Well that’s exactly what we are going to cover in this article! Read on to find out more…

What is granite?

To start let’s take a look at what Granite actually is and how it is formed.

Granite is the best-known igneous rock. It forms overtime from the slow crystallisation of magma just beneath the earth’s surface. The composition of quartz and feldspar often gives granite a red, grey, pink or white colour, with dark mineral grains visible throughout the rock.

It is one of the most well known natural stones in the world and is used for the production of several objects including paving stone, curbing, kitchen worktops, floor tiles and even cemetery monuments. It’s all around us.

The quarrying process

Unlike other natural resources that are found deep within the earth’s core, Granite forms close to the surface and as a result shallow quarries are all that is needed to get the raw granite into manageable small stone blocks for shipment. To do this, small holes are drilled in the shape of the desire block size. Carefully planned explosives are then placed into the holes in order to create blasts big enough to separate the block of granite from the bedrock without breaking the block itself.

Extreme care is taken throughout this whole process in order to ensure safe transfer of the granite, and the safety of the minors working in the stone quarries.

The post From Quarry To Kitchen: The Story Of Granite Worktops appeared first on Marble Supreme.

As society becomes more aware of the environmental impact of materials, there has been an increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally-friendly products. The market for eco-friendly kitchens has gained momentum in recent years.

The interior design and construction industries have been flooded with questions about sustainability over the past few years, as awareness over wastefulness has grown. 

With sustainability tipped to be a huge trend in 2021 and onwards, is it time to embrace creating a eco-friendly kitchen design?

There are plenty of modern features and benefits you could benefit from. Take a look at how to design your own environmentally-friendly kitchen…

Pick your materials carefully 

It’s not something that crosses many people’s minds when first designing their new kitchen, but whether you choose a worktop material that is sustainable is an important factor for anyone who is serious about creating a eco-concious kitchen. 

Not all products are sustainable, and some quarrying for natural stone does negatively effect local ecosystems and create huge carbon footprints. 

If you’re set on having a particular material that needs to be shipped or transported over a long distance, consider whether you’re able to offset it’s carbon footprint.

When picking any sort of material or item for your kitchen, consider how long-lasting it is. Will you need to replace it often? Is there a less-wasteful option available?

There are many worktop materials such as granite that are notoriously hardwearing and can last decades if they’re cared for properly. Splashing out on something that is unlikely to need regular repairs or replacements can be worthwhile and save you money in the long-term.

Read our blog to find out how long kitchen worktops last, or find out more about granite worktops. 

Embrace technology

There are hundred of smart appliances that can support you on your journey to sustainability. 

Small details such as opting for boiling water taps can reduce water consumption and are a great alternative to boiling the kettle every hours or so. 

Even which dishwasher you choose can influence how energy efficient your home is. Look out for energy star ratings to ensure you pick appliances that aren’t going to waste energy and money. 

Reduce, reuse & recycle

Recycling old items and materials can be quite a fun family activity if a it of DIY appeals to you. 

Even simple things like using worktop offcuts as coasters or paperweights can add a quirky touch to your home. 

Giving reclaimed materials a new lease on life can be just as fun as it is good for the environment. Materials such as cork and wood can be reshaped and reworked to suit a new purpose with the right idea.

Bring the outside in 

The rise in popularity of cacti, succulents and more have not been unnoticed by interior design experts. Bringing the outside in is not just trendy, but can be beneficial in other unexpected ways. 

Certain plants are particularly good at purifying air and oxygenating the space it lives in.

Develop your green thumb and experiment with being self-sufficient with the addition of a small herb garden on your countertop or windowsill. 

Setting up space in your kitchen design for potted plants, herbs & vegetables is a brilliant way to soften up the harsh edges of stone worktops. 

Eco-friendly cleaning products  

The products you use can contribute to environment pollution. Cleaning products are notoriously toxic, but there’s an easy alterative! The market for eco-friendly cleaning products has been growing steadily, with plenty of options to choose from to meet all your needs. 

Take a look at our blog to see what products work for kitchen worktops made from quartz, marble, granite & more.  

Trends are always an important factor to consider when planning your new kitchen installation or renovation, and we’re here to help if you find yourself struggling with your kitchen design. Sustainability is more than just a trend, being conscious of reducing waste will benefit us all in the long run. 

Call us today to speak to one of our experts on 0117 956 3030, or fill out our contact form.

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As a natural material, it has plenty of valued qualities. It’s known as the ‘stone of choice’ for interior decorators and designers for a reason. So why is granite such a popular choice? 

Take a look at our ultimate guide to granite… 

What is Granite?

In technical terms, granite is crystalline igneous rock and is one of the hardest materials in the world. 

Granite worktops are made up of 100% pure and natural stone, mined straight from the earth. 

Unlike quartz worktops, a granite worktop it is totally natural (other than a polish and sealant). 

Beneficial Qualities

Granite is admired for it’s many beneficial qualities, including but not limited to…

• Stain-reistantance 
• Durablility
• Strength
• Low maintenance (easy to clean)
• Heat-resistantance
• Geniune ‘natural’ texture

Cost

Granite can be at the higher-end of most people’s budget, so it’s worth seriously considering whether it is economically the right choice. 

New reports have found that having a high-quality kitchen in your home can increase the value of your property if you choose to sell. On the other hand, it was also found that an old and outdated kitchen could actually have a negative effect on property value. 

If you’re in a position to spend a bit more on your worktops, it could be a real investment in the long-run! 

What does it look like in kitchens? 

Granite can come in many different colours and finishes. As a natural product there are certain limitations in terms of customisations. If you’re looking for something neon or patterned it might be worth exploring a more synthetic avenue, such as quartz. 

Granite can still come in a variety of colours to suit your taste.

Much like marble, all slabs of granite are different in their own way so if you’re looking to keep your worktops as uniform as possible it’s worth mentioning this to your supplier so your stone comes from the same batch where possible.

How to care for granite

We’ve created a number of guides to help you understand the best approach to keeping your worktops looking sparkling clean. 

The general consensus is to wipe down the surface with warm water and mild soap. It’s less fragile that marble so requires a little-less hawk-eyed attention. 

The downsides 

Although granite is often thought to be the best material, like all materials, it’s important to weigh up the benefits with the potential downsides. 

Granite can be expensive and is extraordinarily heavy compared to other materials available. 

Take a look at our VS guides if you’re wondering if Marble or Quartz could be a better fit for your needs 

How to pick the right material 

Kitchen trends in 2021 are all pointing towards mixing and matching textures in the kitchen. So if you can’t choose between materials, why not experiment with two contrasting worktops? 

The other popular contenders to granite are marble and quartz, each of which have their own personal benefits and limitations. 

What next? 

Take a look at our previous work, many of which include stunning granite kitchen countertops. 

Still unsure whether to pick granite? Here’s what you should look for. 

Or, you’re welcome to get in touch with us for expert advice. 

The post Our Ultimate Guide To Granite and Granite Care appeared first on Marble Supreme.

And one way of making your kitchen as inviting and special as possible is giving a little love to your worktops. 

Whether you go for marble, granite or quartz, stone worktops are a fantastic way to upgrade your kitchen. And there are things you can do with your worktops to make them even more special, making it a place that’s truly a pleasure to spend time in. 

Here’s a list of the top 5 ways that we think you can make your kitchen worktops stand out. 

1. Kitchen Islands

The humble kitchen island isn’t a new idea, but it is a good one. They’re a fantastic option for people who want to cook with others and socialise. They also provide a great place to store your kitchen goods and to create more counter space for kitchen appliances. If you want to go the extra mile, you can even get a kitchen island in wheels, so you can move it around the kitchen.

2. Undermounted sinks

Undermounted sinks are basically sinks that sit under your countertop rather than flush with the top. This creates a look that’s very clean and very modern.  Another benefit is that undermount sinks make it much easier to clean, as they don’t have the same gap between sink and countertop. The only downside is that you need to make sure your undermounted sink is installed by a professional, as this can be tricky to do.   

3. Curved corners

Many traditional kitchen worktops have sharpish angles at the corners, but it’s now becoming popular to have curved corners on your countertops. Why is this design decision popular? Because it offers a softer, alternative look for kitchens. On top of that, curved or rounded corners can be safer for children and less likely to be damaged by being hit with heavy objects. 

4. Breakfast bars

A breakfast bar is a fantastic, social space for the family. They also provide a great area for people to grab a snack on the go, or have a quick coffee break during the day. Breakfast bars are also a great use of space. They’re generally narrower than a regular table, and you can usually keep the stools under the bench, saving floor space.

5. Drainer grooves 

Drainer grooves are grooves cut into your worktop. They sit next to the sink and allow water to drain back into the sink, rather than sitting on your worktop. This also means that water is stopped from running onto your floor or along your countertop. And last but not least, they look stunning. 

So there you go; 5 ways that you can take your stone worktops and make them even better. Not only will these additions improve your quality of life, but they’ll also add value to your property too. 

Why not get in touch today to talk about how we can help you transform your kitchen with beautiful, custom stone kitchen worktops.    

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At Marble Supreme, we provide master craftsmanship in stone. With over 20 years of experience, we produce a wide range of stone products, from beautifully crafted granite worktops for kitchens and bathrooms, right through to bespoke stone fireplaces, vanity tops, splashbacks and flooring. We’re looking for a trainee installer to join our team. 

We work directly with homeowners in Bristol, Bath and the South West, and have excellent relationships with contractors for refurbishment and new-build houses, bars, and offices. We offer domestic and commercial services.

Job Summary:

We are looking for a trainee installer to join our team. You must be reliable, responsible and committed. We produce a variety of products so a can-do attitude and an interest in developing new skills are vital. We are looking to continue to grow our company and hope that you are eager to grow with us.

Responsibilities:

• Measure and cut granite/quartz/marble to exact specifications.
• Install worktops for domestic and commercial customers.
• Install templates.
• Work efficiently in order to meet deadlines. 

Qualifications and Skills:

• Dedication to learning new skills. 
• Good communication skills. 
• Able to work productively within a team as well as working independently.
• A good understanding of health and safety.
• Work accurately and precisely to specifications.
• Good attention to detail.

 To apply please email us at info@marblesupreme.com

The post We’re Hiring! Job Opening: Trainee Installer appeared first on Marble Supreme.

Some are annoying, others create genuine problems, here’s our guide to the kitchen design mistakes you should avoid when you’re planning your kitchen.

1. Poor lighting choices

Lighting can have a tremendous impact on the feel of your kitchen. If you’re lucky enough to have ample natural lighting available, it’s worth factoring this into your design to enhance it. 

Of course not every kitchen has the luxury of natural lighting at all times, so picking the writing placement and type of artificial lighting is absolutely essential to creating a kitchen you enjoy spending time in. 

A huge design mistake is an assumption that all rooms are the same, and thus thinking lighting is one size fits all. You need to adjust your lighting to ensure it works for your specific space. 

Having inadequate lighting can make food-preparation a frustrating experience, especially during the dark winter months. 

2. Not measuring appliances

Imagine designing the perfect kitchen, only to realise your fridge, oven or other appliance is much bigger than you expected. You’d have to redesign your entire kitchen to make sure it fits in properly.

All this hassle can be avoided if you make sure you measure in advance! 

Accurate measurements of how much space you have for appliances, (and we recommended you check these measurements more than once!) and using the space as a size guide for the appliance you’re ordering (or already own) will help ensure there are no nasty surprises.  

3. Forgetting power points for appliances

A small but crucial detail that can sometimes be overlooked is the placement of power points. 

A maze of wires crowding your worktops isn’t aesthetically pleasing and can create a health and safety risk.  Your kitchen is also arguably the room with the biggest demand for power. 

Professionally installed power points can help reduce the clutter of wires and keep your surfaces tidy. Consider adding a power station that can be hidden when not in use. 

Consider how many appliances you expect to use at the same time, and where in the kitchen you would be using them. From there, draw a small diagram of the areas where power points are essential.  

And remember to include power socket for your dishwasher and fridge!

4. Not Using The Working Triangle Method 

Try to map out your space before deciding on a concrete layout. See where you naturally gravitate to and plan around that. 

We have a number of blogs discussing the working triangle method, as well as the ‘zoning’ approach to designing the placement of elements of your kitchen.

These are methods of creating a workspace that works with you, ultimately supporting the efficient use of your space and making your experience enjoyable.

This links to the next mistake…

5. Poor spacing

One of the most overlooked aspects of a kitchen is the space you leave for yourself. 

A common negative of poorly planned kitchen islands is the interruption of circulation space. Your kitchen can restrict your movement and lead to frustrating situations if there are more than one of you using it any. 

With limited space, you’re more likely to bump into each other, something that can be easily avoided if you consider it during the design phase.

It’s recommended to leave approximately 4 feet of space between countertops/island or 3.5 at a push between to help maintain freedom of movement.  

6. Not enough storage 

It’s easy to underestimate just how much storage space you need in your kitchen. 

Consider the size of your pots and pans, and how whether you want to keep them in a drawer, cupboard, or keep them out in the open. 

Whether you pick a place to keep them hidden away or you invest in hooks to hang them on your walls, make sure you don’t forget to maximise your vertical space. 

Create a rough plan to help ensure you’re storing the right items in the right places. Keep frequently used items in easily accessible places to make using your kitchen more enjoyable. 

7. Wrong worktop heights

While it’s still quite an unusual feature, dual height worktops are great for practicality and for style. 

Having worktops at installed at different heights can create dimension in your kitchen, creating the illusion of more open space while offering a number of more practical benefits.

There are industry standards for worktop heights, in fact, you can find a guide here, but that doesn’t mean you have to stick to them. 

A mix of countertops heights is great for defining specific areas of your kitchen. And with the right design, they can really help accentuate the shape of your kitchen. 

Dual heights are also a brilliant option for making your kitchen accessible for wheelchair users. You could even add a stool to perch on in front of a low countertop for ease of use. 

If you struggle with back pain or find yourself hunching over your current worktops, it’s very likely that you will also benefit from adjusting your worktop height.

These are all important factors to consider when planning your new kitchen installation or renovation, and we’re here to help if you find yourself struggling with your kitchen design.

Call us today to speak to one of our experts on 0117 956 3030, or fill out a contact form.

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A kitchen island is a freestanding unit, that is used to create additional countertop space in a kitchen or form a boundary between the cooking area and the living or dining room. It can be built to match existing kitchen cabinets and become an integral part of your overall kitchen design or you might prefer to create a stand out, focal point in the room.

Today’s kitchen islands have become a must have for any modern kitchen space and they’re being custom built to suit various homes and businesses across the UK.

In this article, we will explore the most popular kitchen island styles and we’ll take a brief look at the pros and cons of each.

If, after reading, you remain unsure which kitchen island is best for your property, our team is on hand to answer any further questions you might have. We’re also able to offer a free quotation, so just get in touch for more information today.

L-Shaped Kitchen Islands

A standard L-shaped kitchen island consists of two adjoining, perpendicular walls of cabinets. Each wall is arranged to form an L configuration, which helps to create two distinct kitchen areas as well as facilitating a more optimised kitchen layout.

The sections of the island can vary in length, depending on your personal design preference or the dimensions of the room. It is also important to consider how much clearance is required, in order to provide sufficient access to the island cabinets and kitchen apparatus.

An L-shaped kitchen island is great if you’re looking to build a stylish open plan kitchen or open-concept space. The perpendicular cabinets give homeowners flexibility when it comes to setting boundaries between living spaces that might otherwise blend together.

Since it is likely that one side of the island will be used for cleaning or washing up, it is not uncommon to install a granite composite sink or a luxury stone wash basin. The adjacent side may be purpose built to incorporate space for modern kitchen appliances, such as a microwave, ceramic stove or fridge freezer. But the possibilities are essentially endless.

The highly functional L-shaped island is one of the most popular kitchen island styles due to its versatility and flexibility. It can be the ideal solution for homes with small kitchens and may create a more cohesive cooking space for those ambitious home cooks and chefs.

Pros

• Provides additional storage and prep space
• Improves kitchen layout and workflow

Cons

• Costly
• May not suit some large kitchens

U-Shaped Kitchen Islands

A U-shaped kitchen island is perhaps the most versatile kitchen island of them all and is often a firm favourite of the avid cooks, with a workspace that surrounds them on all sides. 

The U-shaped island works well in large spaces, as it can become a major focal point in the room. The spacious design means that there are lots of areas to cook on and this bodes well if you choose to install a luxury marble, granite or quartz stone countertop.

Of all of the natural stone materials that can be selected for your kitchen countertop, marble is popular because it creates a sense of luxe and grandeur in a room. However whilst it’s unique and timeless beauty can help add value to your home, Marble worktops do require regular care and maintenance. You can read more on the pros and cons of marble worktops in our very own guide.

Quartz stone worktops are non-porous and highly resistant to discolouration. They stand up to oil, coffee, wine and other common sources of stains in the kitchen; they look modern and certainly won’t chip or crack easily. And with technology developing constantly, unique veining patterns similar to that of Marble stone are becoming increasingly available – making quartz a very popular choice for kitchen worktops. You can find out more about the various benefits of quartz worktops in our guide – the 5 benefits of quartz worktops.

Granite is the most popular choice for a kitchen island countertop because it’s dense crystalline structure makes it incredibly smooth and hygienic. It’s one of the most water and scratch resistant natural stone surfaces and comes in a wide array of granite colours:

As mentioned, there is a large amount of functional storage space in a U-shaped island but there are also two corners. The double corners may result in you losing some accessible storage space but if you choose to install a lazy susan or swing-out device this should alleviate any issues.

Pros

• Highly functional
• Large spacious design

Cons

• Double corners may reduce accessible storage space
• May not suit some small kitchens

Galley Islands

Perhaps the most common kitchen island design due to it’s practical and aesthetic qualities, a galley kitchen island has a more streamlined design, compared to other kitchen island styles and is built to be a good fit for any kitchen layout – You might call it the quintessential kitchen island design.

With fewer frills and a modern, contemporary feel, the galley kitchen island appeals to those with a more minimalist aesthetic. The design also favours bar-style seating as well as stools and purpose built chairs.

Some homeowners may think the galley island style is a little too simplistic but there are numerous ways in which you can customise your island, to make it the perfect addition to your home.

If it’s just extra storage space you need or it’s going to be used as an additional kitchen countertop, an enclosed kitchen island with cabinets is likely to suffice. But if your home needs a more casual space to dine, it makes sense to choose a kitchen island that has space for additional seating so you can eat there comfortably.

Pros

• Can accommodate multiple chairs
• No corners or curves

Cons

• Simple design
• May not fit large kitchen appliances

Free-standing or Portable Kitchen Islands

A free-standing kitchen island is a go-to option if you’re unable to place a permanent structure in your home. It can feature most of the same practical components as a traditional kitchen island but the structure is typically placed or built on wheels.

With this portable design, there is the potential to create stunning pieces of furniture that can be added or removed from the room. You’ll still need to ensure that there is sufficient space for you to tuck away the kitchen island when it is not in use, but this style can be ideal for smaller kitchens and properties with limited space.

Pros

• Portable design
• Great for properties with limited space

Cons

• Small and compact

As with any aspect of interior design, it is important to do your own research and make the right decision for you. A free-standing kitchen island might be the crème de la crème when it comes to flexibility but it may not suit your individual living requirements.

To make an informed decision, we recommend that you read our kitchen blog for inspiration and advice. We also suggest speaking to a qualified expert so that you have all of the available knowledge, to choose the best kitchen island for you.

At Marble Supreme, we’d be more than happy to explain each style in more detail and we look forward to hearing from you. Simply get in touch or visit our Bristol showroom today.

The post Kitchen Island Style Guide appeared first on Marble Supreme.

The majority of stone kitchen worktops are remarkably durable and can withstand a variety of wear and tear. Each material has plenty of pros and cons to consider. 

Investing in a high-quality kitchen worktop could add value to your home should you choose to sell. With an estimated 6% rise in value to your home. 

So, how long do different stone worktops last? 

Marble

There’s a reason why marble has been used to form historical buildings and sculptures for thousands of years, it’s just as strong as it is beautiful.

Marble is a popular material of choice for kitchen worktops, and it’s easy to see why. 

Despite being softer than granite and quartz, it has naturally heat-resistant qualities and is incredibly versatile. 

Typically, a marble worktop will last upwards of 10-15 years. 

If the marble is placed in an area that experiences low-traffic, it will generally last longer.

Granite 

In comparison to other worktops materials, granite has the longest life expectancy. 

On average, a granite worktop can stay in good condition for over 25 years. So, investing in a granite worktop really will pay off in the long run. 

Did you know granite is one of the hardest substances in the world, second only to diamonds? 

There are plenty of factors that will contribute to the condition of your granite. For example, making sure your worktop is regularly sealed will help protect it from everyday spills and stains. 

Quartz

Although Quartz is an engineered stone composed of man-made resins, it actually has a shorter expected life span than most natural stone. 

Quartz worktops are also more prone to sun damage and heat damage from contact with hot pots and pans.

However, a high-quality quartz worktop can still last for an average of 15 years before a replacement may be needed.

Looking to replace your old worktops? Read more about how to prepare for new worktops…

So, what’s the catch?

Your worktops can last for a very long time, however, how well you care for them will have a big effect on their longevity. 

Natural stone is susceptible to water damage, chips and cracks. Stains and scratches may not have a huge effect on longevity but it’s important to stay aware of these superficial issues because in high-volume they can contribute to a weakening of the stone. The softer the stone, the higher the risk of scarring and chipping.

If you are worried about your stone coping with the stress of high-traffic, it might be best to explore granite and quartz options for your worktops rather than marble. 

Investing in a stone kitchen worktop will benefit you for a lifetime if you care for them. And if you’re looking for peace of mind, you can rest easy knowing that we offer a 15-year warranty in association with Dry-Treat. 

Want to know how to care for your worktops? Read our blogs on how to clean your worktops, whether they are granite, quartz or marble. 

Still not sure which stone is right for you?

At Marble Supreme, we’d be more than happy to explain the pros and cons of kitchen worktop materials. We want to help you find the perfect stone for your kitchen or bathroom and love to share our knowledge on beautiful stone materials.

Simply, get in touch today or visit our Bristol showroom to speak to one of our stone experts in person.

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