Current interior design trends are sparking excitement with today’s homeowners who are kicking things up a notch in their kitchens and bathrooms. From simple swaps to adding creative touches, this year’s trends have something for everyone.
Here is a peek into some of 2018’s current interior design trends for kitchens and bathrooms:
Dining Room Tables in the Kitchen
Photo Credit: DeGraw and DeHaan Architects https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/93399913/list/interior-design-trends-expected-to-take-hold-in-2018
Dining is going from formal-to-casual as homeowners are bringing their dining room tables into the kitchen, thus eliminating the need for large dining spaces. Some homeowners are opting for this trend over installing a kitchen island as a way to bring their families together while keeping the space cozy.
Cement Tile
Photo Credit: Elle Décor https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/trends/g19989425/pinterest-home-decor-2018/
Do you have a flair for the dramatic? Cement tiles blend the look of classic elegance with dramatic style – without the high price tag. This affordable luxury is one of 2018’s top current interior design trends.
Homeowners are opening their eyes to more airy and open bathrooms as they choose to ditch their shower curtains and go with the option of permanent partial glass inserts. Plus, it’s a great way to show off a bathroom’s beautiful tile work!
Linear Drains
Tub-to-shower conversion with linear drain by Granite and Trend Transformations
Let’s face it, drains aren’t much to look at. In fact, most of us don’t give drains a second thought. Until now. Linear drains provide a sleek look without the eyesore of an ugly drain. Granite and Trend Transformations can convert your tired old tub into a gorgeous walk-in shower (like the one above) in next to no time. Learn more about the benefits of a tub-to-shower conversion and consider whether you might be interested in getting a free consultation and quote.
Wide Plank Floors
Calacatta countertop by Granite and Trend Transformations
The answer to upping your interior décor game in the kitchen may be right under your feet. Wide plank floors bring a sense of warmth and luxury to any room, and today’s homeowners are extending this look and feel to their kitchens. This new trend not only makes small kitchens look larger but also creates a new dimension of excitement within the home.
Inspirational Spaces
Bathroom renovation by Granite and Trend Transformations with Black Star recycled glass floors
Creating your own personal space is one of today’s most inspirational interior design trends. We’ve always had the freedom to create the space we crave, but today, it’s all about “living in the moment” and reconnecting with our own spirit. And, this belief might very well manifest itself as a space within your home.
Stone Sinks
Granite and Trend Transformations kitchen renovation, including a granite composite sink.
In the past, sinks have been an underrated accessory that are now taking centerstage in both kitchens and baths. Stone-engineered sinks are making a splash in current design trends as they have style, durability, and ease-of-maintenance.
Get inspired with the Granite and Trend Transformations’ Design Inspiration gallery. Contact us today to schedule your free in-home design consultation and let us help bring your design ideas to life.
Last Updated on August 13, 2021
Quartz is one of today’s most beautiful countertop surfaces. Homeowners love it for its durability, antibacterial qualities, and of course, its timeless beauty. But how do you keep quartz countertops looking beautiful and new for years to come? Since quartz countertops from Granite and TREND Transformations are virtually maintenance-free, caring for them may be easier than you think.
This month, Granite and TREND Transformations is sharing some helpful tips and dos and don’ts for keeping your quartz countertops clean and looking their best.
General cleaning
How many times a day do you clean your countertops? With today’s kitchens experiencing more traffic than ever before, you may find yourself cleaning them more often. Quartz countertops make this part of your day a snap. We’ve put together some easy-to-follow dos and don’ts to help you care for your quartz countertops and keep them clean:
Dos
Wipe down with a damp, soapy cloth or paper towel.
Use Windex® without Ammonia (Crystal Rain™), Formula 409®, or any natural surface cleaner in addition to the soap and water solution, if desired.
Don’ts
No strong chemical cleaners.
No ammonia-based products.
No floor strippers or oven cleaners.
No steel wool pads.
Spills
Spills happen. Luckily, quartz is nonporous, which means it resists mold, mildew, and bacteria. It also resists stains from many products such as wine, oil, coffee, tea, soda, fruit juice, and even makeup. All quartz needs is a quick wipe with soap and water, and you’re done! Here are some recommendations on how to care for spills on quartz countertops:
Dos
Simple spills
Simply blot the spill with a clean cloth and your countertop will look as good as new.
Stubborn dried-on spills
Use OxiClean®—mixed into a paste—and apply gently with a soft plastic pad.
Clean Magic Eraser®.
Mix baking soda into a paste with warm water and apply to the stain. Do not leave on for more than five minutes.
Countertop polishers and quick cleaning polishers like Gel-Glos®, Magic® Countertop Cleaner, or Rock Doctor Granite Polish will bring out the luster in your quartz without leaving a streaky residue.
Don’ts
Never use:
Steel wool products or scourers.
Abrasive cleaners.
Lemon cleaners.
Hot Pots and Pans
The beautiful line of etherium® By E-Stone surfaces from Granite and TREND Transformations is heat-resistant; however, special care should be taken when handling hot pots and pans to avoid any significant damage.
Dos
Allow pots and pans to cool before placing on a surface. (Cast iron may take longer to cool.)
Keep in mind that brief contact with hot pans and pans won’t create problems.
Use trivets or hot protection pads.
Don’ts
Avoid placing cookware taken from the oven or burner directly on the surface.
Avoid exposure to open flames.
Avoid leaving hot fat or oil spills on the surface. Clean immediately.
General Maintenance of Quartz Countertops
Although quartz is one of the easiest surfaces to care for, there are some general rules to keep in mind.
Abrasive cleansers and scouring pads can dull quartz surfaces.
Highly acidic products—such as lemon cleaners or highly alkaline cleaners (e.g., oven cleaners and concentrated bleach)—can disintegrate the bonds between the quartz and resin.
Although quartz is heat-resistant—up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit—prolonged exposure to heat can cause it to crack.
Although you can cut directly on the countertop, use cutting boards whenever possible.
Quartz is not meant for outdoor use. Direct sunlight and weather can cause colors to fade, and the surface risks warping or splitting.
Surfaces made for beauty, durability, and peace mind
At Granite and TREND Transformations, your safety and satisfaction are our primary concerns. Did you know our etherium® By E-Stone surfaces are the only engineered stone products that have built-in antimicrobial technology from Microban®? Not familiar with Microban®? Check this out: It’s technology works continuously to inhibit the growth of bacteria—24 hours a day, 7 days a week—to keep surfaces cleaner between regular cleanings. So, what does that mean for you? Peace of mind when it matters most. In addition, the protection will last for the expected lifetime of the product.
Finally, when it comes to maintenance, we have you covered—literally. All of our surfaces are infused with ForeverSeal®, a proprietary sealing ingredient which makes them stronger, more durable, resistant to staining, and easier to maintain than natural stone. Plus, our products are backed by a unique Lifetime Limited Warranty.
We hope you found this information on caring for your quartz countertops helpful. Are you thinking about bringing the beauty of quartz into your home? How about some inspiration? Contact us today for a free in-home—or virtual—design consultation. A beautiful new space is closer than you think.
Last Updated on October 15, 2021
When it comes to countertop surfaces, many would think that granite takes the top spot when it comes to natural hardness and durability. But how tough is granite, really? What if we told you that there’s a surface on the market that surpasses granite when it comes to strength and durability? It’s true. And you can find this wonderous surface exclusively at Granite and TREND Transformations. It’s called etherium® By E-Stone.
This month, Granite and TREND Transformations would like to reacquaint you with our etherium® By E-Stone surfaces and show you how this beautiful line of countertops can add luxury to your home while standing up to your busy lifestyle. But before we do, here’s a question: How much do you know about measuring the hardness of a material? Let’s start with a quick lesson to get you caught up. (You’ll understand why later. And, don’t worry, there’s no quiz required.)
Measuring up on the Mohs scale
The Mohs scale is an ordinary scale used to measure mineral hardness based on its ability to scratch softer materials. Ranked on a scale of “1” (softest) to “10” (hardest), experts can determine the durability of certain gemstones and minerals. While talc is ranked with a Mohs hardness of “1,” the hardest substance—you guessed it, the diamond—comes in at a “10.” As awesome as it would be to have a diamond-studded countertop, here’s why this information is important when it comes to choosing the strongest material for this particular surface: Granite, which is a composite of feldspar and quartz, ranks at a “6” for its hardness. And while that’s a pretty impressive ranking for toughness, our etherium® By E-Stone surfaces far exceed that ranking as they measure at a hardness of an “8” or higher! Here’s how we do it…
Built for beauty and durability
Granite and TREND Transformations manufactures the highest quality countertops using quartz, granite, and recycled glass. To make them even more durable, all of our etherium® By E-Stone surfaces are made with ForeverSeal®, our proprietary polymer resin. This is important because it ensures the surfaces are:
Heat-resistant
Scratch-resistant
Mold and mildew-resistant
Nonporous, which means they never require sealing, unlike granite countertops which require regular sealing
Saves time and money
Built in our own facility in Sebring, Florida, so we can guarantee the product’s strength
Plus, our etherium® By E-Stone surfaces are the only engineered stone products to offer 24/7 Microban® antimicrobial protection.
And when it comes to beauty—wow! We’ve covered all the bases to bring you a line of surfaces that will impress even the most discriminating tastes. From the timeless beauty of our Marble Collection to the trendiest designs and colors of the most sought-after looks of today, our etherium® By E-Stone line of engineered surfaces is one to keep on your watch list.
Beauty that goes beyond the kitchen
As exciting as it is to choose a new kitchen countertop, did you ever wonder about other places in your home where you can use our beautiful etherium® By E-Stone surfaces? Let us list the ways:
Now, for the best part: Our surfaces are considered “over the top” for a reason. They are installed directly over your existing ones, so you can enjoy a brand-new look in your kitchen or bathroom in a fraction of the time a traditional renovation would take. Want to see for yourself? Just ask Janet, our design guru. Check her out here.
Is your home ready for a refresh? Contact us today to schedule a free in-home—or virtual—design consultation.
Last Updated on June 20, 2018
According to the 2017 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, the “contemporary style kitchen” is the top design choice among today’s homeowners. Are you considering a kitchen renovation? Or do you want to transition your kitchen to a contemporary look? Whatever your choice, we’ve put together a snapshot of today’s top elements to help you build a contemporary style kitchen. The contemporary style kitchens featured below were all renovated by Granite and Trend Transformations, including development of the design, supplying products and installing them.
Stainless Steel, Cutting-Edge Appliances
Modern stainless-steel appliances are one of the core elements of a contemporary style kitchen. Their sleek look brings harmony and balance to the space while keeping the feel current.
Warm Wood Accents
Wood accents bring a warm and welcoming feel to a contemporary style kitchen while keeping the colors neutral. This is a beautiful way to combine nature with modern simplicity.
Clean Lines and Decorative Lighting
Clean lines are the ultimate showcase in contemporary kitchen design. Minimalist cabinetry with simple hardware and clean white quartz countertops bring a sleek and glamorous look to this modern kitchen. The drop pendant lights are decorative, yet functional, and they elevate the curb appeal of the whole space.
White and Grey Tones
White and grey continue to gain popularity among today’s homeowners, as this elegant color duo brings subtle elegance to any contemporary kitchen. It’s a modern pairing of “chic meets sleek.”
Mix of Shapes, Materials, and Scale
This kitchen features a variety of materials: Wood and metal bar stools, Portland White quartz countertops, simple white Shaker cabinets with brushed nickel half-oval hardware, and gorgeous high-vaulted ceilings that add dimension and interest. The combination of materials and shapes create a contemporary look with modern and traditional elements.
Modern Countertops
Upgrading kitchen countertops is one of the top tasks of a new kitchen remodel. Quartz is gaining momentum as one of the most popular countertop surfaces, and it is second only to granite. Quartz may well be the ultimate kitchen accessory, because it brings character and class to today’s contemporary style kitchens. Quartz countertops that resemble marble or concrete are especially popular, as can be seen in the Portland White quartz countertop pictured above – which looks like concrete, without all the maintenance.
Mosaic Backsplashes
There can be a lot of patterns in today’s contemporary kitchens – and the backsplash is a great place to showcase them. Glass mosaic tile backsplashes are a particular favorite, and they are a great way for homeowners to express their personalities.
The results are in for the latest trends in kitchen design as today’s homeowners shed some light on what’s hot, and what’s not – according to the 2017 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study.(A full PDF of the study can be found here.)
If you’re considering a kitchen renovation, we’ve narrowed down some interesting findings to help you decide which latest design trends are right for you, your family, and your lifestyle. Let’s start with one that may surprise you.
New Kitchen = Healthier Lifestyle
Can a new kitchen really help you live a healthier lifestyle? Surprisingly, the answer is yes! One-third of homeowners from the study said renovating their kitchens has set them on a path to a healthier lifestyle. Here’s how:
Cooking more at home (76% cook 5 or more meals per week) instead of ordering takeout.
Eating more fruits and vegetables.
More time is spent with family in a kitchen they actually like being in.
Eating more sit-down meals.
Doing more entertaining, which is positive for mental health to complement physical health.
Are you tired of your old, outdated kitchen? You’re not alone. In fact, not being able to stand your old kitchen any longer remains the top trigger for a kitchen renovation.
Top Kitchen Design Styles
Move over “transitional,” because “contemporary” kitchen design has taken over as today’s top style-of-choice among homeowners of all age groups who are updating their kitchens. But that doesn’t mean other styles are falling too far behind. So, what’s age got to do with it? More than you may think. Here are some interesting findings:
The “traditional” style is nearly twice as popular with baby-boomers (55+).
Millennials (25-34) prefer modern or farmhouse styles, compared to older homeowners (35+).
Millennials are more likely to install kitchen islands.
Top Countertop Materials
The “look and feel” (72%) and “durability” (53%) of surfaces ranked as two top reasons as to why homeowners chose certain countertop materials. For third place, “cost” was selected by millennials, while older homeowners chose “ease of cleaning.” Here’s how it all breaks down:
Granite is the top choice for countertop upgrades.
Quartz ranks a close second to granite for countertop upgrades.
Granite and Trend Transformations offer a beautiful selection of both granite and quartz countertops in designs and styles that will add elegance to any home.
Top Colors
White and Grey kitchen in Statuario by Granite and Trend Transformations
White and grey continue to top the color charts for homeowners who are updating their kitchens. In fact, two-in-five (42%) homeowners choose white cabinets and about 20% select white backsplashes. As for kitchen walls, grey is gaining in popularity at 26%. Here’s how it all breaks down:
Millennials are twice as likely to renovate their kitchens with white countertops and backsplashes paired with grey flooring and walls. Second to white, younger homeowners prefer grey and dark wood cabinets.
Most baby boomers are choosing white cabinets, with medium tone wood as their second choice. Medium tone wood is usually maple, pine or birch – lighter brown tones.
Multicolored countertops and backsplashes are gaining popularity with nearly one-third of homeowners who are choosing to switch things up.
Upgraded Features
Countertop upgrade in Portland White by Granite and Trend Transformations
Everyone loves an upgrade – and the numbers are in to prove it. When it comes to kitchen renovations, the study reveals “bigger is better,” as one-third of homeowners are increasing the size of their kitchens while over half of them are embracing the “open concept” look by extending their kitchen space to other rooms – even to outdoors. In addition to size, upgrading kitchen elements is a major factor in a renovation. Here are some major features at the top of the list:
Countertops: Topping the list at 95%, countertops are the number one major kitchen feature upgrade.
Backsplashes: Coming in second place at 90%, backsplashes are “making a splash,” with homeowners opting for a new and exciting backsplash design.
Sinks: Replacing sinks came in third place at 89%, as savvy homeowners wish to upgrade their sinks to add a touch of character to their kitchens.
Cabinets: Replacing cabinets stands at 81%, as homeowners see this upgrade as a fresh “face lift” for their kitchens.
Upgrading Storage
Do you ever feel there’s never enough storage, no matter how much space you have? Apparently, you’re not alone. Today’s homeowners are choosing built-in organizers to optimize and upgrade their newly renovated space for keeping what they need, where they need it.
This is what homeowners are saying about installing built-in storage:
Makes better use of space (76%).
Makes it easier to find items (56%).
Reduces clutter (49%).
Utilizes unreachable spaces (44%).
Makes cooking/baking easier (14%).
Reduces bending (13%).
Here are some of the top built-in upgrades:
Pullout waste or recycling cabinets (64%).
Cookie sheet/tray organizer (53%).
Revolving corner trays (Lazy Susans) 48%).
Pull/swing-out trays/shelves (45%).
Deep drawer organizers (43%).
Spice organizer (41%).
If you are tired of your old kitchen, consider Granite and Trend Transformations for your renovation project. We will install new countertops, cabinet doors/drawers and backsplashes in a fraction of the time that a traditional remodel would take. This is accomplished through a revolutionary remodeling process where the new product is installed directly over existing surfaces. Simply call the location nearest you to find out the details on specific services offered in your area. We’ll provide you with a free in-home consultation and complementary all-inclusive quote. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today.
Houzz is a website and online community about architecture, interior design and decorating, landscape design and home improvement.
Last Updated on June 4, 2018
Titan Grey is the newest addition to our Granite Collection. It is specially engineered with Bianco Montorfano, a granite quarried in the northwest of Italy. The white base of this classic countertop color blends white, grey, and black crystals to perfection, allowing customers to add kitchen and bathroom decorations and accoutrements in accent colors that will pop. This fine-to-medium grained grey granite is a wonderful canvas which can be paired beautifully with nearly any of our backsplash and cabinet combinations. (See below for some pairing ideas.)
According to the 2017 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, white and grey continue to top the color charts for homeowners who are updating their kitchens. In fact, two-in-five (42%) of the homeowners surveyed chose white cabinets, and about 20% selected white backsplashes. As for the walls, grey is gaining popularity at 26%. Millennials are twice as likely to renovate their kitchens with white countertops and backsplashes, paired with grey flooring and walls. According to many design experts, when it comes to kitchen and bathroom design, the color combo of grey and white isn’t leaving anytime soon.
Can a new kitchen really help you live a healthier lifestyle? Surprisingly, the answer is yes! One-third of homeowners from the study said renovating their kitchens has set them on a path to a healthier lifestyle. Here’s how:
Move over “transitional,” because “
Do you ever feel there’s never enough storage, no matter how much space you have? Apparently, you’re not alone. Today’s homeowners are choosing built-in organizers to optimize and 
