The most cost-effective and simple investment would be to update the color in the home. This fast and inexpensive fix could include paint and new countertops. It is amazing what a difference a new color on the walls and cabinets or a new countertop and backslash can dramatically change the feel and look of your kitchen.

Don’t be afraid to remove older worn cabinets, and update them with paint. It does not have to be painted a solid white, as most people think that is the only option for them. 

Browse through our extensive image gallery on SurfacesUsa.com and flip through some design publications to see if a style calls to you. With a little professional design knowledge and guidance, you should be able to recreate that style to suit your budget. As a professional interior designer, I have helped many homeowners do just that. Here are a few ore simple quick fixes:

1) To update an older set of wood cabinet doors, simply use a cream color base with a brown glaze on top. This technique will look like you invested thousands of dollars in classic new cabinets.

2) To update your 80'd style tile countertops- replace it with beautiful new granite and a mosaic tile backsplash. Your troubles with old broken and cracked tile and grout will disappear.

3) If your budget permits, you can replace your flooring with some affordable and easy maintenance tile, which will complete the whole look of your room without breaking the bank. 

These are just some of the very simple and affordable updates that will make your investment last a long time. A fresh coat of paint and a beautiful solid granite countertop will make it a pleasure for you to spend time in your kitchen. You will feel delighted about opening up your home to your family and friends this holiday season. Happy Holidays!

Please leave any questions and comments below!

While you are reading this you are hoping that brilliant and innovative kitchen countertop ideas will flood your mind. You may be a bit overwhelmed about the different kinds and colors and styles of natural stone countertops available. Later on, you'll be able to discern which of these styles and colors will look ideal in your kitchen, which ones you feel passionate about. The kitchen countertop installation will be a breeze after you determine exactly what you want.

Start your process by asking youself this question: Should I choose to be bold and daring by using a bright color, or bold patterns?  Or do I want a more conservative look by using a more natural earth tone. 

For help answering that question, get yourself in front of the actual stone slabs. Visit local slab yards that have a large selection of material like Surfaces USA. Natural stone materials such as, granite, marble and limestone are a great way to give your space an the look you desire.  I would personally reccomend choosing granite countertops for the kitchen considering you'll be putting one of the most durable alternatives on the market in the most popular room in your home.

With what you've just learned, spend some time deciding which kitchen countertop will best enhance your kitchen. Consider colors, textures and patterns to tie together the whole space. Make sure you spend time with an interior designer and ask questions to familiarize yourself with the materials. With such an abundant supply of stunning material out there, you are sure to find one that’s right for you and your new kitchen or bathroom.

BEFORE

One of the most elegant and beautiful choices is to have the fireplace and hearth measured and then having a piece of natural stone slab installed right on top of it. A skilled fabricator and installer can do this seamlessly so it looks like the home was built like that.

Another option is to use natural stone tiles to cover the existing brick. This option can be a nice alternative as it lends itself to being more creative. You can also combine a decorative liner or mosaics around the firebox opening to create some contrast or to pull in other colors from the room.

Whatever choice fits your unique personality and style, adding a new natural stone and a coat of paint will update any unsightly brick fireplace and make it well-designed and stylish.

AFTER - Honed Galala Limestone

To Create your own fireplace remodel, please comment on this blog or ask any questions.

Perhaps the most popular and simplistic choice is the bullnose edge it is known for it's soft roundness. The eased edge finds its use on granite backsplashes while the square edge is considered standard for contemporary granite countertops. The ogee edge offers elegance and delicate detail. A chiseled, or rock pitch edge offers a rustic feel and can be dramatic in the right application.
Keeping in mind the style of your home you can easily choose the right edge for your countertop. The pictures you see here are just a sampling of the different style options for edges.

Please leave any questions or comments below, and I'll make sure to respond. :-)

1) The first step in choosing an appropriate countertop material is to determine a budget for your top. Whether you're buying counters for one room or every one in the house, give yourself a maximum price.

2) Second step is to get out there and shop, explore solid surface material options. Some of the most popular countertops are granite, marble, limestone and engineered stone; they range in price and function. If you're new to refurbishing or replacing counters, you might want to looks at material costs before determining a budget.

3) Third step is to balance out the three factors of cost, aesthetics and durability and make your decision. Keep in mind that one factor will always weigh out another.  After evaluating the benefits of each material (pros and cons often overlap from one material to the next), you can then decide what's right for you. 

Please leave any questions or comments below.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when you are shopping for your natural stone countertop material:

1) You have to consider that besides the cabinets, the material you choose for your countertop surface will serve both for function and for ascetics. It is the ingredient that will help to pull all your other elements together.

2) Some homeowners start their remodeling project with the countertop selection, others start with the cabinets. Regardless of where you begin you should bring some tools with you as you shop. Bring whatever other materials you have being integrated in the area. Such items as, cabinet finish, door style (the door style may determine if you want a material with a lot of movement or a simpler pattern), flooring, paint, and furniture colors.

3) Another helpful tip is to remember that the lighting in your space is different than the lighting in the store where you will view materials like granite and marble. Therefore, once you narrow your selection down, it is always a good idea to take the natural stone sample home to your space and see it in the correct lighting.

The passion that you feel when you see all the design elements come together will put the fun back into your project. You will feel confident in your selection, and enjoy your new countertop for years to come. 

What kind of countertops are you shopping for now? What material are you most insterested in? Post your comments and questions here, and I'll make sure to respond.

Brandi is always striving to bring her diverse backgrounds and knowledge to all her projects to give her clients exactly what they have dreamed of. Brandi keeps up with the latest design trends by attending industry trade shows and continuing her education.

Awards and Recognitions

• 2005 IDS Best Kitchen Design
• 2005 IDS Best LA  Designer
• 2005 Wellness Community Showcase  - Kitchen
• 1999  Pasadena Showcase House - girls room
• 1994  Pasadena Showcase House - guest house LR
• 1993  Pasadena Showcase House - girls house bath
• Martha Stewart Living - Walker Zanger Ad
• Romantic Home Magazine - Bath remodel
• Christopher Lowell Show- Bath remodel
• LA Daily News - Special Home Section color red
• Acorn Newspaper - Feature on Wellness  Kitchen
• San Bernadino Sun News - Article on design trends

                                     Please feel free to Leave Brandi a Comment or any questions below!

I tell them,  “You will know as you travel the slab yards which one will just jump out at you and ignite this passion.” I strongly believe that when selecting a countertop material for your home, it should be about the feelings that are evoked when you look at that slab for the first time. It could be the most beautiful piece of granite that you have ever seen, and yet there will always be someone that prefers a different one.

Keep in mind that the material that you select should adorn your countertops and be the element that seamlessly ties in your cabinets, backsplash, flooring and other details. As a person who appreciates the beauty of natural stones, I often get emotional about my clients selections and always bring my desire to seek out the passion. The ultimate result of your endeavor will be a room of your dreams that you can live with for years to come.  

Please feel free to comment or leave any questions for me below.