Countertops

May 31 2025

Using Marble Countertops to Create a Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow in Kitchens

Designers and homeowners alike are embracing spaces that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living. Kitchens have become a central focus for this trend, with many projects incorporating outdoor cooking and entertaining areas that feel like extensions of the home.

Marble countertops offer a luxurious, timeless surface that can connect these spaces beautifully when planned thoughtfully.

The Beauty of Marble in Transitional Spaces

Marble’s natural veining and soft textures are ideal for creating a sense of flow between interior and exterior spaces. Its unmistakable luminous finish brings a luxurious touch to kitchens that open onto patios, decks, and courtyards.

Whether you choose a classic white marble with subtle gray veining or a more dramatic, colorful stone, marble’s timeless appeal enhances the connection between indoors and out.

Coordinating Indoor and Outdoor Surfaces

Selecting the right marble is essential for achieving a cohesive design. Lighter-colored marbles can brighten both indoor and outdoor kitchens, reflecting natural light and making the entire space feel airy and expansive.

For homes that lean into bold design, richly patterned marble can serve as a dramatic visual thread tying both areas together. Matching edge profiles and finishes between indoor and outdoor countertops further enhances continuity.

A polished finish can bring elegance to formal spaces, while a honed or leathered finish can create a more relaxed, natural feel ideal for outdoor settings.

Addressing the Challenges of Outdoor Marble

While marble brings unparalleled beauty, it does require thoughtful planning when used outdoors. Exposure to sun, rain, and fluctuating temperatures can impact natural stone over time, and while marble can last for literally thousands of years outdoors, there’s a difference between it surviving and maintaining its like-new appearance.

Proper installation helps maintain the structural integrity of outdoor marble countertops. Choosing thicker slabs can also provide added resilience in exterior environments, ensuring the countertops remain stable and attractive year after year.

Color selection plays an important role in how marble weathers outdoors. Lighter shades tend to perform better in full sun, as darker stones may absorb heat and be more prone to fading. Working with an experienced stone professional ensures that all these considerations are addressed early in the design process.

The Importance of Sealing Marble

Sealing is essential when incorporating marble into outdoor kitchens. Even in indoor environments, marble benefits from regular sealing to protect against stains and moisture. Outdoor installations require even more attention.

Sealants help form a protective barrier against the elements, reducing the risk of water absorption, staining from food or beverages, and damage from outdoor pollutants.

At Wallstone, we recommend professional sealing at the time of installation and setting up a regular maintenance schedule to reseal the marble as needed. Your fabricator will help you come up with a schedule based on your marble’s needs.

This routine care means that your countertops will maintain their beauty and integrity even with constant exposure to changing weather conditions. Keeping the surface clean from debris and promptly addressing spills further extends the life of marble countertops in outdoor settings.

Bringing Indoor and Outdoor Living Together

Using marble countertops across indoor and outdoor kitchen spaces creates a cohesive environment perfect for modern living. With careful material selection, thoughtful planning, and proper maintenance, marble offers a stunning solution that enhances both the functionality and beauty of your home.

A consistent use of high-end materials like marble reinforces a sense of continuity and sophistication, making everyday living and entertaining effortless and enjoyable. If you are ready to transform your kitchen with marble countertops that enhance both indoor and outdoor spaces, Wallstone is here for you. Contact us today for a free quote!

Apr 30 2025

8 Reasons Why Quartz Countertops Are The Perfect Choice For Homes In Ohio

Ohio homeowners have a ton of countertop options– but one surface stands out above the others for its looks, durability, and low maintenance. A quartz countertop is the perfect choice for your Ohio home, thanks to how good it looks and how easy it is to take care of. Curious about quartz countertops? Here’s everything you need to know to make the decision an easy one.

1. Low Maintenance Requirements

Homeowners in Ohio often have busy lifestyles and prefer low-maintenance materials. Quartz countertops require minimal upkeep. Unlike granite or marble, which may need sealing to protect them from stains, quartz does not require sealing.

A simple wipe-down with a mild soap solution is sufficient to keep them looking great. This easy maintenance saves time and effort, making quartz an attractive option for those who want beautiful countertops without the hassle of constant care.

2. Great For Gatherings

From family Christmas to game-day parties, Ohioans love a good gathering! Unlike natural stone, which can absorb moisture, quartz countertops are non-porous. This means they are resistant to stains, which is especially beneficial in a region where spills from holiday cooking and entertaining are common.

Their durability ensures they can last for many years– maybe even longer than your average OSU coach’s career!

3. Wide Range of Design Options

Quartz countertops are incredibly versatile in terms of design, making them an excellent choice for Ohio homeowners looking to match their unique style. With a wide variety of colors, patterns, and textures to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect fit for any kitchen or bathroom. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or something more traditional, quartz offers endless design possibilities to complement your home’s look.

4. Strength and Resilience

When it comes to countertops, strength is a priority for Ohio countertops. Quartz countertops are engineered using a blend of natural quartz crystals and resins, making them incredibly strong and resistant to scratches and cracks.

This strength is especially beneficial in busy households where countertops see a lot of use. Whether it’s the daily demands of cooking, cleaning, or hosting guests, quartz can handle the pressure without showing signs of wear.

5. The Local Connection

Even Ohio residents in big cities often see the small town value of supporting local businesses. Quartz countertops from local fabricators like Wallstone Co. help keep jobs in Ohio and give homeowners additional peace of mind.

Local businesses can provide the type of attention to detail that bigger companies just can’t, and it’s easy to feel good about a fabricator when their recommendations are coming from your friends and neighbors.

6. Increased Home Value

Installing quartz countertops can significantly increase the value of your Ohio home. Homebuyers want modern, durable, and easy-to-maintain features– and that describes quartz perfectly!

With their combination of beauty, strength, and practicality, quartz countertops can make your home more appealing to potential buyers, should you ever decide to sell.

7. Consistent Appearance

One of the standout features of quartz countertops is their consistent appearance. Natural stone options like granite can vary widely in color and pattern, which may not suit every homeowner’s vision. Quartz countertops, on the other hand, offer reliable consistency in both color and texture, making it easy to make sure your home design suits exactly what you want!

8. Allergy-Friendly Option

Ask anyone who’s experienced an Ohio spring– allergies aren’t a joke! If your family has an allergen concern, quartz countertops are a smart choice. Because they are non-porous, quartz doesn’t trap bacteria, mold, or allergens that could impact air quality. This makes them a safer option for those who suffer from respiratory issues.

Quartz Countertops in Ohio

If you’re shopping for quartz countertops in central Ohio, you need a fabricator who understands local trends– and that’s us! Wallstone Co. has been proudly installing quartz countertops in Columbus and beyond for many years, and we would love to work with you.

Mar 31 2025

7 Creative Ways to Incorporate Granite Countertops into Your Kitchen or Bathroom Design

Granite countertops are the most popular natural stone countertop, and there are some really popular designs. While no two pieces of granite are identical, some people want to take a more creative approach to make their home design stand out.

If that sounds like you, WallStone is here to help you bring your creative vision to life. Here are seven of our favorite ideas to use as starting points for the custom creation of your dreams.

Extend Countertops Into a Full-Height Backsplash

Instead of using tile or another material for a backsplash, consider extending your granite countertops up the wall. A full-height granite backsplash not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a space but also makes cleaning easier by eliminating grout lines. This approach creates a continuous flow that highlights the stone’s natural veining, turning it into a striking focal point in a kitchen or bathroom.

Design a Statement Kitchen Island

A granite-topped island can become the centerpiece of a kitchen, but taking it a step further by incorporating waterfall edges adds even more impact. Instead of stopping at the countertop’s edge, the granite extends down the sides of the island, creating a dramatic, sculptural effect. This design looks great with bold or highly veined granite, transforming the island into a work of art while maintaining durability for everyday use.

Incorporate Granite Into a Bathroom Vanity

A granite-topped vanity elevates the look of any bathroom while providing a resilient surface that withstands moisture and daily wear. Choosing an integrated granite sink takes the design to another level, eliminating seams where water could collect and creating a smooth, polished look. Lighter granite shades brighten small bathrooms, while darker tones add richness and depth to a space.

Frame a Tub With Granite Surrounds

For a luxurious spa-like atmosphere, granite can be used to frame a soaking tub. This works especially well in bathrooms with freestanding or drop-in tubs, creating a refined, cohesive appearance. The stone’s durability makes it a practical choice for wet environments, resisting water damage and adding a natural elegance that enhances relaxation.

Use Granite as a Dining Table or Breakfast Bar

Extending granite beyond standard countertops by incorporating it into a dining surface blends functionality with style. This is a perfect project for remnants– ask your fabricator about what they have in stock.

Install Granite Window Sills

Bringing granite into unexpected places, like window sills, can add refinement to a space while offering practical benefits. The stone also enhances natural light by reflecting it beautifully, creating a subtle yet impactful design detail.

Create a Built-In Granite Desk or Workstation

With more people working from home, incorporating granite into a built-in desk or workstation within the kitchen adds functionality without sacrificing style. A granite desktop offers a durable surface for work like meal planning while fitting into the overall design. Picking a granite variety that complements the existing countertops gives you a cohesive look that feels intentional rather than an afterthought.

Get Creative With WallStone

If you’re ready to start a new granite project, WallStone is the fabricator for you! Contact us today for a free quote and to talk about how our team can bring your vision to life.

Feb 28 2025

The Beauty of Marble in Farmhouse Kitchens: Blending Rustic and Refined

Farmhouse kitchens have an inviting warmth that makes them the heart of a home. Their rustic charm is often built on natural materials, timeworn finishes, warm color palettes, and a sense of comfort.

But when many of us think about marble countertops, what comes to mind is sophistication and luxury– does that really go with farmhouse style? Yes! Integrating marble into this classic style introduces a level of refinement that elevates the entire space.

The combination of rugged textures with the luxurious appeal of marble creates a striking balance, making the farmhouse kitchen both beautiful and enduring.

The Timeless Appeal of Marble

Marble has been admired for centuries for its elegance and durability. The unique veining in each slab ensures that no two kitchens look the same. Whether featuring soft gray swirls or bold, dramatic patterns, marble surfaces add visual interest that enhances the character of a farmhouse kitchen. Unlike other materials that may wear down and lose their aesthetic over time, marble develops a patina, further enhancing its lived-in appeal.

This natural aging process aligns perfectly with the rustic aesthetic, offering a surface that tells a story through years of use. With proper care, marble stands up to daily use while maintaining its beauty. Regular sealing and mindful cleaning help preserve its surface, ensuring it remains a lasting feature in the kitchen. The slight imperfections that develop over time add to its charm, reinforcing the authenticity of a farmhouse space.

Choosing the Right Marble for a Farmhouse Kitchen

The secret to installing marble in a farmhouse kitchen is making sure you choose the right marble. Honed finishes, which offer a soft, matte surface, work particularly well in rustic settings, as they create a more natural, understated look.

Classic choices like Carrara and Calacatta bring sophistication without overwhelming the space. Warmer-toned marbles complement the earth tones often used in farmhouse kitchens. When you make the right choice, marble’s presence elevates the kitchen while maintaining the welcoming feel that defines farmhouse style.

Your countertop fabricator can help you choose marble that will make your house feel like a home.

Pairing Marble With Organic Elements

The beauty of marble shines when paired with materials that emphasize the farmhouse style. Reclaimed wood, aged metals, and handcrafted tiles create a foundation that highlights marble’s natural elegance.

A marble countertop against a butcher-block island introduces contrast, allowing both materials to stand out. Exposed wooden beams and shiplap walls further accentuate marble’s refined look without making the space feel overly polished. This interplay of textures ensures the kitchen remains inviting and full of character.

Marble Countertops: Where Functionality Meets Elegance

A farmhouse kitchen should be both inviting and elegant, and marble provides the perfect bridge between rustic and refined. Whether used for countertops, backsplashes, or even accent pieces, marble transforms the kitchen into a timeless retreat.

Wallstone offers expert craftsmanship and a wide selection of premium marble to bring your vision to life. Contact us today for a free quote for your marble countertop project!

Jan 31 2025

Pairing Countertops with Backsplashes: Design Tips and Ideas for 2025

2025 is going to be such a great year for home design! Homeowners can expect to see fresh, contemporary takes on traditional designs– including in the kitchen and bathroom. When it comes to your backsplashes, the sky is the limit for the creativity and self-expression you’ll have space to play with.

Whether you prefer bold contrasts or subtle coordination, a thoughtful pairing can elevate your kitchen’s design while showcasing your unique style.

The Power Of Contrast

One of the most effective ways to pair a countertop and backsplash is by embracing contrast. Combining light and dark tones adds depth and creates a dynamic visual effect. For instance, pairing white quartz countertops with a dark slate or deep green backsplash introduces a striking balance that feels both contemporary and inviting.

And the opposite works too! Dark granite countertops can be brightened with a white or pastel tile backsplash. The light-colored tiles reflect more light, softening the room’s overall look and ensuring the darker stone doesn’t overwhelm the space.

Matching Patterns And Textures

Stone countertops often feature unique veining or patterns that can inspire the choice of backsplash. Coordinating the colors or patterns between the two surfaces creates a cohesive look. For example, if your countertop features subtle gray veining, a backsplash with a complementary gray tone can tie the two elements together beautifully.

Texture also plays an important role. Smooth countertops pair well with textured or three-dimensional backsplash materials, adding an extra layer of visual interest. For example, pairing polished marble countertops with a textured subway tile backsplash provides a blend of refinement and character.

All-White Kitchens With Depth

All-white kitchens will remain a popular choice in 2025, but designers are finding creative ways to add depth and warmth to these spaces. Pairing a white marble countertop with a white backsplash in a different material or finish creates subtle contrast. A matte tile backsplash alongside polished stone counters can make the space feel layered and sophisticated without straying from the monochromatic theme.

Incorporating Bold Colors

For homeowners looking to make a statement, bold backsplash colors are a great way to complement neutral stone countertops. Vibrant blues, emerald greens, or even metallic tiles can add personality without overwhelming the space.

Neutral granite or quartz countertops serve as a perfect base for these colorful accents. The stone’s timeless appeal balances the boldness of the backsplash, ensuring the kitchen remains stylish for years to come.

Design Your Dream Kitchen

There’s never been a better time to renovate your kitchen, and here at WallStone, we understand that every detail matters. Our stone countertops provide the perfect foundation for creating a space that reflects your taste and lifestyle, no matter what those might be.

Whether you’re designing for a contemporary townhome or a spacious, rustic-inspired suburban kitchen, we have the options to inspire your design. Pairing the right backsplash with your countertop is a crucial part of the process, and our team is here to help you bring your vision to life. Contact us today for a free quote for your countertop and backsplash project!