By Designer: Gladys Schanstra, CKD / CBD,  Drury Design

Black Absolute Granite Countertop

Granite has been a longtime staple in the design industry and that is now a must for most upscale remodeling and new homes. Dating back to ancient times, granite has been used in all kinds of construction from temples to headstones. It's a favorite material for its hardness and durability; for its variety; and for its beauty.

Stone suppliers began polishing granite in the 1830s but its popularity has soared within the last two decades as a kitchen countertop material. It is the most durable of stones; its hardness is second only to diamonds. Granite counertops can withstand heat and are a favorite with chefs since hot pots can be set directly on them. The cool surface also makes a granite countertop excellent for rolling out dough.

It is a also practical material for bathrooms – often being used as a countertop, threshold material and shelf material for shower niches and cubbies.

Though granite is durable, it is not indestructible. The surface is sealed by the fabricators, yet it can still stain like all natural stones. Generally, the darker the material, the denser it is, and the less susceptible to staining. For example, black absolute granite is denser than coast green.

Granite's variety allows it to be suitable for every style – whether it’s complimenting a traditional Tuscan kitchen or a contemporary Zen bathroom. Colors range from whites to browns, to blues, reds, greens and beige. There are varied patterns, from tightly packed granules to large sweeping movements. Being a natural material, no two stones are alike, which makes each installation unique. Some of the pieces are quite a work of art.

Coast Green Granite Countertop

There are several factors to consider when selecting granite countertops. The first is usually which granite works with your color scheme and style. The next is what thickness to use. Slabs generally come in ¾” (2cm) or 1-1/4” (3cm). For kitchens, the 1-1/4” is recommended since it is sturdier. The ¾” is a good thickness for backsplashes and thresholds, though each space is different and the application should be the determining factor on which thickness is appropriate.

The edge detail is another area where there are plenty of options ranging from square eased to cove ogee. Besides style, consider the function before making the final selection. For example, a full bullnose edge may be suitable for a conference table, but not for akitchen countertop since the full curve of the bullnose tends to draw the water back into the cabinet and cause damage. The radius of corners is another consideration.

Good fabricators will work with the homeowner to measure and template before cutting the stones. The homeowner can then pre-approve the templates and actually lay them out on the granite slabs. This is particularly important especially when you have a material with a lot of movement so the client can determine exactly which portion of the granite they want to use. This is also a time when they can eliminate natural anomalies on the granite such as dark spots or fissures. Often, the sink cutout can be placed to take out these spots.

Seams are sometimes a necessary nuisance. Depending on the design and layout, seams may be inevitable. They can be strategically placed where they are less noticeable such as corners and below cabinets that sit on the countertop. Again, a good fabricator has techniques that will make the gap between each slab as small as possible.

Please click each thumbnail to see how beautifully granite countertops enhance a kitchen or bath design.

Aurora Gold Granite Countertop ties all three cabinet colors together in this Tuscan kitchen. Ogee edge is used.

Wild Sea Granite is used as the countertop, bench seat, ledge cap, and shower threshold and niche shelf in this Asian-inspired bathroom.

Golden Lightning Granite was used for the countertop and a full height backsplash. Its striking color and sweeping pattern make it a good choice for adding a decorative factor. It’s also practical because it’s easy to clean.