Metal kitchen countertops, a great granite alternative

While most designers would agree that you can never go wrong with a gorgeous granite countertop, it is always refreshing to see unique alternatives for counters and tabletops. I recently came across a great resource for zinc and copper countertops, which aside from looking cool, offer some great properties like a natural anti-microbial property which makes them easy to keep sanitary.  The suggested cleaning method for these counters is just a simple soap and water wash.  This malleable metal also can be done with extremely unique and special edge details, different from their stone counterparts.  This adds another level of customization and another cool textural element to a space.

These countertops will not perform like a granite or other hard stone.  They are metal and are therefore reactive to everything from air, water, lemon juice, cleaning agents and wine, but that is part of the appeal!  The beautiful patina they create brings in a very special old world charm- perfect for the Tuscan inspired kitchen.  Other great applications would be in a bar area of the home, or even in a library for a desk top.

Check out some gorgeous applications for this cool product.

 

Thermador Freedom Induction Cooktop

High Tech for Your Kitchen Design! In 2012, some of the most popular products in home design are technology.  At Deb Reinhart Interior Design Group we love integrating the newest technology in our designs.

This the Thermador Freedom Induction Cooktop was introduced at International CES this month.

Induction technology has been well recived by the public, as well as professional chefs.

This technology is comparable in quality to a gas cooktop, but since the heat only operates when it is the cooktop is connected with a induction pan it is a a safer option for that busy family unit!

This induction cookccktop goes beyond previously released models, this technology knows where your pots are and at what temperature they are currently at.  This gives you the freedom to move pots/pans (yes while cooking) and they will pick up at the exact same temperature they were moved from.  The Freedom Cooktop also fetures a 6-inch touch screen that visuall shows the pots size & location, while allowing operation of cook temperature from this screen.

Thermador's flagship Freedom surface is due in stores in Jul 2012 for an sound about $4949.

Watch this video for a full demonstration, presented by Forbes:

 

 

Integrity Sink by Silestone: Perfect Fixture for your Kitchen Design!

Silestone by Cosentino is known for their solid surface countertops.  These surfaces are made with quartz for extra durability and come in a wide range of colors. The Integrity Sink is an innovative design intended to incorporate all of the advantages of Silestone while offering complete unity, functionality and sophisticated style to any kitchen or bath.

This sink is made from one piece of silestone and available in a single bowl (one) or a double bowl (due). This solid piece design is easy maintenance & cleaning, silestone never has to be sealed - because it is not porous.

This sink is available currently in these Silestone colors.

  • White Zeus
  • Capri Limestone
  • Grey Expo
  • Grey Amazon
  • Bianco River.

This clean-lined design is ideal for your kitchen design!  Please contact Deb Reinhart Interior Design Group for more information.