural finishes are in decline, however, as are distressed finishes.

Floored by Tile
Ceramic and porcelain tile, as well as natural stone tile, remain popular kitchen flooring options, but hardwood will dominate the kitchen landscape more than ever in 2010. For countertops, granite continues to be the most popular option, but quartz will nearly catch up in popularity. For backsplashes, ceramic or porcelain tile and glass will serve as the primary materials.

Backsplashes: Porcelain, ceramic and glass tiles will be the materials of choice for many when choosing their backsplash.


Flexible Faucets
Standard kitchen faucets will become less standard in 2010 in favor of more convenient models. Pull-out faucets continue to increase their market dominance, while pot filler faucets will also become more prevalent. Kitchen faucets will most often be finished in brushed nickel, followed by stainless steel, satin nickel, and—surprisingly—polished chrome.


Undercounter Refrigeration
French door and freezer-bottom are the two most popular styles of refrigerators, and side-by-side refrigerators remain a popular option. A surprising trend is the extent to which undercounter refrigerator drawers are being used in the latest kitchen designs. Perhaps even more surprising is that undercounter wine refrigerators have been recently specified by half of kitchen designers.

A Range of Cooking Options
The tried-and-true range continues to serve as the workhorse for cooking, although the combination of a cooktop and wall oven is beginning to overtake it. Gas will maintain its position as the most popular type of cooktop over electric, although induction cooking continues to gain in popularity due to its energy efficiency.

Dishwasher-in-a-Drawer
Standard dishwashers, with the traditional door that pulls from the top down, will once again be easily the most common type in 2010. However, an increasing number of dishwasher drawers will be installed in kitchens this year for their convenience and their ability to wash small loads of dishes in each drawer, thereby saving water and electricity.

You should always keep in mind the definition of a trend!  Some are keepers, some may pass within a year or two!   When designing your own space be sure to incorporate what matters most to YOU!   Check back in the coming days for the Bath Design Trends!

www.nkba.org

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eco™

Feb 18

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Counter Tops, Product Reviews

A counter top that won’t melt—or scratch, stain or scorch.
And it is one of the most GREEN products on the market !

eco by cosentino2

Glass never wears out – it can be recycled forever. Every month, American´s throw out enough glass bottles and jars to fill up a giant skyscraper.  A glass bottle can take up to one million years to breakdown.  On the other hand, Americans recycle nearly 13 million glass jars & bottles every day.

eco countertops polar capEco™ by Cosentino is ahead of their time, and prove to be GREEN at best. Production of their counter tops is expected to reuse the equivalent of 60 Million glass bottles every year!  The only use products that have reached the end of their lifecycle – this means materials being used in ECO™ by Cosentino cannot be incorporated in to any other industrial product that would otherwise collect in landfills.

-mirrors salvaged from houses, building and factories

-glass from windshields, windows and bottles

-granulated glass from consumer recycling practices
porcelain from china, tiles, sinks, toilets and ECO by Cosentino elements

-an eco-friendly resin with 22% of its composition coming from vegetable origin (mainly corn)

    The Green Collection is composed of colors containing 75% post-industrial recycled raw materials.  Polar Cap, Crystal Ash and Starlight are made mainly from recycled mirror. While the colors Luna and Crystal Sand are composed mainly from recycled glass and porcelain. The color Black Forest is composed mostly of recycled glass and quarried stone.

    The Revive Collection is composed of 75% post-consumer recycled raw materials.  The colors Terra, Riverbed and Iron Ore are mainly composed of from recycled glass, mirrors and industrial furnace residuals and White Diamond is mainly composed of recycled glass.

    Eco Colors

    Click on the logo below to learn more.

    logo-eco-by-cosentino

    recycled surfaces

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    Caring for your Granite

    Feb 17

    Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Counter Tops, Editorials

    Natural stone counter tops are known for their durability, some more than others, but they are mainly known for their natural beauty. To keep them looking great, they must be cleaned and well looked after.

    This guide will give you a general idea of how to care for your counter tops and how to maintain their beauty.

    Granite Island Top

    The easiest way to keep your stone looking great is to avoid bad habits that will damage it. All stones are different and their differences require varying degrees of maintenance, but if you use proper cleaning procedures and follow general stone care you’ll eliminate most potential problems.

    The Do’s

    • Clean up spills immediately. Wine, fruit juices, coffee, and sodas will leave stains if left alone for long periods of time. Cooking oils will also stain if not wiped up. Absorption of stains depends on the condition of your sealer.
    • Use hot water with a soft cloth or sponge for quick clean-ups. Soapy water will work but use a mild soapy water, as harsh detergents or oily dirty water can cause build up.
    • Use coasters under all beverages, bottles and cans. They will not scratch the surface and if using coasters on dense and/or properly sealed granite is not an absolute necessity but on marble it is critical. Coasters are just a good practice to protect all surfaces.
    • Use trivets and hot pads under hot pots and pans. It is impossible to burn or melt granite or marble countertops but the sealer can be damaged from excessive heat. Extreme heat can cause natural stone to crack or pieces to pop out.
    • Use cutting boards. This is more for the protection of your knives but also just to avoid the possibility of scratching the surface. Cutting on stone will dull your knives quickly. Heavy pressure on a good knife may mark the surface of granite and will mark marble.

    The Don’ts

    • Do not use bleaches, glass cleaners and degreasers contain acids that will harm your countertops over the course of time. It will also degrade the sealer leaving the stone more prone to staining.
    • Do not use bathroom, tub and tile or grout cleaners. The powders and even the “soft” creams have abrasives that will scratch and dull surfaces.
    • Do not place toiletry products directly on your countertops. They can stain or etch the polish (especially on marble) leaving a ring. Protect your countertop by placing these items on decorative protective tray.
    • Do not stand or sit on top of your countertops. Natural stone countertops are very hard but they do not have any flexibility, so too much weight in one spot may cause the stone to crack.

    Granite Island Painted Blue Kitchen

    To sum up, clean your countertops with hot water and a sponge to wipe up spills and debris. Use a stone cleaner in the most heavily used areas, which will adequately clean d protect your countertops.

    On a weekly basis, use a stone cleaner over the entire surface. Good habits and general knowledge of how to care to for your countertops are the best way to maintain and keep your counters looking great.

    Seal your counter top annually to maintain the protection and to minimize the potential for stains. Sealer is easily applied at home and is available at most big box stores such as Lowes or Home Depot. Follow the directions on the container.

    If you are interested in a lifetime warranty for your Granite, visit my post regarding Granite Shield!

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    Time to re- THINK GLASS

    Jan 4

    Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Counter Tops, Product Reviews

    logo think glassGlass counter tops are the new rage.  They are edgy, timeless and even sustainable!  Before we look at the particulars, check out the  10 top reasons why you should get glass countertops for your kitchen or bathroom :

    1. Wow factor that makes it the focal point of your kitchen
    2. High-end appearance
    3. Maintenance free
    4. Non-porous, making it suitable for Kosher kitchens
    5. Most hygienic countertop on the market
    6. No Cross-contamination
    7. Can endure high heat without cracking or scorching
    8. Impossible to stain
    9. Textured finished underneath that masks fingerprints, common wear and allows scratches to go unnoticed
    10. Can be edge lit to transform your countertop, creating a floating and ethereal beauty

    Think Glass lighted bar topSo what is it about ThinkGlass’  glass countertops that makes them one of the hottest trends in kitchen & bath design?   First of all, they can be highly customized to meet your design preferences.   With a choice of 7 colors, 10 textures, 3 thicknesses, and 3 edge treatments, the creative possibilities are countless!    Second of all, they have a high-end appearance that certainly separates them from the main stream product (granite, marble, etc) choices you see today.   Third of all, as the only transparent countertop material, glass can further accent a kitchen or bathroom design by coordinating it with multiple surfaces.  And last, but certainly not least, Think Glass now offers full LED solution for further highlighting!

    Think Glass island top

    A ThinkGlass countertop makes a statement – in creativity.

    Because each ThinkGlass countertop begins with a handmade process, every finished product maintains its uniqueness. You can forever appreciate how no other kitchen or bathroom will look quite like yours!

    Imagine…your countertop, created with the texture and color of your choice. Now imagine this translucent surface mounted atop a copper, stainless or colored cabinet top, transformed again by the tone beneath it. Luxurious design with chameleon-like flexibility. Just imagine.

    Get more information and images visit: thinkglass.com

    Think Glass rough edge vanity top

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    2009 Kitchen & Bath Trends

    Sep 29

    Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Appliances, Cabinetry, Counter Tops, Editorials, Plumbing Products

    Want to know what the hottest trends in kitchens and baths are in 2009? The NKBA Design Competition received 678 entries, and after searching through all of them, the NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association) selected ten design elements that clearly stood out.

    “The trends spotted in this year’s competition are a great example of what’s to come in kitchen and bath design,” said Suzie Williford, President, National Kitchen and Bath Association. “Each new trend will help turn a room into a well-designed, classic space.”

    Based on the review of the design competition entries, the NKBA offers the top kitchen and bath trends for 2009:

    Steel Counters
    Stainless steel is emerging as a new countertop favorite in kitchen design by creating a sleek, modern look that ties in perfectly with stainless steel appliances. Its part of a styling trend which combines the ingredients of a commercial-style kitchen with the warmth of cherry cabinets and natural stone floor, creating a room that is efficient, yet comfortable.
    Black and White Kitchens
    Eschewing color, dramatic black and white color schemes are becoming the norm with its contrast to one another in both value and sheen. The versatility and functional design create visual interest while blending together for a simple feeling.
    Mirror, Mirror Off The Wall
    Flush-mounted bathroom wall mirrors are starting to yield to more creative placements. We’re seeing mirrors creatively popping up as freestanding furniture pieces, including back-to-back mirrors, sinks and faucets to provide a clear his-and-hers space.
    Resin Panels
    Tile and stone backsplashes are still popular but this year we’re seeing a number of designs with backsplashes made of interesting items such as fabric, mesh and bamboo, encased in plastic panel. These items create a unique look that complements the accents and countertops.
    Tin Ceilings
    Tin ceilings are being increasingly used to add more visual to kitchens and symmetrical focal points.
    Floating Cabinets
    To create a cleaner, more open feel, many of the latest bathroom designs are eliminating cabinet legs and toe kicks in favor of floating, wall-mounted units. This leaves a large open area beneath the cabinet that makes the room feel more spacious.
    Stone Hearths
    Huge, dramatic hearths made of natural stone are becoming more common in kitchens.
    Shoji Screens
    The Asian-influenced shoji screen is now gaining popularity in a number of kitchen designs as they provide separation between kitchens and other living spaces when needed, while still allowing light to pass through.
    Chrome Is Back
    After years of yielding to finishes like brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze, polished chrome is making a comeback, particularly in bathrooms.
    Glass Elements
    The use of glass was very prominent in the kitchens seen in 2009, but not in traditional places. Glass is turning up in countertops and backsplashes.

    To see a slide show of supporting projects to the trends listed  CLICK HERE

    Click on the logo below for more information on the NKBA.


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    Countertop Decorating Ideas

    Sep 22

    Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Counter Tops

    Dollar for dollar spent, nothing makes a greater impact on the look and feel of your kitchen or bath like updating the counter tops. It’s a surprisingly affordable way to update a room without having to undergo the hassle and mess of a major renovation. And with the dozens of decorative surfacing options and thousands of colors and textures now at your disposal, you can perfectly mold your counter tops to fit your family’s lifestyle and personality.

    Here are a few tips to consider when designing your new space:

    1.    Decide what you like and stick with it. Designers agree that latest trend in decorating is a move away from generalized trends. In other words, if you like something enough, don’t be afraid to incorporate it into your design. Mix and match materials, textures and colors to create a look that is uniquely yours.

    2.    Color trends come and go – your counter top will last for years. Pick colors, textures and surfaces that you will still love five or even 10 years from now. The hot color for 2009 is yellow, which is vibrant, cheerful and bold. Ask yourself if you would still love it in 2015?

    3.    Personalize. Counter top materials and fabrication techniques have evolved tremendously in recent years. Most counter top craftsmen have the ability to tweak the installation to reflect your unique tastes. And, depending on the counter top material you select, they can even incorporate personal memorabilia right into the surface of the counter top itself.

    4.    Compare the features and benefits of each type of surface. Although the perfect counter top material probably doesn’t exist for every application, there is probably one or two that fit your lifestyle perfectly. Is low maintenance important to you? Do you want a shiny, matte or even textured look and feel? Do you prefer a counter top that is warm or cool to the touch? While you are at it, be sure to compare warranties and upkeep requirements on the materials you are considering.

    Travertine Counter top & Danze lavatory faucetNow, go out and get that perfect counter top for your family. And while you are at it, be sure to use a Certified ISFA Professional to fabricate and install your new tops. ISFA fabricators are the best in the industry. It is the ultimate assurance of a job well done.

    Visit ISFA for more information!

    Visit ISFA for more information!

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    Viking Appliance Consumer Rebate

    Sep 2

    Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Budget Guidance, Counter Tops, Plumbing Products

    HADCO, the exclusive Distributor in the Southeast for Viking Appliances, is offering an incredible incentive to consumers purchasing appliances this year. The “Extra Innings” Consumer Rebate Program for appliances purchased July 1, 2009 and December 31, 2009 offers rebates starting at $250.00 for a range or cooktop with oven purchase .. all the way to $1,000.00 for the purchase of a 48″ and 60″ range or a large cooktop with double oven including a dishwasher.   Talk about bang for your buck – this is an offer you cannot refuse!

    Explore the possibilities and the superior quality of Viking Appliances by clicking on the photos below!   And as always .. do not hesitate to contact me for assistance with your specifying, shopping or designing needs!

    The complete Viking kitchen. Completely perfect.

    If cooking is everything, then the Viking Professional kitchen is everything you need. From cooking to cleanup to refrigeration – Viking delivers the ultimate in performance and design.

    Gentle curves. Heavy-duty power. Don’t let the sleek lines fool you. The Viking Designer Series packs plenty of heavy-duty performance and power beneath the contoured handles and beveled knobs.

    For full rebate details CLICK HERE (this link as been removed since the offer is no longer valid) to download a HADCO Rebate Form. Or to learn more about their area of distribution, click on the logo below.

    HADCO Logo

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    PRODUCT REVIEW: Granite Shield

    Aug 16

    Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Counter Tops, Product Reviews

    Granite Shield

    If you are a proud owner of granite or marble counter tops (or considering the purchase), this product should be high on your consideration list!     Natural stones have steadily increased in popularity for nearly 2 decades now – the natural, sometimes very unpredictable, patterns and colors offer a beauty that highly respectable man-made products have yearned to replicate.  The fact that some of the stones are susceptible to staining has driven many clients to other products such as Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria, or Zodiac … all of which are natural products (Quartz), as they promote a better sealant.    The debate between the products is not likely to end anytime soon as techniques and technology continues to improve each year.

    Until now – Granite and Marble have a very competitive edge with the application of Granite Shield!  Now you can have “maintenance free with a lifetime guarantee“!   It can be applied to existing applications even if has been sealed by a previous fabricator.

    Check out this demonstration for yourself:

    Here are 21 reasons why Granite Shield will improve the quality of your life and increase the value of your home:

    1. 5 deep penetrating chemicals for permanent bonding protection.

    2. Leaves granite the same natural color only a deeper penetrating shine.

    3. Less than 3 ounces of each chemical seals a 60 sq. ft. kitchen.

    4. Granite Shield is a flameproof seal, heat will not affect Granite Shield.

    5. Granite Shield becomes inert after application and meets
    FDA and AMA guidelines.

    6. Applied at fabrication location and customer’s home to seal
    all edges and seams.

    7. Deep penetration of chemical lifts contaminates out of stone leaving stone cleaner and
    permanently bonded through catalyzing carbon crystal.

    8. No off-gassing and countertops are ready immediately for use.

    9. Floral smelling chemical leaves pleasant scent after
    application and dissipates instantly.

    10. Natural colors are preserved for a lifetime.

    11. Warranty is against any failure of the seal and will replace material if the
    stone cannot be restored to original state.

    12. Warranty is backed by a multimillion dollar international company.

    13. Sealer can be added to any granite of your choice anywhere in the world to
    new or existing granite countertops.

    14. Granite Shield doesn’t leave a dull, hazy film.

    15. The Granite Shield process doesn’t contain plastic, silicone, resins or epoxies
    and is not topical.

    16. Granite Shield doesn’t have a ‘limited” warranty on granite like
    many Granite Shield competitors do.

    17. Granite Shield doesn’t have a limited color pallet selection and can be applied
    to glossy and honed granite.

    18. Granite Shield doesn’t impose restrictions for granite care and maintenance.

    19. Granite Shield can be applied by your granite fabricator of choice and
    to any slab of your choice.

    20. The price factor. Choosing your own granite fabricator, the granite slab of your choice with Granite Shield will save you a lot of money.

    21. Don’t be fooled by imitators. Granite Shield is the originator of the long term granite stain protection. Granite Shield has been applied to the public’s granite since 2002. Even if it’s a “big box” store, a granite fabricator or granite slab yard you should ask questions before deciding on a “10, 15 or 20 year” warranty. “when did that sealer come to market?” Have them explain their “limited warranty” or “restrictions.” It just may be a regular sealer and they’re just saying it has a long term warranty. Even if that company has been in business 20 – 30 years doesn’t mean that particular sealer has. Granite Shield does have the track record for their granite permanent lifetime sealer. Granite Shield was created when the stone industry was still saying granite doesn’t stain or just put butter all over your granite to make it the same all over.

    There is more … The greatest part is this innovative product is not only for counter tops, but also for floors, showers… and even stainless steel & glass shower doors!  Check out the manufacturer’s website for more details on the application and guarantees for areas other than granite tops.

    Georgia inquiries or to learn more about all applications:

    Granite Shield of Roswell:

    Traditional Granite & Marble
    Phone: 770-518-6505

    Visit their Website or to email direct Click Here

    NOTE: Application must be applied by a Authorized Distributor/Applicator.   Live outside of Georgia? Find an Authorized Applicator by visiting the manufacturer’s website GRANITE SHIELD

    Designs by BSB assumes no responsibility or guarantee to this product or service

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    On The Surface (Counter Tops)

    Jan 13

    Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Budget Guidance, Counter Tops

    While a great many consumers are choosing granite for their counter tops, the trend continues to grow strong for mixing materials.  Additionally, consumers are beginning to think outside the box on the material choices to personalize their homes.   It’s important to educate yourself and understand the pros and cons so that you have no surprises later.

    Atlanta Home Improvement Magazine requested my assistance to aid in the creation of a chart of all the material choices, the relative cost, the maintenance & repair options and the overall pros & cons.  This chart is a must see if you are planning to purchase counter tops!

    Click on the logo below to download your copy of   On The Surface - from the Kitchen & Bath Planner 2009

    AHIM-logo

    Direct link:http://www.box.net/shared/um4xnrdqme

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