Countertops

Sep 26 2025

How to Decide What Type Of Granite To Use For Your New Kitchen

What comes to mind when you think of a granite countertop? A heavily speckled red and gray expanse of stone? A light cream-colored background stone with soft charcoal veins? A sleek black countertop with shimmering mica chip swirls? With granite, so much is possible!

That’s why many homeowners find the choice of granite more than a little overwhelming. Here’s what you need to think about when making this decision.

Consider The Color Language Of Your Kitchen

The first thing to think about when selecting granite is how the color will interact with the rest of your kitchen. Granite comes in a wide spectrum of tones, including white, beige, gray, brown, and black. A light-colored granite can brighten up a smaller kitchen or enhance a clean, open concept design.

On the other hand, darker shades offer contrast and drama, especially in spaces with lighter cabinets or plenty of natural light. Neutral tones like taupe or gray can strike a balance between subtle and bold, blending well with a variety of design elements.

Think About Movement And Pattern

Granite is formed deep within the earth, and its natural formation gives it veining, speckles, and swirls that vary from one slab to the next. Some granites have a uniform pattern that feels calm and consistent.

Others have bold movement, with striking veins that flow across the surface. The visual texture of the stone can create a focal point in your kitchen or act as a supporting feature depending on your cabinetry and backsplash choices.

If your design style leans modern and minimal, you may prefer something with a fine-grained or consistent pattern. If you want to make a statement, look for slabs with bold contrast and dynamic flow.

Learn About Your The Finish Options

The finish of your granite slab affects both the appearance and the tactile experience. A polished finish brings out the depth of color and adds a glossy surface that reflects light. This can help brighten up the space and create a more refined look.

A honed finish offers a soft, matte texture that feels grounded and understated, ideal for casual or rustic kitchens. There’s also a leathered finish, which adds subtle texture and a slight sheen without being overly reflective.

The right finish depends on how you want your countertops to feel and how much maintenance you’re willing to manage day to day– and the good news is that regardless of finish, granite countertops are always going to be low maintenance. All they need is soap and water for cleaning and an occasional re-sealing.

Match The Thickness To Your Kitchen Style

Granite slabs are typically available in two main thicknesses: around 2 centimeters and 3 centimeters. Thicker slabs offer a more substantial, bold profile that works well in spacious kitchens or contemporary designs. Thinner granite can appear sleeker and more lightweight, and it’s often a good fit for minimalist styles.

Edge detailing can also change the way thickness is perceived, so it’s worth considering how you want the countertop edges shaped. A thicker slab with a clean edge can look strong and architectural, while a thinner slab with a more decorative edge can feel delicate and refined.

Test Samples Against Other Design Elements

Granite countertops are a serious investment that can last a lifetime, so you need to make sure that you’re happy with how the stone you choose looks in your home. And that means samples!

Bringing granite samples into your space can help you get a sense of how the stone will behave under your lighting and next to your cabinetry, flooring, and appliances. The same piece of granite can look completely different depending on its surroundings.

Lighting especially can affect how the veining or speckling appears, and how warm or cool the stone looks in context. This is a good step to help you feel confident that your final selection brings the entire room together in a way that feels intentional and cohesive.

Start With High-Quality Materials From Olympia Stone

Your new kitchen deserves a surface that’s as strong as it is stylish. Granite offers a natural beauty and durability that few materials can match, but finding the right type requires attention to tone, texture, and detail.

Olympia Stone provides an expert-curated selection of high-quality granite slabs to help you build a kitchen that reflects your style and stands the test of time. Contact us today for a free quote and to make a showroom appointment to find the granite that’s right for your project.

Sep 14 2025

6 Kitchen Renovation Ideas Using Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops bring strength, style, and consistency to kitchen design, making them one of the most versatile materials for renovation projects. Their ability to mimic natural stone while offering reliable performance makes quartz an excellent fit for homeowners looking to refresh their space with both beauty and function.

And while a new countertop is a wonderful renovation on its own, there are lots of additional places in the kitchen that can be improved by a quartz slab! Here are six of our favorite ways to include quartz countertops in your kitchen renovation.

1. Brighten With a Waterfall Island

A quartz waterfall island instantly draws attention and adds a sense of structure to the kitchen. By allowing the countertop material to flow vertically down the sides of the island, you create a bold visual anchor in the space.

Quartz is ideal for this look due to its consistent patterns and tones, which help maintain a clean and modern appearance from top to bottom. Whether you choose a soft neutral or a deeper tone, this design move adds sophistication while reinforcing a central gathering point for meals and conversation.

2. Upgrade with Full-Height Backsplashes

A full-height quartz backsplash brings cohesion and continuity to the kitchen while offering practical benefits. Unlike tile, which creates grout lines, a single quartz slab behind the stove or sink gives the space a smooth, uninterrupted look.

It also makes cleaning easier and reduces the visual clutter often found in heavily patterned backsplashes.

3. Add Contrast With Cabinet Pairings

Quartz countertops can either blend in or stand out, depending on the cabinetry you choose. Light-toned quartz paired with dark cabinets creates contrast without overwhelming the space.

On the flip side, using a darker quartz surface with pale cabinets can ground the design and offer balance. Because quartz comes in so many colors and patterns, it’s easy to find a combination that feels intentional and refined.

4. Create an Elegant Breakfast Nook

Quartz isn’t limited to the main kitchen workspace. Adding a quartz surface to a breakfast nook or side bar creates visual continuity while giving the area a fresh, elevated feel. The non-porous surface makes it a great choice for areas where drinks and snacks are served, as it resists stains and moisture.

Whether it’s a small coffee station or a built-in bench with storage and a quartz-topped table, these details turn underused areas into stylish and practical features.

5. Refresh with Open Shelving and Quartz Ledges

Open shelving can make a kitchen feel lighter and more open, and quartz ledges offer a unique twist on this concept. Installing thin quartz shelves above the sink or along a feature wall adds extra storage without sacrificing visual interest.

These ledges can be cut from the same material as your countertops for a cohesive look, and they give you a space to display dishes, small plants, or art without relying on traditional cabinetry.

6. Extend Counter Space With Custom Add-Ons

Quartz countertops can be fabricated in a variety of shapes and sizes, which means you can easily expand your workspace with custom additions. Consider a side extension off your island, a built-in quartz prep area near the pantry, or even a fold-out counter that tucks away when not in use.

These small modifications make a big difference in how the kitchen functions, especially for households that cook frequently or entertain often. Quartz’s sturdy structure and ease of maintenance make it well-suited for areas that see consistent use.

Start Your Renovation

Whether you’re dreaming of a dramatic island or looking to enhance functionality with extra prep space, quartz countertops can bring your kitchen renovation ideas to life. With their durability, wide range of styles, and timeless appeal, quartz surfaces offer a strong foundation for any project.

Olympia Stone offers high-quality quartz materials that support both creativity and performance. Contact us today for a free estimate for your kitchen renovation!

Aug 22 2025

The Best Low-Maintenance Countertops for Busy Families

For households where mornings are rushed, snacks are constant, and cleaning time is limited, low-maintenance countertops can make everyday life run a little smoother. Choosing materials that stand up to daily demands without needing constant upkeep is essential for families with packed schedules.

At Olympia Stone, we understand that durability and beauty go hand in hand in the Hoosier State. Quartz, granite, and quartzite each offer unique benefits, making them smart choices for busy homes where functionality matters just as much as appearance.

Quartz: The Ultimate No-Fuss Surface

Quartz countertops are a top choice for families looking for a worry-free option. Because quartz is engineered from natural stone and resin, it creates a surface that is nonporous, stain-resistant, and exceptionally strong.

Juice spills, crayon marks, and even the occasional dropped pan are no match for a quality quartz surface. There’s no need for sealing, which makes maintenance simple. Just a quick wipe with mild soap and water keeps quartz looking spotless.

Quartz also offers a consistent pattern and color throughout, which helps minimize the appearance of wear over time. Whether you prefer soft neutrals, bold veining, or something in between, quartz delivers both ease and style. For parents juggling after-school activities and family dinners, quartz provides peace of mind without sacrificing design.

Granite: Rugged Beauty That Lasts

Granite countertops remain a favorite for good reason. It’s durable, naturally heat-resistant, and available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Once sealed properly, granite is resistant to stains, making it suitable for the kinds of spills and messes that come with daily family life.

The surface can handle hot pots, cutting boards, and sticky fingers without showing wear. With basic care and routine resealing, granite retains its original luster for years.

For families who like the idea of natural stone but worry about maintenance, granite strikes the right balance. Each slab is unique, which adds character to the kitchen or bathroom while still providing a reliable work surface. Whether your style leans traditional or modern, granite adapts well to the activities of real family life.

Quartzite: A Strong Option With Marble Style

Families who love the look of marble but need a more resilient material will find quartzite countertops an ideal solution. This natural stone brings the elegance of marble with more strength and resistance to etching and scratching. Quartzite requires sealing, but once protected, it becomes much easier to manage than marble in a high-traffic environment.

Quartzite offers dramatic veining and soft movement that adds visual interest to busy kitchens. It pairs well with wood tones, painted cabinetry, and various metal finishes. Because of its toughness, quartzite handles the demands of cooking, cleaning, and gathering without constant worry about damaging the surface. It’s a smart choice for design-forward families who want performance without giving up beauty.

Choosing a Countertop That Fits Your Routine

Every family has its own rhythm, and the best countertop is the one that fits into that rhythm with minimal effort. Quartz offers the easiest care, granite provides rugged endurance, and quartzite brings natural elegance with more durability than marble. All three materials come in a wide range of styles and finishes, so it’s possible to find a surface that matches your design goals while standing up to real-life messes.

At Olympia Stone, we believe that good design should work as hard as you do. Whether you’re renovating a kitchen, updating a bathroom, or building your dream home from the ground up, we’re here to help you choose the right material for your space. Contact us today for a free quote for your family’s countertop project!

Aug 09 2025

How to Choose the Right Quartzite Thickness for Kitchen and Bathroom Spaces

Quartzite is known for its strength, durability, and natural beauty, making it an ideal surface for kitchens and bathrooms. When selecting quartzite for your home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right thickness.

The thickness of a slab affects more than just appearance! It influences how the countertop performs under daily use and how it complements cabinetry, sinks, and other design features.

Understanding Standard Quartzite Thicknesses

Quartzite slabs are typically available in two standard thicknesses: 2 centimeters (approximately ¾ inch) and 3 centimeters (approximately 1¼ inch). While both are structurally sound, each offers a different aesthetic and practical value.

Thinner slabs create a more lightweight, modern appearance and may be suitable for vertical applications like backsplashes or bathroom walls. Thicker slabs offer a more substantial presence and better resistance to stress, making them a popular choice for heavily used surfaces such as kitchen islands or bathroom vanities.

Thicker Quartzite for Busy Kitchens

In kitchen spaces, a 3 cm quartzite slab is often preferred. This thickness provides added strength and allows for longer overhangs without the need for additional support. It stands up well to daily wear from cooking, meal prep, and frequent cleaning.

The added weight and durability of a thicker slab offer peace of mind in an environment where countertops take a lot of abuse from appliances, cookware, and accidental impacts.

A thicker edge also makes a bold design statement, especially when paired with waterfall sides or extended islands. Whether you’re drawn to a contemporary or traditional style, a 3 cm quartzite surface helps anchor the kitchen visually while providing functional durability.

When Thinner Slabs Make Sense

In bathrooms, where countertops typically don’t face the same heavy use as kitchens, a 2 cm quartzite slab may be a good option. It delivers the same beauty and hardness of quartzite without the added weight. Lighter slabs can be easier to install in upper-level bathrooms and may reduce stress on cabinetry over time.

The thinner profile creates a sleeker, more delicate look that works especially well with minimalist or modern designs. When paired with a floating vanity or open shelving, a 2 cm slab contributes to a light and airy feel. With proper support and sealing, 2 cm quartzite still performs reliably in bathroom spaces, offering a long-lasting and refined surface.

Edge Profiles and Structural Considerations

Thickness isn’t the only factor to think about; edge profiles can also influence the final look of your countertops. A thicker slab allows for deeper edge details such as ogee or bullnose, which add character to traditional spaces.

Thinner slabs may limit your edge design options or require laminated edges to achieve certain looks. While this can be a cost-effective alternative, it’s important that the fabrication is done with precision to ensure durability and visual continuity.

Finding the Right Fit for Your Space

Choosing the appropriate quartzite thickness means considering how the surface will function in your space and what kind of aesthetic you want to achieve. A thicker slab may suit a kitchen that serves as a hub for cooking, entertaining, and family gatherings.

A thinner slab may enhance the elegance and openness of a spa-like bathroom. Both options provide the resilience quartzite is known for, so your choice ultimately comes down to your lifestyle and design goals.

At Olympia Stone, we specialize in helping homeowners select high-quality stone materials that bring lasting value and beauty to their homes. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or designing a luxurious bathroom, contact us today for a free quote for your new countertops.

Jul 30 2025

Does Marble Stain Easily? Myths and Facts About Marble Countertop Maintenance

Marble has a reputation that often precedes it. Many people assume that owning marble countertops means living with constant anxiety over spills and stains. While marble is more porous than some other stones, much of the worry around maintenance is rooted in outdated assumptions.

With the right care and a bit of understanding, marble can remain stunning for decades without constant stress. The key is knowing what’s actually true about marble maintenance and what’s simply myth.

Yes, Marble Can Stain… But It’s Not Inevitable

It’s true that marble can absorb liquids, especially those with high pigmentation or acidity. And those stains sure stand out on white marble! However, staining isn’t guaranteed. Most modern marble countertops are sealed during fabrication, and regular resealing builds a protective barrier that slows absorption.

When sealed properly and maintained on a reasonable schedule, marble resists most of the common threats found in kitchens and bathrooms. It’s not about being overly cautious; it’s about knowing how the material behaves and working with it, not against it.

Etching Is Not The Same As Staining

One of the biggest misconceptions is confusing etching with staining. Etching occurs when acidic substances react with calcium carbonate in the marble, creating dull spots that alter the finish. Staining, on the other hand, happens when a pigment seeps into the surface and leaves behind discoloration.

The two are different issues with different solutions. Etching affects the surface sheen but doesn’t change the stone’s color. It can often be polished out or softened with age, becoming part of the stone’s character. Stains require cleaning, but in most cases, they can be lifted with poultices or gentle treatment, not dramatic replacement or repair.

Finish Type Changes Everything

One unique feature of marble is that the finish dramatically influences how wear and tear shows up. A high-polish surface reflects light and emphasizes every mark, making stains and etches more obvious.

A honed finish, however, is matte and subtly textured, which softens the appearance of any minor blemishes. In high-use kitchens, a honed surface can be more forgiving without sacrificing the elegance that marble brings.

For homeowners who want the look without the worry, finish choice makes a tangible difference in daily life– and the reduced maintenance needs of a honed finish make marble more feasible for family life.

Embracing Patina

In designs that value timelessness and character, marble’s changes over time are viewed as part of its appeal. A well-used countertop may show signs of etching or faint stains, but these marks often blend into a soft patina that tells the story of the space.

Rather than seeking a sterile, untouched surface, many homeowners choose marble knowing it will evolve. That evolution isn’t damage; it’s a reflection of real life, beautifully captured in natural stone.

A Smarter Way To Think About Marble

Caring for marble doesn’t require perfectionism. It asks for awareness and routine, but not fear. When sealed properly and cleaned with the right products, marble becomes far less high-maintenance than most people assume.

Knowing what’s myth and what’s fact empowers homeowners to enjoy the material fully, without second-guessing every splash or drop.

If you’re curious about how marble could work in your space, or if you’re ready to find a variety that matches your lifestyle, reach out to us at Olympia Stone today. We’ll give you expert guidance– and a free quote for your countertop project!

How to Decide What Type Of Granite To Use For Your New Kitchen