Architectural Wood Turnings

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There are many materials, natural and synthetic, used in home design these days. They vary in price and quality, and many of them would make a fine addition to any home. But you’ll probably agree that there are few materials that bring up the quality and elegance of a room like granite and marble. You can use the stone for much more than just tile or countertops. If you want luxury in your home without the high maintenance, these two stones are a perfect fit.

Granite Counter and Vanity Tops

You can make a bold statement with granite counter and vanity tops. The richness, depth, and shine of granite in a kitchen or bathroom is incomparable. Even in a tiny guest bathroom or a galley kitchen, granite is a prime investment. It’s solid with a high resistance to wear from everyday use. It’s also a popular choice among homeowners and will improve the value of your home and be a bonus should you ever choose to sell. And should you stay in your home for years, it’s one upgrade you won’t need to change any time soon.

Marble and Granite Fireplaces

A small yet bold addition to a living room, bedroom, or another room in the house is a granite or marble fireplace mantle. Crowning your fireplace in one of these stones will make it look like the main rooms of mansions during the Gilded Age. The curvaceous veining of marble adds a graceful touch to what can be a harsh and sometimes unattractive aspect of a room. Granite with its sparkle and shine will take your fireplace from average to amazing. Either stone can turn a plain fireplace into a dazzling focal point.

Granite and Marble Sinks and Basins

Granite and marble may not automatically come to mind when you think of sinks. These, along with other stones, are becoming popular additions to bathrooms. Granite sinks come in a variety of styles and look just as luxurious as a granite countertop. You can find regular sink styles as well as pedestal sinks. The more modern basin-style sinks are also available in various shapes, including popular angular styles. Marble always has a softer, more feminine quality to it than granite. This is no less obvious in marble sinks. Cut from one piece of marble, these basins have a seamless look that brings out the spa of any bathroom. A sink may be a smaller investment than a countertop or fireplace mantle, but it can hold the same value and be just as elegant.

Granite and marble have few rivals in the world of stone. They have both been used in design, sometimes of entire structures, throughout the ages. The time-tested strength, resilience, and beauty of granite and marble leaves no doubt that adding even a small amount of either stone to your home will add value to it and bring you satisfaction every day. If you haven’t already, think about the ways granite or marble may fit in your home. It's sure to add elegance, doesn't matter where you place it.

Tags: granite fireplace mantels, granite kitchen counters, granite vanity tops, marble fireplace mantels

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Even with all the modern materials available for kitchen and bathroom countertops, few possess the timeless beauty of granite. It’s one countertop material that transcends trends and works in modern and traditional settings. As a favorite choice among many home owners, you may also be considering granite for your kitchen or bathroom. If you’re debating between a few different options, here are four good reasons to go ahead and choose granite.

Reason #1: Granite Countertops Are Beautiful

You’ll probably agree that granite is one of the most beautiful natural materials. Few stones draw as much attention, especially in the home renovation world. You may stop to admire granite countertops in kitchen showrooms or in the home of a relative or friend, running your hand over its smooth surface. Glittery sheen definitely attracts people's attention. Granite will no doubt add a touch of glamour to your home as well.

Reason #2: Granite Countertops Last

You may be surprised to learn that granite is both beautiful and functional. It’s so renowned for its beauty that many may forget it is actually a stone. Perhaps not the kind you dig up in your backyard, but granite is still a solid natural product. So while a granite countertop or bathroom vanity needs a little attention and care, it’s durable enough to stay beautiful with constant use. Granite is largely scratch and stain resistant, making it ideal for any family. Its no-hassle cleaning routine will free you to do what you love most.

Reason #3: Granite is Versatile

Granite is one of the few materials that can work well in just about every style of house. It blends in with ultra-modern cabinets, sleek lines, and cold fronts of stainless steel appliances. It also enhances the curves, embellishments, and flourishes of more traditional homes. Even if the design of your house isn’t so easily defined, the variations available in both color and pattern will appeal to a range of taste. You’ll no doubt find granite a fit for whatever design category your home falls into.

Reason #4: Granite Adds Value to a Home

As you know, adding quality materials to a home increases its value. And out of all the products on the market, granite is at the top of the list when it comes to quality. Whether you’re remodeling with no intention of leaving or renovating for the purpose of selling, granite will add value to your home. It’s certain to attract buyers, if you intend to sell now or eventually. Either way, you will enjoy seeing those shimmering granite countertops everyday and may at some point reap the benefits of making the investment.

There you have it. Four good reasons to bump granite to the top of your materials list for your kitchen or bathroom makeover. Granite is beautiful, a strong material meant for everyday use, versatile, and will add value to your home. Now that you know why granite is so popular, you can move on the fun part and start shopping for the perfect granite countertop for your kitchen or bathroom.

Tags: granite countertops, granite kitchen, granite vanity tops