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Making the right choice between matte and glossy finishes can influence the entire look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom. While both finishes can highlight the natural beauty of stone countertops, they offer very different visual effects and practical experiences. 

The decision often comes down to style preference, lifestyle, and how the space is used daily. So let’s take a look at what each type of surface finish can offer your home!

Understanding the Difference Between Glossy and Matte

A glossy finish, sometimes referred to as polished, gives stone countertops a reflective surface that shines under light. This finish tends to intensify the color of the stone and emphasize veining and movement. It gives a rich, luxurious appearance that catches the eye immediately.

On the other hand, a matte finish—often called honed—offers a soft, velvety texture without the shine. It has a more understated look that can make a space feel relaxed and inviting. With less light reflection, matte finishes present a more subtle interpretation of the stone’s natural details.

The Appeal of Glossy Surfaces

Glossy countertops remain popular for their high-end appearance and ability to brighten up a space. The way they reflect light can make smaller kitchens appear more open, while the polished finish enhances the depth and contrast within the stone. This can be particularly striking with darker or more richly colored stones, where the shine brings out natural patterns in vivid detail.

In addition to their visual impact, glossy surfaces are less porous than their matte counterparts, making them slightly more resistant to moisture. This characteristic, combined with proper sealing, contributes to easier wipe-downs and faster cleanup in everyday situations.

Why Matte Finishes Are Gaining Attention

Matte countertops are becoming increasingly sought-after for their modern, low-sheen aesthetic. Their soft, non-reflective surface makes them a great fit for contemporary or minimalist designs. Lighter matte stones can create a calming atmosphere, while darker ones can add sophistication without overwhelming the space.

One of the practical advantages of a matte finish is its ability to conceal minor surface imperfections. Fingerprints, smudges, and light scratches are less noticeable, which can be a plus in high-traffic kitchens or homes with children. For some homeowners, this everyday functionality outweighs the desire for a glossy appearance.

Maintenance and Long-Term Considerations

Glossy countertops tend to be easier to wipe clean but may show fingerprints and water spots more quickly. This is especially true in busy kitchens with lots of daily use. Regular cleaning and sealing are still important to protect the stone, but the maintenance is relatively straightforward.

Matte countertops require the same care, including sealing for natural stones like marble or granite. However, their finish can make them more susceptible to staining if spills are left unattended. But at the same time, they’re more likely to hide fingerprints and smudges. For many, the trade-off is worth it for the tactile feel and muted elegance that matte finishes provide.

Style Matters, But So Does Lifestyle

Your countertop’s finish can influence the entire tone of your space. Matching the finish with cabinets and other elements in the room, like flooring and lighting, can help the design feel intentional and cohesive. Equally important is how the countertop fits into your daily routine. Kitchens that double as gathering spaces, homework hubs, and family dinner spots may benefit from a finish that minimizes the appearance of messes. In contrast, homeowners focused on making a dramatic design statement may favor a high-gloss surface that highlights the stone’s character.

Moving Forward With Your New Countertop

Still deciding between matte and glossy finishes? The team at Affordable Quality Marble and Granite can help you find the right stone and finish for your space. Contact us today for a free quote for your countertop project!

As summer 2025 approaches, new design trends are shaping the world of granite countertops. Homeowners looking to refresh their kitchens and bathrooms are embracing fresh styles that blend elegance with modern flair. 

Granite remains a favorite choice due to its durability, natural beauty, and timeless appeal. This summer, expect to see bold design statements, softer aesthetics, and creative uses of texture making their way into homes. Whether you’re renovating your entire space or simply updating your countertops, these trends are worth watching.

1. Warm and Earthy Color Palettes

Cool grays have dominated in recent years, but summer 2025 is all about warmth. Homeowners are leaning toward earthy hues that bring a sense of comfort and natural beauty to their kitchens. 

Rich browns, warm beiges, and soft taupe tones are making a comeback, offering a grounded and inviting atmosphere. These warmer shades pair beautifully with wood cabinetry, brass fixtures, and organic textures, creating a cozy yet modern aesthetic.

2. Bold Veining for a Striking Statement

This summer, granite countertops with bold, dramatic veining are taking center stage. Thick, expressive veins offer a striking contrast against the stone’s base color, creating a focal point in any room. 

Whether the veins flow like brushstrokes or form crisp, defined patterns, this trend adds personality and visual depth to kitchen and bathroom designs. These bold patterns work especially well on large kitchen islands where the veining can be fully appreciated. 

3. Polished and Honed Finishes in the Spotlight

Finish options are evolving, with both polished and honed surfaces gaining popularity in 2025. A polished finish provides a glossy, reflective surface that enhances the natural beauty and color of the granite. 

At the same time, honed finishes are gaining attention for their softer, matte appearance. Both finishes bring their own distinct character to a space, allowing homeowners to choose the look that best fits their design vision.

4. Integrated Backsplashes for a Cohesive Look

Granite countertops with matching integrated backsplashes are becoming a standout feature in modern kitchens. This design approach extends the granite up the wall, creating a continuous, unified appearance. Integrated backsplashes eliminate grout lines, providing a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that enhances both beauty and function. 

It allows the natural patterns of the granite to flow seamlessly from countertop to wall, creating a cohesive and luxurious feel. Integrated backsplashes are an excellent choice for kitchens with open shelving or minimal upper cabinetry, where the stone can take center stage.

5. Thicker Edges for a Bold, Modern Profile

Edge profiles are making a statement in 2025, with thicker countertops gaining widespread popularity. Extra-thick granite slabs or mitered edges that create the illusion of depth are bringing a bold, modern touch to kitchen designs. 

This design choice emphasizes the strength and durability of granite while adding a striking visual element. Thicker edges work well on kitchen islands, and for a unique, subtle effect, standard countertops can be paired with a thicker edge on the island for contrast. 

This trend allows homeowners to play with proportions and add a sense of luxury without overwhelming the overall design.

Elevate Your Space With Granite This Summer

As these exciting trends take shape for summer 2025, granite countertops remain a top choice for homeowners who value beauty and durability. 

Each design choice reflects your desire for spaces that feel both stylish and welcoming, making granite an ideal centerpiece for kitchens and bathrooms. If you’re ready to upgrade your home with stunning granite countertops, Affordable Quality Marble and Granite is here to help. Contact us today for a free quote for your countertop project!

Marble countertops have been a staple in modern kitchens for decades, as they’re both elegant and stylish enough to keep up with changing trends. In addition to color and veining, the style of marble countertops is greatly influenced by their edges, finish, and design.

Here are ten marble countertop designs that highlight these features and enhance modern kitchens.

1. Waterfall Edge

A waterfall edge extends the marble slab down the sides of the island or cabinetry, which creates a seamless look. This design is ideal for adding a statement piece to kitchens that emphasizes clean lines. It also protects the cabinetry from spills and damage and keeps debris from collecting in hard-to-reach spaces.

2. Mitered Edge

A mitered edge gives the illusion of a thicker marble slab by joining two pieces at a 45-degree angle. The seamless transition also enhances the visual flow of the kitchen and creates a more cohesive and polished aesthetic.

3. Beveled Edge

A beveled edge features an angled cut along the top of the marble, which adds elegance without being too ornate. This style works well in kitchens that aim to balance sleek minimalism with small details.

4. Eased Edge

The eased edge is slightly rounded along the top, removing sharp corners while maintaining a modern look. It’s a flexible option that fits in a variety of kitchen styles. This design is also practical, as it reduces the likelihood of chipping and makes cleaning easier.

5. Bullnose Edge

A bullnose edge has a rounded top and bottom, which softens corners. This option is a wise choice for those looking for a countertop that is both stylish and safe. The rounded profile bypasses sharp edges, which makes it a great choice for households with children.

6. Honed Finish

A honed finish creates a smooth, matte surface that diffuses light instead of reflecting it. This option is perfect for contemporary kitchens that aim for a more subtle, organic aesthetic. It also helps mask scratches and etches better than a polished finish.

7. Polished Finish

A polished finish pairs well with high-gloss cabinetry and modern metallic accents. The smooth surface also acts as a barrier against stains and helps to maintain the marble’s pristine appearance.

8. Integrated Marble Sink

For a unique and cohesive look, some homeowners integrate their kitchen sinks into the countertop. A marble sink makes the transition between surfaces seamless and minimizes grout lines and seams. It’s stylish and incredibly easy to clean.

9. Thick Slab Countertops

Choosing an extra-thick marble slab makes a bold statement in modern kitchens. This sort of design works well with floating islands or counters for a sleek visual effect. The added thickness also increases durability and ensures the countertop stays in excellent condition for years to come.

10. Bookmatched Marble

Bookmatching involves placing two mirrored slabs side by side to create a symmetrical pattern. This effect enhances the structure of the kitchen and helps give it a harmonious and creative look.

Elevate Your Kitchen with the Perfect Marble Countertop

Choosing the right marble countertop design is about more than just the color and pattern. The right edges, finishes, and construction are a must when it comes to matching your modern kitchen’s aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re looking for something bold or elegant, there’s a style that will fit your vision. 

Explore your options and find the perfect marble countertop to elevate your space today.

When you think about a warm, cozy kitchen, what colors come to mind? For lots of homeowners like you, it’s earth tones– think warm gold, soft beige, rich browns, and more. And while many people only know quartzite as a more durable and affordable marble substitute that’s often seen in shades of white and gray, earth-toned quartzite countertops are a gorgeous countertop option that looks great in any kitchen or bathroom. 

Let’s take a look at how you can incorporate quartzite countertops into your home renovation or new countertop installation!

The Natural Appeal of Earth-Toned Quartzite

Quartzite’s unique coloration sets it apart. Ranging from soft beiges and warm browns to rust, gold, and muted greens, these tones bring an organic quality to interior spaces. Like other natural stone countertops, quartzite retains the natural variations formed over thousands of years, ensuring that each slab is distinct. This variation adds visual interest, creating a surface that feels dynamic, not uniform.

The warm undertones of quartzite work well in a variety of design styles. In contemporary kitchens, the subtle movement of its veining adds depth to sleek cabinetry and modern fixtures. In more traditional spaces, the warmth of the stone enhances rich wood tones and classic design elements. Regardless of the setting, earth-toned quartzite offers a refined, welcoming presence.

Durability That Enhances Everyday Living

Beyond its beauty, quartzite is one of the most durable natural stones available. With a hardness that rivals granite, it resists scratches, making it a smart choice for busy kitchens. Unlike softer stones, quartzite holds up under daily use, maintaining its polished appearance for years to come. Its heat resistance also makes it well-suited for areas near stoves and ovens, offering peace of mind when preparing meals. 

While you still need to seal it regularly to avoid damage, this process is not challenging. Your fabricator can help you develop a schedule that meets your countertop’s needs perfectly. 

In addition to its strength, quartzite’s low porosity helps it resist staining when properly sealed. Spills from coffee, wine, or cooking oils can be wiped away without leaving permanent marks, making it an excellent option for both kitchens and bathrooms. This combination of durability and easy maintenance ensures that quartzite remains a functional and stylish choice for any home.

Enhancing Light and Space with Warm Tones

So quartzite is a great material– but how can it make a room feel warmer? Earth-toned quartzite does more than provide a striking surface! It also influences the overall feel of a room. Lighter shades, such as sandy beige or soft gold, reflect natural light, making a space feel open and airy. Deeper tones, including rich browns or rust-colored quartzite, add depth and coziness, creating a more intimate atmosphere.

When paired with complementary materials, the warmth of quartzite stands out even more. Soft lighting, wooden cabinetry, and neutral wall colors bring out its natural beauty, while metallic accents in gold or bronze add an extra layer of sophistication. The ability to balance warmth and refinement makes quartzite a top choice for those looking to create an inviting and elegant environment.

Transform Your Space with Affordable Quality Marble and Granite

Earth-toned quartzite brings warmth, durability, and elegance to any home, making it an ideal choice for kitchens and bathrooms. With a variety of rich colors and natural patterns, this stone creates an inviting space that remains beautiful for years to come. 

Here at Affordable Quality Marble and Granite, we love to create gorgeous high-quality quartzite countertops that will become the centerpiece of your home. Reach out to us today for a free quote for your countertop project!

Designing a space with contrasting quartz countertops is a great way to add depth and character to your kitchen or bathroom. 

By incorporating both dark and light tones, you create a dynamic interplay that captures attention while elevating the room’s overall design. Quartz countertops, beloved for their durability and wide range of colors, are the perfect countertop type for this approach.

Why Use Contrast In Design?

Contrasting tones bring balance and visual interest to any space. Dark countertops can ground the room, creating a sense of depth and stability, while light countertops contribute brightness and an open, airy feel. When combined, the interplay between the two enhances the overall atmosphere, offering a bold yet cohesive aesthetic.

A well-executed contrast pairs opposites in a way that feels intentional. This can be achieved by strategically placing dark and light countertops in areas that highlight their differences. For example, pairing a dark island countertop with light perimeter countertops makes the island the room’s focal point, drawing the eye and adding structure to the layout.

Choosing The Right Shades And Patterns

Choosing the right shades is essential for creating a balanced design. When selecting dark quartz, consider deep tones like charcoal, espresso, or jet black. These rich hues exude sophistication and work beautifully as statement pieces. Light quartz, on the other hand, offers shades such as crisp white, soft beige, or pale gray, which brighten and complement darker tones.

Pattern is another consideration when mixing quartz countertops. Subtle veining or speckling in one tone can echo similar elements in the other, creating a look that’s really tied together. For instance, a dark quartz countertop with delicate white veining pairs beautifully with a light quartz featuring matching gray streaks. This approach ensures that the two countertops complement each other rather than compete for attention.

Balancing Functionality And Style

While looks are important, practicality should never be ignored– and that’s another reason that quartz is perfect. It’s a very practical surface! Dark countertops are excellent for high-traffic areas, as they tend to conceal stains and scratches. Light countertops are best in spaces where cleanliness and brightness are priorities. Combining the two allows you to tailor the design to the needs of your household.

Placement also plays a key role in achieving functionality. Dark quartz can anchor spaces like the kitchen island, where spills and heavy use are common, while light countertops can brighten work areas near windows or in smaller spaces. Thoughtful placement ensures that your design is as practical as it is visually appealing.

Incorporating Contrasting Countertops Into The Room

To tie the contrasting countertops into the overall design, consider the surrounding elements. Cabinetry, flooring, and backsplashes can bridge the gap between light and dark surfaces. Neutral or complementary tones in these elements will unify the look, creating a cohesive and inviting space.

Lighting is another important factor. Well-placed fixtures can emphasize the beauty of the quartz countertops, highlighting their patterns and tones. Under-cabinet lighting, for instance, enhances the brightness of lighter countertops while adding depth to darker surfaces.

Why Affordable Quality Marble & Granite Is Your Partner In Design

At Affordable Quality Marble & Granite, we understand the art of creating contrasts with quartz countertops. Our extensive selection includes a wide array of dark and light quartz options, ensuring that every customer finds the perfect combination for their space. 

Our team works closely with you to bring your countertop vision to life. If you’re ready to bring striking contrasts into your home, contact Affordable Quality Marble & Granite today for a free quote and let us help you craft a space that stands out.