Kitchen Countertop Options

Factors and Trends Influencing Kitchen Countertop Material Choice

Kingsland, United States - /Sterling Creek Builders/

The kitchen countertop is a crucial part of the kitchen. Essential functions of the kitchen are carried out on this surface. All kinds of meal prep are done on the kitchen countertop, and it facilitates the use of many appliances. A countertop also influences the appearance of the kitchen; it is a prominent feature.

A kitchen countertop is now a multipurpose surface. It is a desk for children doing homework or doubles as an office desk for a meeting. Choosing a countertop must be given importance as this choice affects the functionality and aesthetics of the kitchen. In this article, Sterling Creek Builders in  Kingsland, TX, shares information on countertops that will help those planning a new construction home or kitchen renovation. 

Key Factors To Consider In Countertop Selection

1. Color

Of late, many are choosing subtle patterns and movement over other options. This was followed by people who chose marble-look surfaces. Fewer people choose solid-color tops. A custom home builder can help homeowners choose a color for the kitchen countertop that suits the color palette that the client envisions for the kitchen. It would complement the color of the cabinets, backsplash, and appliances. 

2. Durability

Durability is a key quality that homeowners want in a countertop. This is vital because the countertop is a work surface where much of the work in a kitchen happens.

3. Sanitary benefits

An easy-to-clean surface is an obvious choice as the kitchen countertop is always in use, gets messy, and needs cleaning very often. There are countertop surfaces that are supposed to have anti microbial protection that is popular after the pandemic.

4. Affordability

Data says most homeowners do not see affordability as the major factor when choosing a  countertop in the kitchen. For a new home, the owner is willing to invest in a good quality countertop that lasts and looks good. 

Kitchen Countertop Trends For New Homes In 2022

1. Quartz

Quartz is a nonporous surface that makes it more hygienic and is resistant to staining. It is a very durable material and is long-lasting. This is what makes quartz a popular choice. It is now available in different colors and patterns.

2. Veining and Patterning

With current technology, countertops can be veined, instead of plain styles. Quartz can be made to look like granite, marble, or natural stone, by creating veins in interesting patterns swirled into the countertop slabs. Polished piece-honed and leathered finishes can be used in custom home kitchen countertops. 

3. Bold and Dramatic Styles

Bold colored countertops can create a statement look. They work not just in contemporary spaces but also in conventional kitchens. A black countertop of marble or granite can add gravitas to rustic wooden shelves or a colorful tile backsplash. Darker countertops make the colors of kitchen linen, kitchenware, or decor like a vase of flowers, pop out. 

4. Sustainable Choices

More and more people are looking for sustainable materials to use in a new construction home and reduce their carbon footprint. A countertop made of broken glass is an environment-friendly choice. This surface is a combination of recycled glass (75%) and white cement and contains no plastic resins or VOCs. Broken glass countertops come in neutrals and bold jewel tones, and will cater to a variety of tastes. As it is a durable and good-looking surface, this sustainable choice is a winner.

5. Concrete Choice

Beautiful concrete design quartz kitchen countertops are now available for new homes. They lend an urban aesthetic to the kitchen. They come in various colors, textures, and patterns and can look like art themselves. They are also durable and easy to clean.

Kitchen countertops are a big part of the kitchen, both aesthetically and functionally. They can make or break the kitchen. A home builder like Sterling Creek Builders, a residential construction expert in Kingsland, TX, will help clients with information on the best possible kitchen countertop options. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and Sterling Creek Builders understands the importance of each detail that goes into building a new home or a kitchen renovation. Their stellar residential construction services are available in the Texas Hill Country, and they can be reached by dialing the phone number (325) 603-2426.

Kitchen Countertop Options, Images, 07-08-22

 

Kitchen Design Mistakes

Mistakes To Avoid In Kitchen Design In New Construction Or Renovation

Kingsland, United States - /Sterling Creek Builders/

Homes are where families find happiness, comfort, and fun. The kitchen has always been the heart of the home. Families cook meals and spend time in the kitchen. After the pandemic, kitchens also became the place where Zoom meetings were attended or homework done. So, designing a kitchen that is functional, beautiful, and suitable to the lifestyle of a family is important.

It is better to put thought into the kitchen design to ensure that expensive remodeling can be limited and that working in the kitchen is made as enjoyable as possible. A home builder like Sterling Creek Builders in Kingsland, Texas, can help to design a kitchen that blends the family's character and relevant trends with functionality. 

Some mistakes to be aware of when designing a kitchen for a new home, or when renovating an existing kitchen.

1. Not Having A Kitchen Work Triangle

The stove, sink, and refrigerator are the three points in the work triangle. The space between these points must ideally be between four and nine feet. Installing the sink, stove, and refrigerator in this way makes the kitchen an efficient space that is easier to use. This kitchen work triangle must not be blocked by any appliances or cabinets.

2. Being Too Conscious of Trends

Normally, homeowners building a new home or remodeling a kitchen want to incorporate the latest trends. However, it is important to remember that trends are fleeting most of the time. Hence it is important to ensure that the trends chosen are functional and more reflective of the family's character, rather than just for the sake of being trendy. Especially for larger items like cabinets and countertops, a timeless and functional approach is better. Trends can be included in the backsplash, lighting, and other elements that are easier and more economical to change when remodeling. It is important to choose trends that work for each homeowner. For instance, while open shelves might be in, keeping them clean and tidy is more challenging. 

3. Insufficient Storage

Storage space is very important and it can never be too much. Everything that needs to be placed in the kitchen must be considered to ensure there is enough space. Large storage spaces for pots and pans and appliances and additional storage like pullout spice racks or under-counter storage must be planned. To ensure that deep cabinets are not underutilized, adding roll-out trays to the base of cabinets or installing a kidney-shaped pullout or Lazy Susan will help.

4. Lighting Failure

General, task, and accent lighting are needed in a kitchen. For overall illumination, general lighting like recessed lights can be installed. Having dimmers on overhead lighting will help create a softer ambiance when needed. Pendants for track lights in prep zones serve as task lighting. The island or countertop size must be considered to determine how many fixtures should provide task lighting. Accent lighting can be provided by under cabinet or in-cabinet lights. 

5. Forced Kitchen Islands

It is important to understand kitchen islands are not for every kitchen, especially the smaller ones. The kitchen island must not hinder free movement in the kitchen. Other options like a peninsula that allows seating, maximizes storage and allows flow. 

6. Improper Planning and Budgeting 

Whether designing a kitchen in a new construction home or remodeling a kitchen, a common mistake is failing to plan properly. When designing a kitchen, the vision must not be just about how the kitchen will look, but how the family's life will look like and how the kitchen design will work towards those requirements.

It is important to have a realistic budget. Research must be done before choosing accessories, cabinets, flooring, etc., to ensure the needs are met within the budget. Experts suggest having a 15 to 20% contingency amount, as usually the expenses are more than expected. 

Designing a new home or any home renovation can be exciting and draining at the same time. A custom home builder can help make the process easier. Sterling Creek Builders is a home builder that helps clients build new homes or renovate, like redoing the layout of a kitchen. They can be contacted for residential construction in Kingsland, Texas. Sterling Creek Builders can be reached by calling (325) 603-2426 or emailing them at john@sterlingcreekbuilders.com.

Kitchen Design Mistakes, Images, 06-13-22

 

Making A Living Room Look More Spacious

 Ideas That Make A Living Room Look Bigger and Spacious

Kingsland, United States - /Sterling Creek Builders/

Homes are not just a shelter for a family. They are a part of life and also reflect a family's character and lifestyle preferences. No room is more important in this respect than the living room. The living room is where guests are entertained, families spend time watching TV, or just talking and relaxing after a long day. This is why a lot of thought goes into designing the living room of any new home. Even in existing homes, the decor is changed and renovation was done in the living room to reflect the changes in the family's lifestyle choices as the family goes through natural transitions. 

Even when building a custom home, sometimes space is something homeowners have to compromise on. This may be due to the size of the plot or budget considerations. But with a space-efficient design from a residential construction expert like Sterling Creek Builders in Kingsland, a living room can still be a beautiful space the family enjoys, no matter its size. 

Some ideas to make a living room look uncluttered and beautiful.

Built-In Is In!

Built-in shelves and furniture are a great space saver. They bring functionality that allows a smooth flow in the room. The built-in features will be in proportion and bring more texture into the space. Books and accessories can be tastefully displayed on shelves installed in architectural niches. During the planning phase, these ideas can be discussed with the custom home builder.

Simple Color Palette For Walls

Natural shades for walls may be better for smaller spaces. Neutral colors like ivory or beige allow light to bounce around the walls. This makes the space look larger. Concentrated rich tones like deep greens or purples or natural wood tones can be used for rugs, tables, and other accessories to complement the color. 

Let There Be Light

Light is a key element in bringing cheeriness into a room. Small spaces look smaller if they are poorly lit. More windows can be included on a custom home plan. Letting in light by choosing curtains or shades that allow light in, and avoiding heavy window drapes, is an easy way to make the room look airy and bright. Lighting and light fixtures should be chosen and placed carefully. Floor lamps that take up floor space may be avoided. Instead, ceiling light fixtures can be used to brighten the room. Wall sconces add light while bringing in fun design detail. 

Go Mobile With Furniture

Furniture that can be easily moved around helps create flexible space. Being able to move furniture allows it to be rearranged and moved easily to create different looks for different purposes while entertaining guests. A bar cart with wheels can be moved when not in use and can be used for storage. Nesting tables that can be pulled out only when needed and easily movable chairs or end tables can be utilized to maintain better flow in the room.

Clever Furniture Choices

Bulky furniture makes a room look overcrowded and smaller. Sleek and compact furniture frees up more space. It is always better to choose furniture that stands on legs as they create an impression of visual space. Choosing low-height furniture like stools or sofas that are low will make the ceilings look higher and create an illusion of space in the living room. Instead of a full sectional, a medium or small sofa or a set of accent chairs might be better when space is less. 

Multifunctional Furniture

Multifunctional furniture that can serve other purposes or have storage space is a great space saver in living rooms. A sofa bed or couches and tables with hidden storage compartments are easy solutions. Storage benches or window seats with storage underneath can be incorporated. Grand poufs that can serve as ottomans and then stored under a coffee table when not in use are a good idea. 

Go Up

An easy way to maximize space while creating an appearance of a larger space is to design upwards. This is using vertical space and accenting the height of the room to make it look larger. Using curtains that start closer to the ceiling makes the room look bigger. Placing art pieces and wall decor higher than eye level and more towards the ceiling, having gallery walls till the ceilings, and installing stacked shelves higher up, draw attention upwards. This creates an illusion of space. 

Homeowners must choose the best residential construction experts who understand their requirements. The living room is a showcase for the family’s character and a shared space to create memories in. Families in Kingsland, Texas, building a new home or remodeling their homes can contact Sterling Creek Builders to discuss project needs and get an estimate for the project price. This custom home builder creates residences that are a realization of customers’ dream homes. Sterling Creek Builders provides top-rated local residential construction in Kingsland, Texas. For superior craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to quality in new construction homes, Sterling Creek Builders office at Kingsland can be reached on the phone number (325) 603-2426.

Making A Living Room Look More Spacious, Images 16-05-2022

 

Furnishing A New Home

 How to Furnish A New Construction Home

Kingsland, United States - /Sterling Creek Builders/

Building a new home holds a lot of significance for most families. From the planning stage onwards, many homeowners visualize their homes. They may have ideas on how spaces should look, how they should be furnished and decorated, and what color schemes they would like. All these choices contribute to the looks and comfort of a home.

Sterling Creek Builders in Kingsland, Texas, has a team of the best builders in the industry. They believe in putting the needs and wants of homeowners first when designing a new home or undertaking a home renovation project. Custom home builders understand that their clients have specific needs when designing a home. Some families may want to fit a treasured piece of furniture in a particular space. Sometimes homeowners may have a piece of art or decor that is a statement piece and plan the furniture placement and lighting accordingly. A custom builder will help ensure homes are designed keeping in mind the dimensions, functionality, and aesthetics of any such specific requirements. 

Suggestions that help in furnishing a new construction home.

Begin With Focus

Homeowners now have options to purchase furniture from stores or online. They can try window shopping and browsing to get an idea and zero in on designs they like. Platforms like Pinterest or design blogs are a good way to get ideas. It is important to stay focused on first getting essentials and being mindful of a budget. This will depend on what furniture is already in possession and what needs to be replaced or purchased immediately. Putting thought into purchases also helps to minimize clutter.

Keep It To Scale

It is very important that there is a clear understanding of the floor plan and that the measurements are clear. The shape, size, and layout of rooms will determine how big furniture can be and where it can be placed. It is best to measure spaces and check with the sizes of furniture rather than relying on conjecture. Free interior design apps can help to size and scale furniture with that of a room. Sterling Creek Builders uses special software to provide customers with the best cost estimate for their custom home project and gives them an idea of what the final look of their new home would be. 

Go Slow When Buying

It is better to avoid buying a ton of furniture at one go. This will help prevent the budget from going haywire. It also helps to focus on the style envisioned for each room. Determining the staple pieces that must be purchased for each room, and then adding pieces when the space and style are clear and in line with the functionality is a good approach. It is important to make a budget that prioritizes essentials and sticks to it. Some essentials can be considered investment pieces that will be used long-term. Sofas, dining sets, and a good storage unit are examples. 

Choose Space-Saving Options

Space-saving furniture is always handy, even in large custom homes. They can help to expand space when entertaining or for a growing family. Having furniture with inbuilt storage, like beds with storage underneath is an example. Side table sets that can be stacked, extending dining tables, and classic sofa beds will help to keep more area free, while still being available to use when needed. 

Think of Colors

It is good to have an idea of what colors of furniture and accessories will go with the overall style and color scheme. If the interiors are neutral, the furnishing might have to be used to create pops of color.

Look For Inspiration

While planning and designing a custom home ideas can be taken from anywhere. Interior magazines and online portals provide tons of ideas. While these can ignite really good ideas, they can look stunning but impractical for a family’s daily life. Visiting acquaintances who have new homes or getting ideas from friends with great taste in designing can be more helpful. There are social media platforms where homeowners share ideas and the process of designing and putting together their custom homes. These are practical, lived-in homes, and realistic ideas to suit any budget would be available.

Why Sterling Creek Builders Kingsland, TX

Designing a custom home and the process of building is an experience that is joyous and sometimes overwhelming. Having an expert custom home builder can help immensely in making smart choices that help create a custom home that meets all requirements. Sterling Creek Builders is a custom home builder in Kingsland, Texas. Their professionalism and quality of work have made them a top-rated local business. Sterling Creek Builders aims to build custom homes of the highest standards, making every customer’s dream home a reality. You can contact them at (325) 603-2426 for residential construction projects in Kingsland, Texas.