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Countertops

Why You Should Choose Marble Countertops for Your Kitchen Renovation

A kitchen renovation is an opportunity to create a space that is both functional and visually stunning. From cabinetry to flooring, every design choice plays a role in the final look and feel of the room. When it comes to countertops, few materials bring the level of elegance and timeless beauty that marble does. Choosing marble for your kitchen upgrade ensures that your space will be as sophisticated and lovely as it is practical.

A Timeless and Luxurious Aesthetic

Marble has been used in architecture and design for centuries, and its appeal remains as strong as ever. The soft veining and natural variations in each slab make every marble countertop a unique work of art. Whether you prefer the subtle elegance of Carrara marble or the bold veining of Calacatta, this natural stone has the ability to elevate any kitchen design.

Unlike some countertop materials that can look manufactured, marble has an organic quality that adds warmth and depth to a space. Its soft sheen catches the light beautifully, giving your kitchen a bright, airy feel. Whether paired with modern, sleek cabinetry or a more traditional design, marble enhances the overall aesthetic with effortless sophistication.

Marble Arabescato 2cm

A Cool and Functional Surface for Cooking

Beyond its beauty, marble is highly functional, especially for those who love to cook and bake. One of its standout features is its naturally cool temperature. Bakers and pastry chefs have long favored marble for rolling out dough, as it helps keep butter from softening too quickly. Whether you’re making homemade bread, delicate pastries, or a perfectly crisp pizza crust, a marble countertop provides an ideal work surface.

Marble is also heat resistant, meaning it can handle the occasional hot pan or baking sheet without damage. While trivets are always recommended to preserve the surface, marble offers peace of mind in a busy kitchen where heat exposure is common.

Increased Home Value and Long-Term Appeal

Choosing marble countertops is an investment that pays off in both aesthetics and home value. High-end materials like marble make a strong impression on potential buyers, adding a touch of luxury that sets a kitchen apart. Even if you’re not planning to sell your home anytime soon, installing marble countertops ensures that your kitchen remains stylish and desirable for years to come. And marble looks great in kitchens of any size; it won’t get lost in a big space or overwhelm a more compact kitchen.

Trends in kitchen design come and go, but marble has stood the test of time. Quite literally– some of our oldest monuments and architecture is made of marble! While other materials may need to be replaced as styles change, marble maintains its classic appeal, making it a long-term choice that never feels outdated.

Marble Countertop Maintenance: Tips and Tricks for Care

Proper Care for Lasting Beauty

While marble is a durable stone, it does require proper care to maintain its pristine look. Regular sealing helps protect against staining from spills, while simple daily cleaning with mild soap and water keeps the surface looking fresh. Unlike synthetic materials, marble develops character over time, gaining a patina that adds to its charm and contributes to the countertop’s design. It’s not just a marble countertop; it’s your family’s marble countertop.

Upgrade Your Kitchen with Olympia Stone

For a luxurious, timeless, and functional kitchen, marble is the ultimate choice for your renovation. Whether you’re drawn to its elegant veining, cool work surface, or lasting value, marble is a material that transforms any space. Ready to find the perfect marble countertop for your home? Reach out to the team here at Olympia Stone today for a free quote. We’d love to work with you!

The Most Durable Countertops for Family-Friendly Bathrooms

Busy families need bathrooms that can keep up! From spill-prone toddlers to teenagers with hot hair tools, it’s easy for cosmetic damage to build up. And worse, structural damage can occur, too. If you have the wrong type of countertop, it can experience significant water damage that leads to bacterial growth– not what anybody would call hygienic or want in their bathroom! 

So as a homeowner with a family, what can you do to improve the bathroom’s functionality? One major aspect of the bathroom’s usability is the counter surface. Let’s take a look at some of the best options for family-friendly bathrooms to give you the peace of mind (and lower repair bills!) that you need. 

What Is The Most Durable Bathroom Countertop?

Personalizing Kitchen and Bathroom Countertops with Custom Designs

When you need durability in a countertop, stone is the way to go. Whether you choose a natural stone like granite or an engineered stone like quartz, stone countertops are more durable than any other kind of countertop. They are resistant to cracks and chipping and can hold up to decades of use without needing to be replaced if you maintain them properly. But each type of stone has its own characteristics that contribute to the family-friendliness of a bathroom, so you should know about their functions before you make up your mind. 

Quartz: The Ultimate Low-Maintenance Choice

For a bathroom that sees daily activity, quartz is one of the best countertop materials available. Engineered from natural stone and resins, quartz is non-porous, making it highly resistant to stains, moisture, and bacteria. It’s an exceptionally hygienic choice, as it does not absorb water or trap germs, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment for families.

Beyond its durability, quartz requires very little upkeep. Unlike natural stones, it does not need sealing, and its smooth surface makes cleaning as simple as wiping with a damp cloth and mild soap. No fancy cleansers required!

Bathroom vanity remodel with Quartz Quantra Fontainebleau 3cm

Granite: Timeless and Resistant to Wear

Granite has long been a favorite for stone countertops due to its durability and classic appearance. Known for its resistance to heat, scratches, and moisture, granite performs exceptionally well in bathrooms that experience heavy use. Its natural density makes it less likely to absorb water, and when sealed properly, it resists stains from common bathroom products like soap, shampoo, and cosmetics.

Bathroom remodel with Granite Thunder White 3CM

Quartzite: Strength and Natural Beauty

For those who prefer a natural stone with outstanding durability, quartzite is an excellent option. Formed from sandstone and transformed under heat and pressure, quartzite is incredibly strong and resistant to scratches, making it ideal for high-traffic bathrooms. Its natural hardness ensures that it can withstand daily wear without showing signs of damage, and it resists moisture well, especially when properly sealed. While it does require periodic maintenance to preserve its protective layer, it remains a highly durable and low-maintenance choice. 

What About Marble?

While marble is undeniably beautiful, it requires more maintenance than other stone options. As a softer material, it is more prone to scratching, staining, and etching from acidic products like toothpaste and skincare items. For bathrooms that see less traffic, such as a guest bath or a private ensuite, marble can be a luxurious addition. However, in a busy family bathroom, it may require extra care to maintain its pristine look over time. If you love the look of marble, you might like quartzite just as much; it’s often used to give that look of luxury with higher durability and resistance to damage.

Upgrade Your Bathroom With Stone Countertops

A family-friendly bathroom deserves countertops that combine durability, style, and easy maintenance. No matter what type of countertop is right for your family, Olympia Stone offers expertly crafted stone countertops designed to enhance your home. Contact us today for a free quote and find out more about our stone bathroom countertop offerings!

6 Design Tips For Pairing Granite Countertops With Wood Cabinets

Granite countertops and wood cabinets go together like grilled cheese and tomato soup, bringing warmth and sophistication to any kitchen or bathroom. However, it takes consideration to find the right balance. The interplay of textures, tones, and styles can make or break the look, so understanding how to pair these elements effectively is key.

1. Consider The Tone Of The Wood

The tone of your wood cabinets plays a significant role in determining the best granite countertop to pair with them. Light wood, like maple or ash, creates an airy, open feel that pairs well with granite in soft, neutral tones like white, beige, or light gray. These combinations maintain a sense of spaciousness and brightness. 

Darker woods, such as cherry or walnut, offer a more dramatic look. For these cabinets, granite with bold veining or a darker color palette, like black or deep green, can enhance the luxurious feel of the space. Balance is essential– you don’t want the wood or the granite to overpower each other.

2. Match The Style Of Your Space

Granite Thunder White Leathered 3CM

Your kitchen or bathroom’s overall style should guide your choices. Modern spaces often look really nice with granite with minimal patterning and smooth finishes, paired with sleek, simple wood cabinets. But more rustic designs call for cabinets with detailed finishes and granite featuring organic, flowing patterns. Paying attention to the overarching design style ensures that the materials complement one another and make your space look put together and polished.

3. Think About Lighting

If a slab looks beautiful in the showroom but is lackluster when you bring it home, it might be because of the lighting. Lighting has a major impact on how granite and wood appear together. Natural light can highlight the nuances of wood grain and the depth of granite patterns, while artificial lighting can alter the way we perceive color. In spaces with abundant natural light, darker wood and granite combinations can shine without feeling too heavy. But in areas with limited lighting, lighter tones in both the wood and granite help prevent the room from feeling closed in. 

4. Focus On The Granite’s Pattern

Granite comes in many different patterns, from subtle speckles to bold veining. When choosing a granite countertop, think about how its pattern interacts with the texture and finish of your wood cabinets. Cabinets with a busy wood grain can clash with highly detailed granite, so a simpler countertop may work better.

5. Pick Complementary Undertones

Granite Countertops For Kitchen Renovation

Undertones are often overlooked but are essential for creating a cohesive design. Both wood and granite have undertones that can lean warm or cool. Warm undertones in wood, like red or yellow, pair beautifully with granite that shares similar hues. Cool-toned woods, such as gray-stained oak, harmonize with granite featuring blue or gray undertones. Ensuring that the undertones align prevents the materials from looking mismatched and enhances the overall aesthetic of your space.

6. Don’t Forget About Hardware And Backsplash

The finishes you choose for hardware and backsplash tiles play a pivotal role in tying your design together. Sleek stainless steel or matte black hardware can add a contemporary touch, while antique brass or bronze complements more traditional looks. And the backsplash acts as a bridge between the granite and wood, allowing you to incorporate colors or textures from both materials. Choosing the right accents ensures that every element in the room works in unison.

Granite Countertops For Your Wood Cabinets 

Granite countertops and wood cabinets offer endless design possibilities when paired thoughtfully. By considering tone, style, lighting, patterns, undertones, and complementary accents, you can create a space that feels inviting and timeless. Want some help choosing a countertop? Reach out to us here at Olympia Stone today for a free quote. We’re sure to have a slab that perfectly suits your cabinetry!

5 Economical Tips for Choosing the Perfect Marble Countertop Color

Marble countertops are often white– but they don’t have to be! Marble comes in several colors, ranging from white to black and including golds, reds, blues, and greens. And while marble is a luxury stone, there are places where a savvy homeowner can save money. 

One way to help keep the costs of marble countertops down is to carefully consider what color you choose. By focusing on strategic options, you can achieve the elegant look you desire while staying within budget. Here are five economical tips to help you choose the ideal marble countertop color.

1. Look For Thinner Slabs

Marble comes in a range of thicknesses, and opting for a thinner slab can significantly reduce the overall cost without compromising on quality or beauty. Standard countertop slabs are typically 1¼ inches (or 3 centimeters) thick, but many suppliers offer thinner options at a lower price point. 

While these thinner slabs may require additional support during installation, the visual impact remains the same. This approach allows you to prioritize the color and pattern of the marble while minimizing material costs. These thinner slabs are an excellent option for achieving a sleek, modern aesthetic. Their lightweight nature also makes them a practical choice for smaller spaces, such as bathroom vanities or kitchen islands. 

Marble Countertop Maintenance: Tips and Tricks for Care

2. Consider Promotional Colors

Marble suppliers frequently offer discounts on specific colors or patterns, often due to overstock or seasonal promotions. These options provide an opportunity to access high-quality materials at a fraction of the usual price. 

By staying open to a variety of shades and veining patterns, you can discover a countertop color that aligns with your design vision and budget. And these promotional colors often include neutral tones like whites, grays, and beiges, which pair beautifully with a wide range of interior styles. These versatile options allow you to create a cohesive look that complements virtually any cabinetry, flooring, and backsplash choices. 

3. Use Remnants When Possible

Remnants are smaller pieces of marble left over from larger projects, and they can be an economical solution for countertops in compact spaces. Ideal for bathroom vanities, laundry rooms, or smaller kitchens, remnants offer the same high-quality material at a reduced cost. 

Many suppliers maintain a collection of remnants in a variety of colors, giving you the chance to find a unique piece that adds character to your home.

4. Prioritize Professional Installation

While DIY might seem like a way to cut costs, marble countertops require expert handling to ensure a flawless finish. Improper installation can lead to cracks, uneven surfaces, or other expensive mistakes– and void any warranty that came with your countertop. 

Professional installers bring the expertise and tools necessary to secure your investment and bring out the full potential of your marble countertop.

Marble Arabescato 2cm

5. Work With Your Existing Design Elements

One way to stay within budget during a kitchen renovation is to not renovate the entire kitchen. Selecting a marble countertop color that complements your current design scheme can save you money on additional renovations. 

Neutral tones like Carrara white or light gray marble blend effortlessly with most interiors, so you don’t have to spend money on new paint, cabinetry, lighting, or flooring. By choosing a color that works well within your existing space, you can achieve a fresh look without incurring extra expenses.

Moving Forward with Marble Countertops

Choosing the right marble color for your countertops doesn’t have to strain your budget. Olympia Stone is here to help you find the perfect marble for your space, fabricate your ideal countertop, and provide a flawless installation. Contact us today for a free quote and let us help you achieve the kitchen of your dreams on the budget of your reality!

Exploring Granite Countertop Options for Double-Island Kitchens

Double-island kitchens are an exciting design feature that can transform your cooking and entertaining space. The addition of two islands offers more surface area, storage, and flexibility in layout. 

One of the most important decisions in creating a double-island kitchen is selecting the right countertop material, and granite has emerged as one of the top choices. Known for its durability, aesthetic appeal, and variety of options, granite can elevate the design of your kitchen while providing a practical surface for everyday use.

The Beauty of Granite for Double-Island Kitchens

Granite countertops are renowned for their natural beauty and versatility. With countless colors, patterns, and textures available, granite can complement virtually any kitchen style, from modern to rustic. 

When you have two islands in your kitchen, granite’s rich veining and unique variations can serve as a beautiful, balanced focal point. Each slab is one-of-a-kind, ensuring that your kitchen is as unique as your vision.

Durability and Functionality

Choosing the Perfect Granite Countertop

Granite is a top choice for kitchen islands because of its exceptional durability. This natural stone is heat, scratch, and stain-resistant, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchen islands. In a double-island layout, where cooking, prep, and socializing all happen, granite can withstand the daily demands of your kitchen without losing its luster.

The durability of granite also makes it a long-term investment. It’s a sturdy material that will stand up to wear and tear, meaning your countertops will look great for years. The low-maintenance nature of granite, requiring only occasional sealing, makes it easy to care for while keeping your kitchen looking pristine.

Customizing Your Double-Island Design

When planning a double-island kitchen, one of the most important factors to consider is how the countertops will enhance the overall flow and functionality of the space. Granite can be cut to your specifications in both size and shape, ensuring that your islands work perfectly with your kitchen’s layout. Whether you need more prep space on one island or extra seating on the other, granite countertops can be tailored to fit your needs.

You can also choose a variety of edge styles and finishes to match your kitchen’s aesthetic. Polished granite offers a sleek, shiny look, while honed granite provides a more matte, subtle finish. There are also options for rougher, textured finishes, which can add character and charm to your kitchen.

Granite Countertops For Kitchen Renovation

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly

Granite is a natural stone that is both abundant and sustainable. Choosing granite for your double-island kitchen can be a more eco-friendly option compared to synthetic materials.

And granite’s durability means that your granite islands can last a lifetime. Choosing granite can be a great way to invest in long-lasting quality while being conscious of the environment.

Ready to Install Granite Countertops?

Granite countertops offer a perfect balance of beauty, functionality, and durability for double-island kitchens. If you want to transform your kitchen with stunning granite surfaces, Olympia Stone is here to help. 

Our team specializes in helping homeowners select the ideal granite for their kitchen, with a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes to choose from. Contact us today for a free quote and let us help you with all of your countertop needs!

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