New house, new kitchen and desired granite countertops

Hi, everyone!!

I’m back! As you already know I’ve been busy with our move and I’ve had some intense (stressful can I say?) weeks but we’re finally done. I got rid of lots of useless stuff and now the rest of the things we really want to keep fit perfectly in the new home. Yay!! That means it is time to have fun decorating it, making some DIY on the patio and some other areas and maybe change some things we don’t like too much.

This week I decided to work on the kitchen. It has a good size and potential, apart from an ugly pillar in the middle of it, but I am sure I can think of something to take advantage of it. The shadow you see on the floor is the pillar’s.

New kitchen with dark cabinets

Here’s the pillar itself. Just in the middle.

Pilar

I am happy with the amount of cabinets it has, and it also has a pantry next to it, that’s a bonus. The working surface is really big and I love that! It means I can make some homemade bread while cooking while making some DIY playdough for the kids. There’s only one thing I don’t like too much… the countertop. I used to have granite countertops in my previous homes and I liked I hadn’t to worry about it. I mean, can you see that round mark or whatever is it called? I think the previous owner placed some hot pot directly on the counter and that will stay there forever.

Countertop with white round mark | My Sweet Things

I would love to change that countertop for a granite one. There are dreamy kitchens with it as you will see in the pictures below, and these are some reasons I found in my research that make it so special.

Why Choose a Granite Countertop?

Granite is often considered the gold standard of countertop materials and is a byword for premium quality. It is one of nature’s most durable substances and is a coarse-grained igneous rock that is available in a variety of colors. Granite stands the test of time and resists wear and tear. It’s for this reason that it is often preferred for its ability to retain its beauty even with years of food preparation on its surface. Many homeowners choose granite countertops to enhance the long-term value of their home.

What is Granite?

Granite has been prized throughout human history as a durable substance that can stand up to high heat and rough treatment. The famous ancient Red Pyramid of Egypt was constructed out of granite, and today it is the material of choice for many tombstones, given its ability to outlast other rocks and for its beauty. It has a granular appearance and tends to have rich colors such as pinks, reddish glows, and grey and black speckled patterns. Granite is a symbol of dignity and beauty and it has many practical uses.

Advantages of Granite Countertops

Granite lasts longer than almost any other material typically used for kitchen counters. It lasts twice as long as soapstone and resists scratching, chipping and cracking. It is virtually maintenance-free and provides a surface for meal preparation that is beautiful and easy to clean. Granite can substantially enhance one’s home value, and a number of people have granite countertops installed as an investment. A granite countertop is ideal for cooking because it can hold a hot pot without a trivet underneath it and resist damage. It is a cool rock that doesn’t heat up cold items placed on it.

Making the Selection

Consult with a professional concerning installation of a granite countertop. There are people who attempt to install granite countertops themselves, but it is strenuous, intricate work that takes a professional’s expertise. Granite is a valuable materials, so the installation has to be executed perfectly. An expert will discuss what kind of granite countertop you are looking for, the style, size and color and will give you an estimate of how much the job will cost and how long it will take. Look for professionals that provide free estimates and guarantee their work. The expert will measure the granite to ensure a precise fit and will thoroughly inspect the material.

There are patterns and colors typical of granite used in countertops. Think about whether you are looking for speckled, honed or glossy varieties. Speckled granite has a wide variation of patterns for a dramatic look, and fits well with a modern kitchen in solid, dark colors. Honed granite has a matte finish and is more subtle in its appearance, like soapstone. Glossy granite has maximum shine and picks up the light. It makes the countertops look clean and stylish.

Countertops that Last a Lifetime

Once you choose granite countertops, it is likely that you won’t need to replace them. Granite is one of nature’s strongest substances and has distinctive natural beauty. Whether you choose dramatic speckled granite or an understated matte appearance, you can feel confident that you are increasing your home’s value and enhancing your experience in the kitchen preparing meals and enjoying them with your family.

As the new kitchen has dark cabinets, I did a research for some inspiration. I have to say I am not a huge fan of dark cabinets, but I felt in love with all of these kitchens. Then I wondered if I really liked the cabinets or the kitchen design… anyway, any of these could be my dream kitchen.

ModelHomeC_WestlandFarms_Holly_1360x670

Via Mattamy Homes

Granite kitchen countertops dark wood cabinets | My Sweet Things

Via Minimalisti

Traditional kitchen with granite countertops black wood cabinets | My Sweet Things

Via Housekaboodle

I really like how the light countertops pop out with the dark cabinets.

Gold granite breakfast bar dark wood kitchen cabinets | My Sweet Things

Via Minimalisti

Traditional kitchen with granite countertops black wood cabinets | My Sweet Things

Via Mattamy Homes

I didn’t look only for dark cabinets but for white/cream ones too because a girl can dream, right? Oh bright and light colored kitchens, I really really love them!

Light granite kitchen countertops with cream wood cabinets | My Sweet Things

Via Minimalisti

Light granite kitchen countertops with white wood cabinets | My Sweet Things

Via Internet

Light granite kitchen countertops with two toned wood cabinets | My Sweet Things

Via Luxe Interiors+Design

Light granite kitchen countertops with white wood cabinets | My Sweet Things

Via Caddominerals

Back to real life, stay tuned for the updates in the kitchen, I hope I can share some soon! I have some ideas for that odd pillar!

Have a wonderful week!

Hugs,

Pili  

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14 comments

  1. Keri says:

    Pili, first I like your new kitchen. It looks like it has some good space. I’m sure granite counter tops would look great in there! The dark kitchens look so elegant but like you I’m a fan of lighter kitchens. I hope you get the kitchen you would like. Blessings to you and your family in your new home!

    • Pili says:

      Many thanks for those blessings, Keri!! That kitchen needs some work to look like as I like, but I am sure I can make it 🙂

  2. Mary-the boondocks blog says:

    A very nice sized kitchen. I think that you can actually paint that countertop if your landlord lets you. They sell a kit that lets you paint it if you don’t want to invest money into a rental. But the space is very nice and large and the cabinets are pretty. Now let’s see what you are goin to do with that pillar.

    • Pili says:

      Thanks for the tip, Mary. Yes, the kitchen has a nice size and we are very comfortable there. I have an idea for the pillar, let’s see if it ends up well

  3. Gail @Purple Hues and Me says:

    Your new kitchen looks very sleek and modern, Pili! You show a variety of awesome looking areas in your kitchen selections and I’m sure you’ll come up with a beautiful way to incorporate everything you like. It shouldn’t take much! Happy Updating!

    • Pili says:

      Hi, Gail!! There are so many other places around the home I want to update… I need longer days! Anyway, we have summer ahead us and plenty of time to make things, it’s just I am too impatient lol

  4. Katrin says:

    Pili, the kitchen is brand new, so that is a huge plus! Granite countertops are beautiful, I love them too. Can’t wait to see more of your kitchen, it looks great already! And I’m jealous of that wooden floor that I see! That is hard to find in a rental around where I live, enjoy your new home!

    • Pili says:

      Yes, I am very happy with the size of the kitchen and that it is brand new too. A bit dark until 12 noon but then sun moves and it’s nice. This is the first house with wooden floors I’ve found here, and they are only in ground floor, but I am happy because I love them.

  5. Michelle says:

    All the kitchens are so inspiring and you’re so right about granite tops, they are worth every cent. Looking at all the other things you’ve done I’m sure your kitchen will be awesome and I can’t wait to see what you’re going to do with that pillar. Wishing you many happy memories in your new home.

    • Pili says:

      Awww that’s so sweet Michelle, thank you very much! School is about to finish here so we have dancing festivals and all sort of activities with the girls so not too much time to work on the kitchen, but I’m sure I’ll do something to that pillar.

  6. Zenda says:

    A new home is so exciting, I know! We’re building our retirement home and I’m making many of the same decisions that you are. I’ll be following along to see your process and progress.

  7. Debbie says:

    Hi Pili, my Mother-In-Law has beautiful granite worktops. We have marble which doesn’t look so attractive, but is perfect for making pastry on. If we ever moved I’d miss it for sure.

    The third photo up, of the kitchen would be my dream kitchen.

    Hope you find something to do with that pillar, it’s a challenge I’m sure you’ll enjoy!

    xx

    • Pili says:

      I agree with you, Debbie, marble is the best countertop for making pastry. It’s enough cold to deal with some type of doughs. The kitchen you like is a pretty one indeed, so classy.
      I will be working on that pillar and keep it updated, thanks for the confidence!

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