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Kitchen countertops are equally functional and decorative. A beautiful countertop is a joy to beholdand to use, which makes your choice of material pretty important. Granite remains one of the most popular choices for kitchen countertops for a lot of good reasons: Its durable, beautiful, and easy to keep clean (and not so hard to repair, either). But there is one potential downside to granite countertopsmaintenance.

Granite seems like a solid hunk of impenetrable material, but its actually very penetrable: Granite is a relatively porous stone, and it absorbs water and other liquids easily. That can lead to staining and damage over time, shortening the useful lifespan of your countertops. As a result, most granite counters have to be sealed in some way to prevent those liquids from penetrating. It isnt difficult or expensive, but if you seal an already-sealed countertop youll do more harm than goodit can result in a hazy film that you wont be able to get rid of. So if youre concerned about properly maintaining your granite countertops, how can you tell when they need to be resealed?

Depending on where your granite countertop was bought, who installed it, and the specific type of granite used, your countertops may have been pre-sealed. If you bought them new, you can check the paperwork associated with themmany granite countertops come pre-sealed with a specific guarantee of 10-20 years before the seal will fail you. If thats the case, your countertops probably dont need sealing until after that has expired, at the very earliest. Realistically, though, you probably didn't keep those papers.

If you inherited your countertops or theyre a bit older, one clear sign that they need to be sealed is frequent staining. Its true that even a properly sealed countertop will stain if you leave something like red wine or pizza sauce sitting on it for a long time, but if your counters are easily stained regularly, you probably need to seal them (after a proper cleaning). Just let the water fully evaporate before you do the workthe dark water stain should fade in a day or so.

If youre not sure, there's a simple test you can try. Pour about a quarter cup of water on the counter and track how long it takes to be absorbed. Anything less than half an hour means you should consider sealing your counters sooner rather than later. If the water just soaks right in immediately, you should reseal it as soon as you reasonably can. And if the water never absorbs and just sits there forever, the seal is in great shape and you can leave it be, though you should repeat the test annually. Its also a good idea to perform this test in a few different spots.

You can also perform this test with a small amount of oil (a few drops should be sufficient), just be sure to choose a spot where a stain wont be noticeable. If the oil soaks in within 15 minutes, your countertops need sealing.

The good news is, sealing a granite countertop isnt difficult. After cleaning, just pick up a bottle of high-quality sealant and apply according to instructions. Generally speaking, this is just like cleaning your countersyou spray on the sealer, wipe it off, and then buff your counter with a dry cloth. If your countertops were very porous in your test, repeat the sealing process once or twice more for a good seal. After sealing and following instructions for dry times, repeat the water test to make sure that youve taken care of the problem. Granite countertops dont need much maintenanceas long as you keep them properly sealed.

And stop leaving your sticky wine glasses and pizza boxes lying around.

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How to Tell When Your Granite Countertop Needs to Be Resealed - Lifehacker

Aside from the risks, using your countertop as a bottle opener is a relatively straightforward process, which you can master with a bit of practice and finesse. First and foremost, you need to check that your countercomes to a sharp edgeso that the bottle cap can catch on the corner. Then, situate the edge under the lip of the cap, and you're ready to start smacking.

Once your bottle is in position, make sure that you have a good grasp on its body. You wouldn't want to drop your drink, and a good grip will improve your leverage with the countertop. Then, it's simply a matter of firmly hitting the top of the bottle with the palm of your hand. Your smack should separate the bottle from its cap, and voil you have yourself an open drink. However, before you start routinely opening your bottles on the countertop, you should be aware of some potential pitfalls.

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You Can Use Your Countertop To Open Bottles, But Be Careful - Daily Meal

I keep seeing lava stone countertops everywhere and I'm obsessed with the look. Its smooth surface has a subtle sheen and the nature of the material lends itself to being cut and molded to whatever shape you want. It's the perfect countertop material, not least because it's also a great way to bring natural stone to your kitchen, but lava stone offers a huge variety of colors and varying palettes you can play around with in the kitchen.

Marble and granite have long reined as king of the kitchen, with its beautiful veining bringing luxury to the space, but its environmental credentials leave a void for new material to take the kitchen crown. I think lava stone might just be it. Convinced? We speak to the designers to find out the merits and drawbacks of this interior design trend.

(Image credit: Hauvette Madani)

So what exactly is lava stone, well it's pretty much exactly how it sounds. It is extracted from natural volcanic rocks, mostly in continental Europe. Lava stone's geographical home means it's not quite reached the States yet, but we think it's on the up and predict it will be crossing the pond soon.

Lava is finished with an enamel glaze and fired at high heat for that characteristically smooth finish, available in a kaleidoscope of beautiful colors, perfect for any style of modern kitchen.In the kiln, the glazing fuses with the natural stone, creating little tonality differences according to the noble metals inside the natural stone,' says Roberta Cederholm of lava stone specialists, Made a Mano. 'So no two tabletops are the same.'

Their ability to stand such high temperatures stems from the 2,200 degree Fahrenheit climate its used to, so it's super durable when used in the kitchen. The overall look is sleek, with a subtle sheen that helps light bounce around the room.

'Additionally, lava stone requires minimal maintenance and does not need to be sealed, making it a practical choice for those who want a beautiful worktop without the hassle of extensive upkeep,' adds Olga Alexeeva from interior design studio, Black & Milk. 'With proper care, lava stone can last for decades, making it a long-lasting investment for homeowners.'

Outside of the aesthetic, lava stone is also believed to have magical properties, absorbing negative energy and bringing about calmness. They are often used in hot stone massages for this exact reason.

(Image credit: Paul Raeside. Design: K&H)

First up, and important for the kitchen, lava stone is resistant to heat (which doesn't come as much of a surprise given it starts life in a volcano). But it's also resistant to cold and any dramatic temperature changes - so hot pans placed straight on the surface won't change the patina. It's so resiliant that it doesnt scratch either, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't be using chopping boards.

'We only use natural materials in our furniture making and interior design and therefore often choose natural stone,' says Frdric Collette of Copenhagen-based furniture and kitchen makers, Kbenhavns Mbelsnedkeri.

There really arent any drawbacks; it is almost impossible to damage, adds Roberta. 'The glazed lava withstands knives, heat, pots, pans as opposed to most other glazed products that can break.'

Color is a huge factor as to why we are currently loving lava stone. The finish is beautiful and available in all kinds of pops and more subtle tones too, perfect for a colorful kitchen. 'On top of being one of the strongest and most easy-to-maintain natural stone for flooring, tabletops and glazed lava stone can be made in a wide pallet of colors and glaze structures, enabling us more freedom to design sustainable interiors with color,' says Frdric. However, be aware that once it's done, it's done, and you can refinish the material or change the color later down the line.

(Image credit: Made a Mano)

Another huge benefit is that it's sustainable and environmentally friendly. We're all aware of the dwindling resources of marble and granite, but lava stone is naturally occurring, so it's environmentally friendly (whereas marble kitchens involve chipping away at beautiful Italian mountainside).

We also use solar energy for the kilns and collect and recycle the water for the machines that cut the stone too, says Roberta. Apart from the eco-friendly production, the life expectancy of Made a Mano product far surpasses that of most other glazed products, which in itself makes it more sustainable.

(Image credit: Kbenhavns Mbelsnedkeri)

Unfortunately, the major drawback to lava stone is that it comes at a price of around $300 per square foot up to $3,000 per square foot and glazed. It's one of the more expensive kitchen countertop materials, similar to that of marble, mostly because of the shipping costs from Europe.

This means there are only a handful of suppliers who work with lava stone, and so you're paying for the experts who know a thing or two about the glazing process. But if you have the budget between marble and lava stone, you might be more drawn to the latter because of its environmental credentials.

Its top of the table range and neither cheap to make nor to buy,' points out Roberta. 'It should be considered a long-term investment. A Made a Mano tabletop will last you for generations, and we accordingly offer a lifetime guarantee on our products.'

(Image credit: Kobenhavns Mobelsnedkeri)

When it comes to cleaning, you'll be glad to know that water poses no threat to the material, and no matter how hard you scrub, your chosen color won't fade. This is because the lava stone provides a non-porous surface, so you shouldn't be wary of stains or damage from chemicals either.

Really, all you need is your cleaning spray, cloth, and a bit of elbow grease. With proper care, your lava stone countertop can last for decades.

Lava Stone Mortar and Pestle

French kitchen marble butter keeper

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I'm obsessed with this new kitchen countertop trend - LivingEtc

Sprawling Estate located on a 7.5-acre private peninsula of Lake Harding with 2,300ft of shoreline and picturesque views located on 5,850 acre reservior. This exquisite Historical home, originally constructed in 1917 offers distinctive craftsmanship and architectural design with modern amenities. Truly an entertainer's paradise inside and out from the lakefront pool, rooftop terraces, and enchanting garden paths to the generously sized great room with soaring ceilings, custom coffering, walls of windows and a grand fireplace. Overall, this garden is a testament to careful planning, decades of nurturing, and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the area. The mature trees and shrubs provide a sense of timelessness and elegance, while the colorful flowers and serene water views create a sense of joy and tranquility. 2,100 bottle wine cellar. Numerous terraces and 5 docks stun guests on the perfectly manicured grounds. An underground parking garage with room for up to 12 vehicles with temperature control and an enclosed boathouse with 4 bays. An elevator accesses all 4 levels of the home. Geothermal system and HVAC. Conveniently located 1.5 hours South of ALT Airport, 30+ minutes to Auburn, AL and Columbus, GA Regional airports, shopping, country clubs, Callaway Gardens, Grand National Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, and dining and more.

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Historical homes you can own in the Opelika area - Opelika Auburn News

MOVE IN READY! 10K Closing cost plus free refrigerator and blinds with use of APPROVED LENDER. Living up to its namesake, The Kingsley plan is regal, exquisite, and elegant. A plan designed to fit even the most royal needs. The covered entry opens to the large flex room and cozy entry way. Always dreamed of a home office, home gym, or even just a quiet place to relax? The flex room gives you the freedom to make those dreams a reality any way you want! The foyer also leads into an open-concept kitchen and great room. The kitchen is complete with a vast island and ample counter space. The great room leads to the master retreat at the rear of the house. The master suite boasts a double vanity, garden tub, and walk-in closet. The 2 other bedrooms are located on the side of the house and share a hallway bathroom. The laundry room is connected to the 2-car garage, creating a perfect space to kick off those muddy shoes before going inside. Lot 10,

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Newly constructed houses you can buy in Dothan - Dothan Eagle

Here's a home to build a dream on! As you enter into The Montclair floor plan you are greeted by the 2-story ceiling foyer! This lovely home showcases 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3-car garage, detailed trim work, crown molding, 9' ceilings on main, an elegant & cheery dining room that put graciousness back into entertaining, living room/study offers infinite adaptability to any decor or color scheme, primary suite on main with faux coffered ceiling, two separate closets, ensuite bath with 1/2 wall tile shower, and framed mirror over granite vanity. Oversize great room flows effortless to breakfast nook and kitchen which is perfect for entertaining! Kitchen with island, granite countertops, stainless steel-appliances with pyramid-style vented hood and a Gourmet-style wall microwave. Leading to second floor is highlighted by oak tread stairs and wrought iron railings you will find an oversize loft! 4th bedrooms with full bath. This home has so much to offer.!

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Newly constructed houses you can buy in Greensboro - Greensboro News & Record

Come Fly With Me! Situated across from Ocean City's famous Airport and Golf Course, you will find this incredible Single Family Home with a separate 2 bedroom apartment, mother-in-law suite, air bnb rental, and overflow! There is ample space for the entire family with over 3200 square feet, 5 Bedrooms, and 3.5 Bathrooms, which also includes a Bonus 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom REAR COTTAGE! Upon entering the home, you will find a FIRST FLOOR en-suite bedroom and a full bathroom. A welcoming living room that flows into the spacious kitchen and dining area, the perfect layout for entertaining, as it opens to the family room, a gathering space to pile in and enjoy Sunday Football with family and friends. The BRAND NEW Kitchen is the focal point of the home. Amenities include a ceramic tile backsplash, quartz countertops with a breakfast bar, custom cabinetry, a built-in bar, and a spacious walk-in pantry with ample storage and shelving. Also on this level is a half bathroom and access to the rear cottage. The second floor holds the remaining four bedrooms, two full baths, and a laundry room. This captivating single-family home perfectly blends coastal living and modern comforts, as it has been entirely renovated! This property has a host of appealing features, including luxury laminate flooring, brand-new bathrooms, paint, trim, dual-zoned heating, and air conditioning for maximum comfort. The Rear Cottage/ Apartment is an incredible opportunity to utilize this space as an in-law suite, overflow for guests, or, better yet, its private access provides an opportunity to earn rental income, making it a phenomenal investment. The additional space offers 2 generously sized bedrooms, a full bathroom, a living room, a dining area, a kitchen, a laundry closet, and a balcony! This property has rear alley access, two car attached garage, parking for 5, and numerous outdoor living spaces, including a spacious and functional front deck, a rear deck ideal for BBQs and gatherings, and the second-floor cottage deck that provides breathtaking views of the Bay and Wetlands!

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South Jersey homes for big families - Press of Atlantic City

October 11, 2023 at 8:00 a.m. EDT

Birchwood at Brambleton a 55-and-older community of single-family houses, brownstone townhouses and courtyard houses is the newest section of the Brambleton planned community in Loudoun County, Va. Brambleton, about 30 miles west of Washington, was established in 2001 near Ashburn (and has an Ashburn mailing address). The community has athletic courts, pools, trails and other recreation areas and is near shopping at the Brambleton Town Center. Some new social and recreation facilities are specific to the Birchwood section.

Birchwood single-family houses and brownstones, some already built but none move-in ready, are now on the market. Sales for courtyard houses will begin later this year. Buyers are offered a selection of some exterior and interior features. Exteriors have brick and vinyl siding with masonry veneer accents.

The Miraval brownstone is Birchwoods elevator townhouse floor plan.

The first floor has a foyer and a two-car garage, both with access to a room that could be a recreation room or a bedroom. A powder room or a full bathroom and a backyard patio are options.

The second floor has an open-concept kitchen, dining area and great room. A powder room comes standard. Options include a deck and a gas fireplace. The deck can be fully or partially screened.

The third floor has a primary bedroom suite with en suite bathroom. It also has a laundry room and the choice of either two more bedrooms and a hall bathroom or a second bedroom with en suite bathroom.

The elevator serves all floors. Hardwood floors are standard in the foyer, powder room, kitchen, elevator, and entry from the garage. Buyers select flooring for the rest of the townhouse.

The Delano single-family house, also with an elevator, has two floors and a lower level.

The first floor has a front porch next to a two-car garage. The entry foyer leads to the open-concept kitchen, dining area and great room. This level also has a pantry and a powder room. Options include decks off the dining area and great room. The back deck, off the great room, can be fully or partially screened.

The second floor has a loft, furnished as an office in the decorated model. The primary bedroom suite has an en suite bathroom and a walk-in closet. The laundry room can be accessed from that closet or the hall. Two more bedrooms share a hall bathroom.

The lower level has storage areas and optional finished rooms. The decorated model has two recreation rooms; one has wood cabinets with black marble countertops.

Hardwood floors are standard in the foyer, powder room, kitchen, great room, dining room, elevator, and entry off the garage. Buyers select flooring for the rest of the house.

Buyers have some choices for kitchen fixture finishes and countertop material. And optional upgrades are available for appliances.

The kitchen of the Miraval furnished model townhouse has light gray cabinets and stainless-steel Samsung appliances, including a double wall oven and three-door refrigerator. It has a white quartz countertop with a gas cooktop and white subway tile backsplash. A dishwasher is installed in the island, which has a sink with a black Kohler faucet and a brown granite countertop.

The kitchen of the Delano furnished model home has natural-wood-finish cabinets, white quartz countertops, and a stone-look tile backsplash. It also has stainless-steel Jennair appliances, including a double wall oven and three-door refrigerator. The cabinets and countertop in the pantry match those in the kitchen. Both places have black Kohler faucets.

The Miraval brownstone has a powder room and two or three full bathrooms. The decorated model unit has a powder room on the second floor and two full bathrooms on the third floor. All have black Kohler fixtures, and the full bathrooms have gray cabinets that match those in the kitchen. The half-bath has a pedestal sink.

The primary bathroom has a double-sink vanity with a white quartz countertop. The shower has a bench and a stone-look-tile shower surround. The bathroom floor matches the shower surround and the shower floor has matching small tiles. The secondary suite has a shower and a single-sink vanity with a white cultured marble countertop. The shower surround and bathroom floor are gray tile that match the smaller shower floor tiles.

The Delano has a powder room and two or three full bathrooms. The decorated model home has a full bathroom on the lower level, a powder room on the first floor and two full bathrooms on the second floor. All have black Kohler fixtures. The full baths have natural-wood cabinets that match those in the kitchen. The lower-level bathroom has a tub-shower combination with white subway tile shower surround, gray floor tile and a single-sink vanity with a white marble countertop. The powder room has a pedestal sink.

The second-floor primary bath has a walk-in shower with a bench. The shower surround and bathroom floor are marble-look tile, and the shower floor has similar but smaller tile. The double-sink vanity has a white quartz countertop. The hall bathroom has a tub-shower combo with a white subway tile shower surround, gray floor tile and a single-sink vanity with white cultured marble countertop.

When completed, the Birch House 55+ Exclusive Club House will include social gathering spaces, exercise rooms, covered outdoor seating and bocce courts. In the established section of Birchwood at Brambleton across Loudoun County Parkway, there is a clubhouse that has a demonstration kitchen, flex space for yoga classes, arts and crafts classes, game rooms, a golf simulator, and indoor and outdoor pools. Outside there are trails, bocce and Pickleball courts and a fishing pier on Lake Birchwood.

Brambleton Town Center is about two miles away. Bram Quarter is adjacent to Birchwood at Brambleton. It now provides space to the Brambleton Welcome Center, a Miller and Smith sales office and a dental center but will eventually be further developed into retail and commercial space.

Birchwood at Brambleton has walking trails and green space. Lake Birchwood is surrounded by trails and green spaces. Brambleton Regional Park and Golf Course is less than five miles away. Stream Valley Park and Broad Run Trail are adjacent to the community.

Ashburn Metrorail station, on the Silver Line, is four miles away.

Birchwood at Brambleton offers a variety of options in an active-adult community connected to the planned community of Brambleton. Tracy Lamb, vice president of sales at Miller and Smith, said in an email that the available choices appeal to buyers. Buyers can customize cabinets, flooring, countertops (kitchen and bath), bath tile, appliances, and many structural components of the home as well. Its not a one size fits all as in other active adult communities, she said.

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Brownstones, single-family houses for 55-plus buyers in Loudoun, Va. - The Washington Post

Were not ashamed to admit we save, pin, and heart countless beautifully designed kitchens on our social media feeds. (We may not be in the middle of a renovation, but we can still dream, right?) So we were pumped when the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) recentlyreleased its 2024 Kitchen Trends report, which is a compilation of key insights from 630 industry professionals, like designers, manufacturers, contractors, and architects.

The report reveals the anticipated trends for the next three years (yes, you read that correctly! Three years!) in products, materials, and finishes for residential kitchens. In general, warm neutrals, lighter woods, and earth tones are growing in popularity, while stark white kitchens, gray cabinets, over-the-range microwaves, and trash compactors are on their way out. Read on to find out more details on what youll see in the newly designed kitchens of 2024.

For a while there, it seemed like black hardware was going to take the leading spot in terms of finish colors, but according to nearly 50 percent of respondents in the NKBA survey, gold will be number one for faucets, followed by stainless steel and black. When it comes to the actual finish, matte, brushed, or satin will be preferredprobably because they hide smudges and fingerprints way better than polished finishes! And on a related note, if youre curious about sink trends, the ultra cool workstation kitchen sink, (which usually features cutting boards, strainers, and drying rack) is becoming immensely popular.

CreativaStudio/GETTY IMAGES

The appeal behind the slab trend is very easy to see, or at least 61 percent of NKBA respondents see the appeal: Yes, it looks incredibly luxe, but there are also no grout lines to clean! Just a quick wipe means easy maintenance. One of the most popular slab choices is quartz. Other popular backsplash alternatives are patterned tile (like hex, chevron, and herringbone) and subway designs. In general, backsplash colors will feature warm neutrals, earth tones, and muted colors.

Peter Valli; Design by Jeanne Chung of CozyStylishChic

Bye, bye white kitchens! Well, sort of. Stark white kitchens are out, and creamy whites are in, in addition to wood tones. But the color thats really taking over for 32 percent of respondents is green, probably partly due to the rise in biophilic design, which tries to integrate nature into decor. Vicky Serany, co-founder of Southern Studio and NKBA member, says, The earthy comfort of green has been embraced by our clients recently. We have blended green cabinetry with natural wood and even creamy whites. For those clients who are a bit cautious of committing to green cabinetry, weve used a rich green backsplash with neutral painted cabinets with beautiful results.

The DIY trend of slapping a coat of paint onto cabinets is now fading into the distance, and were all hopping on the plain wood bandwagon. Jeanne Chung, principal designer of CozyStylishChic and NKBA member, confirms this saying, Natural wood is a must in the kitchen to give warmth. White oak and walnut have been at the top of the list in terms of trending wood species, and were also starting to use alder, as it stains nicely, has a nice grain pattern, and it does well in both modern and traditional settings. It has a neutral tone and doesn't feel as heavy and dated like some of the other wood species out there. In terms of cabinet style, NKBA reports that contemporary, modern, mid-century, and Scandinavian designs will be popular. Think flat panel designs that are free of hardware and feature push-to-open technology.

Adam Kane Macchia Photography; Design by Sarah Robertson of Studio Dearborn and AKBD

Music to our Real Simple ears: Tricked out cabinetry that prioritizes organization is in high demand. According to NKBA, more than 50 percent of respondents are looking for walk-in, butler, and built-in pantries! And 37 percent of homeowners want cabinets with customizable drawer dividers and partitions. Theres also a desire for more floor to ceiling cabinetry and deep lower cabinets to help maximize storage, plus more drawers and built in charging stations to improve cabinet functionality.

Dustin Peck Photography; Design by Vicky Serany of Southern Studio

Another microtrend thats on the rise? Beverage stations like coffee cabinets, smoothie centers, and wine bars. 60 percent of NKBA respondents anticipate adding this feature into their design layouts. The beauty of this trend is it can be quite simple, with just a little alcove dedicated to your choice of hydration, or it can be built out to include a mini fridge, sink, and other features.

Peter Valli; Design by Jeanne Chung of CozyStylishChic

A whopping 73 percent of respondents voted quartz as their countertop material of choice. Runners-up include quartzite, granite, sintered stone, and marble. Quartz is an easy-to-clean surface thats incredibly stain-resistant and heat-tolerant. Traditional countertop edges (like bullnose, beveled, or square) will still reign but waterfall styles will also be popular. In general, countertop colors will be lighter than cabinets and be honed or matte. According to NKBA, both natural and engineered surfaces will be popular.

Weve discussed before the importance of layered lighting when it comes to other spaces in the home, but it can be just as impactful in the kitchen. Designers are now folding more layers of lighting into their plans, including ambient, decorative, and nighttime lighting. Designer and NKBA member Julee Ireland says, Lighting is the jewelry to your home and creating layers from the ground up is so important. I love to use soft LED base lighting, especially around the island, under-cabinet lighting, cove lighting, and then something unique and spectacular over the kitchen island, and some wall sconces depending on the design. Technology is also playing a huge role with the lighting selections people are makingfixtures now need to come equipped with features like motion sensing, voice activation, and programmability to fit peoples lifestyles and schedules. When it comes to how lighting looks though, 54 percent of folks are opting for gold, brass, or copper fixture colors. Runners-up include black and silver.

Quiet luxury has taken on a whole new meaning in the kitchen. Designers are now extremely mindful of the noise levels their appliances emit, in addition to other raucous design elements like banging cabinet doors. For example, when looking for new dishwashers, nearly 65 percent favor an ultra-quiet model, while 41 percent are ditching the noisy trash compactor for standard pull-out receptacles. Soft push-to-open cabinet technology remains popular with almost 44 percent agreeing that homeowners are enjoying this clean approach to hardware.

Stacey Van Barkel Photography; Design by Vicky Serany of Southern Studio

In not-so-surprising news, stainless steel is still dominating the kitchen. There was a slight uptick of other appliance finishes (like glossy white and matte black) in recent years that hinted at a possible shift but we were mistaken! Stainless steel is still the number one choice, followed by paneling to match cabinet faces. If youre wondering what styles will trend: French door refrigerators will continue to be popular, and refrigerator drawers are becoming more mainstream. Gas ranges are on the decline, and invisible induction cooktops integrated into countertops are now in demand.

Adam Kane Macchia Photography; Design by Sarah Robertson, AKBD

Something you mightve noticed lately in high-end kitchens is fancy hoodsits a unique way to make a kitchen feel truly custom. According to NKBA, 67 percent of designers will choose to make it a focal point using wood, stainless steel, or a mix of materials or metals. 56 percent elected to make it a wood or painted wood, followed by stainless at 51 percent.

Rebecca McAlpin; Design by Lori Kurnitsky, NCIDQ with co-designers Olga Carlson and Michele Plachter

Kitchen islands arent exactly a new concept, but theyre getting bigger and better, with designers incorporating more storage, electronic features, seating, meal prep space, and more. 56 percent of respondents have plans to add a kitchen island or maximize the size of an existing one in future projects. In addition to functional needs, islands are becoming a design focal point with distinct color cabinetry and/or countertop. On that note, Ireland says, The island is a focal point and an opportunity to create a work of art by using a unique piece of stone, contrasting colors, or materials. I see it evolving into different shapes with the use of unique and textural cabinetry, like a fine furniture piece for your kitchen. Sarah Robertson, principal designer of Studio Dearborn, adds, I have seen interesting developments in island design trending away from all in a row island seating and towards wrap-around seating, which has always been a favorite layout of mine.

Reid Rolls; Design by Sandra Gjesdahl

This goes back to biophilic design, which we mentioned earlier. People are wanting to connect more with nature, and large windows, glass doors and window walls will help bring the outdoors into the kitchen. 66 percent of survey takers will work in larger windows on projects.

Its hard to write a trend story nowadays without touching on sustainability, as so many industry professionals are now making it a part of their mission statements. In fact, 51 percent of respondents consider the longevity of products when purchasing big-ticket items like appliances, with the ultimate goal of fewer replacements. Meanwhile, designers are aiming to reduce consumption through water-conserving and energy-efficient products. And when renovating a kitchen, more homeowners are donating their used products, with 43.5 percent of survey respondents reporting that they donated cabinetry and 37 percent reporting that they donated appliances. On a micro level, designers are prioritizing storage for recycling (52.5 percent) and composting (23 percent) in kitchens.

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14 Kitchen Trends Taking Over the Design Industry in 2024 - Real Simple

Luxurious 2020 Parade Home on Southside! This stunning ranch style home boasts a spacious open floorplan with 9ft ceilings, and a gourmet kitchen complete with a walk-in pantry. The main bedroom is your private oasis, featuring a soaker tub, tile shower, and heated floors, as well as dual sinks in the main bathroom and a generous walk-in closet. The lower level is designed for entertainment, with a full wall bar, home office space, a large rec area, additional bedrooms, and another full bathroom. Step into your private backyard retreat with a relaxing cement patio and enjoy the covered front porch. Extra amenities include an invisible electric fence (for pets), electric shades, and all major appliances that will stay just like new. Nestled in a peaceful cul-de-sac location, this home offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience. Don't miss your chance to make it yours!

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Newly constructed houses you can buy in Chippewa Falls - Chippewa Herald