Excitement filled the air at the 2016 Granite Transformations Franchise Convention in Vail, Colorado, as the company introduced its keynote speakers (and new North American brand ambassadors), Tarek and Christina El Moussa. The reality TV show stars were at the top of their game as they presented their vision for a successful partnership with the company – along with a formula for successful house flips.
“We are thrilled to be a part of the TREND family and its innovative, quality selection of home renovation products and services,” said Tarek and Christina. “In our business, we value a quick turnaround – a process that Granite Transformations has truly mastered.”
With over a decade of professional real estate experience, the duo has created unique strategies that have earned them an edge in today’s real estate market. With Tarek’s determination for getting the job done right, complemented by Christina’s exceptional talent for design aesthetic – the results are nothing short of exceptional. Bringing their winning design formula to the table, Tarek and Christina are aces at working together to select the perfect style for each home they renovate. Tarek’s specialty lies in exterior design – with a focus on painting, landscaping and backyard design. Christina’s strength lies in the interior of the home – with a focus on the kitchen, bath, backsplashes and flooring. It is through this meeting of the minds and blending of expertise and creativity that has earned them a place in the TREND family.
Tarek and Christina shed some light on house flipping and said that when doing “flips,” they put a bulk of the budget into the kitchen to add value. “The kitchen is still considered the heart of the home,” Tarek and Christina stated. “Potential home buyers make a beeline for this room when they first view a home, so make sure your kitchen is reasonably updated.” Bathrooms come in second as the most important rooms to update, particularly the master bathroom. The duo said that in the hottest housing markets, putting money into a kitchen or bath remodel is a sure-fire investment, and often returns more than 100 percent of the cost.
The time came when the reality stars presented their top picks and hottest trends in kitchen and bath design. Here are some highlights to spark your interest and inspire your next kitchen or bath renovation:
What’s Hot in Kitchen & Bath Design
The hottest shades right now are soft whites, light and dark brown colors of natural wood, and light grey color tones of natural stone.
Kitchen countertops with a natural stone vibe.
Along with the look of natural stone, quartz countertops continue to be a top choice because they are nonporous and are resistant to heat, spills and scratches.
A full wall of mosaic tile in your bathroom can really elevate the look of the space, and give it a luxurious feel.
A classic black-and-white palette will never go out of style.
Having a neutral palette gives you the power to personalize a room, which will reflect your own style.
Modern wall designs are a popular way to incorporate bright accent colors and patterns.
Some other highlights of their presentation included a watch list of design trends to look for. These included the use of more brass in interior kitchen and bath designs, and a focus on the outdoor season featuring swimming pools.
Partnering with a global industry leader like Granite Transformations and TREND Transformations inspired Tarek and Christina to design The Diamond Collection, their signature kitchen and bathroom collection sold exclusively at Granite Transformation/TREND Transformations. “We share a passion with Granite Transformations/TREND Transformations for creating beautiful, high-end remodels in a cost-effective way that ultimately enhances quality of life,” Tarek and Christina said. This new collection includes four slabs and three mosaics that feature white and grey hues, highlighted with flecks of sparkle to resemble diamonds. The mosaics in The Diamond Collection are offered in a unique size, 4″ x 10″ (a size Granite Transformations does not currently offer). This chic and sophisticated collection is exclusive to Granite Transformations/TREND Transformations and will be available in the fall of 2016. Keep an eye out for it at granitetransformations.com and trend-transformations.com.
Last Updated on January 7, 2020
“Out with the old and in with – what’s hot!” This is the latest trend this season, as spring cleaning has taken on a whole new attitude. Cleaning out your closets is so last year. Today, homeowners are focusing on their home décor, pitching out what they once loved and replacing it with the hottest decorating fashions that are trending today. Here are some home décor trends that experts say will be huge this summer:
Black and White – Less is more this season, as homeowners are embracing the minimalist approach and replacing blasts of color from past seasons with muted color palettes. (As proof of this, on Pinterest alone, black and white décor increased 40 percent since last year.) Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or bath, or refreshing your paint colors or furniture – black and white is taking over as the new “classic” in revealing a clean and chic look that is perfect for any kitchen or bath. Granite Transformations offers a wide selection of cabinetry and an exclusive line of glass mosaics, quartz and granite countertops that can be combined to create a stunning transformation.
Marble Accents – This year’s NY NOW tradeshow revealed how marble is back and hotter than ever. Designers are testing the waters by using marble in small doses, since its hefty price tag can leave homeowners with a shaky wallet. Experts say this trend is more about using small touches of this luxury stone around the house with items like marble coasters, planters, candleholders and clocks. On a larger scale, savvy homeowners have embraced marble for its elegance and durability by using it as an accent countertop in their kitchens or work islands and even on vanity tops in their bathrooms. Check out the new Trascenda™ Collection from Granite Transformations that features gorgeous marble-inspired quartz and recycled glass countertops.
Gray Hardwood Floors – Gray continues to top the color charts as the new neutral in home décor, so it’s no surprise that this unexpected floor color is making homeowners take a second look. Gray hardwood floors can visually expand a smaller space and add elegance and sophistication to any room in your home. (And, once again, Pinterest reports that pins about “gray hardwood flooring” increased over 20 percent since 2015.)
Indoor Water Features – Fountains, ponds and waterfalls are making their way into the homes of sophisticated homeowners. Adding water features to foyers and hallways is a great way to create a soothing atmosphere in the home. Experts say the sound and visual effects of water can greatly improve one’s well-being and bring them a sense peace and tranquility.
Be sure to check back on our blog for all of the latest home décor design trends, news and tips. Schedule your free in-home design consultation with Granite Transformations today.
Last Updated on July 11, 2016
[av_textblock size=” font_color=” color=”]
There’s no better way to celebrate summer than by firing up the grill with family and friends. We have some fun and helpful BBQ hacks to help you ramp up your game and help you earn the title of official “grill master.”
Burger Boss: What’s a BBQ without burgers? To grill the juiciest burgers on the block, try making a dimple in your burger to keep it from rising, and fill it with ice chips – or better yet, a pat of butter. The ice or butter will help keep your burger moist so it won’t dry out while it cooks.
Photo courtesy of http://coolmaterial.com/feature/8-grilling-hacks-for-your-summer-bbq/
Flaky Fish: There’s nothing worse than grilling your fish to perfection – only to have half of it stick to the grill when you remove it. Try placing your fish on a bed of sliced lemons to prevent it from sticking. This fresh and aromatic hack is a flavorful way to add natural lemon flavor to your fish while also making it possible for you to enjoy it in one piece.
Photo courtesy of http://coolmaterial.com/feature/8-grilling-hacks-for-your-summer-bbq/
Rosemary Rods: Kebabs are always a fun addition to any BBQ. Surprise your guests by threading meat onto fresh rosemary sprigs instead of wooden skewers. This unique hack is an easy way to infuse the meat with rosemary flavor while filling the air with a delectably smoky aroma.
Photo courtesy of https://www.buzzfeed.com/hellmannshacks/17-hacks-that-will-make-your-bbq-awesome
Spray on the Flavor: Move over marinade. Spraying apple juice from a squirt bottle is a great way to kick up the flavor of your favorite meat and keep it moist while it cooks. It works especially well on pork.
(Photo courtesy of https://www.buzzfeed.com/hellmannshacks/17-hacks-that-will-make-your-bbq-awesome)
Pizza anyone? Who doesn’t love pizza? Treat your guests to an unexpected snack by grilling a fresh pizza while they are waiting for the main course. Garnish the dough with your favorite toppings and cook directly on a well-oiled grill. (Or, use a pizza stone.) Pizza makes a great appetizer and is a nice break from the predictable chips and dip.
Photo courtesy of https://www.buzzfeed.com/hellmannshacks/17-hacks-that-will-make-your-bbq-awesome
Interested in remodeling your kitchen or bathroom? Visit Granite Transformations for more information and to sign up for a free in-home design consultation.
There are some days when you just need to pamper yourself and take a break from your busy schedule. One way to accomplish this is to make every day a spa day by transforming your bathroom into a luxurious retreat with these easy and affordable tips and ideas.
Go plush: Splurging on soft, fluffy towels and a new memory foam bath mat is an easy way to update your bathroom and treat yourself to the comfort of everyday luxury.
Dim the lights: Bright lighting can be harsh and unwelcoming. Try installing dimmer switches to soften the mood. Or, you can class it up even more with small elegant lamps and candlescapes.
Switch showerheads: Indulge in the calming effect of water softly cascading over your body with a rainfall showerhead. It’s an affordable way to treat yourself to a soothing escape every time you take a shower.
Hang artwork: Your bathroom may be an unexpected place to hang your favorite artwork, but experts agree that it’s the perfect way to express your personality and a great way to pull the room together with class and sophistication.
If you see a bathroom renovation in your future, you may want to take it one step further and consider some of these spa-like additions to your renovation, which Granite Transformations can help you with. We offer full-scale bathroom remodeling services, including tub-to-shower conversions, shower and tub surrounds, vanities, flooring, and more.
Clear Glass Shower Doors: Glass creates openness and gives a clean and elegant feeling to your bathroom.
Tub Time: Nothing says “spa” like soaking in a warm tub with hints of aromatherapy and soothing oils or bubbles. If you’re thinking of creating a whirlpool feel, experts suggest sinking your tub. It’s like stepping down into an oasis of serenity after a long day at work.
Open Vanity: When it comes to replicating the finest spas, experts say that installing an open vanity can make the bathroom look bigger and creates a more relaxed look. This is perfect for the homeowner who always keeps their towels, baskets and other products neatly stored.
Go White: White is classic and speaks “spa” like no other color. Bright white ceilings, tiles and even floors create a clean and crisp backdrop to help you relax and indulge in the beauty of calmness.
Granite Transformations offers full-service bathroom remodeling. Our quartz, glass and granite products are easy to clean, are mold and mildew-resistant, and backed by a Lifetime Limited Warranty. For additional information, contact us to schedule a free in-home design consultation today.
Last Updated on January 8, 2020
In the final post of our “Design Style” blog series, Granite Transformations will explore the hottest trends in the modern country design style and review the best combinations to help you create the perfect balance for your home.
Modern Country
Modern country design is a sophisticated way to blend today’s fashionable home design trends with classic touches of country. Natural tones and rustic textures combine beautifully and also complement traditional country staples such as brick, wood and well-chosen antiques. This classic design is all about creating an inviting space for special family time as well as for making your guests feel right at home.
Modern Country Kitchen – Look #1
Modern Country Kitchen – Look #2
Modern country kitchen design is open and airy, and includes cozy characteristics (like an island) that doubles as a family gathering place. The cabinet design is hardware-free to reveal a more rustic look, while the color combinations are simple and complimentary – with touches of country brick for a more home-style design.
Choosing the right material for a modern country kitchen couldn’t be easier. Granite Transformations has carefully selected the perfect combinations of classic country styles with today’s most sought after looks to create a beautiful modern country look for any home. For a warm and cozy modern country look (Look #1), we paired darker cabinets (Stella Dark Italian Walnut) with the crispness of a neutral countertop (Bianco Spizzio) and used a fun country-style backsplash (Pots and Pans) to round out the look and add character to the kitchen. If you prefer a traditional white cabinet country kitchen (Look #2), we paired a rustic brick backsplash (Subway Noir) with an earthy green countertop (Verde Eterno) for a lighter, airy feeling.
Modern Country Bathroom – Look #1
Modern Country Bathroom – Look #2
Creating a modern country design style in your bathroom is all about blending today’s trendiest designs with touches of country accents. In the two examples above (Look #1 and Look #2), color takes over and makes each bathroom look unique.
For a rich and sophisticated look (Look #1), we used a dark floor with matching vanity and tub surround in Dark Chocolate. We added multiple textures – such as the rustic multi-tone tile in the shower (Glamorous Mix) and the brick-like design around the vanity area (Metropolis Noir) – to give this bathroom a unique and interesting look. For those who prefer a lighter look (Look #2), the best choice would be a neutral floor color in White Star (to open up the room) combined with a unique shower surround design (Numbers and Weights). We kept the darker vanity but chose a lighter stone look (Chiaro Ambra) around the vanity and the bathtub for the purpose of “pulling” the look together.
You can achieve these looks (and so many more) by choosing products from Granite Transformations. If you are interested, schedule a free in-home design consultation for a free estimate today.
