| |
Granite, an exquisite natural stone, is found all over the world in over
160 colors. Arguably the most beautiful countertop option available,
Granite’s beauty does not come without maintenance. Since Granite
is porous, The Design Center recommends sealing it once a year. Granite,
by its very nature is very durable, however because it is a natural
product, it is not covered by Warranty.
|
| |
Marble is a great option for your Master Bathroom countertops, a baking
area in your kitchen, or a surround for your fireplace. Marble is
softer than granite, however, it offers a different look and style
compared to granite. Visiting a marble showroom will allow you to
see all of the different colors and styles of marble that are available.
|
| |
Limestone is a wonderful way to add variety to your kitchen countertops.
Mixing limestone with other stones for contrast, such as granite, will
provide a timeless look to your kitchen. |
| |
|
| |
Cambria is a new engineered stone product made primarily of Quartz to resemble
granite without the cost of Granite. Cambria offers a variety of color
selection with a 3 cm (about 1 ¼”) slab thickness. It is
engineered for strength and durability, and because it is non-porous,
it is virtually maintenance-free. Cambria is stain-resistant, scratch-resistant
and heat-resistant. Cambria backs its product with a 10-Year Warranty.
 |
| |
Silestone is another Quartz-based engineered stone that is designed to
achieve the look of granite. Silestone has a diverse palette of colors.
It prices out just below Cambria because it comes in ¾” slab
thickness with an optional applied edge to simulate a thicker stone.
Silestone, like Cambria, is scratch-resistant, stain-resistant, heat-resistant,
and comes with a 10-Year Warranty. |
Laminate is the most economical countertop option available. Although it is
a durable product, other choices such as engineered stone, natural stone,
or solid surface will outlast laminate. Laminate has endless color options,
including many popular textured looks. An affordable upgrade that The Design
Center offers is laminate with a coordinating solid surface edge detailing
to prevent scratching and chipping along the edges and also provides a touch
of the custom aesthetic.
Butcher Block countertops are a great way to add old world charm and functionality
to your kitchen. Not only is it a beautiful addition, but it is a perfect
working surface because of their practicality, low maintenance, and unique
beauty. Butcher Block countertops come in Hard Rock maple, Appalachian Red
Oak, Teak, and many more.
Poured concrete slabs provide an industrial and architectural element as a
countertop material. Drawbacks include possible cracking, and, like granite,
because concrete is porous, it needs to be sealed periodically. Concrete
is a great option for a unique modern look and is available in many colors.
Cultured Marble is a popular and very affordable choice used mainly as a countertop
material for bathrooms. Comprised of a resin material that is poured and then
cured, it offers the option of an integrated sink bowl.
The Design Center is the exclusive fabricator and dealer of Richlite in the
Research Triangle Area, and currently the only fabricator in North Carolina.
Richlite is a paper composite material that offers many of the advantages
of costly engineered stones. It is stain resistant, non-porous, and heat
resistant. Although Richlite can scratch, it can be buffed out similar to
a solid surface material. Richlite is a versatile product. It is currently
being used in commercial applications such as at Pizza Hut and Starbucks
across the Nation, and its proven durability has made it a new option for
homeowners as well. It is currently available in three unique colors that
provide a rich textured look. In addition to being a quality product, Richlite
is an economical choice, as it prices below most engineered stones and solid
surface materials.
The benefit of Solid Surface is a truly seamless countertop, as well as a seamless
under-counter blend from the surface into the sink. Brand name products that
fit into the category of Solid Surface include Corian, Wilsonart Gibraltar,
Staron, Fountainhead, and Caesarstone. Solid Surface is a plastic composite
material that can scratch and stain, however scratches can be buffed out.
Solid Surface is available in a wide variety of colors and custom edges,
and many of the manufacturers warranty this durable product.
Stainless Steel offers a classic commercial duality of aesthetics and function
in the kitchen. A very durable product, Stainless Steel is an excellent surface
for food preparation and easy clean-up. Stainless Steel will scratch and over
time the work surface becomes “seasoned” with light scratching
evenly over the surface. This is not a drawback, it is just a part of the popular
Stainless Steel aesthetic.
|
|
