Kitchen Countertops

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE        
May 28, 2009                                                  

What’s New in Kitchen Countertops

 (Chicago, Ill.) –  Countertops are one of the most important design elements of a kitchen, and one of the easiest ways to update the look of an existing kitchen.  Whether sleek and modern or rustic and warm, they anchor the room, provide work space and increase the overall value of a home. Options abound, and the countertops you choose should be dictated by your own personal preferences, your budget and how you intend to use the space. Matt Lederer, president of Chicago-based Mahogany Builders, shares some of the most popular countertop trends for 2009:

Natural stone (other than granite). Although many homeowners continue to view granite as the pinnacle of beauty in a modern kitchen, some are starting to turn toward other less common natural stone materials such as soapstone, slate or onyx. Lederer cautions that some of these materials shouldn’t be used if you’re especially hard on your counters, since they may be slightly easier to scratch than granite.

Synthetic stone. Man-made stone materials have the feel of natural stone, and they usually are maintenance-free. In addition, they come in a variety of colors that natural stone doesn’t. However, unlike granite, synthetic stone countertops are not impervious to heat, so you have to be careful where you set hot pans. Another potential drawback is that these man-made products are homogeneous, so you don’t get the rich graining and random variations of natural stone.  

Wood. When you consider that wood is naturally resistant to bacteria, warmer than natural stone and available in many different wood species, construction styles and edges, it becomes as appealing as natural stone, says Pawel Witkowski, lead designer at Chicago-based Spaces and Views. Lederer says a common request is for countertops in one specific area, such as an island.

Contrasting countertops. When you have an expansive kitchen, it can get boring to see the same tops everywhere. Witkowski says a good way to break up the space is by using more than one type of countertop.  Lederer recalls a recent project where the homeowner requested an onyx countertop for the bar area with a more utilitarian granite countertop in the cooking area.

Customization. If you’re after a more personalized look, Terrell Goeke, Inc., offers exotic woods like wenge and zebra, in addition to striking granites and quartzites from different parts of the world.  In addition, Lederer has installed custom features like built-in drainboards, molded-in sinks and seamless backsplashes to achieve a one-of-a-kind, personalized look for his clients.

Eco-friendly materials. Countertops made of recycled materials such as aluminum and glass are an option for homeowners who want to incorporate a little green into their kitchen. Using these materials can even help a project qualify for LEED certification, which homeowners may be able to use to qualify for certain government incentives. 

Mahogany Builders is a Chicago-based remodeling contractor specializing in kitchen and bathroom remodeling, cabinetry and interior renovations. For more information, call (773) 755-0055 or visit www.mahoganybuilders.com.

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Note to editors: Matt Lederer is available for interview.

For press inquiries please call:  Amy Solomon -917-693-5339. Amy@SolomonPR.com.