Academy Blog

7 Quartz Countertop Myths Debunked

Interior of a kitchen with quartz countertopsQuartz countertops are one of the most durable types of countertops and although they have been around for a long while, it’s not until recently that we’ve seen more and more people selecting quartz for either their kitchens and bathrooms.  But amazingly, as quartz countertops increase in popularity, so do the misconceptions around quartz. … MORE


8 Natural Stones Now Trending in Connecticut’s Luxury Homes

Interior of modern kitchenWhile natural stone surfaces rarely go out of style, there are certain colors of stone that are more trendy and popular in Connecticut’s luxury homes than others. Natural stone has always been a popular choice among architects and builders for landscape design, kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor kitchens, and flooring. Its durability, aesthetics and classic appeal are a given, but more and more homeowners are bringing their own sense of color and style to the design process, and this is what they’re choosing.

… MORE


Santa Cecilia Granite: A Sure Bet for Most Any Kitchen Design

Granite kitchen countertopGranite has long been a solid choice for kitchens, especially given the variety of different granite colors and slabs available. Although it is commonly used for kitchen countertops, people also love it for flooring, tiling around a fireplace, as a backsplash or even in the bathroom around the tub since granite can withstand all the elements, which even makes it an ideal option for outside use. But among all the granites, Santa Cecilia Granite has established itself as a popular choice among homebuyers and designers looking for an always satisfying, versatile natural stone surface. … MORE


Choosing Granite Countertop Finishes

Interior kitchen countertopOne of the most appealing features of granite countertops are the variety of finishes you can choose to highlight the elements of your slab. If you’re like many homeowners, granite is a go-to option when it’s time to upgrade from an outdated counter. And, there’s a reason for that.

Granite is available in hundreds of colors, including shades of white, black, gray, green, blue, red, pink, yellow and tan. The colors can be bold or muted, patterned, speckled, dotted, veined or a combination. Because each piece of granite is made from a unique mineral makeup, each stone countertop is a unique work of art. And if that wasn’t enough, granite is more than just art. It’s a workhorse in the kitchen. The sharpest knives won’t scratch it, and a bubbling pot won’t mar it. It’s just about as close to the perfect countertop that a homeowner can select.

… MORE



Comparing Caesarstone vs Granite for Kitchen Countertops

Caesarstone or natural granite countertopsCaesarstone vs Granite—which is the best countertop? The answer is, “It depends on what you’re looking for.” Both stones are very popular, and both have a range of colors, and features, pros and cons. The debate about which is “better” comes down to two qualities: Looks and durability. The cost of Caesarstone is about the same as the cost of a mid-line range of natural granite.

… MORE


How to Prepare for Countertop Installation on Delivery Day

Installation of your kitchen or bathroom countertopDelivery and installation of your stone countertop is probably the most exciting day after selecting your stone and stone color. The arrival of delivery day means you’re only a few steps away from installation and the use of your new countertop. You want the installation to go well and so do we! The good news is we’ve done this thousands and thousands of times, so we have the procedure down to an exact science. Our installation comes complete with a step-by-step process that ensures everything goes smoothly and efficiently. We know you’re nervous and excited and wondering what to expect, so we’ve created this article.

… MORE


Tips on Planning a Kitchen Renovation

Read on for tips on how to plan a kitchen renovation!Deciding to go forward with a kitchen renovation is a big step. Maybe it’s something you’ve been thinking about for a while but are waiting for the right time or weighing your various options. When you finally make the decision to move forward, the excitement sets in!

Along with the excitement might come some feelings of uncertainty. Where do you begin? How do you prepare? These feelings are normal, but with a bit of planning, you can keep them at bay.

… MORE


Considering Marble Countertops? What You Need to Know about Etching

Etching - Marble CountertopsMarble’s reputation precedes itself – elegantly beautiful, but higher maintenance than other natural stone surfaces. And while many people consider marble countertops for their home given it’s striking impact, it’s the maintenance consideration that often times deters them to select a seemingly more practical stone option. Specifically, it’s the concern of marble etching on kitchen countertops that concerns homeowners, but knowing how etching occurs and how to care for marble countertops can make a difference in your final stone surface decision.

… MORE


Outdoor Kitchens: The Perfect Father’s Day Gift!

Outdoor Kitchen - Granite Countertops

For the dad that has everything

Father’s Day is quickly approaching and we’re guessing that you might be looking for ideas to show just how thankful you are for the “Father” in your life. Whether this is your husband or father, coming up with something special on Father’s day is always difficult. If this dad of yours already has everything you could buy in a store or order online, you’ll have a challenge on your hands. Given that Father’s Day falls right at the beginning of Summer, perhaps you can create something special and permanent that he can enjoy all season long, and for years to come. If he loves to spend free time outside, we have the perfect gift idea for you; an outdoor kitchen.

… MORE