For many kitchens, the countertop is the main focal point of the room. It’s the first thing that catches your eye when you walk in, and it’s one of the most used areas of the kitchen. There are tons of options when it comes to countertops, and a host of things to look for when choosing one; aesthetics being one. If cool is what you’re looking for, then cool it is. Here are 10 of the coolest countertops you’ve ever seen.

Courtesy www.apartmenttherapy.com

1. This countertop is one of the coolest counter tops made. It’s made from agate, a hard, fine-grained stone. It’s actually a sliced piece of agate that was completely submerged in a resin before being framed in stainless steel. Can you say WOW!

Courtesy www.homeinfurniture.com

2. If you’ve only got a limited amount of countertop area this glass countertop will definitely give it that cool factor you’re looking for. This glass-top countertop can give any kitchen a facelift like no other.

Courtesy www.remarkablekitchens.com

3. The way this countertop blends together the counter and the table is just plain cool. It’s made of granite and it’s a great design that would look great in a country kitchen or a waterfront kitchen. Granite is more affordable than a lot of people think, too, so don’t let the cost of granite countertops scare you away.

Courtesy www.1800recycling.com

4. Now here’s a countertop concept that stretches the imagination when it comes to glass countertops. How about upping the glass countertop wow factor with one that’s made from recycled glass? Talk about a unique countertop. No two are the same, and you can even choose a color. Nice!

Courtesy www.momoge.com

5. Here’s one of the coolest countertops ever designed. It’s made from natural alabaster stone, and it’s partially handmade. But that’s not the coolest part. It’s also got a built-in light which accentuates the alabaster’s natural beauty, and really makes the countertop stand out among everything else in the room.

Courtesy www.homeinfurniture.com

6. Can you say cool? Doesn’t it look like the faucet and sink are floating in a pool of water? This glass countertop is definitely unusual and certainly deserves a place among the top cool countertops.

Courtesy www.wickedcoolconcrete.net

7. Whether you’re an avid cook or you just like to mess around in the kitchen now and then, this is a real unique countertop. It’s made from concrete, and its multipurpose capability is definitely a cool feature.

Courtesy www.colourglass.ie

8. This striking colored glass countertop is another list-topper.  Not only is this one of the coolest contemporary countertops you’ve ever seen, but you can get one in more than 40 different colors! That’s right…40 different color schemes that can accommodate any décor.

Courtesy www.granite-world.tk

9. This natural granite countertop has that super-sleek look that captures the eye when you enter the room. The double-tiered design adds great character, too. It’s just that design flexibility, paired with reasonable granite countertops cost, that makes granite a double-dipper on this list.

Courtesy www.championstonedesign.com

10. Bet you’ve never seen a countertop quite like this one before. That’s because the odd shape makes it a one-of-a-kind work of art, and it rounds out the list of 10 Of The Coolest Countertops Available.

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When it comes to the value of your home, performing small renovations can have a big impact. There are several key areas that will make a big difference in the sales potential of the property. It will also ensure that the current inhabitants are living in comfort and can enjoy a pleasant atmosphere. The most important areas of the home that can be greatly impacted by a renovation are the kitchen and bathroom. It is not always necessary to spend a lot of cash on these renovations. Most can be accomplished for under $1,000 by the do-it-yourself homeowner. The renovations that can have the most impact need not be time-consuming or done by a professional.

Curb appeal home is another important factor in the value of the home. For those who wish to sell their home quickly, it is amazing what a difference an attractive car in the driveway can make to the perceived value of the home. Those on a budget can visit used car search engine websites that allow for the quick finding of a suitable vehicle. The kitchen of most homes receives a lot of traffic and is often the focal point of the home. This is where people gather together and prepare meals. An outdated and messy kitchen is very off-putting and can instantly ruin the look of the home. Fortunately, it is very easy and inexpensive to completely overhaul this much-used hub of the home.

Refinishing or re-facing the cabinet doors is something that will dramatically change the look of the kitchen. The cabinets are left in place and only the doors are changed. This can be accomplished by going to a hardware store and purchasing new doors, or simply stripping off the old paint and putting on a new coat. Another part of the kitchen that is often worn out from much use is the counter-tops. This will require a bit more work, but the talented DIY-er will be able to easily accomplish this task. The desired material for the surface is up to the homeowner and there are many styles to choose from. Changing the floor by either putting in a new style of linoleum or installing tiles can give a contemporary look to any kitchen.

Painting the walls a more attractive and modern color will add eye-appeal and make the atmosphere more inviting. Simple measures like putting attractive new appliances on the counters and changing wall-outlets and door knobs can create a new look for very little financial outlay. The next area of the home that should always be up-to-date is the bathroom. It is easy to change the vanity and sink. Many large hardware stores carry kits that can be quickly installed. The walls should be painted with a flattering color and accessories replaced with newer versions. Shower curtains can be replaced, as well as towels and soap dishes. Putting in new flooring will add a modern look. The bathtub can receive a new coating and may not need to be replaced. These seemingly small improvements will have a huge impact on the home.

Anyone who is considering granite countertops for their home or business inevitably admires the beauty and sophistication granite can bring to a living or work space. Besides aesthetics however, there are other important considerations to keep in mind when deciding on granite countertops. Safety and efficiency will likely be amongst your chief concerns. Keeping these in mind, our franchise experts advise against using tiles to make your new countertop. Instead, they recommend pasting a new custom-fitted granite overlay to your old counter as the best option in all regards.

With new countertops, as with any renovation to your home or business, safety is key. Tile countertops have sharp edges that are not safely rounded, as those of an overlay would be. It’s easy to see how this could potentially lead to serious injuries for children or for any other passersby. Our countertops are safe and child friendly and thus have the distinct advantage of providing a safer environment while still maintaining an excellent design.

Efficiency is also an essential consideration. Granite tiles lack this important feature because, by design, they are not as strong as an overlay. Pieces of the tile may loosen and break easily. Granite Transformations’ overlays are bonded to your old countertop, making them exceptionally strong and unlikely to damage easily. Furthermore, this method of installation does not require any construction and takes only one day to complete. The finished product will be a uniquely sleek countertop that could not have been achieved using tiles.

You can learn more about our about how we install our countertops and can have one of our professionals give you a free consultation for your new and beautiful countertop. Remember, with Granite Transformations there is beauty, strength and safety all in one.

So if you read the Granite Transformations blog you probably know that we offer glass countertops, though many people don’t exactly know what that entails. We are familiar with standard stone-based options like granite, marble, silestone, and soapstone. The idea of glass countertops is intriguing – a shiny, smooth surface that can come in a wide array of colors, perhaps a wider array than than can be found within a stone-based inventory. Is it durable? Yes! Let us explain the process.

Vetro Moretti Trend Glass

At the beginning of the process we collect post-consumer recycled glass. These tiny, crushed pieces of glass are the base for our sturdy glass countertops. We add semi-precious stones to fill out the base material. Coloring and forming of the countertops are carried out in a totally non-toxic manner, and, assuredly, there is no form of radiation present in our glass countertops.

Chiaro Ambra Trend Glass

There are some serious benefits that come along with a new, shiny, fit to order glass countertop. They are impervious to intense heat and freezing cold, so go ahead and toss your to-be-defrosted items down on the counter or your piping hot pots and pans – no wear there. They also resist scratching, something so many other countertop options cannot claim. Feel free to julienne those vegetables to your hearts content! There will be no evidence of the slicing and dicing.

As strong as granite, no wear and tear, and as attractive a countertop on the market – fits your kitchen to your specifications too! It’s okay, you can take a longer look at the glass countertops.

With people spending more time in their kitchens today, home makeover trends are paying extreme attention on transforming this room in the most enjoyable part of a house.

With this exciting journey ahead, you must keep in mind that granite countertops for your center island and wraparound breakfast bar deserve the most care in your remodeling plans. After all, these features play vital roles as the highlights of your kitchen.

Granite bars go great outside.

Along with modern appliances and ceramic tile floors, a trendy granite bar countertop has the potential to give your kitchen a sharp and elegant look, without even thinking about demolishing what for many is the heart of their house.

And if you are also looking for an extra magic glow in your kitchen, you will be delighted to know that granite bar countertops are brightened by chrome, silver or any shinny appliance you might have around them. The non-porosity, stain resistant and cero maintenance qualities of granite countertops will release you from the usual headaches associated with household tours. Granite countertops are also resistant to wear, frost, heat, scratches and chemical agents; they are the truly the ideal material for a person that is looking for durability and value in their homes.

They also do well as movable models.

But consider yourself warn. Once you experience the unique beauty of granite bar countertops for your kitchen, you won’t stop remodeling until you have them in every counter, shower walls, tub lines and fireplaces of your house.

You might be sporting a pristine new kitchen or a set of appliances that would put the Food Network kitchens to shame, but that’s simply no excuse for a cluttered, disgusting fridge. Many of us can become light hoarders when it comes to certain items that upon evaluation seem so ready to be thrown away its not even funny.

Fix it! Fix it!

Let’s break down a list of things that could use some disposal.

1) Condiment Evaluation – Do you have more than two bottles of ketchup sitting in your fridge? Do you have condiments you don’t even like in your fridge? Worse yet, do you hoard condiment packets like duck sauce and relish? Well, if that’s the case you simply need to unclutter. Condiments are generally inexpensive and no one likes a crusty, back of the fridge mustard that no one knows when the last usage date was. Toss em!

2) Freezer Food Purge – It is most certainly true that when we freeze things they last quite a bit longer, but that’s no excuse for laziness. Sometimes we just keeep piling things into the freezer (it will never go bad!) and we forget about the older items. These ancient items tend to become freezer burnt, exposed to viscious artificial cold, and will end up tasting pretty gross.

3) Produce Prudence – When buying produce make sure you don’t buy too much. Make sure you plan on eating what you buy because things like lettuce, spinach, and countless other vegetables don’t have a very long shelf life. The crisper can get very dirty very quickly. Make sure it’s clean or it can become a completely contaminated zone.

4) Dairy – Try to adhere to the “sell by” dates as if they were legal law. They are generally not only in your best interest, but they protect you from the sour flavor of days old yogurts and milks. Throw it out!

5) Leftovers – Yes, yes, we know – you’ll eat it eventually…but eventually it will go bad. Try to cook in manageable portions. When you lay all the ingredients out on the countertop stop and think, ‘how much food does this yeild, and will it go bad? Letting old meals stagnate is a great way to ruin other foods you have stocked in the fridge.

A quick way to acheiving kitchen zen is by keeping a tidy and well organized fridge. Finding the fresh foods you want to prepare and eat will be much easier and worry free when you don’t have piles of extraneous items from some past occasion or expired foods you once thought of eating. Keep it clean, people!

Ah, organization at last.

Well, how did it go? Did your kitchen, bathroom, and living room pass the test? The countless judgmental eyes of friends and family didn’t bat even a single lash at your older than new home decorations and fixtures? You would be in the minority, my friend, if someone during the holidays didn’t say SOMETHING about the countertop material, cabinet color, rug color, fireplace color, kitchen tile choice, tub design, and any other element of your home that is ripe for evaluation.

Perhaps it could be some sort of resolution. A resolution to stop hoarding home fixtures of years past. If you feel a new countertop of cabinet is feasible, than it very well might be. It can also be the time to update things like lighting, the paint or wallpaper covering your walls – really give your home a television-style makeover. You have it in you.

Take a look at the options at hand for countertops:

Granite - Durable, elegant, comes in a variety of colors. Not porous, holds up to stains and heat. A very fashionable choice, and one that has been popular long before you knew what countertops were, and will be long after you’ve moved on.

A rustic looking granite countertop.

Marble - Classic, sturdy, and very attractive. Also quite expensive. Marble can become somewhat porous and erodes faster than granite. A very luxurious option, indeed.

A frosty marble countertop.

Soapstone – Has a very natural look and can instantly upgrade your kitchen, but it is also quite porous and not very durable compared to its stone counterparts on the countertop market.

A dark soapstone counter and sink.

Wood – Want to have a chef-like kitchen? Well, this is a good choice, but what it also is is not very durable. It allows water in and does not hold up well to heat or scratching.

Not durable, but attractive.

Stainless Steel - Very modern looking. Also very industrial looking. This is an easily scratchable, but otherwise very durable material. Won’t shout ‘rustic’ or ‘homey’ though.

Linoleum – Do you have it? If so, it’s time for it to go. Very popular as a budget choice for years, but better options are out there both from a looks standpoint and a durablity standpoint.

What about cabinet options?

Classic molded wood – This is what you are probably most used to seeing. The quality of these cabinets greatly vary, based upon the type of wood, the intricacy of the molding, and the scale of your renovation. This is a classic look that goes with just about any style of kitchen.

Some elegant maple cabinets.

Modern Flat Wood – Capture all the elegance of a wooden cabinet with the modern inflections a flat face, perhaps metal handled, cabinet can offer. Works well with brushed nickel and chrome appliances and fixtures. A clean look.

Minimalist flat wooden cabinets.

Metal – Industrial or modern? It depends on how you spin it. Some people might choose a more maritime, galley-like appearance while other would, and more prominently, choose a metal door with a frosted or clear window. Certainly on the cutting edge.

Plastic – Not exactly what you think. Many people opt for the ultra-modern, glossy plastic finish. This can come in a wide variety of colors, so having a creative mind when decorating can really come into play when choosing a colorful plastic based cabinet.

Ultra-modern plastic countertops.

Glass Doored - A cabinet option that seems to be gaining popularity with each passing year. A frosted or clear blass window on a cabinet door, whether it be wooden or metal, allows for a very open feel, liberating the dishes and appliances trapped inside. It’s a choice worth making, if you won’t grow tired of it.

So look around you! Are you in need of a change. You never know when the home remodeling bug will finally hit.

If you’re remodeling your kitchen or simply updating the design you currently have, here’s a  list of fun kitchen trends to look out for once the ball drops in a little more than a month!

Bright Appliances.

Colorful appliances and cooking accouterments can add an unexpected element of fun to your kitchen. They are an easy way to breathe life into an otherwise bland kitchen. Kitchenaid offers a wide array of colorful countertop appliances, including stand mixers, blenders, and toasters in a spectrum of eye-popping colors. There’s something delicious about the nostalgia these vintage-inspired items arouse.

Lightly colored, highly functional.

Kitchen and Living Room in One

Family life is often centered in the kitchen, so it seems natural that as old homes are remodeled and modern homes are built we have seen a trend towards large kitchens that open to the living room. That way parents can keep an eye on the types of things their children are watching on TV or searching on the internet, not to mention that an open setup provides for more time spent together in a happily unified household.

Kitchen Living Room, Photo By: sometoast

Custom Countertops

The right countertops can do wonders for your kitchen design, but the wrong ones can make your kitchen look outdated or bland. If you want beautiful custom countertops without heavy demolition and construction, Trend Stone is a custom-fitted overlay made from the world’s highest quality granite, stone, and quartz. It adheres directly to your existing countertops so the hassle of demolition is avoided. Available in a range of colors wide enough to fit perfectly with any kitchen design.

Eco-friendly Appliances

As the economy continues to lag and people begin to focus more and more on ways to help save the earth, environmentally friendly appliances have become even more prevalent in kitchen remodeling and design. Environmentally friendly appliances, like those with an EnergyStar label, will reduce the amount of energy needed to keep your home running, resulting in lower energy bills for you.

Stain-resistant…Heat-resistant…Scratch-resistant…Smell-resistant!!

It shouldn't be this unpleasant.

Unlike other countertops, granite doesn’t absorb odors or constantly remind you of your pre-bamboo cutting board period and your serious underestimation of what an 8-inch chef’s knife can do.

Gist: Granite Transformations countertops are an affordable update; moreover, they’re extremely easy to clean and to keep looking clean. Sound good?

The secret is in the…diamonds.

To quote our  FAQ Page:

“The diamond polished surface makes cleaning easy and you can cut your vegetables right on the countertop without fear of leaving cut marks. You can even place a hot skillet right on the countertop. Because there are no grout lines, you have no fear of bacterial build up or dirty grout lines.”

No need to use a Brillo pad to scrub off grease. No worries about wine seeping into small cracks. All you need is a rag to wipe off the surface and it will look as good as new. When you buy Granite Transformations, you can leave your worries underneath your new Trend Stone counters.

Just look how happy this customer was with her countertops:

Kitchen counter installation is an involved process, to say the least. When choosing countertop material you’re also choosing how to spend the days of installation – in your home or outside of it. If you choose a thick slab like traditional granite, marble, or soapstone you’ll probably want to escape the confines of your home as the contractors will be ripping out chunks of your island, countertop base, and making a general mess of things for about a week or more. If you’ve got new cabinets to compliment the new countertops then, well, fuggedaboutit!

Looks like a whole lot of disruption.

You have to prepare yourself for the noise and debris and you’ve got to account for your stress levels rising. What if there was a different way?

During normal kitchen counter installations the new counter come into play only after the old one is ripped out, sawed off, un-cemented, etc. This is time consuming, messy, and expensive. During overlay installations the process is streamlined. It requires two trips to your home, but hey, a better end product requires a full-fledged preparation plan. Initially, an installation professional will come in and measure the dimensions of your countertop, how deep your sink is, and how it sits compared to the present counter, if there middle-island burners or stovetops to take into account, and other intricacies of each person’s unique kitchen.

Now this looks crisp, and with no demolition!

After the technician leaves your home after the initial measurement you are left you own devices as to what to do between now and the new counter installation. You can throw a going away party for your old countertop. You could draw a memento to the years of inadequate counter function on the surface of your soon to be dismissed kitchen top. Or, you could simply go to bed and dream of the gorgeous new countertop on its way.

The actual installation is a breeze, and will be completed in roughly two days – and with no demolition whatsoever. Just sit back on the couch as our guys take the newly fitted countertop and place it gently right over your existing countertop, with the sink and countertop moldings being accounted for in design. No dust, no damage to your walls, just an in and out process.

Why would you do it any other way, and for a little less than granite slabs the choice should be