Splashy Backsplashes

Walker Zanger’s Paramount pattern in Clover, part of the Studio Moderne™ Collection. The countertop gets a lot of attention in the kitchen. But that doesn’t mean that its best friend, the backsplash, is any less important. In fact, the duo works together to help set the tone for the entire space. And though the backsplash

2016 Color of the Year: Soft, muted trends create a soothing escape from a hectic world

Pantone Colors of the Year for 2016 are Rose Quartz and Serenity. The kitchen has become a key area in the home to incorporate color. It’s the one place in the home where families, friends, and guests gather most often, so it’s a great space to add the energy that color can bring. Kitchen and

The Latest In Concrete Countertops

This San Rafael, California kitchen by Ohashi Design Studio features a bar top made of concrete with black pigment infusion. Photo by John Sutton Photography There’s more to concrete than sidewalks. And today’s architects, interior designers, and contractors say they’re seeing an increased demand for concrete countertops. Over the past decade

KBIS 2016: What’s New in Countertops

Newly introduced colors of Dekton by Cosentino, composed of glass, porcelain, and quartz, include Aura, Cosentino’s interpretation of rare Italian Calacatta marble. The world’s largest tradeshow dedicated exclusively to the kitchen and bath industry, the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) marked the introduction of new products and trends from across every aspect of the

2016 Trends: What’s Hot in Countertops

This kitchen from Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects demonstrates two different kitchen countertop trends for 2016: monochromatic white looks and “industrial chic” concrete countertops. Photo courtesy of Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects. A new year means a whole new crop of design trends in the kitchen and bath. What’s on the radar for countertops? According to the

Is Tile Still in Style?

Tile adds charm and personality to this traditional kitchen by CGN Designs in El Paso, Texas. Tile kitchen countertops are a more affordable alternative to traditional solid stone countertop options. But these days, they’ve been relegated as a “retro” choice, leaving homeowners assuming they’re passé. However, well-done tile countertops can actually be a timeless choice that

“Touch Me” Textures are Common Thread in Today’s Countertops

Corian® solid surface in Rosemary, a mélange of copper and charcoal veins in a neutral base with large particles, offers great visual texture for the countertop. Good design is stimulating to the senses—all of the senses. The best design uses interesting textures to make a room spring to life. In fact, the physical feel of

Sinks: The Best Countertop Companion

Composite granite kitchen sinks from SCHOCK offer unique color solutions (Shown in Bronze and Acai) in addition to a hygienic, food-safe solution to bacteria at the sink. It’s pretty unbelievable how far the kitchen and the bath have come since these spaces first became staples in the home. Before indoor plumbing was the norm,

The Luxury of Leathered Countertops

Kodiak Granite with leather finished countertop by Marble & Granite, Inc. via Houzz. Natural stone with a subtle texture resembling sumptuous leather is a look that’s lending an air of sophistication to residential, commercial, and hospitality projects everywhere. Leathering offers a particular elegance to kitchen and bathroom countertops. As appealing on a vanity or kitchen

What’s Making a Splash in Backsplashes?

Kitchen featuring glass field tile backsplash in Lucian by Ann Sacks Whether you’re helping a client with a full-scale kitchen remodel or just helping them spruce up their space, the backsplash is one area where you can make a big impact. A great backsplash acts as a focal point for the kitchen, helping to create