Orange County Bath & Kitchen Counters

Creating a high end design using Solid surface and Quartz

2009-01-19T12:09:00.000-08:00

Why is it that a choice has to be made between solid surface and quartz products? The prevailing trend has been, and continues to be, design using many differents surfaces in order to individualize and personalize the living space. For years interior and kitchen and bath designers have employed the use of many different patterns and textures and surfaces for the high- end sophistication that a professional is expected to provide.

There is no reason why you cannot create the exact same high end feel in your environment. For example: the kitchen countertop and sink are solid surface. The island or penninsula top is granite, soapstone, e-stone, butcher block, etc. The backsplash is tile or stainless steel or glass tile or mirrored. I could go on and on........ The point is that as the trend toward individualism evolves, the cookie-cutter one surface design will look dated much more quickly. Also, by using many elements you are also able to update more easily. It is far more cost effective to replace an island top with a new color or material thereby giving an instant renewal to the kitchen after five or six years.

Kitchens Go "Al Fresco"

2009-01-11T11:17:00.000-08:00

As kitchens move outside so too does the need for longer lasting weather resistant materials. That's were solid surface "walks the walk" It provides not only a high end aesthetic, but is the only product that can be resurfaced, repaired and refurbished. How many other products have that capability? Tile can only look weathered over time. Grout and chipping are ongoing issues. Granite has to be contiually resealed and still tends to stain. Think of all of the drink rings from cold cocktail classes and beverage cans that can multiply like rabbits over time!

Solid surface will look as new as the day it was installed with resurfacing which really means a good sanding done properly. Grout is a non-issue and re-sealing is unnecessary.

DCS by Fisher & Paykel, a major manufacturer of gas grills has placed orders from A Top En-conter for solid surface tops for some of their products. They understand the value of delivering a quality product that looks elegant and sophisticated but will meet the durablility standards of outdoor use.

GRANITE IS YESTERDAY'S NEWS!

2009-01-08T09:38:00.000-08:00

Granite, which has been so prevalent in the last five years has seen it's peak. Of course, it will always be relevant as it is a natural product. However, with the glory days of real estate "wealth" behind us and Home Depot selling millions of square feet of the same two or three selections the cachet has been lost and people are looking for different choices rather than following the pack. Enter solid surface. Or, I should say, re-enter. DuPont Corian, founder and leader of solid surface material introduced a new collection a couple of years ago that was almost completely overlooked because of the granite craze. it was influenced by "the Japanese aesthetic of Wabi-Sabi which finds beauty in nature's simple, random imperfections". The muted tones inspire reflection and impart a very zen feeling as opposed to the busy veining and random granite patterning. Even the names are relaxing: White Jasmin, Dove, Rice Paper, Raffia, Canvas, Green Tea, Tranquil, Whisper........

I think this collection was far and away ahead of its' time and might actually be embraced more readily. They can be viewed on www.new.corian.com although, the colors showing on my screen are a little off. The Green Tea is actually slightly greener and much more attractive.