Granite (Boston Granite Exchange)

Granite countertops have long been a staple in high-end homes, and their popularity continues to rise in suburban kitchens and bathrooms. Offering a perfect balance of beauty, durability, and functionality, granite is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking long-lasting quality and timeless appeal. 

Whether you’re remodeling a suburban kitchen or building a new home, granite countertops can enhance the aesthetic and value of your living space. Let’s explore why granite is the ideal material for suburban homes.

Timeless Beauty and Elegance

One of the most significant advantages of granite countertops is their natural beauty. Each granite slab is unique, with its own set of patterns, veining, and color variations. From deep earth tones to light, airy hues, granite offers a wide range of options to match any interior design style. Whether your suburban home has a traditional, transitional, or modern aesthetic, granite countertops can elevate the overall design.

Granite’s luxurious appearance creates a sophisticated and timeless look that is always in demand. Unlike trends that come and go, granite countertops maintain their appeal year after year, ensuring that your home remains stylish for the long haul. As a result, granite is an investment that will not only enhance the beauty of your home but also help retain its value.

Exceptional Durability and Longevity

Granite is one of the most durable materials available for countertops. Known for its strength and resilience, granite is highly resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks. This makes it perfect for busy households, especially in suburban homes where cooking, entertaining, and family activities often take place.

The hardness of granite also makes it less likely to be damaged by everyday use, such as cutting, prepping, or handling hot pots and pans. 

In fact, granite can withstand high temperatures, meaning you don’t need to worry about accidentally placing a hot pan directly on the surface. (That said, you should be careful and use trivets or hot pads– while granite won’t be damaged by heat, the sealant that protects it can be!) For a material that can handle the rigors of daily life while still looking pristine, granite is unmatched.

Low Maintenance and Easy to Care For

Suburban homeowners often seek materials that require minimal upkeep, and granite countertops are known for being low-maintenance. 

While granite does need to be sealed periodically to maintain its resistance to stains and moisture, this process is simple and infrequent. Unlike other natural stones like marble, which can be highly porous and prone to staining, granite is relatively stain-resistant, making it ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.

Daily cleaning of granite countertops is as easy as wiping them down with a mild dish soap and a soft cloth. With proper care, granite can maintain its shine and appearance for decades. This ease of maintenance is a key reason why granite is so popular in suburban homes where homeowners want beauty without the hassle of constant upkeep.

Adds Value to Your Home

One of the most significant benefits of installing granite countertops in a suburban home is the value they can add. Granite is highly regarded for its quality, and many homebuyers view granite countertops as a desirable feature. It’s considered a premium material that is associated with upscale living. If you plan to sell your home in the future, investing in granite countertops can increase its market appeal and potentially lead to a higher resale price.

Moving Forward with Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are an ideal choice for suburban homes, offering unmatched beauty, durability, and value. If you’re ready to elevate your home with high-quality granite countertops, KG Stevens is here to help. 

We love helping homeowners like you find the perfect granite to suit their needs and style preferences. Contact us today for a free quote!

When planning a kitchen renovation, you need to pick the perfect countertop material. Granite countertops have become a favorite among homeowners for their beauty and durability.

Here are ten reasons why granite countertops are perfect for your kitchen renovation.

1. Timeless Beauty

Granite countertops have a timeless beauty that enhances any kitchen design. With a wide range of colors and patterns available, granite can complement any style, from traditional to contemporary.

Each slab of granite is unique, ensuring your countertop will be one-of-a-kind. 

2. Durability

Granite is one of the hardest natural stones, making it incredibly durable. It can withstand the daily wear and tear of a busy kitchen without showing signs of damage.

Granite countertops resist scratches, heat, and stains, ensuring they maintain their beauty for years to come. 

3. Low Maintenance

Granite countertops are relatively low maintenance. With proper sealing, granite surfaces become resistant to stains and bacteria.

Cleaning granite is simple; just use mild soap and water to keep your countertops looking sparkling clean. The sealing process helps to prevent liquids from penetrating the stone and lets you avoid stains.

4. Heat Resistance

Granite’s natural heat resistance makes it an excellent choice for kitchen countertops. You can place hot pots and pans directly on the surface without worrying about damage.

This feature is especially beneficial for avid cooks and bakers. The ability to handle high temperatures without damage means fewer interruptions in the kitchen workflow. This heat resistance extends the lifespan of your countertops, as they are less likely to suffer thermal shock or other heat-related issues.

5. Adds Value to Your Home

Installing granite countertops can increase the value of your home. Potential buyers often see granite as a premium feature, which can make your property more attractive on the market.

The investment in granite countertops can yield significant returns when it’s time to sell. Homebuyers appreciate the durability, aesthetic appeal, and low maintenance of granite, making it a sought-after feature in the real estate market.

6. Variety of Colors and Patterns

Granite is available in a stunning variety of colors and patterns. Whether you prefer a classic black or white countertop, or a more exotic red or blue, there is a granite slab that will suit your taste.

The natural variations in granite ensure that no two countertops are exactly alike. From subtle, understated hues to bold, striking colors, granite provides endless design possibilities.

7. Eco-Friendly

Granite is a natural material that is quarried from the earth. Choosing granite for your countertops means opting for an eco-friendly option.

Additionally, granite is long-lasting, reducing the need for replacements and the associated environmental impact. The durability and longevity of granite mean fewer resources are used over time, making it a sustainable choice.

8. Scratch Resistance

Granite countertops are highly resistant to scratches. This makes them ideal for busy kitchens where knives and other sharp objects are frequently used. While it’s always best to use cutting boards, granite can handle the occasional mishap without sustaining damage.

This scratch resistance maintains the countertop’s smooth, attractive surface over time, ensuring that it continues to look as good as new.

9. Easy Repairs

Repairs are relatively straightforward in the rare event that your granite countertop gets chipped or damaged. Professionals can fill in chips and cracks with color-matched epoxy, restoring your countertop to its original beauty.

These repairs are typically quick and seamless, leaving no noticeable marks. The ease of repair adds to granite’s appeal as a low-maintenance option.

10. Easy Hygiene

Granite countertops offer a hygienic surface for food preparation. When properly sealed, granite is resistant to bacteria and mold, making it a safe and clean surface for cooking.

This hygienic quality is especially important in kitchens where food safety is a top priority. Granite’s non-porous surface, once sealed, does not harbor germs, ensuring a healthier environment for meal preparation and overall kitchen cleanliness.

 Upgrade Your Kitchen with KG Stevens

Granite countertops offer numerous benefits that make them an ideal choice for your kitchen renovation. Their durability, beauty, and low maintenance make them a smart investment that you can enjoy for years.

If you are considering granite for your next kitchen upgrade, KG Stevens provides a wide selection of high-quality granite and professional installation services. Get in touch with us today for a free quote and start transforming your kitchen!

Granite countertops are a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their beauty and durability. However, several myths and misconceptions about granite can make it difficult to make an informed decision.

That’s why we’re here! At KG Stevens, we know granite inside and out. Today, let’s debunk some of the most common granite countertop myths and provide you with the facts.

Myth 1: Granite Countertops Are Indestructible

While granite is one of the hardest natural materials available for countertops, it is not indestructible. Granite can withstand a lot of wear and tear, but it is still susceptible to chipping and cracking if heavy objects are dropped on it or if it is subjected to extreme force.

Proper care and maintenance are essential to keep your granite countertops in excellent condition.

Myth 2: Granite Countertops Are Too Expensive

Many people believe that granite countertops are prohibitively expensive, but this is not always the case. The cost of granite can vary widely depending on the type, color, and source of the stone.

There are many affordable granite options available that can fit within a range of budgets. Additionally, the long-term durability and value granite adds to your home can make it a worthwhile investment.

Myth 3: Granite Is High-Maintenance

Granite countertops are actually quite low-maintenance compared to other materials. Once properly sealed, granite is resistant to stains and easy to clean with mild soap and water.

It does not require daily scrubbing or special cleaners. Periodic resealing, typically once a year, helps maintain its protective layer and keep it looking beautiful.

Myth 4: Granite Harbors Bacteria

There is a common misconception that granite is porous and can harbor bacteria. In reality, granite is less porous than other natural stones and, when properly sealed, is highly resistant to bacteria and other pathogens. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is sufficient to keep your granite countertops sanitary.

Myth 5: All Granite Looks the Same

Granite is a natural stone, and each slab is unique with its own patterns, colors, and veining. There is a wide variety of granite available, ranging from subtle, uniform patterns to dramatic, bold veining.

This diversity allows homeowners to choose a granite countertop that perfectly matches their style and design preferences.

Myth 6: Granite Countertops Emit Harmful Radon Gas

Have you heard this one? Concerns about granite emitting harmful levels of radon gas have been largely debunked by scientific research.

Studies have shown that the levels of radon gas emitted by granite countertops are negligible and not harmful to human health; you’re in more danger from bananas and the dirt outside. The EPA says that granite is safe for use in homes and poses no significant health risks.

Myth 7: Granite Stains Easily

Granite is highly resistant to stains, especially when it is properly sealed. While it is true that lighter-colored granites can show stains more easily than darker ones, most spills can be cleaned up quickly with no lasting impact.

Regular sealing helps protect the surface and maintain its resistance to staining.

Myth 8: Granite Colors Fade Over Time

Granite countertops do not fade over time when used indoors. The colors and patterns of granite are stable and will remain vibrant for many years.

However, granite can fade if exposed to prolonged direct sunlight, so it is best to avoid placing granite countertops in areas with significant UV exposure.

Myth 9: Granite Is Difficult to Repair

While granite is very durable, it is not immune to damage. Chips, cracks, and scratches can occur, but they are often repairable. Professional stone repair specialists can fix many types of damage to granite countertops, restoring them to their original beauty. It is important to address any damage promptly to prevent it from worsening.

Understanding the facts about granite countertops can help you make an informed decision for your kitchen or bathroom renovation. Granite is a durable, beautiful, and versatile material that can add significant value to your home.

By debunking these common myths, KG Stevens hopes to provide you with the confidence to choose granite for your next project. Get in touch with us today for a free quote for your granite countertop project!

The kitchen is the lifeblood of any home. It’s a space where culinary artistry and interior design come together. Add technology into the mix, and you’ve got everything you need.

As our lifestyles continue to evolve around technology, so does our approach to cooking and dining. Today, we’re taking a look at innovative smart kitchens. We’ll explore how integrating technology into countertops can revolutionize modern living.

From convenience to efficiency, discover how these advancements are reshaping the culinary landscape.

The Evolution of Kitchen Technology

We’ve come a long way from wood-burning stoves and ice boxes. Still, even today, the kitchen is a special place in any home.

We also find ourselves amid a digital revolution in which smart technology seamlessly integrates into countertop surfaces. Gone are the days of standalone gadgets. Now our kitchen countertops are becoming interactive hubs, facilitating tasks with unprecedented ease.

This evolution reflects a greater desire for efficiency, convenience, and a harmonious amalgamation of tradition and innovation.

The Numerous Advantages of Smart Countertops

Smart countertops offer a plethora of advantages that enhance the functionality and convenience of contemporary kitchens. Firstly, they make daily tasks easier by integrating various technologies directly into your workspace.

From touch-screen interfaces to recipe browsing and built-in scales for precise measurements, these countertops greatly simplify the cooking process.

Moreover, smart countertops contribute to energy efficiency and sustainability efforts. Features like sensor-activated lighting and temperature control help minimize wasted energy and resources. As such, smart countertops can be an environmentally friendly addition to any kitchen.

Smart countertops also promote connectivity, allowing seamless interaction with other smart devices throughout your home. Whether it’s syncing recipes with smart ovens or controlling kitchen appliances remotely with a smartphone app—the integration of technology allows for a more cohesive living experience.

Furthermore, smart countertops can improve safety by including features such as built-in induction cooktops with automatic shut-off mechanisms that reduce the risk of accidents.

The Latest Innovations in Smart Kitchen Technology

Technology is helping push the boundaries of what we thought possible in kitchen spaces. One notable trend is the integration of smart features directly into natural stone or quartz surfaces. This combines aesthetics with functionality flawlessly.

These surfaces can now incorporate touch-sensitive displays, wireless charging capabilities, and even built-in induction cooktops. Such transformative features are turning kitchens into vibrant, interactive hubs for cooking and entertainment.

Moreover, advancements in voice-activated technology enable hands-free control of kitchen appliances and tasks. This dramatically enhances convenience and accessibility for users. Additionally, smart kitchen systems can now utilize artificial intelligence to learn user preferences and even suggest personalized recipes or meal plans based on things like ingredient availability and dietary restrictions.

All of these innovations signify a steady shift toward more intuitive and interconnected kitchen environments, promising a future of enhanced efficiency and enjoyment in our culinary pursuits.

What Does the Future Hold?

As we journey through the latest trends in modern kitchen design, it’s clear that smart countertops are changing the way homeowners think about kitchens. From streamlining daily tasks to promoting more sustainability and safety, the benefits are undeniable.

As you consider upgrading your kitchen, explore some of the latest innovations in smart kitchen technology.

Before you get started on your next kitchen renovation project, get in touch with the professionals at . Our team of experts specializes in crafting bespoke solutions that are tailored to your needs. We proudly serve homeowners, home builders, remodelers, and commercial builders.

Contact us today to elevate your kitchen to new heights, and learn to embrace the future of smart kitchen technology in your new countertops.

While we often think of granite as being a highly varied, unique type of stone that gives us stunning arrangements of various colors and shades, the truth is that granite can also be an amazing choice for minimal spaces, even with its exciting nature. With a wide variety in its natural patterns, granite comes in a wide range of colors and configurations, offering us a wide range of granite countertop slabs that are amazing in a minimalist design. Let’s explore.

The Elegance of Granite in Minimalist Interiors

One of the things that granite offers is a strong sense of elegance. There’s something inherently impressive about granite’s natural patterns, showing us the raw beauty of the stone. But that isn’t the only reason why granite can be an excellent choice for a minimalist design.

When creating a space, there are some important principles that underpin minimalist design.
To better understand how granite fits in, let’s focus for a moment on two of the most important principles: negative space and simplicity.

Granite can offer us both. Darker granite can be used to create a texturally flat negative space (through patterns with a high degree of homogeneity or repetition) that exudes elegance and simplicity and can even become the focal point of the space. Similarly, light-colored granite countertops can offer negative space against which darker colors pop.

Practical Advantages of Utilizing Granite in Minimalist Spaces

In addition to its adherence to minimalist design principles when used properly, granite is also a highly practical choice in the kitchen, aligning well with the spirit of minimalism. Granite is known to exhibit a high degree of resistance to staining when it’s been sealed properly, and it also offers an extremely hard, difficult-to-scratch surface, as well as a high degree of resistance to heat—meaning that, at the end of the day, granite is extremely practical for kitchens.

Granite Color Options for Minimalist Design

Remember how we discussed simplicity and negative space, two vital design principles in minimalist design? To create the contrast needed to generate negative space from our granite countertop, we need to carefully select the color based on existing design elements.

Whether we want the countertop to present a striking contrast to the rest of the room or seamlessly blend in, we’ll need to consider whether the room is dark or light overall and what the dominant colors in the space are. For example, in a darker room in which you want more contrast, a lighter granite with a flat texture may be key, but if you’re seeking that seamless blend, a darker granite may be key. For a lighter room, simply reverse those.

Finally, ensure that you don’t introduce too many new colors. Since simplicity is a vital part of minimalist design, you’ll likely want to avoid introducing too many colors in one space. Take note of existing colors in that space, and look for those colors in the stones you look at.

Leaning on Granite as a Focal Point

Because simplicity is an important consideration in minimalist design, granite can present us with a unique opportunity to create a singular consolidated focal point.

Imagine a starkly lit kitchen with light walls contrasted by neatly arranged, dark cabinets; in the center, picture a gorgeous single slab of dark granite with striking yet simple natural veining running through it. It’s only natural for our eyes to fall first on the focal point—the gorgeous countertop. This is just one example of how granite countertops can be a stunning focal point in a minimalist design.

Ready to Discover Beautiful Granite Countertops for Your Home?

If you’re ready to take the next step, don’t hesitate to get in touch. At K.G. Stevens, we specialize in the fabrication and installation of countertops in a variety of materials, including quartz, natural stone (including granite), and solid surface.

If you’re ready to create your stunning minimalist space, get your free consultation today.