Countertop options expand
Homeowners' options for countertop materials and colors continue to expand as pure white, detailed edges and new patterns surface for kitchen and bathroom designs
“Trends in 2012 will be an extension of the warm neutrals with pops of color that we saw in 2011,” says Lisa Herreth, product designer/marketing specialist, Hanwha. “The patterns will be a bit edgier and in a larger scale. There are a lot of advancements in engineered stone technology that are allowing man-made products to mimic and enhance what we would find in nature, allowing consumers to have both durability and maintenance-free qualities of quartz with the look of exotic granite.”
What’s the latest countertop product you offer?
“HanStone quartz launched 16 new colors in 2011. One of these is Sabbia, an earthy neutral background color contrasted by a rich exotic vein pattern. Another is Limelight, described as Lime with a twist. Limelight is part of our Wow series that added vibrant pops of color our line was lacking.”
Where are countertop trends going? What’s next?
“Eco-friendly countertops continue to be on the rise and will not waiver in the near future. HanStone quartz has five products with recycled content in them and we are in the process of developing more.”
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LG Hausys
What are the hot trends in the countertop market?
“According to consumer reports, quartz is currently rated the number one trend in the countertop market,” says Michelle Rhee, marketing communication manager, LG Hausys. “We believe this is due to the wide array of colors and diverse natural elements represented by quartz. Places like Los Angeles and New York have recently shown a trend in using contemporary looks, like using a pure white color, that give a modern feel to a room design.”
What’s the latest countertop product you offer?
“Our latest products include our Hi-Macs Designer Solid Collection and our Viatera Limestone and Contemporary series. LG Hausys also recently introduced four new collections of our popular Viatera quartz surfaces inspired by hues and patterns found in nature.”
Where are countertop trends going? What’s next?
“Neutral earth tones are the trend with colors that add a feeling of comfort like Limestone and Travertine. Also, adding sparkle elements such as pearl particulates gives the color a boost. Texture is becoming popular with dynamic patterns in quartz and thin solid surfaces with unique textures used in vertical applications.”
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Staron
What are the hot trends in the countertop market?
“The residential segment takes its lead from the hospitality segment by designing kitchens that include unique and interesting countertop materials,” says Dale Mandell, sales director, Samsung Architectural Product Division – North America. “Installations of engineered quartz countertops are on the rise because, if desired, colors and patterns that are different from granite are available in quartz materials. Plus, the product is virtually non-porous and does not require chemical sealants. Also, quartz surfaces typically are supported by a manufacturers’ 10- or 15-year warranty.”
What’s the latest countertop product you offer?
“The Noble Collection from Samsung Radianz Quartz is a line of exclusive colors created to inspire the designer and add visual dimension to any home. Three new colors – Gold Canyon Gray, Midnight Sapphire and Imperial Gray – are designed to reflect light, luxury and create an aesthetic unlike any other surfacing product.”
Where are countertop trends going? What’s next?
“Countertop designs are becoming sleek and understated. The use of tone-on-tone monochromatic colors for countertops in kitchens is likely to increase as traditional cabinetry designs give way to subtle, modern cabinetry that integrates European design with American functionality.”
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VT Industries
What are the hot trends in the countertop market?
“A hot trend we see is the popularity of natural stone and stone-like looks within the countertop market,” Trisha Schmitt, vice president, corporate marketing, VT Industries. “Premium edge treatments are giving laminates a more stone-like appearance than ever before. If budget is an issue and clients still want the look of stone, they usually choose to go with a laminate top.”
What’s the latest countertop product you offer?
“Our new Marbella edge with the 1/8-in. radius gives us an edge because of the trend of clean, contemporary stone. With natural stone becoming such a trending countertop material, our Marbella edge paired with the new laminates can give you that look at an affordable price.”
