What is the Difference Between Types of Countertop Finishes?

After the purchase on your new home there might be a few updates you want to do to make it your own.  Kitchen updates such as new countertops could be the easiest and least expensive place to start, but how do you know which option to choose or what best fits for your home?

• Laminate- Popular and well-known choice for countertops that is budget-friendly often costing less per linear foot than its competitors.
• Granite- Granite is durable, heat resistant and is less porous than other stones.  However, it requires annual sealing to help resist stains.  It can also add value to your home’s kitchen.
• Soapstone- Soapstone is recognized by consumers for its use in classroom labs.  It is durable, beautiful, honed and fits into a sleep kitchen.  It is also non-porous and does not require sealing.
• Solid Surface- This countertop is unlikely to stain but can discolor if exposed to heat.  It can also be nicked or sliced with sharp utensils that can be permanent.
• Wood- The most well-known wood countertop is butcher block which consists of several strips of solid wood glued together.  This provides a natural organic look to any kitchen but are subject to burns, gashes, discoloration, or staining.  They can be repaired by sanding and resealing!
• Stainless Steel- These countertops are impervious to heat and highly durable.  They are very easy to clean and sanitary.  

How to Define Your Space with Area Rugs?

Curtains, a coat of paint, or even new furniture can change a room but how can a rug redefine your room?  Area rugs are a key organizational tool for designing rooms within large spaces. A beautiful may outline your foyer, create a dining room, or define a conversation area.

1.     Creating an Inviting Foyer- If your front door opens into a room without a designated foyer, add an area rug.  A chevron wool rug creates a welcoming entrance and makes a nice contrast to hardwood.

2.     Anchor Your Living Room- Big and tall spaces bring a challenge for organizing a cozy space for hanging out- add a patterned rug to add a cozier conversation area.  The rug will draw a persons eye down from the big spaces and make the room feel friendly.

3.     Define the Dining Area- If your home lacks a traditional dining area- create one! Add a rug under your table to designate a dining area but make sure the rug is large enough for the chairs to scoot back from the table without falling off the edge.

4.     Outline High Traffic Areas- Large spaces can tend to have more than one entrance and exit to the outdoors or other rooms.  Create a traffic pattern with a large are rug.

5.     Go Outside- Transform your outdoor living space by adding a rug under your furniture.  Make sure the rug is durable and can carve out a great outdoor living room without definite borders.