Tag Archives: natural stone countertops

January 15 at #KBtribechat – Revisiting the Classics

A design discussion

Sponsored and Hosted by the Natural Stone Institute

Photo courtesy of Dansk Marble.

When Pantone chose “Classic Blue” as their 2020 Color of the Year, they made a big statement: It is time to get back to calmer times. In a recent interview with Architectural Digest, Leatrice Eiseman, executive director for the Pantone Color Institute called Classic Blue “a color you can rely on,” one that gives you a “feeling of confidence and stability.” Simply put, the allure of Classic Blue is right there in its name: it’s a classic.

Perhaps 2020 will be a year for revisiting other classics we have loved, too—not because we’re uninspired or lazy or lacking for new ideas, but because we know that these things work and that can we can find ways to make them work for us, in new and inspiring ways. Some classics never go out of style: a well-tailored black blazer, the perfect shade of red lipstick, and a gorgeous piece of genuine natural stone.

Natural stone has been inspiring us for centuries. Why? Because it works. It is versatile, durable, sustainable, and easy to maintain. Advances in quarrying technology in the past few decades have made it more affordable than ever, bringing new colors and varieties to market. Natural stone grounds us—it provides a needed connection to the world around us, allowing us to bring a piece of the earth’s geological history into our home.

What classics will you revisit in 2020?

Italian marble quarry

Our KBTribeChat questions:

1. Do you have any design goals or intentions for the year? What do you hope to explore this year through your work?

2. Natural stone never goes out of style. What other “go-to” design elements do you want to work with in 2020?

3. What design elements do you hope to see make a comeback in 2020? Are there any you hope stay a thing of the past?

4. Do you incorporate vintage pieces (or vintage style) into your designs? If so, what is your favorite place to source these pieces?

5. Pantone says Classic Blue gives you “confidence and stability.” Are there other materials or designs that you think help portray these emotions?

6. #KBIS2020 is less than a week away! What are you most looking forward to seeing at the show?

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Join this Twitter discussion

on Wednesday, January 15

from 2 to 3pm eastern

by adding #KBtribechat to your tweets!

Here’s a link to read the transcript for this KBtribechat.

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October 9 at #KBtribechat – Designing Kitchens and Baths that Last with Sustainable Natural Materials

A design discussion

Sponsored and Hosted by the Natural Stone Institute

Photo courtesy of Rugo Stone.

Ferris Bueller once said: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Doesn’t it seem like the same could be said about design trends? We constantly refresh Instagram and Pinterest or scan through our favorite design magazines, searching for the next new thing—something fresh, cool, and totally unexpected. Things that we loved six months ago now seem passé. In 2019, we move at super speed.

Let’s slow down for a moment. Instead of seeking out the next big trend, let’s think about what would happen if we focused on using materials that were built to last, like natural stone. Natural stones like granite, marble, quartzite, and soapstone have been used for hundreds of years, beloved for their durability, versatility, and easy maintenance. In recent years, stone companies have made significant efforts to ensure that best practices are in place for sustainability, both in quarrying and fabrication facilities. Whether you are designing in a style that is modern or classic, when you use natural stone, you will be designing a room that is made to last.

Italian marble quarry. Photo courtesy of the Natural Stone Institute.

Our KBtribechat Questions:

1.) How often does sustainability factor into material choices with your clients?

2.) In our fast-moving, “throwaway culture” world, how do we pivot back to timeless materials and designs?

3.) Sustainable materials like natural stone and wood are made to last. Share some of your favorite designs!

4.) How do you stay trendy/current while still designing something meant to last?

5.) Are there questions or misconceptions your clients have about choosing sustainable products?

6.) Using salvaged or reclaimed materials can add a unique piece of history to a project. Have you used materials like this in your designs?

7.) Natural stone is seen in currently trending kitchens, but it is also timeless. What other trends do you think will stand the test of time?

Join this Twitter discussion

on Wednesday, October 9

from 2 to 3pm

by adding #KBtribechat to your tweets!

Here’s where you can read the transcript for this KBtribechat discussion.

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April 17 at #KBtribechat – Outdoor Kitchen Inspiration

A design discussion

Sponsored and Hosted by Polycor

Bethel_White_Appro_02_Avant

 

Our KBtribechat questions:

Q1.  Natural stone is an obvious way to blend your outdoor living space with its surroundings. Share some of your inspirations.

 

Q2.  With so many choices for surfaces, what’s the most important factor you consider when choosing a patio paver or countertop for the outdoors?

 

Q3.  Many light surfaces aren’t suitable for sun drenched days or high traffic, but limestone is a favorite of luxury builders. It stays cool underfoot and won’t fade/discolor. Do you prefer a light or dark surface?

 

Q4.  We’ve seen many barbeque islands incorporated into outdoor kitchens. What are some design trends you’re seeing? Please share pics.  Bonus points for food and drink pics.

 

Q5.  The outdoor fireplace offers an intimate space to relax and gather after a good meal. They’re being built in many sizes and styles. Inspire us with your ideas for this space.

 

Q6.  Let’s talk cabinetry. Adding veneer to the exterior of your cabinet framework will create a durable and solid structure. What veneer patterns are you seeing that are popular?

 

Q7.  Nothing compliments stone better than a hardworking appliance. With so many on the market today, give us your top outdoor kitchen appliance picks?

 

Q8.   No matter how gorgeous your outdoor oasis, you’ll need the aromas of delicious food to bring the family and friends together. Now that we shared those design tips, we invite you to share your favorite recipes. Cheers!

Cuisine extérieure 1

Join this Twitter Chat conversation

on Wednesday, April 17

from 2 to 3pm eastern

by adding #KBtribechat to your tweets!

Here’s a link to the transcript for this KBtribechat discussion.

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May 24 at #KBtribechat – Designing With Natural Materials

A design discussion

Sponsored and Hosted by The Natural Stone Institute 

In an increasingly busy world, people are seeking ways to reconnect with nature. One of the simplest ways to “bring the outdoors in” is to utilize natural materials in the home. Not only are natural materials beautiful and sustainable, but they are also typically highly durable and long lasting.

From reclaimed wood walls to bamboo flooring to natural stone countertops, natural materials imbue spaces with intrinsic warmth and an organic feel that is at once grounding and rejuvenating. Moreover, natural materials can complement virtually any decor style – making them a highly versatile design choice.

Puma Marble Company

Image by Puma Marble Company

Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of natural materials is their quality and uniqueness. There is something deeply satisfying about choosing a slab of natural stone that was formed by nature thousands or even millions of years ago, and then seeing that slab within a home.

ROCKin'teriors

Image by ROCKin’teriors

Of course, the benefits of natural materials extend far beyond aesthetics. Natural materials are also eco-friendly and in many cases, can be sourced locally or regionally, which helps to offset fuel usage incurred during transportation. A number of natural materials – wood, cork, and bamboo, for instance – are renewable. Others, like natural stone, can be recycled or salvaged for a variety of uses – both indoors and out.

Illinois Granite and Marble

Image by Illinois Granite & Marble, Ltd

Natural materials are like a fine wine—getting better and more beautiful as they age.

On Wednesday, May 24 at 2pm eastern, join MIA+BSI: The Natural Stone Institute for a Twitter discussion on designing with natural materials.

Our KBtribechat questions:

Q1: Are clients concerned with making green design choices for kitchen remodels? What advice do you give them?

Q2: Natural materials like stone are durable and easy to care for. What maintenance tips do you give clients?

Q3: What is your favorite natural stone to work with in bathroom designs? Share photos to show why!

Q4: Do you work with salvaged or recycled materials? What are some of your favorite places to use these materials?

Q5: Have you noticed any trends or innovations in using natural materials like stone? What makes them interesting?

Q6: What natural stone applications or finishes are most popular with clients? Have you tried anything new lately?

Q7: Natural materials are one-of-a-kind. Share some unique ways you’ve used them in projects.

Join this Twitter discussion

on Wednesday, May 24

from 2 to 3 pm eastern

by adding #KBtribechat to your tweets!

Here’s the transcript for this KBtribechat.

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#Coverings2014 and a Celebration of Everything Tile

kbtribechatcoverings

Come the end of April, the latest and greatest in tile and stone will take over Las Vegas! Coverings – The Ultimate Tile + Stone Experience – is back in Sin City April 29 through May 2 (with a bonus day of education on April 28) with over 900 global exhibitors and 80+ specialized training and education sessions.

In preparation for the show, Coverings (@Coverings) has asked world-renowned tile expert Ryan Fasan (@Tile_Trends) to join them in hosting #KBtribechat to help you plan your experience at the upcoming show and give you a preview of the latest design trends and technical innovations in tile and stone.

Ryan Fasan

Ryan Fasan

Ryan has over eighteen years of experience in the ceramic tile industry and is currently a research consultant, trainer, and senior partner at Professional Attention to Tile Installations, an internationally renowned tile consulting firm that works in Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, and the United States. Specializing in stone and ceramic tile research, Ryan has created and delivered seminars for Harvard’s Graduate School of Design; BCIT’s Interior Design applied material study course; Multiple Trade Expo’s across the USA and worked internationally to promote the use of tile and natural stone with private and commercial sectors.

Join us on Wednesday, March 19 from 2-3 pm EST and register FREE for Coverings 2014.

  • What tile color trends are you seeing emerge for 2014 and beyond? 
  • What are some trending styles in tile for 2014? What is the inspiration behind them? 
  • What is the best way to approach uncovering tile and stone trends at Coverings 2014?
  • What was revolutionary this year in tile? What are some exciting technical innovations? 
  • The annual CID Awards will be presented at Coverings 2014. What makes a great tile/stone install or design? 
  • It seems like a lot of tile manufacturers are reaching out to iconic designers for collections recently – true?
  • Why is Coverings an important show for Kitchen and Bath professionals to attend? 

Coverings is sponsoring this KBtribechat. Please follow hosts @Coverings and @Tile_Trends on Twitter and be sure to use #Coverings2014 and #kbtribechat.

Website: www.coverings.com

Here is the transcript for this KBtribechat.

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Kitchens with Cambria

When it comes to your client’s kitchen, what do they look for in their countertops? Are they educated on the variety of countertop materials and design options?

Galloway Coastal Collection

Galloway Coastal Collection

Do family-owned and American-made products impact decision making on products?

Where do you and your clients go for kitchen inspiration?

Do brand partnerships and/or packages have an influence on buying decisions or brand preference?

Cambria is constantly innovating. What would you like to see in their next designs for tone, color and movement?

We are excited to announce that Cambria, the exclusive family-owned, American-made producer of natural stone surfaces, will be sponsoring and  hosting KBTribeChat on Wednesday, March 12.

Make sure to join our discussion!

Laneshaw_Darlington

Cambria has expanded their industry-leading design palette with the addition of Galloway™, and continues to develop designs that meet the demands of the most discerning consumers and designers.

Website Linkhttp://cambriausa.com/

Cambria iPad App Linkhttp://j.mp/17ieQV9

Here’s the transcript for this KBtribechat.

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