Questions About On-Trend Countertops
When home buyers choose new construction, some of the options they have to coordinate are countertops, floors, cabinets, wall colors and their existing furniture and décor. In Crystal Valley, the design staff works with builders and home buyers to help navigate the minefield of choices, including which countertops (and backsplash options) will be the most visually appealing – and work for individual tastes and existing décor.
Here are some answers to your countertop questions, in view of options that designers recommend will remain on-trend this year, next year and beyond!
What’s the most durable choice for countertops?
Quartz is not only super durable; it has no imperfections since it’s man-made – which also makes it a little pricier. Quartz doesn’t need to be sealed because the resin binding the quartz particles together are non-porous. Some manufacturers also treat their quartz countertops with anti-bacterial coating to make them more hygienic. More designers are recommending quartz as a preferred countertop material (over granite and marble), now that manufacturers are able to create contrasting veining. 
Veining is organic to certain marbles and granites (typically at a high cost), and there are several styles of marble-look quartz with a white background and gray, tan or black veining. But there are also black quartz options, for a more dramatic color scheme and effect, with subtle gray veining and speckles. Quartz costs $50 to $80 per square foot.
What’s the differences between quartz and marble?
The differences are almost too numerous to mention! Marble is arguably the most elegant-looking and is often used to create a sense of luxury in powder rooms. In kitchens, designers claim it blends well with most bases and can handle a large amount of water during your daily meal chores and routines. It is, however, a softer stone and can chip if you’re not careful. It also needs regular sealing to protect the surface. Marble is fairly pricey at between $100 and $250 per square foot.
We should mention that quartzite is a form of quartz and another option. It is manufactured using added compression to create more strength, reducing pores and producing a more solid surface. It can scratch if you’re not careful and must be sealed regularly. Quartzite costs between $50 and $100 per square foot.
Are granite countertops still popular?
Absolutely. According to Sebring Design Build, not only is granite a 100 percent natural stone, no two slabs are exactly alike. There are hundreds of shades from which to choose – subdued earth tones, vivid blues, greens and reds. And though it may contain imperfections, granite stands up to normal use — although never assume a granite countertop can double as a cutting board!). Some granite colors come in jumbo sizes, with the added benefit of avoiding unsightly seams in the middle of your kitchen. And when sealed properly, granite countertops won’t stain or absorb liquid. The pricing ranges from $55 per square foot, although it’s not unheard of to shell out as much as $150 per square foot!
One Kitchen, Seven Ways
The options are seemingly endless when making choices about everything from light fixtures and cabinets, to flooring and countertops. Take a look at this Richmond American kitchen and dining area, seven different ways.
Consumer Reports has a video tutorial with the pros and cons of kitchen countertop materials, and you can scroll through a gallery of options.
Keep track of all the latest trends in kitchens and interior design at spaces.com/countertop-trends-kitchens-bathrooms-2019/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2020 Spaces. You can watch webcasts there, and when the 2020 trend reports come out, be ahead of the curve with next year’s décor choices!
On-Trend Countertops of Colliers Hill
The brand new kitchens in the master-planned community of Crystal Valley feature the latest material options for home buyers. Designers help navigate the selection process as you make design decisions for your new Crystal Valley home! Check out all the floor plans available from Richmond American Homes, Kauffman Homes, Century Communities and D.R. Horton — designed with today’s preferences in mind. Set in natural surroundings with easy access to nearby amenities, new homes here — in ranch and two-story models — are priced from the $300s.
