***SNEAK PREVIEW***

It's been some time since my last post, nine months! Amongst the typical family matters, I've been gestating on some new career ventures. Here's the short list:

• I am now a certified Aging in Place designer (CAPS).
• Bathroom remodel published in Today's Home Bay Area, second publication pending.
• Co-launched my husband's new company (he's a furniture manufacturers' representative). Side note: it's sooo much fun getting to preview new styles and products he sells!
• My daughter turned 2 (she's now 2.5). Side note: potty training is not fun!
• I had my first successful vegetable harvest.

• Launched independent furnishings venture. Here's a proof of my first marketing postcard:
  
  
  
  
  

  ***All referrals are welcomed, get your Design Fix on!***

Countertops That Count - Part 1

Replacing your kitchen countertops may be easier than you think! Yet with the abundance of product on the market, it can still be dizzying trying to compare performance, quality and price...

The next few entries will be dedicated to a few of these material options.

Granite:
Granite is a natural stone product that used to be the 'premium' material in kitchens. However, as availability has increased to meet with demand, prices for common species are now extremely competitive. Granites like St. Cecilia (image shown below) are staples and can be purchased in 'prefab' sizes (26"x96").

Pros:

• Resistant to scratching and etching caused by the typical kitchen utensil and acidic substances
• Prefab options also provide a 4"splash
• Each slab is uniquely different

Pitfalls:

• Granite has a range of "movement" so, any seams that will occur will be noticeable
• Though a dense material, granite is still porous to some degree and therefore susceptable to staining.
• Requires maintanence and sealing
• Only as good as the installer. Regardless of the money you saved buying a prefab slab or the money you spent on a exotic granite, a bad installation will be bain of your new(er) kitchen.