Cambria Quartz Countertops

May 24 2022

Using Design Elements in Your Office Space

admin Black Countertops, Cambria Quartz Countertops, Countertops, Countertops, Cabinets & Backsplash, Daytona Beach Countertops, Granite, Granite Countertops, Home Office Countertops, Kitchen Countertops, Ormond Beach Countertops, Pompeii Quartz Countertops, Quartz Countertops Commercial countertops, Commercial Design, countertops, Office Remodel, Solid Surface in Office Design

A Mix of Light & Dark: The Law Offices of Chanfrau & Chanfrau

Over the last few years, where people work has changed. In a short period of time, we have gone from working in an office building full-time to working from home full-time, to a hybrid of both, and now some organizations are transitioning back to a full-time return to an office building. Creating and maintaining a dynamic office space is essential for both the client and your team.

Creating a space that is warm, welcoming, functional, and up to date speaks volumes to your team and your clients and can increase morale and increase productivity. A pleasing, well-organized space promotes confidence and pride in your organization.

As we transition back to spending more time at an office instead of our homes, we are reminded that design aesthetics can affect how your team works. Why does office design matter?

1. Your team spends a lot of time at the office.

According to a study done by Ohio State University and the National Institute of Mental Health, our workspace affects our health, emotions, and productivity. Creating an updated space displays the importance you place on your team’s work experience. It can also convey your company values like teamwork (gathering space), work/life balance (areas away from desk), innovation (technology), and overall physical and mental health (natural light, paint colors).

2. Clients Expectations

People tend to judge a book by its cover and have expectations when it comes to doing business with a company. Making sure your office space is updated, welcoming, and clean speaks volumes about your company. Your design choices can also communicate that your company is collaborative and has a team atmosphere, creating a welcoming environment for your clients.

We recently had the pleasure of working with the local law firm Chanfrau and Chanfrau and their interior designer, Melissa Kearney with M Kearney Designs, to assist in a full remodel of their offices. The results of this collaboration are impressive. We asked what inspired the updated design. Kearney commented “The building itself was the inspiration. It is a historic Spanish style building with wonderful architecture.”

We also asked Kearney what is the major difference between designing a commercial property and a residential property. Kearney stated “When designing for a commercial space, I take into consideration the wide range of people using the building, versus a homeowner’s individual needs.”

With the exception of your parking area and exterior of your building, your reception area is your organization’s first impression. Your reception area sets the tone for the rest of the office space. Utilizing custom countertop materials in your reception area allows you to create a statement when your clients walk in the door. Custom countertop materials bring a rich unique look to the area that has more of a design feel than just a desk.

We love the brightness of this space and the warmth accomplished by the variety of texture and color. When we asked designer Melissa why she decided on utilizing Cambria countertops throughout the office, she commented “They have a fantastic pattern and color range and superior quality.”

The reception desk design elements include a combination of Cambria quartz, color Helmsley and waterfall edge in Cambria’s Fairbourne. The contrast between the darker and lighter quartz countertops create a beautiful statement in the entrance, especially with the stone back wall and soft-colored tile floor. The lighter color walls also add to the feel of the room.

Helmsley

Fairbourne

This warmth is carried through the office, including the kitchen area and conference rooms.

Front Conference Room

We really love the clean look of this conference room. The contrast of the light walls and floor with the dark wood accents on the window trim and the dark chair accent is a nice balance. The designer’s use of the Cambria quartz, a custom countertop material in Clovelly for the conference room table creates a unique modern feel with a beautiful focal point.

Downstairs Conference Room

The larger of the two conference rooms is almost a contrast to the front conference room: the lighter wood trim and the darker Luxury Series Cambria quartz, a custom countertop material in Golden Dragon (discountinued product, similar products available) on both the table and built-in cabinetry. The same style chair is used in this space, keeping consistency throughout the office.

Kitchen & Coffee Bar Area

The kitchen is where your team will come together daily and is an important space. The designer has carried the same feel to this space as the rest of the remodel. Brightening the space up with natural light, neutral flooring and walls. The downstairs kitchen is designed with Cambria’s custom countertop material in Helmsley, mirroring the reception desk area.

We want to thank the team at Chanfrau and Chanfrau and Melissa Kearney of M Kearney Designs for allowing us to be a part of this project. Whether we are assisting our clients with their home or business design projects, we feel privileged to be a contributor.

Whether you are building from the ground up or remodeling your office, we would love to partner with you on your design project. Stop by our showroom at 5950 S US Highway 1, Bunnell, FL 32110 to begin collaborating with our team on your office remodel or construction project.

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Continental Granite & Cabinets offers our clients a wide variety of custom fabrication needs, such as countertops, fireplaces, stairs, wall cladding, flooring, bars, furniture pieces, custom trim and much more. We also offer a wide range of products to make such creations such as Granite, Marble, Onyx, Travertine, Silestone, Cambria, Caesarstone, Corian Quartz, etc. Continental Granite & Cabinets is proud to be a family-owned and operated business and treats its customers as if they were one of their own. We’re located in Bunnell, Florida, just 6 miles Northwest of Destination-Daytona in Ormond Beach, Florida, serving all of Central Florida and beyond. We believe our relationship with our customers lasts much longer than the current project we are working with them. To learn more, call us today at 386.586.7059 or fill out our contact form here.

April 25 2022

Durable & Long-Lasting Countertops

admin Black Countertops, Cambria Quartz Countertops, Countertops, Countertops, Cabinets & Backsplash, Daytona Beach Countertops, Granite Countertops, Home Office Countertops, Kitchen Countertops, Leathered Granite, Marble, Ormond Beach Countertops, Outdoor Kitchen Countertops & Cabinets, Pompeii Quartz Countertops, Quartz Countertops, Residential Countertops, Uncategorized

In 2022, kitchens will remain one of the top three essential spaces in a home, as reported by the National Association of Realtors. The kitchen, for most, is the heart of the home. Much of our daily lives are spent in the kitchen, cooking, eating, gathering, and partaking in activities such as after-school homework sessions. From a design perspective, the focal point of most kitchens is undeniably the countertop surface, requiring it to be beautiful, functional, and long-lasting. Today’s market offers several options for homeowners to choose when designing their new kitchen from scratch or remodeling. Countertop surfaces come in different colors, patterns, textures, and functionality.

According to a 2022 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, more than one-third of homeowners reportedly splurged on countertops (35%). The most common feature improved during kitchen renovations, countertops were upgraded by more than nine in 10 homeowners (91%). The same study indicates that the median spend for both major and minor kitchen remodels increased in mid-2021 by 14% to $40,000 and by 25% to $10,000, respectively, compared to 2020. The median spend for a major kitchen remodel of a large kitchen (250 square feet or more), continued to climb for the fourth year in a row to $50,000, up from $45,000 the previous year. The median spend on a major small kitchen remodel (less than 250 square feet) increased as well, up to $35,000 in mid-2021 from $30,000 in mid-2020.

GRANITE

The second leading choice for countertop surfaces is the natural surface, granite. Granite has been used in the U.S. for countertops as early as the 1920s but became more mainstream during the 1970s. Granite is undoubtedly considered a classic choice but also lends to a contemporary modern look. The timeless look of granite adds a touch of luxury to any home, elevating its value. According to the National Board of Realtors, granite countertops remain a trendy option in traditional and modern designs. The National Association of Realtors survey also found that 55% of survey respondents said they would pay more for granite countertops when purchasing a home.

Granite is a 100% natural and a type of igneous rock. It is made from a crystallized form of hot liquid magma that has been cooled slowly to become a solid hard surface. Granite contains a combination of minerals such as mica, quartz, and feldspar. Quartz and feldspar are tougher than some steel, according to the Mohs scale of hardness, making granite one of the toughest natural stones on the market. It is mined from quarries all around the world, with most of the granite mined in the United States from five states: Massachusetts, Georgia, New Hampshire, South Dakota, and Idaho. Granite is available in numerous colors, slab sizes, thicknesses, and patterns. Due to how it is formed, no two countertops are the same. Its natural beauty often creates an eye-popping look and fits any design style.

Granite countertops are durable and often last the life of a home when cared for properly. Granite’s durability includes resistance to heat and scratches. Because it is formed by heat and pressure, it will not scorch if you place a hot pan/pot on it or scratch when you use your sharp knives to cut and slice items. In fact, a granite counter will often dull your knives if you do not use a cutting board when chopping things.

However, because granite is made of many crystals pressed together, a high-impact hit can likely chip or damage the surface. Furthermore, there can be some staining if certain liquids are spilled and left sitting or the surface is not adequately sealed due to its porous nature. Lighter colors tend to be more susceptible to stains. To ensure the longevity of your investment, consider having your countertops resealed once a year.

MAINTENANCE

Maintenance on your granite countertops is relatively simple. All countertops are recommended to be cleaned daily with a mild soap/cleanser and water.

DESIGN NOTES

One design element that you want to consider when using granite is the uniqueness and natural variations in the stone. It can be hard to hide seams, and countertops may not look exactly alike if not from the same piece.

In addition, if using a bold color or design piece of granite you may want to consider utilizing softer and more muted elements in the room.

PRICING

The average granite countertop cost reported by HomeAdvisor.com ranges from $40 to $100 per square foot. Labor generally adds an additional $35 to $85 per hour to the project’s final cost. Size, color, texture, and origination of the granite impact the product’s price, while design, size, shape, and number of seams dictate the price of the project’s labor costs.

OTHER AREAS TO USE GRANITE IN YOUR DESIGN

Granite is not just for the kitchen. Granite can also be used in bathrooms, laundry rooms, butler pantries, bars, fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, and office areas with its durability and unique design quality.

2022 DESIGN TRENDS

Some of the latest trends in the world of granite are Neutral Tones, Leathered Finish, Matte Finish, and Unique Veining & Patterns.

Neutral Tones include neutral whites, creams, light grays, soft blues, beiges, and mid-tone colors. Most neutral tones go with most cabinet color schemes.

Leathered Finish is an up-and-coming trend. This bold statement may not be for everyone, but it certainly creates a unique space. This finish has a textured, rough surface with no sheen or light-reflecting qualities. This type is generally used in larger areas with lots of natural light.

Unique Veining & Patterns have always been part of the draw to granite as a design choice. The unique patterns and veining create a focal point in the kitchen. The options are endless.

Honed/Matte Finish is a surface with a low sheen. This type offers a softer and more subtle look while still retaining the character of natural stone. The manufacturing process is stopped before the stone surface becomes shiny, leaving it with a matte or satin-like appearance.

2022 COLOR TRENDS

White, black, blue, and gold are the most popular colors for 2022. This neutral and versatile palette, with varying finishes, offer limitless opportunities when designing your kitchen, bathroom, and other home areas. The durability and longevity of granite offer a lifetime of enjoyment.

Granite countertops are an important element in designing or remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, outdoor kitchen, and other areas. Why not schedule a consultation with the granite experts to discuss what color, style, and finish would best suit your design needs?

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March 30 2022

Kitchen Spotlight: The Golden Brittanicca

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Design trends can change year to year, but some things never go out of style. For instance, a white kitchen is always a classic look that has the opportunity to make a grand statement. Whether designing from scratch or remodeling your kitchen, an all-white look with a pop of color or metal tone accents is sure to make a statement.

The kitchen is the most utilized area in a home and deserves the most significant degree of function and beauty. If you want to design your kitchen with an elegant modern feel, utilizing high gloss white cabinets, Cambria’s Brittanicca Gold countertop, backsplash, and gold accents are perfect.

Keeping true to the existing look of the home while creating a functional and beautiful kitchen can sometimes seem like a daunting task. At Continental Granite & Cabinets, we work closely with the homeowner from the beginning to the end, guiding and designing the area to reflect their desires and needs.

This contemporary high gloss white kitchen includes several elements with shiny surfaces like the cabinets, white appliances, a stunning Cambria countertop in Brittanicca Gold, and gold accents throughout.

The sleekness of the flat panel door (sometimes called “slab doors”) has been popular in Europe for decades and has become mainstream in the United States. They can be budget-friendly while providing a rich look, especially high gloss. These cabinets offer smooth, clean lines that showcase the high gloss finish.

The gold accents in the hardware, furniture, and lighting provide a high-end design look and beauty to the space. The mix of pulls and knobs creates a different look and functionality. The modern fixtures and hardware of the current day are stunning and offer a subtle design choice with any white kitchen. The gold lighting is an excellent way to tie everything together, creating an Architectural Digest-worthy look.

A combination of white and stainless steel appliances creates a consistent color pallet in the space. It also creates a seamless look from one end of the room to the other, allowing the appliances to feel like a piece of the design puzzle. The commercial-style range with six natural gas burners is aesthetically pleasing and perfect for the chef in the family.

Last but certainly not least, the stunning Cambria Brittanicca Gold countertops and backsplash. This extraordinary element that offers a multi-hued stream of copper-gold, fog, and other earth tones against a white background takes your breath away—the marble-like veining offering a unique design aspect to the space while providing functionality and durability.

FUNCTIONALITY OF DESIGN

The color, style, products, and textures are essential when designing your perfect kitchen, but one must also look at the functionality of the space. This kitchen has a wide range of cabinets, drawers, and counter space. The island allowing for interaction between those cooking in the kitchen and those sitting around the island is perfect for most families. The kitchen is generally the gathering place in any home, and this layout lends itself to togetherness. The island also creates a show-stopping focal point in the room. The upper and lower cabinets provide ample space for tableware, drinkware, pots & pans, pantry items. At the same time, the drawers throughout the area offer great space to store cutlery, placemats, spices, and more. Upgrades such as soft-close doors, drawers, and pull out shelves make the space beautiful and efficient.

BENEFITS OF A BRIGHT WHITE KITCHEN

Long-term value of your kitchen look. Many appreciate this clean and elegant look of a white kitchen.
Creates a very clean look and allows natural light to bounce off.
Utilizing white as your color base for your kitchen is very versatile. Works with any style from traditional to modern chic.
Naturally makes the space feel open and more significant.
Establishes character by utilizing varying textures while keeping the color consistent.

BENEFITS OF USING CAMBRIA QUARTZ – MARBLE ALTERNATIVE COUNTERTOP

Uniqueness of the countertop, no two are alike
Durability
Stain-resistant
Sustainable
Not Porous, easier to keep bacteria-free
Easy to clean

HOW TO CLEAN A CAMBRIA COUNTERTOP

Avoid harsh cleaning tools and products
Use warm non-colored soap and water
Get your magic eraser out
Run your exhaust fan when you cook
Wipe up liquids and spills as soon as possible
Use vinegar to remove stains

Continental Granite & Cabinets is here to help curate the kitchen of your dreams! Contact us today to get started, and visit us on Facebook and Instagram for more inspiration!

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February 9 2022

Quartz vs. Granite: The Solid Difference

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When choosing a product for your countertops in your home and office, there are several options. The two that stand out above the rest are quartz and granite. Choosing either one would be considered a popular choice, but although both are technically stone, there are some key differences between the two.

What is Quartz?

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral on the planet and has been used to design kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas for decades. Quartz is mined and ground into an aggregate fused with resin and other synthetic materials. It is generally made up of ninety percent quartz and ten percent resin. Quartz is considered an engineered stone.

What is Granite?

Granite is a naturally occurring rock formed deep beneath the earth’s crust over millions of years when magma or lava cools and solidifies under heavy pressure. The slow cooling process of intense heat makes a strong and dense material. Granite contains several minerals, of which quartz, feldspar, and mica are the three main components.

quartz-vs-granite-solid-difference-cleaning

Appearance

No two granite countertops look the same, and this choice has a very organic appearance. Each slab has a slightly different pattern and color, providing the consumer with a limitless selection. Granite is a solid choice if you are looking for something that will stand out and offer a unique element to your kitchen or bathroom. Depending on the size of the area you are placing your granite, you may require slabs to seam together. Due to the variations found in granite, seams may be less visible than other surface options.

Quartz-vs-granite-solid-difference-palm-coast-florida

On the other hand, quartz countertops have a more uniform appearance. It has the look of stone but allows consumers to customize their product. Some feel that the uniform appearance lacks the charm of granite, but this option can meet those who would prefer not to see the natural flaws that exist with granite. Quartz countertops also offer a wide range of color options produced with little to no pattern. If your counter area requires a long span, you may need to seam together multiple pieces of quartz. Continental uses a unique Invisa-Seam process. With this process, we are able to minimize unsightly separations in the countertops, giving them a more seamless look.

Durability

Granite countertops are incredibly durable and resistant to heat and other kitchen elements. However, granite is very porous and can absorb stains from oils, wine, and other common kitchen liquids. The porous nature of granite requires sealing the countertop upon installation then periodically sealing on an ongoing basis. You can cut directly on granite without worrying about scratching the surface, but be aware that the stone will dull knives; therefore, always using a cutting board is suggested.

Quartz is harder than granite and also very durable. Quartz is not porous like granite, so not as easily stained and relatively bacteria-free. You will want to be cautious as excessive heat can damage the surface. Be sure to use trivets or hot pads when placing hot items on your countertops. Quartz does not require sealing, thanks to the resins used in the fabrication process.

Maintenance

Both materials are relatively simple to care for. Granite and quartz countertops should be cleaned daily with soap and water or a mild ecological cleaning product. Granite will need to be sealed yearly to resist stains and bacteria. Quartz does not need to be sealed but can sometimes be treated with an antibacterial coating during production.

Sustainability

Both granite and quartz are made of primarily natural materials, granite 100 percent stone, and quartz is roughly around 93 percent stone, with the remainder comprised of color pigments and polymer resin. The production process of natural granite produces fewer carbon emissions than quartz; however, granite requires the product to be quarried, which takes a considerable amount of energy. You must also consider the transportation involved in purchasing a granite slab from an international supplier. You can also look for indigenous stone or consider using a piece of granite that can be cut to fit your needs.

Quartz-vs-granite-solid-difference-contact-continental-granite

Cost

Granite and quartz are an investment and can sometimes make up a more significant portion of your budget when designing a kitchen or bathroom. Depending on where you are looking to purchase your granite or quartz, you will find that generally, they are priced similarly. Granite, however, tends to have a broader variation in price. Installation of granite countertop pricing can range from $49 to $175 per square foot. Pricing can depend on the style, edging, and treatments. Quartz countertops range from $65 to $150 per square foot, installed. Once again, pricing varies depending on style, edging, and treatment as well.

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Whether you choose granite or quartz for your countertops, you will undoubtedly create a wow factor in your home or office. Granite and quartz are premium materials that will add value to your home or business.

Quartz-vs-granite-solid-difference-continental-granite

Give us a call at 386.586.7059, fill out our contact form, or stop by the showroom at 5950 S. US HWY 1, Bunnell, FL 32110 to start the process of bringing your dream space to life. Also, be sure to check us out on social media for more inspiration! We’re on Facebook and Instagram!

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January 5 2022

6 Things to Avoid on Your Granite Countertops

admin Bathroom Countertops, Black Countertops, Cambria Quartz Countertops, Continental Cares, Countertops, Countertops, Cabinets & Backsplash, Daytona Beach Countertops, Granite, Granite Countertops, Home Office Countertops, Kitchen Countertops, Leathered Granite, Ormond Beach Countertops, Outdoor Kitchen Countertops & Cabinets, Pompeii Quartz Countertops, Quartz Countertops, Residential Countertops

Granite countertops are a top choice when designing kitchens and bathrooms. Not only do they offer a stunning one-of-a-kind design component to your space, but granite countertops are also strong, resistant to stains, and somewhat easy to care for. However, there are some essential things to consider.

6 Things to Avoid on Your Granite Countertops

To keep your granite looking beautiful and extend its life, you should take the time to learn how to care for it, including cleaning protocols, hazards, and precautions. Following recommended guidelines, you can be confident that your countertops will remain beautiful for many years to come.

What is Granite?

Granite is a type of stone formed with percentages of quartz, feldspar, and other materials. Granite is tough, stain-resistant, heat resistant, comes in multiple colors, can be designed seamless and, is relatively easy to clean. Nonetheless, with all their beauty and durability, granite countertops are not indestructible and do have a few vulnerabilities that you want to be aware of.

Using knives on granite countertops is more of an issue for the knife than the countertop. Granite is strong and can withstand most everyday wear and tear. While a knife can cause some minor scratches or chips on your countertop, the repeated force against the granite will cause your knives to dull, resulting in the need to be sharpened more often or replaced sooner when you use your countertop as a cutting board. Designing your perfect kitchen has taken time and money; protect your investment in both your counter surface and kitchen knives by using a cutting board.

While working with raw meat or seafood on your countertop won’t damage it, it can cause more serious issues. Preparing raw meat or seafood on your countertop can transfer a bacterial infection to your countertop, causing health issues for you and your family. While a properly sealed granite should keep bacteria from making its way in the tiny spaces within your countertop, are you willing to take that chance? Furthermore, you may be more apt to use harsher chemicals to clean the area you worked with the raw meat and seafood, which could cause damage or dullness to your counter’s sealant. Our suggestion would be to use a raw meat plastic nonporous cutting board that can be thrown in the dishwasher.

Although granite tends to be less reactive to acids, similar to those found in citrus fruits, vinegar, and sodas, these substances can etch the surface of your countertop, damaging the sealant. Damaging the seal can make your countertop more susceptible to staining. Household items such as vinegar, lemons, limes, soda, perfume, lotions, nail polish, and soaps are ones to watch out for, as they can cause some damage. You want to also refrain from using any soaps that contain ammonia. Again, we recommend using a cutting board or coaster on your kitchen granite countertop and baskets, and trays for your bathroom countertop.

The kitchen tends to be a gathering place in most homes. Late-night conversations, family gatherings, entertaining, and homework tend to occur in one of the most used areas of the home. Your granite countertop is formidable and can take much weight, but only when that weight is concentrated in the middle of the countertop. Sitting or standing on the edge of the countertop can cause stress fractures and breaks, leading to you having to replace the entire countertop. Replacing a countertop can be cost-prohibitive for some.

Spills are unavoidable, especially in the kitchen. The spills are not an issue for your granite. It is what you do after a spill occurs that affects your countertop. Leaving a spill can etch your countertop, damage your sealant, and cause a stain. You may also find yourself placing containers like perfumes and hair products on your bathroom countertop. Leaks or drip residue can end up reaching the countertop before you realize it. Be sure to use warm soapy water or cleaners formulated for granite countertops (non-abrasive) whenever you spill or notice a spill—leaving your countertop looking beautiful.

Although granite can tolerate high heat, it is not recommended that you place hot pots and pans directly on your granite countertop. Granite is a natural product and can withstand a brief encounter with a hot surface; however, excessive exposure to heat can weaken the sealant. To prevent heat damage, always have a trivet, heat pad, or potholder when cooking in the kitchen or placing a hot hair tool directly on your countertop.

Granite is a beautiful choice for any area of your home. Using the proper care techniques will undoubtedly extend the life of your countertop. Making sure it remains a key element in the design of your home.

Continental Granite offers the highest quality granite, so your countertops will stand the test of time. In addition, we offer the products to keep them clean and looking their best.

Give us a call at 386.586.7059, fill out our contact form, or stop by the showroom at 5950 S. US HWY 1, Bunnell, FL 32110 to start the process of bringing your granite dreams to life. Also, be sure to check us out on social media for more inspiration! We’re on Facebook and Instagram!

November 15 2021

Quartz Kitchen Countertops & Holiday Baking 101: What to Know When It’s Time To Roll-Out Those Holiday Treats.

admin Cambria Quartz Countertops, Continental Cares, Countertops, Countertops, Cabinets & Backsplash, Daytona Beach Countertops, Granite Countertops, Kitchen Countertops, Ormond Beach Countertops, Pompeii Quartz Countertops, Quartz, Quartz Countertops, Quartzite, Residential Countertops, Uncategorized

‘Tis the season of cooler weather, multi-generational meals, seasonal get-togethers, making memories, and of course…..holiday baking. Whether you’re masterly re-creating gramma’s butter tarts with your daughter, baking a few dozen cookies for your annual holiday cookie exchange, or kneading the dough for the homemade bread that you put in your Christmas morning casserole, the right countertop can be a great space to help you feel like the master chef that you are.

Holiday baking is a time-honored tradition in many homes, and for some, a family affair. Having the ability to utilize your countertop area in its entirety can make things just a tad easier and allow for everyone to feel a part of the process.

Quartz Kitchen Countertops & Holiday Baking 101: What to Know When It’s Time To Roll-Out Those Holiday Treats.

When choosing a counter surface, you have some options, but if you are looking for a pastry-friendly work area, Continental Granite and Cabinets suggest quartz as the choice.

Quartz is not only beautiful but versatile and durable. Quartz is a man-made surface that is removed from granite rock, crushed, and combined with resins and pigments. It is more accurately referred to as engineered stone as it is not a true solid surface. The final product is 90-95 percent quartz and 5-10 percent additives.

Quartz countertops are green and sustainable. The 90 percent of stone materials that form the base of quartz are all generally waste-by-products of other manufacturing or quarrying processes. Meaning that no natural stone was quarried solely for use in a quartz countertop. In addition, the resins that make up the additives have become more natural and less synthetic over the last few years.

A little bit of trivia about Quartz…our industry partner Cambria, one of the largest suppliers of quartz, is also a cheese producer. This family-owned business began in the 1930s as a dairy business. In 2000, they expanded their business portfolio to include quartz processing.

There are a number of benefits that working with quartz brings to the baker and culinary geniuses in the kitchen.

IT’S ALL ABOUT CHILLIN’

Very much like a natural stone countertop, quartz keeps things cool. Quartz is also one of the hardest minerals on the planet which allows you to be able to roll out your dough easily. You will want to sprinkle the countertop with flour or powdered sugar so that the dough does not stick to the counter. The coolness of the stone also ensures that the butter does not melt into the dough so that your pie crust will be crispy and flakey.

NOOKS & CRANNIES
Pores are virtually non-existent, which not only creates a lovely esthetic look but makes cleanup super easy. Flour and other ingredients won’t seep into crevices and pores, ensuring that you won’t have to dread the worst part of baking, clean up.

Quartz is also impenetrable to spills, which is great if you work with liquids like lemon or wine containing acid.

Unlike other countertop surfaces that require a chemical seal, quartz does not. That is one of the reasons quartz is a top choice for bakers. This allows you to create a chemical-free space for your family.

A quartz countertop is tough and heat resistant, making it durable against many issues that come up in the kitchen. We, however, don’t recommend placing a hot cookie sheet or using your counter as a cutting board. Always use a hot plate or cutting board.

Cleaning your quartz countertop is easy-peasy. You can use dish soap and water and a microfiber cloth. Stay away from any harsh cleaners to keep the surface chemical-free.

THE LOOK
For many, one of the top benefits of using quartz in their home is its natural luster. It has a three-dimensional appearance, very much like a natural stone.

Quartz countertops come in a wide variety of colors. The most popular colors are neutrals in white, black, grey, beige, and brown. Quartz can also be found in just about every shade of the rainbow.

Your kitchen is the space in your home where you create memories. Where you make your family dinner, pack lunches, and prepare for all your holiday feasts. Using quartz as your counter surface allows you to do all of that and your kitchen looks beautiful at the same time.

Contact us here, for more information on quartz, natural stone, and all of your residential and commercial cabinet needs. Be sure to also check us out on social media for more inspiration! You can find us on Facebook and Instagram!

WAIT! Before you go… what are the holidays without sharing one of our own and favorite recipes!? Check it out! Praline Crack… topped with sliced almonds! We make this one every year and look forward to sharing it with our friends and family.

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Continental Granite & Cabinets offers our clients a wide variety of custom fabrication needs, such as countertops, fireplaces, stairs, wall cladding, flooring, bars, furniture pieces, custom trim and much more. We also offer a wide range of products to make such creations such as Granite, Marble, Onyx, Travertine, Silestone, Cambria, Caesarstone, Corian Quartz, etc. Continental Granite & Cabinets is proud to be a family owned and operated business and treats its customers as if they were one of their own. We believe the relationship we form with our customers lasts much longer than the current project we are working with them. To learn more, call us today at 386.586.7059 or fill out our contact form here.

August 6 2021

Take A Tour: Ormond Beach Custom Countertops Throughout The Home

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Kitchen Countertops

This masterpiece of a kitchen was formulated with one thing in mind: FAMILY!

The open concept creates a fluid living space between the kitchen and dining/living room. Our clients chose Cambria’s Ironsbridge Quartz Countertops, combining true strength and delicate beauty. This intriguing design blends liquid honey accents with patchworks of grays, whites, and cream to beautifully merge warm and cool tones in delightful harmony. The black accents throughout the kitchen really help this beautiful stone stand out!

Take A Tour: Ormond Beach Custom Countertops Throughout The Home

Featuring: Ironsbridge Luxury Series Cambria 3cm Quartz Countertops

Bathroom Countertops

Whether you’re looking to make a statement with your bathroom design or keep it simple and elegant, we have a selection of countertops and stone to achieve both. And in this home – that’s exactly what we did!

Talk about bold! With a mix of black textured walls along with Cambria’s Golden Dragon Quartz Countertops, it’s a pairing that combines for a one-of-a-kind oasis.

Featuring: Golden Dragon Luxury Series Cambria Quartz Floating Vanity Top, Apron Front, 12″ Backsplash and Porcelain Vanity Sink

Can you ever go wrong with a pure white countertop and gold and black accents!? We kept it simple & elegant with completely different looks in all 3 of these bathroom remodels.

Featuring: Pure White Pompeii Granite Countertops with 4″ Backsplash Flat Polish Edge & Vanity Undermount Porcelain Sink

Office Countertops

Everyone needs a space they love to work in! Our client chose Pompeii Quartz Countertops in their home office to reflect a fresh, natural look and complement their modern lifestyle.

Featuring: Pompeii White Thanasos

Fireplace Stone

As the focal point in the living room, this fireplace needed a stone that would be resistant to heat as well as provide a beautiful aesthetic to the home. Quiet but never subdued, Fairbourne quartz provides a peaceful presence that calms and soothes.

Featuring: Cambria Fairbourne Matte Finish Quartz

Regardless of the size, shape, edge profile, or room in your home – Continental is equipped with the latest technology and a vast selection of quality stone products to meet your needs!

Interested in creating a showstopping design for your home? Give us a call or stop by our showroom.

Phone: 386-586-7059

Showroom: Open Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm 5950 S US HWY 1 Bunnell, Florida (Just 6 miles west of Destination Daytona in Ormond Beach, FL)

April 14 2021

The Continental Difference

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Continental is a family-owned and operated custom fabrication shop providing top-quality natural stone and quartz products to Daytona Beach and surrounding Central Florida communities. When choosing your custom cabinet or countertop company, we believe you deserve the best! The Continental Difference is what we are proud to provide our clients and honored to have stood behind for the last 20 years.

Our team of highly trained and experienced professionals have a combined 80+ years of experience in both residential and high-end commercial projects.

Selection

Our showrooms have a vast selection of stone and quartz, cabinets, sinks, tile, and more from which to plan your dream kitchen or bath. From choosing colors to picking edge profiles and making your final slab selection, our team is here to assist you in all aspects of the design. We’ll take extra steps to make sure you are educated throughout the entire process – from start to finish.

Quality

We use the latest technology available exercising care & precision throughout the entire operation. From our laser templating and slab smith digital layouts to our automated fabrication equipment, you can trust that your stone will be prepared, cut, polished, and installed with precision and excellence. All of our seams are perfected using our Invisaseam process which produces an almost seamless look when joining stone together.

Experience

At Continental, customer service is our highest priority. The experience we provide our clients is second to none. You can trust that the men and women in your home are not only knowledgeable and experienced but trustworthy. We treat our customers as if they were a part of our family. We believe the relationship we form with our clients lasts much longer than the current project we are working with them on. We pride ourselves on our reputation for quality work and an unforgettable experience from start to finish.

End Product

We’ll let the final product and our clients speak for themselves…

August 7 2020

Mixing & Matching Your Kitchen Countertops

admin Cambria Quartz Countertops, Custom Cabinets, Daytona Beach Countertops, Daytona Beach Granite Company, Granite, Marble, Ormond Beach Countertops, Outdoor Kitchen Countertops & Cabinets, Quartz, Residential Countertops countertops, Daytona Beach Countertops, daytona beach granite, daytona beach quartz, Granite, granite countertops, granite showroom, Marble, Marble Countertops, mixing and matching countertops, Quartz, quartz and granite, quartz and granite in the kitchen, quartz countertops, quartz showroom, quartz vs granite, stone

We all love a kitchen with personality and style… and adding contrast and texture within your space doesn’t have to be limited to your fabric or paint choices! Here’s what you should know about choosing the right countertops for your kitchen and why mixing is the design choice for you.

Mixing & Matching Your Kitchen Countertops

Practicality
Creating a stunning look with different countertops is a practical way to get the most out of your kitchen. First and foremost, your kitchen is a functional space and so it’s only natural that you make practical choices to maintain that. Before installation, know your kitchen.. where are surface spills most likely to occur? What areas are going to receive the most traffic? What do you love to cook the most and what foods are on top of your countertops?

⇒Heavy Traffic? It’s these areas you’ll want to opt for a countertop material that does double-duty against spills, stains, and moisture. As seen in the image above, Cambria’s Queen Anne Quartz Countertops are a more durable and heat and stain resistant material. It’s the perfect choice for your kitchen countertops.

⇒Heat Resistant? Granite countertops in your kitchen are not only stunning and add an element of luxury to any room – but also help you achieve the look you want and still maintain a practical and hygienic work space. Since Granite Countertops can last a lifetime, contain no harmful chemicals and will not melt or blister when exposed to heat – they may just be the perfect solution next to your oven or workspace.

⇒Baking much? Marble’s naturally cool surface is ideal for keeping dough soft and safe from sticking to the surface (with minimal flour required). If you love to bake, consider a Marble Island or a smaller, marble-topped work zone.

Image Courtesy of Cambria

Balance
For a consistent and composed look, select a focal point (like your kitchen island), where friends and family gather. This is the place for a more luxurious, showy material to shine. The mix of countertops between the island and the perimeter countertops help blend the entire room together for a shareable and functional space.

Our team is here to help you pick the best countertops for you and your home. Need help visualizing how various materials will look together? Stop by our showroom to mix and match a variety of surfaces —including backsplashes, countertops, cabinets & more.

We look forward to working with you!

July 17 2020

3 Reasons to Love Black Countertops

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If you’re looking to make a statement with your kitchen or bathroom, black countertops are the perfect solution. Striking black kitchen countertops make a dramatic impact, bringing elegance and style to your kitchen.

Luxury

Whether you are planning on reselling your home or not in the near future, black countertops are a winner when it comes to timeless beauty and elegance. The rich dark color of black granite or quartz in your kitchen portrays a dramatic feel in your space.

Aside from white or neutral colors, black is in-demand because of the great contrast it brings with your light-colored cabinetry. Meanwhile, if you use black for the cabinet door panels, this creates a modern and sleek appeal with black kitchen countertops.

Black quartz countertops are a bold statement. They look perfect in a luxurious home.

Maintenance

Dark countertops are a staple because they bring depth and substance to a room’s design. In addition to being a bold, statement piece, dark countertops are preferred by many homeowners because they’re easy to maintain.

The patterns and details incorporated in dark countertops help to conceal messes, crumbs, stains, and more that can take place on a daily basis. Specifically, this is a large benefit if you have children in your home who are prone to spills and messes.

Contrast

While black kitchen countertops don’t always blend well with soft, cosy, country-style kitchens, they are highly effective with many other home décor styles and themes.

In the end, it’s about balance. Black statement countertops are often balanced with lighter colored kitchen uppers and lowers. And with an array of options for your kitchen countertops, we’re excited to help you choose the design that best fits you and your home.

Determining the color of your new countertops is just the start. Once you have that figured out, you must also confirm the material of your countertops, the shape, the size, and so on. Once that’s decided, you must consider all your options for backsplashes, flooring, paint colors, décor, and more.

The point we’re making here is renovations, and specifically kitchen and countertop renovations, can be hard work. There are endless elements to think about. However, at Continental we’ve tailored our business around helping you. We offer high-quality and affordable stone countertops for any remodeling or new construction project in the industry. We have a vast collection of quartz, granite, and marble countertops for you to choose from.

If you need any assistance with your remodeling, do not hesitate to give us a call or stop by our showroom. (386) 586-7059

We’ll see you soon!