From top-dollar houses in the San Francisco Bay Area to sprawling hill houses in the Colorado Rockies, differentiating property owners are demanding custom designs as well as finishes in their kitchens. Specifically, they are seeking to reveal their uniqueness and also unique design preferences with the fast expanding design product of choice-- concrete.

In fact, concrete counter tops have become rather of a standing symbol for kitchen areas, matching granite as well as various other premium kitchen counter surface choices. Consumer Reports Publication (August 2004) ranked concrete highest possible for its "modification" and "exclusivity" amongst high-end kitchen area countertops.

As a custom item, the amount of time as well as workmanship needed to generate concrete countertops positions them as one of the most labor-intensive and most costly amongst leading counter top products.

Nonetheless, concrete countertops are becoming a lot more easily accessible for those on a small budget. The current diy (Do It Yourself) fad to captivate house owners as well as building contractors is building your very own concrete kitchen counter. This sensation has actually acquired popularity largely because of Cheng's best-selling book Concrete Countertops: Layout, Types, and also Finishes for the New Kitchen and Bathroom (Taunton Press, 2002). According to Cheng, there is little financial investment in making concrete kitchen counters, yet the innovative gains of dealing with concrete abound.

THE SHOWSTOPPER

Increasingly, home owners are relocating far from the tedious, manufactured look of conventional countertop surface areas and also picking concrete for its earthy, timeless appeal. And also, the choices for customizing concrete countertops are unlimited: one can color, polish, stamp and tarnish concrete or imbed individual things like rocks, seashells as well as fossils into the counter top's surface, adding belief and character. Practical features such as drain boards, soap meals, as well as trivets can likewise be included to match the home owners' very own needs and also lifestyle.

Concrete is slowly coming to be demystified as typically chilly and industrial. In contrary, this age-old material is warm and remarkably responsive; individuals can not help however touch their smooth, refined surface areas. Real estate agent Joy Rasmussen, that has actually recently marketed her hill home-- a temporary financial investment residential or commercial property in Boat Springs, Carbon Monoxide-- states her site visitors' experiences with concrete: "When I had open homes, visitors gravitated to the concrete kitchen counters-- lots of people around right here have actually never ever seen them".

Delight's 2,265 sq. ft. hill house was personalized construct by her partner, Ken Otterman, countertops for white base cabinets together with KJ Otterman, president of Classic Special Personalized Residences. They built pour-in-place concrete counters for the house's kitchen as well as 3 washrooms by using Concrete Countertops as their guide. The sand-colored concrete counter tops were brightened smooth, then paired with natural slate of varying colors-- like charcoal, corrosion as well as gold tones-- that creates the backsplashes in the kitchen and also baths. As a design accent, little rectangle-shaped slate ceramic tiles were added to the edge of the bathroom sinks, which provided a distinct information to the personalized vanities.

When Joy and also Ken chose to market their house, their financial investment in concrete countertops verified its value. "We had the ability to list your home $20,000 over market price, as well as had no worry offering it," remarks Pleasure, while reviewing the lengthy checklist of upgrades throughout their house, consisting of knotty ache solid doors, natural slate wall surface accents as well as hardwood floorings. "The concrete countertops were easily the most unique and also impressive of all the coatings. I believe they were a substantial component in including worth to the home. Around right here, all you see in homes are granite kitchen counters-- and I really believe homebuyers are getting rather numb with granite."

" Concrete counter tops are an unique offering to homebuyers who see the same surfaces made use of in residence after house they see," describes Happiness, providing her monitoring as an experienced real estate agent. "Having concrete counter tops nearly offers you boasting rights-- you have something different from your next-door neighbors."

BREAKING THE MOLD AND MILDEW

Another benefit of concrete is its adaptability in either modern or standard setups, specifically when combined with various other products like diverse metals, timber or rock. "Concrete adds so many [opportunities] to stone, and also the mix with slate, which is widely popular right here, gives the hill residences a total warm, all-natural touch," says Delight.

Joy and also Ken have given that constructed a much bigger house (4,000 sq. ft.) that uses large sights of the Boat Ski Resort and is indicated to function as a long-lasting financial investment for the couple. They have actually likewise increased their list of customized finishes, consisting of hand-troweled walls, classy oil-rubbed bronze equipment, knotty ache doors that curve on top, cabinets in an all-natural, knotty alder, and their preferred-- concrete kitchen counter tops.

Unlike in their previous residence, KJ as well as his specialized crew put charcoal-colored kitchen counters using the pre-cast approach in the incomplete basement of the brand-new home. Before pouring the concrete, they sprayed an array of semi-precious rocks in the mold including Leopardskin, Moonstone, Mother-of-Pearl as well as Turquoise. After the surface was ground and also gently polished, the completed outcome was an impressive mix of shades, "Without a doubt, the Mother-of-Pearl was the most incredible," claims Happiness.

The L-shaped concrete countertop has a rough, rustic stone appearance, complementing its rugged country surroundings. An integral drain board and trivets offers feature as well as added passion to the concrete kitchen counter. All-natural slate backsplashes, distinctive wall accents, and also a butcher block kitchen counter at the cooking area island all resonate with the traditional warmth and earthiness of the concrete kitchen counters.

Pleasure and Ken's particular backgrounds in realty as well as personalized homebuilding, and as investment property buyers, have actually assisted them understand that concrete countertops can include remarkable visual and financial worth to a residence. Concrete's modification and "show-stopping" charm is like no other kitchen counter surface. Cheng is a proponent of emotional appearances and constructing houses that capture these emotions, as when it comes to Pleasure and Ken Otterman. Cheng concludes: "Individuals really want differentiation, something individual, something customized-- as well as concrete can do that for them."

From top-dollar homes in the San Francisco Bay Location to stretching mountain residences in the Colorado Mountain ranges, discriminating property owners are requiring custom-made layouts and also coatings in their cooking areas. In particular, they are seeking to reveal their uniqueness and also distinctive style choices with the quick growing layout product of option-- concrete.

As a matter of fact, concrete countertops have become somewhat of a condition sign for cooking areas, matching granite and also various other premium countertop surface options. Customer News Publication (August 2004) placed concrete greatest for its "customization" as well as "exclusivity" among high-end kitchen area counter tops.

As a custom-made item, the quantity of time and also workmanship required to produce concrete counter tops puts them as the most labor-intensive as well as most expensive amongst leading countertop materials.

Nonetheless, concrete kitchen counters are coming to be extra available for those on a small budget. The most recent do-it-yourself (Do It Yourself) pattern to mesmerize property owners and building contractors is developing your own concrete counter top. This phenomenon has actually gotten popularity mostly due to Cheng's best-selling publication Concrete Countertops: Layout, Kinds, and also Finishes for the New Kitchen and Bath (Taunton Press, 2002). According to Cheng, there is little monetary financial investment in making concrete kitchen counters, yet the imaginative gains cheap countertops for sale of working with concrete are plentiful.

THE SHOWSTOPPER

Increasingly, house owners are moving far from the monotonous, manufactured look of typical kitchen counter surfaces and also picking concrete for its earthy, timeless appeal. Plus, the alternatives for customizing concrete counter tops are unlimited: one can tint, gloss, stamp and also discolor concrete or imbed individual objects like rocks, seashells and fossils right into the countertop's surface area, adding view and character. Practical functions such as drain boards, soap meals, and trivets can also be integrated to suit the house owners' own demands and also lifestyle.

Concrete is gradually becoming demystified as characteristically chilly as well as industrial. In contrary, this olden material is warm and also remarkably tactile; individuals can not aid however touch their smooth, sleek surface areas. Real estate representative Pleasure Rasmussen, that has actually just recently marketed her mountain house-- a short-term investment property in Steamboat Springs, Carbon Monoxide-- recounts her site visitors' experiences with concrete: "When I had open houses, site visitors moved to the concrete counter tops-- lots of people around right here have actually never ever seen them".

Pleasure's 2,265 sq. ft. mountain home was custom construct by her husband, Ken Otterman, in addition to KJ Otterman, president of Standard Special Personalized Residences. They built pour-in-place concrete counters for the home's kitchen area and also three restrooms by using Concrete Countertops as their guide. The sand-colored concrete countertops were polished smooth, after that paired with natural slate of differing shades-- like charcoal, rust and also gold tones-- that develops the backsplashes in the kitchen and also baths. As a design accent, tiny rectangle-shaped slate tiles were included in the rim of the bathroom sinks, which offered an one-of-a-kind detail to the custom vanities.

When Happiness and Ken chose to sell their house, their financial investment in concrete countertops proved its value. "We were able to provide your house $20,000 over market value, and had not a problem marketing it," comments Happiness, while going over the long checklist of upgrades throughout their house, consisting of knotty pine solid doors, all-natural slate wall surface accents as well as hardwood floorings. "The concrete kitchen counters were easily one of the most special as well as impressive of all the surfaces. I believe they were a massive component in adding value to the house. Around below, all you see in houses are granite countertops-- and I really think homebuyers are obtaining fairly numb with granite."

" Concrete countertops are an one-of-a-kind offering to homebuyers that see the exact same surfaces made use of in home after home they check out," clarifies Happiness, providing her observation as a skilled real estate professional. "Having concrete kitchen counters practically provides you bragging civil liberties-- you have something various from your neighbors."

DAMAGING THE MOLD AND MILDEW

Another benefit of concrete is its adaptability in either modern-day or conventional settings, specifically when coupled with other products like varied steels, timber or rock. "Concrete adds a lot of [possibilities] to stone, and also the combination with slate, which is widely popular here, gives the mountain homes a total cozy, all-natural touch," says Happiness.

Happiness and Ken have actually since constructed a much bigger residence (4,000 sq. ft.) that offers expansive sights of the Steamboat Ski Resort as well as is indicated to serve as a lasting financial investment for the pair. They have actually also broadened their listing of custom-made coatings, consisting of hand-troweled wall surfaces, classy oil-rubbed bronze hardware, knotty pine doors that curve at the top, cabinets in a natural, knotty alder, and their preferred-- concrete kitchen area countertops.

Unlike in their previous house, KJ and his specialized staff poured charcoal-colored kitchen counters using the pre-cast technique in the incomplete basement of the brand-new house. Before pouring the concrete, they sprinkled a range of semi-precious rocks in the mold including Leopardskin, Moonstone, Mother-of-Pearl as well as Blue-green. After the surface was ground and gently polished, the completed result was an excellent blend of colors, "By far, the Mother-of-Pearl was one of the most extraordinary," claims Pleasure.

The L-shaped concrete countertop has a harsh, rustic stone look, enhancing its rugged country surroundings. An integral drain board and also trivets supplies feature and included interest to the concrete countertop. All-natural slate backsplashes, distinctive wall accents, and a butcher block countertop at the kitchen area island all resonate with the standard warmth and also earthiness of the concrete countertops.

Delight and Ken's corresponding histories in realty and personalized homebuilding, and as investment homebuyers, have assisted them recognize that concrete countertops can add significant visual and economic value to a home. Concrete's customization and "show-stopping" charm resembles nothing else kitchen counter surface. Cheng is a proponent of emotional aesthetic appeals as well as developing homes that catch these feelings, as in the case of Pleasure and Ken Otterman. Cheng wraps up: "People truly desire distinction, something personal, something customized-- and also concrete can do that for them."

From top-dollar homes in the San Francisco Bay Location to sprawling mountain homes in the Colorado Mountain ranges, differentiating homeowners are requiring custom-made layouts and also surfaces in their cooking areas. Specifically, they are wanting to express their individuality and unique layout preferences with the fast growing layout material of choice-- concrete.

As a matter of fact, concrete kitchen counters have actually ended up being somewhat of a status sign for kitchen areas, equaling granite and also other premium kitchen counter surface area alternatives. Consumer News Publication (August 2004) ranked concrete greatest for its "modification" and "exclusivity" among high-end kitchen area countertops.

As a customized product, the amount of time and workmanship needed to create concrete kitchen counters places them as the most labor-intensive as well as priciest amongst leading kitchen counter materials.

However, concrete counter tops are ending up being a lot more available for those on a modest budget plan. The latest do-it-yourself (DIY) trend to mesmerize home owners and contractors is building your very own concrete kitchen counter. This phenomenon has actually obtained appeal mostly as a result of Cheng's very successful book Concrete Countertops: Design, Types, and Completes for the New Kitchen Area as well as Bathroom (Taunton Press, 2002). According to Cheng, there is little monetary financial investment in making concrete kitchen counters, yet the imaginative gains of dealing with concrete are plentiful.

THE SHOWSTOPPER

Significantly, home owners are moving far from the dull, manufactured appearance of traditional kitchen counter surface areas and also choosing concrete for its earthy, ageless charm. Plus, the options for customizing concrete countertops are limitless: one can tint, polish, stamp and also tarnish concrete or imbed individual items like rocks, seashells and also fossils into the counter top's surface, including sentiment and also personality. Practical attributes such as drain boards, soap recipes, as well as trivets can also be included to fit the house owners' very own demands as well as lifestyle.

Concrete is gradually becoming demystified as characteristically cool and commercial. In contrary, this age-old product is cozy as well as surprisingly tactile; individuals can not aid but touch their smooth, polished surfaces. Real estate agent Pleasure Rasmussen, that has lately marketed her hill house-- a temporary financial investment residential or commercial property in Steamboat Springs, Carbon Monoxide-- recounts her site visitors' experiences with concrete: "When I had open residences, site visitors gravitated to the concrete counter tops-- many individuals around below have never ever seen them".

Happiness's 2,265 sq. ft. hill residence was customized develop by her hubby, Ken Otterman, in addition to KJ Otterman, president of Standard Special Personalized Houses. They developed pour-in-place concrete counters for the home's cooking area as well as three bathrooms by utilizing Concrete Countertops as their overview. The sand-colored concrete counter tops were brightened smooth, after that coupled with natural slate of varying colors-- like charcoal, rust and gold tones-- that creates the backsplashes in the kitchen area and bathrooms. As a design accent, small rectangle-shaped slate tiles were contributed to the rim of the bathroom sinks, which provided a distinct information to the custom vanities.

When Pleasure as well as Ken chose to market their residence, their financial investment in concrete countertops confirmed its value. "We were able to detail the house $20,000 over market value, and had no worry selling it," comments Happiness, while discussing the lengthy checklist of upgrades throughout their residence, consisting of knotty pine strong doors, natural slate wall accents as well as wood floorings. "The concrete kitchen counters were easily one of the most special and also remarkable of all the finishes. I believe they were a big part in including worth to the home. Around right here, all you see in homes are granite countertops-- as well as I actually assume homebuyers are obtaining rather numb with granite."

" Concrete countertops are a special offering to homebuyers who see the very same finishes used in residence after home they check out," clarifies Delight, providing her monitoring as a seasoned real estate agent. "Having concrete countertops almost offers you bragging rights-- you have something various from your neighbors."

DAMAGING THE MOLD AND MILDEW

Another benefit of concrete is its versatility in either contemporary or conventional setups, specifically when paired with other products like varied metals, timber or rock. "Concrete includes so many [opportunities] to rock, and also the mix with slate, which is extremely popular right here, gives the mountain residences a general warm, all-natural touch," says Delight.

Delight as well as Ken have given that built a much bigger home (4,000 sq. ft.) that offers large views of the Boat Ski Hotel and also is suggested to function as a long-lasting investment for the couple. They've additionally expanded their listing of custom finishes, consisting of hand-troweled walls, stylish oil-rubbed bronze hardware, knotty want doors that arch on top, cabinets in a natural, knotty alder, as well as their favorite-- concrete cooking area counter tops.

Unlike in their previous residence, KJ and also his specialty crew put charcoal-colored countertops making use of the pre-cast approach in the unfinished cellar of the new residence. Before pouring the concrete, they sprinkled a variety of semi-precious stones in the mold consisting countertops yuma of Leopardskin, Moonstone, Mother-of-Pearl as well as Turquoise. After the surface was ground and also lightly brightened, the finished outcome was an excellent blend of shades, "By far, the Mother-of-Pearl was one of the most amazing," claims Joy.

The L-shaped concrete counter top has a harsh, rustic stone look, complementing its rugged country environments. An indispensable drain board and also trivets offers feature and included interest to the concrete counter top. Natural slate backsplashes, unique wall accents, and also a butcher block kitchen counter at the cooking area island all resonate with the traditional heat and earthiness of the concrete counter tops.

Happiness and Ken's particular backgrounds in realty and personalized homebuilding, and also as financial investment property buyers, have actually helped them understand that concrete counter tops can include remarkable aesthetic and economic value to a residence. Concrete's personalization and also "show-stopping" allure is like no other countertop surface. Cheng is a supporter of emotional visual appeals as well as building residences that capture these feelings, as when it comes to Happiness and also Ken Otterman. Cheng wraps up: "People actually want distinction, something personal, something customized-- and also concrete can do that for them."

From top-dollar homes in the San Francisco Bay Location to stretching mountain houses in the Colorado Rockies, discriminating homeowners are requiring custom designs and also finishes in their kitchens. Specifically, they are seeking to reveal their uniqueness as well as distinct style choices with the rapid expanding layout product of selection-- concrete.

Actually, concrete kitchen counters have actually come to be somewhat of a standing sign for kitchen areas, matching granite and also other high-end counter top surface choices. Consumer Reports Publication (August 2004) placed concrete greatest for its "customization" and "exclusivity" amongst premium kitchen area countertops.

As a customized item, the amount of time and workmanship needed to generate concrete countertops puts them as the most labor-intensive and also most expensive among leading countertop products.

Nonetheless, concrete counter tops are coming to be more accessible for those on a small spending plan. The most up to date diy (DIY) trend to mesmerize property owners as well as home builders is building your own concrete countertop. This sensation has acquired popularity largely as a result of Cheng's very successful publication Concrete Countertops: Design, Kinds, and Finishes for the New Cooking Area as well as Bath (Taunton Press, 2002). According to Cheng, there is little financial investment in making concrete counter tops, yet the imaginative gains of collaborating with concrete are plentiful.

THE SHOWSTOPPER

Progressively, house owners are moving away from the dull, manufactured appearance of typical counter top surface areas and also choosing concrete for its natural, timeless charm. And also, the countertops microwaves options for customizing concrete countertops are endless: one can color, polish, stamp and also tarnish concrete or imbed individual things like rocks, seashells as well as fossils into the countertop's surface, adding sentiment and personality. Functional attributes such as drain boards, soap dishes, as well as trivets can additionally be incorporated to suit the property owners' own demands and way of life.

Concrete is gradually coming to be debunked as classically chilly and also commercial. In contrary, this age-old product is cozy as well as surprisingly responsive; people can not aid but touch their smooth, refined surface areas. Real estate representative Happiness Rasmussen, who has actually lately offered her hill home-- a short-term investment residential or commercial property in Boat Springs, Carbon Monoxide-- recounts her visitors' experiences with concrete: "When I had open homes, visitors was attracted to the concrete countertops-- many individuals around here have never ever seen them".

Delight's 2,265 sq. ft. mountain residence was custom-made develop by her spouse, Ken Otterman, along with KJ Otterman, president of Classic Special Custom-made Houses. They constructed pour-in-place concrete counters for the house's kitchen and 3 restrooms by utilizing Concrete Countertops as their overview. The sand-colored concrete countertops were polished smooth, then coupled with all-natural slate of differing shades-- like charcoal, rust and also gold tones-- that forms the backsplashes in the cooking area and also bathrooms. As a design accent, tiny rectangle-shaped slate floor tiles were included in the rim of the restroom sinks, which supplied an one-of-a-kind detail to the custom vanities.

When Pleasure and also Ken made a decision to sell their home, their investment in concrete kitchen counters showed its value. "We were able to note the house $20,000 over market price, and had no worry marketing it," remarks Pleasure, while going over the lengthy listing of upgrades throughout their residence, including knotty want strong doors, natural slate wall accents and also hardwood floors. "The concrete countertops were easily one of the most one-of-a-kind and also remarkable of all the coatings. I think they were a massive part in adding worth to the residence. Around here, all you see in houses are granite kitchen counters-- and also I actually assume property buyers are obtaining fairly numb with granite."

" Concrete counter tops are a distinct offering to property buyers who see the very same coatings utilized in house after residence they see," explains Pleasure, offering her observation as a seasoned realtor. "Having concrete countertops virtually gives you bragging rights-- you have something different from your neighbors."

DAMAGING THE MOLD

An additional advantage of concrete is its flexibility in either contemporary or standard setups, particularly when paired with other products like different metals, timber or stone. "Concrete includes a lot of [opportunities] to rock, as well as the combination with slate, which is widely popular here, provides the hill houses an overall warm, all-natural touch," states Delight.

Pleasure and also Ken have since constructed a much larger house (4,000 sq. ft.) that offers large sights of the Steamboat Ski Hotel as well as is indicated to work as a lasting financial investment for the couple. They have actually likewise broadened their checklist of customized finishes, consisting of hand-troweled wall surfaces, stylish oil-rubbed bronze equipment, knotty yearn doors that curve at the top, cabinets in an all-natural, knotty alder, as well as their favored-- concrete kitchen area countertops.

Unlike in their previous residence, KJ and his specialized crew poured charcoal-colored kitchen counters making use of the pre-cast technique in the unfinished cellar of the brand-new residence. Prior to pouring the concrete, they sprinkled a selection of semi-precious stones in the mold and mildew including Leopardskin, Moonstone, Mother-of-Pearl and Blue-green. After the surface was ground and also lightly brightened, the completed result was an outstanding blend of colors, "Without a doubt, the Mother-of-Pearl was one of the most incredible," says Pleasure.

The L-shaped concrete countertop has a harsh, rustic stone appearance, complementing its tough nation surroundings. An integral drainpipe board and also trivets supplies function and added rate of interest to the concrete kitchen counter. All-natural slate backsplashes, unique wall surface accents, as well as a butcher block countertop at the cooking area island all reverberate with the conventional heat as well as earthiness of the concrete counter tops.

Delight and Ken's respective histories in real estate and also custom-made homebuilding, and also as investment property buyers, have assisted them realize that concrete countertops can include remarkable visual as well as economic worth to a residence. Concrete's personalization and also "show-stopping" appeal resembles nothing else countertop surface. Cheng is a proponent of emotional appearances as well as building residences that capture these feelings, as when it comes to Joy and Ken Otterman. Cheng wraps up: "Individuals really want differentiation, something individual, something personalized-- and concrete can do that for them."

From top-dollar houses in the San Francisco Bay Location to sprawling mountain houses in the Colorado Mountain ranges, discriminating property owners are requiring personalized layouts and surfaces in their cooking areas. Particularly, they are wanting to reveal their individuality and distinct design preferences with the fast growing style product of option-- concrete.

As a matter of fact, concrete countertops have ended up being somewhat of a standing symbol for kitchens, matching granite and other premium counter top surface options. Consumer Reports Magazine (August 2004) rated concrete greatest for its "customization" and also "exclusivity" amongst high-end kitchen area countertops.

As a customized item, the amount of time as well as workmanship needed to create concrete countertops places them as the most labor-intensive as well as most expensive amongst leading countertop materials.

Nonetheless, concrete countertops are becoming more easily accessible for those on a small spending plan. The latest do-it-yourself (Do It Yourself) fad to astound property owners and home builders is developing your very own concrete countertop. This sensation has acquired popularity mainly due to Cheng's very successful book Concrete Countertops: Style, Forms, and Ends Up for the New Cooking Area and also Bathroom (Taunton Press, 2002). According to Cheng, there is little monetary financial investment in making concrete counter tops, yet the innovative gains of working with concrete abound.

THE SHOWSTOPPER

Progressively, house owners are relocating away from the dull, manufactured look of typical countertop surface areas as well as picking concrete for its natural, timeless allure. And also, the alternatives for customizing concrete counter tops are endless: one can color, gloss, stamp as well as discolor concrete or imbed individual items like rocks, seashells and also fossils into the countertop's surface area, including view as well as character. Functional attributes such as drainpipe boards, soap dishes, and also trivets can additionally be incorporated to match the house owners' very own needs and also way of living.

Concrete is slowly coming to be demystified as classically cold as well as commercial. In contrary, this age-old material is cozy and also remarkably tactile; people can not assist but touch their smooth, sleek surface areas. Property agent Pleasure Rasmussen, who has recently offered her hill home-- a short-term financial investment building in Boat Springs, Carbon Monoxide-- recounts her visitors' experiences with concrete: "When I had open residences, site visitors moved to the concrete kitchen counters-- many individuals around right here have actually never seen them".

Joy's 2,265 sq. ft. hill residence was customized develop by her other half, Ken Otterman, together with KJ Otterman, head of state of Standard Special Custom-made Residences. They constructed pour-in-place concrete counters for the house's kitchen area and three restrooms by using Concrete Countertops as their overview. The sand-colored concrete counter tops were polished smooth, after that paired with natural slate of varying shades-- like charcoal, rust and gold tones-- that forms the backsplashes in the cooking area and baths. As a layout accent, little rectangular slate ceramic tiles were added to the rim of the shower room sinks, which gave an one-of-a-kind detail to the personalized vanities.

When Joy and also Ken decided to sell their residence, their financial investment in concrete counter tops verified its value. "We were able to provide your house $20,000 over market price, as well as had no problems offering it," comments Delight, while going over the long list of upgrades throughout their home, including knotty pine solid doors, natural slate wall surface accents as well as hardwood floorings. "The concrete kitchen counters were quickly the most unique and also outstanding of all the coatings. I believe they were a huge component in including value to the residence. Around right here, all you see in residences are granite counter tops-- and I actually assume buyers are getting rather numb with granite."

" Concrete countertops are a special offering to property buyers that see the exact same finishes made use of in home after house they visit," discusses Happiness, offering her observation as a skilled real estate professional. "Having concrete kitchen counters virtually provides you boasting rights-- you have something different from your next-door neighbors."

BREAKING THE MOLD

An additional advantage of concrete is its flexibility in either modern or typical setups, particularly when coupled with other materials like different steels, wood or rock. "Concrete includes a lot of [opportunities] to stone, and also the mix with slate, which is hugely popular below, offers the mountain homes a total warm, all-natural touch," says Joy.

Pleasure as well as Ken have considering that built a much larger home (4,000 sq. ft.) that offers extensive countertops granite vs laminate sights of the Steamboat Ski Hotel as well as is implied to function as a long-lasting investment for the pair. They've likewise broadened their list of custom finishes, consisting of hand-troweled walls, elegant oil-rubbed bronze equipment, knotty want doors that curve at the top, cupboards in a natural, knotty alder, as well as their preferred-- concrete kitchen counter tops.

Unlike in their previous home, KJ and also his specialty team poured charcoal-colored counter tops using the pre-cast approach in the unfinished basement of the new home. Prior to putting the concrete, they sprinkled a range of semi-precious rocks in the mold consisting of Leopardskin, Moonstone, Mother-of-Pearl and Turquoise. After the surface area was ground and also gently polished, the completed result was an outstanding mix of colors, "By far, the Mother-of-Pearl was the most incredible," claims Pleasure.

The L-shaped concrete countertop has a harsh, rustic rock appearance, enhancing its rugged country surroundings. An integral drainpipe board and also trivets provides function and added rate of interest to the concrete countertop. Natural slate backsplashes, distinctive wall surface accents, as well as a butcher block kitchen counter at the kitchen area island all resonate with the standard heat as well as earthiness of the concrete countertops.

Pleasure and Ken's respective histories in property and also customized homebuilding, and as investment buyers, have helped them understand that concrete counter tops can include tremendous aesthetic as well as financial value to a residence. Concrete's customization and "show-stopping" charm is like no other counter top surface. Cheng is an advocate of emotional looks and also developing houses that catch these feelings, as when it comes to Joy and Ken Otterman. Cheng wraps up: "Individuals actually want differentiation, something personal, something custom-made-- and concrete can do that for them."

From top-dollar homes in the San Francisco Bay Area to stretching mountain residences in the Colorado Rockies, discriminating homeowners are demanding personalized layouts as well as surfaces in their cooking areas. In particular, they are looking to reveal their originality and also distinctive layout choices with the fast expanding layout material of choice-- concrete.

Actually, concrete countertops have actually come to be rather of a condition icon for kitchen areas, equaling granite as well as other premium kitchen counter surface area options. Customer News Magazine (August 2004) placed concrete greatest for its "customization" and "exclusivity" amongst high-end kitchen countertops.

As a custom product, the amount of time and craftsmanship needed to create concrete countertops puts them as one of the most labor-intensive as well as priciest among leading countertop products.

However, concrete counter tops are ending up being much more accessible for those on a modest budget. The current do-it-yourself (DIY) trend to captivate house owners and home builders is developing your very own concrete counter top. This phenomenon has obtained popularity mostly due to Cheng's very successful book Concrete Countertops: Style, Forms, and Finishes for the New Kitchen Area and also Bathroom (Taunton Press, 2002). According to Cheng, there is little monetary financial investment in making concrete counter tops, yet the creative gains of collaborating with concrete are plentiful.

THE SHOWSTOPPER

Increasingly, home owners are moving away from the dull, manufactured appearance soapstone countertops denver colorado of conventional countertop surfaces and also selecting concrete for its natural, ageless appeal. And also, the alternatives for individualizing concrete countertops are unlimited: one can color, polish, stamp and also stain concrete or imbed individual objects like rocks, seashells as well as fossils right into the counter top's surface, adding sentiment and also personality. Functional features such as drain boards, soap dishes, as well as trivets can likewise be integrated to match the property owners' own demands as well as way of living.

Concrete is gradually coming to be demystified as classically chilly and also industrial. In contrary, this old-time material is cozy and also remarkably responsive; individuals can not aid however touch their smooth, sleek surface areas. Real estate representative Joy Rasmussen, that has actually recently offered her mountain residence-- a temporary investment residential or commercial property in Boat Springs, Carbon Monoxide-- states her site visitors' experiences with concrete: "When I had open homes, site visitors gravitated to the concrete counter tops-- lots of people around here have actually never ever seen them".

Happiness's 2,265 sq. ft. mountain house was customized develop by her other half, Ken Otterman, in addition to KJ Otterman, president of Standard Unique Custom-made Residences. They constructed pour-in-place concrete counters for the residence's kitchen and also three bathrooms by utilizing Concrete Countertops as their guide. The sand-colored concrete kitchen counters were polished smooth, then paired with natural slate of varying colors-- like charcoal, corrosion and gold tones-- that forms the backsplashes in the kitchen and also baths. As a style accent, little rectangular slate floor tiles were added to the edge of the bathroom sinks, which provided a special detail to the personalized vanities.

When Pleasure and also Ken decided to offer their home, their investment in concrete countertops showed its value. "We were able to provide your home $20,000 over market value, as well as had no problems offering it," remarks Pleasure, while discussing the lengthy listing of upgrades throughout their residence, consisting of knotty yearn strong doors, natural slate wall accents and hardwood floorings. "The concrete countertops were easily one of the most distinct and impressive of all the coatings. I think they were a big part in adding worth to the house. Around right here, all you see in residences are granite countertops-- and also I really assume homebuyers are obtaining quite numb with granite."

" Concrete counter tops are an one-of-a-kind offering to homebuyers who see the same coatings used in home after residence they see," clarifies Happiness, offering her observation as an experienced realtor. "Having concrete counter tops almost offers you bragging legal rights-- you have something different from your neighbors."

DAMAGING THE MOLD

Another benefit of concrete is its versatility in either modern or traditional settings, especially when coupled with various other products like diverse steels, timber or rock. "Concrete adds a lot of [opportunities] to stone, as well as the combination with slate, which is widely prominent here, provides the hill residences a total warm, natural touch," claims Delight.

Happiness and also Ken have actually because built a much bigger home (4,000 sq. ft.) that supplies extensive sights of the Steamboat Ski Resort and also is indicated to serve as a long-lasting investment for the couple. They have actually additionally increased their checklist of custom-made surfaces, consisting of hand-troweled walls, classy oil-rubbed bronze equipment, knotty yearn doors that arch on top, closets in a natural, knotty alder, and their preferred-- concrete kitchen countertops.

Unlike in their previous house, KJ and his specialized team poured charcoal-colored kitchen counters utilizing the pre-cast technique in the unfinished basement of the brand-new house. Before putting the concrete, they sprinkled a selection of semi-precious stones in the mold and mildew consisting of Leopardskin, Moonstone, Mother-of-Pearl and Turquoise. After the surface area was ground and also gently brightened, the completed result was an excellent blend of colors, "Without a doubt, the Mother-of-Pearl was the most unbelievable," says Delight.

The L-shaped concrete countertop has a harsh, rustic stone look, enhancing its rugged nation surroundings. An indispensable drain board and also trivets gives feature and also added interest to the concrete counter top. All-natural slate backsplashes, distinct wall surface accents, and also a butcher block counter top at the kitchen island all reverberate with the typical heat and also earthiness of the concrete countertops.

Joy and also Ken's corresponding histories in real estate and personalized homebuilding, and as financial investment homebuyers, have actually helped them recognize that concrete countertops can include incredible visual as well as monetary worth to a home. Concrete's modification and also "show-stopping" charm resembles no other counter top surface area. Cheng is an advocate of emotional looks and building houses that catch these feelings, as in the case of Joy as well as Ken Otterman. Cheng wraps up: "Individuals really want distinction, something individual, something personalized-- as well as concrete can do that for them."

From top-dollar residences in the San Francisco Bay Area to stretching mountain homes in the Colorado Mountain ranges, differentiating property owners are requiring custom styles and surfaces in their cooking areas. Specifically, they are wanting to share their originality and also unique design choices with the rapid expanding design product of choice-- concrete.

As a matter of fact, concrete kitchen counters have actually become somewhat of a standing icon for kitchens, equaling granite as well as other high-end kitchen counter surface area options. Consumer Information Publication (August 2004) rated concrete highest for its "modification" and also "exclusivity" amongst premium kitchen counter tops.

As a custom product, the amount of time and craftsmanship required to generate concrete counter tops places them as one of the most labor-intensive and priciest among leading countertop products.

Nevertheless, concrete countertops are coming to be a lot more easily accessible for those on a small spending plan. The latest do-it-yourself (DIY) fad to captivate property owners and home builders is constructing your own concrete kitchen counter. This phenomenon has actually gotten popularity mainly because of Cheng's best-selling book Concrete Countertops: Style, Types, and also Finishes for the New Kitchen Area and Bathroom (Taunton Press, 2002). According to Cheng, there is little monetary investment in making concrete counter tops, yet the creative gains of collaborating with concrete abound.

THE SHOWSTOPPER

Significantly, homeowners are moving far from the boring, manufactured look of typical countertop surfaces and picking concrete for its earthy, timeless appeal. Plus, the options for customizing concrete kitchen counters are unlimited: one can tint, polish, stamp as well as stain concrete or imbed personal objects like stones, seashells and also fossils right into the countertop's surface area, adding belief and character. Functional functions such as drainpipe boards, soap meals, and also trivets can also be integrated to suit the property owners' own demands and way of life.

Concrete is gradually becoming d & g countertops salem va demystified as classically cool and also industrial. In contrary, this olden product is cozy and also surprisingly responsive; people can not help but touch their smooth, polished surfaces. Real estate representative Pleasure Rasmussen, who has actually just recently marketed her hill home-- a short-term financial investment property in Boat Springs, CO-- recounts her site visitors' experiences with concrete: "When I had open houses, visitors moved to the concrete countertops-- many people around right here have actually never ever seen them".

Happiness's 2,265 sq. ft. hill residence was custom develop by her other half, Ken Otterman, along with KJ Otterman, president of Classic Special Custom-made Homes. They developed pour-in-place concrete counters for the house's kitchen area and also three bathrooms by utilizing Concrete Countertops as their guide. The sand-colored concrete kitchen counters were polished smooth, after that paired with natural slate of differing colors-- like charcoal, corrosion as well as gold tones-- that forms the backsplashes in the kitchen and also bathrooms. As a style accent, little rectangular slate floor tiles were contributed to the rim of the restroom sinks, which provided an one-of-a-kind detail to the personalized vanities.

When Happiness and also Ken chose to offer their residence, their financial investment in concrete kitchen counters proved its worth. "We had the ability to provide the house $20,000 over market price, as well as had no worry offering it," comments Delight, while going over the lengthy checklist of upgrades throughout their residence, including knotty ache solid doors, natural slate wall accents as well as wood floors. "The concrete countertops were easily the most one-of-a-kind as well as outstanding of all the surfaces. I believe they were a huge component in adding value to the home. Around below, all you see in residences are granite countertops-- and also I truly assume buyers are getting fairly numb with granite."

" Concrete countertops are an unique offering to homebuyers that see the exact same surfaces used in residence after home they go to," discusses Joy, supplying her monitoring as a skilled real estate professional. "Having concrete kitchen counters practically offers you bragging rights-- you have something various from your next-door neighbors."

DAMAGING THE MOLD AND MILDEW

One more advantage of concrete is its adaptability in either contemporary or standard setups, specifically when combined with other products like varied steels, timber or rock. "Concrete adds numerous [possibilities] to stone, and also the mix with slate, which is widely popular here, gives the hill residences an overall warm, all-natural touch," states Delight.

Delight and Ken have actually since built a much larger house (4,000 sq. ft.) that supplies expansive sights of the Boat Ski Hotel and also is indicated to act as a lasting financial investment for the pair. They have actually additionally increased their checklist of custom finishes, including hand-troweled walls, classy oil-rubbed bronze hardware, knotty pine doors that curve on top, closets in an all-natural, knotty alder, as well as their favored-- concrete cooking area counter tops.

Unlike in their previous house, KJ and his specialized staff poured charcoal-colored counter tops making use of the pre-cast approach in the incomplete basement of the new home. Prior to putting the concrete, they sprinkled an array of semi-precious rocks in the mold consisting of Leopardskin, Moonstone, Mother-of-Pearl and Blue-green. After the surface area was ground and also lightly brightened, the completed outcome was an impressive blend of shades, "By far, the Mother-of-Pearl was one of the most incredible," claims Pleasure.

The L-shaped concrete counter top has a harsh, rustic stone look, complementing its rugged country environments. An integral drain board and trivets provides feature and included interest to the concrete countertop. Natural slate backsplashes, distinctive wall accents, and also a butcher block countertop at the kitchen island all reverberate with the traditional heat and also earthiness of the concrete kitchen counters.

Happiness and also Ken's particular backgrounds in property and also personalized homebuilding, and as financial investment property buyers, have aided them recognize that concrete countertops can include significant visual and also economic value to a house. Concrete's modification and "show-stopping" charm is like nothing else countertop surface. Cheng is an advocate of emotional looks and building homes that capture these emotions, as when it comes to Pleasure and Ken Otterman. Cheng concludes: "People really desire distinction, something individual, something personalized-- as well as concrete can do that for them."

From top-dollar residences in the San Francisco Bay Location to sprawling hill homes in the Colorado Rockies, differentiating homeowners are demanding custom layouts as well as coatings in their kitchen areas. In particular, they are seeking to reveal their originality and also distinct style preferences with the rapid expanding style product of option-- concrete.

In fact, concrete counter tops have actually become rather of a condition sign for kitchen areas, rivaling granite and other premium counter top surface alternatives. Customer Reports Magazine (August 2004) ranked concrete greatest for its "personalization" and "exclusivity" amongst high-end kitchen counter tops.

As a custom item, the amount of time and also workmanship required to create concrete kitchen counters puts them as one of the most labor-intensive and also most costly among leading countertop materials.

Nonetheless, concrete kitchen counters are ending up being extra obtainable for those on a modest budget. The current diy (Do It Yourself) trend to mesmerize homeowners and also builders is developing your very own concrete countertop. This phenomenon has obtained appeal mostly because of Cheng's best-selling book Concrete Countertops: Layout, Types, and Ends Up for the New Kitchen Area as well as Bathroom (Taunton Press, 2002). According to Cheng, there is little monetary financial investment in making concrete countertops, yet the innovative gains of working with concrete are plentiful.

THE SHOWSTOPPER

Progressively, homeowners are moving far from the tedious, manufactured look of standard counter top surface areas as well as picking concrete for its earthy, ageless allure. And also, the options for personalizing concrete kitchen counters are countless: one can tint, polish, stamp as well as discolor concrete or imbed personal objects like stones, seashells and also fossils right into the kitchen counter's surface, including sentiment as well as personality. Practical features such as drainpipe boards, soap dishes, and trivets can also be integrated to suit the homeowners' very own requirements as well as way of living.

Concrete is slowly coming to be debunked as typically chilly and also industrial. In contrary, this old-time material is cozy and also remarkably responsive; individuals can not help however touch their smooth, refined surface areas. Property agent Pleasure Rasmussen, who has actually just recently marketed her hill house-- a short-term investment residential or commercial property in Boat Springs, Carbon Monoxide-- states her site visitors' experiences with concrete: "When I had open houses, site visitors moved to the concrete kitchen counters-- many people around right here have actually never ever seen them".

Delight's 2,265 sq. ft. hill home was custom-made build by her spouse, Ken Otterman, along with KJ Otterman, head of state of Classic Special Custom-made Houses. They constructed pour-in-place concrete counters for the home's kitchen as well as 3 washrooms by using Concrete Countertops as their guide. The sand-colored concrete counter tops were brightened smooth, then coupled with natural slate of varying colors-- like charcoal, rust as well as gold tones-- that creates the backsplashes in the kitchen area and baths. As a design accent, small rectangular slate ceramic tiles were added to the edge of the bathroom sinks, which provided an one-of-a-kind information to the customized vanities.

When Delight and Ken made a decision to sell their home, their investment in concrete kitchen counters verified its value. "We had the ability to list your home $20,000 over market value, as engineered countertops types well as had not a problem marketing it," remarks Pleasure, while reviewing the lengthy checklist of upgrades throughout their house, including knotty ache strong doors, all-natural slate wall accents as well as hardwood floorings. "The concrete countertops were conveniently the most one-of-a-kind as well as excellent of all the surfaces. I believe they were a massive part in including worth to the residence. Around here, all you see in residences are granite kitchen counters-- and also I really assume buyers are getting quite numb with granite."

" Concrete kitchen counters are an unique offering to property buyers who see the same coatings utilized in residence after home they go to," discusses Happiness, supplying her observation as a seasoned real estate professional. "Having concrete kitchen counters nearly gives you boasting rights-- you have something various from your next-door neighbors."

DAMAGING THE MOLD

Another benefit of concrete is its adaptability in either modern or typical setups, especially when combined with various other products like diverse metals, wood or rock. "Concrete includes numerous [possibilities] to rock, and also the combination with slate, which is extremely prominent right here, provides the mountain homes an overall cozy, natural touch," says Pleasure.

Happiness and also Ken have actually given that built a much larger house (4,000 sq. ft.) that provides extensive views of the Boat Ski Hotel as well as is implied to work as a lasting investment for the couple. They have actually additionally expanded their checklist of customized coatings, consisting of hand-troweled walls, sophisticated oil-rubbed bronze equipment, knotty ache doors that curve at the top, cabinets in an all-natural, knotty alder, and also their preferred-- concrete kitchen countertops.

Unlike in their previous residence, KJ and also his specialized team poured charcoal-colored countertops using the pre-cast technique in the incomplete basement of the new house. Before pouring the concrete, they sprayed a variety of semi-precious stones in the mold and mildew consisting of Leopardskin, Moonstone, Mother-of-Pearl as well as Blue-green. After the surface was ground as well as gently brightened, the completed outcome was an impressive mix of shades, "By far, the Mother-of-Pearl was one of the most incredible," says Joy.

The L-shaped concrete counter top has a rough, rustic stone look, enhancing its tough nation surroundings. An essential drain board and trivets supplies feature as well as included rate of interest to the concrete countertop. All-natural slate backsplashes, distinctive wall surface accents, and also a butcher block countertop at the cooking area island all reverberate with the typical heat and also earthiness of the concrete counter tops.

Happiness as well as Ken's respective backgrounds in real estate and also custom homebuilding, and as investment homebuyers, have actually helped them realize that concrete kitchen counters can add remarkable visual and also economic worth to a home. Concrete's personalization and "show-stopping" appeal is like nothing else counter top surface. Cheng is a supporter of emotional appearances and developing homes that record these feelings, as in the case of Pleasure as well as Ken Otterman. Cheng ends: "People truly desire differentiation, something individual, something personalized-- as well as concrete can do that for them."

From top-dollar residences in the San Francisco Bay Location to sprawling hill homes in the Colorado Rockies, differentiating home owners are demanding customized designs and also coatings in their kitchen areas. Particularly, they are wanting to express their originality and also distinct design preferences with the fast expanding layout product of choice-- concrete.

Actually, concrete counter tops have ended up being somewhat of a condition icon for kitchens, matching granite as well as other premium counter top surface area options. Consumer Reports Magazine (August 2004) placed concrete greatest for its "modification" and also "exclusivity" among premium kitchen counter tops.

As a personalized item, the amount of time as well as craftsmanship called for to create concrete countertops positions them as the most labor-intensive and also most costly among leading counter top products.

Nevertheless, concrete countertops are coming to be extra accessible for those on a moderate budget. The latest diy (Do It Yourself) pattern to mesmerize home owners as well as building contractors is building your very own concrete counter top. This phenomenon has actually acquired appeal largely due to Cheng's very popular book Concrete Countertops: Design, Kinds, and Completes for the New Kitchen Area as well as Bath (Taunton Press, 2002). According to Cheng, there is little financial investment in making concrete kitchen counters, yet the innovative gains of collaborating with concrete abound.

THE SHOWSTOPPER

Increasingly, house owners are relocating far from the tedious, manufactured appearance of standard counter top surface areas and picking concrete for its natural, ageless charm. And also, the choices for individualizing concrete countertops are countless: one can tint, gloss, stamp and stain concrete or imbed personal items like stones, seashells and fossils into the countertop's surface, including view and personality. Functional attributes such as drainpipe boards, soap dishes, as well as trivets can also be included to match the property owners' very own needs as well as way of living.

Concrete is gradually becoming demystified as characteristically cool as well as industrial. In contrary, this old-time product is cozy as well as surprisingly tactile; individuals can not assist but touch their smooth, refined surfaces. Real estate representative Pleasure Rasmussen, who has actually lately marketed her mountain residence-- a temporary investment residential property in Steamboat Springs, Carbon Monoxide-- states her visitors' experiences with concrete: "When I had open houses, site visitors moved to the concrete countertops-- many people around here have actually never ever seen them".

Delight's 2,265 sq. ft. mountain home was personalized develop by her hubby, Ken Otterman, together with KJ Otterman, head of state of Classic Special Custom Houses. They built pour-in-place concrete counters for the house's kitchen area as well as three restrooms by utilizing Concrete Countertops as their guide. The sand-colored concrete kitchen counters were polished smooth, then coupled with natural slate of differing shades-- like charcoal, corrosion as well as gold tones-- that forms the backsplashes in the kitchen and also baths. As a design accent, small rectangle-shaped slate ceramic tiles were added to the edge of the restroom sinks, which provided a special information to the custom vanities.

When Happiness and Ken chose to market their home, their investment in concrete kitchen counters verified its value. "We were able to detail the house $20,000 over market value, as well as had not a problem marketing it," remarks Joy, while discussing the lengthy list of upgrades throughout their house, consisting of knotty want solid doors, all-natural slate wall accents and hardwood floorings. "The concrete countertops were easily one of the most unique and also outstanding of all the finishes. I think they were a huge part in adding worth to the residence. Around right here, all you see in houses are granite countertops-- as well as I actually believe homebuyers are obtaining quite numb with granite."

" Concrete counter tops are a special offering to buyers that see the exact same surfaces utilized in residence after residence they go to," explains Happiness, offering her monitoring as an experienced realtor. "Having concrete kitchen counters almost provides you boasting rights-- you have something various from your neighbors."

DAMAGING THE MOLD

An additional advantage of concrete is its adaptability in either contemporary or conventional setups, particularly when paired with countertops r us wilber ne other products like diverse metals, wood or rock. "Concrete includes so many [possibilities] to stone, and also the combination with slate, which is hugely prominent below, provides the mountain homes a general warm, all-natural touch," says Pleasure.

Delight and Ken have given that developed a much larger house (4,000 sq. ft.) that provides large sights of the Boat Ski Hotel and is indicated to act as a long-term financial investment for the pair. They have actually additionally broadened their listing of custom surfaces, including hand-troweled walls, sophisticated oil-rubbed bronze hardware, knotty yearn doors that arch at the top, closets in a natural, knotty alder, and also their preferred-- concrete cooking area countertops.

Unlike in their previous residence, KJ and his specialized staff put charcoal-colored countertops utilizing the pre-cast technique in the incomplete cellar of the brand-new house. Prior to putting the concrete, they sprinkled a range of semi-precious stones in the mold and mildew consisting of Leopardskin, Moonstone, Mother-of-Pearl and Blue-green. After the surface was ground and gently polished, the finished outcome was a remarkable mix of shades, "By far, the Mother-of-Pearl was the most unbelievable," claims Happiness.

The L-shaped concrete counter top has a harsh, rustic rock appearance, complementing its tough nation environments. An essential drainpipe board as well as trivets supplies function as well as included passion to the concrete countertop. All-natural slate backsplashes, distinctive wall surface accents, as well as a butcher block countertop at the kitchen island all reverberate with the standard warmth and also earthiness of the concrete counter tops.

Pleasure as well as Ken's particular histories in real estate and personalized homebuilding, and also as financial investment homebuyers, have actually assisted them understand that concrete counter tops can include significant visual as well as monetary value to a home. Concrete's modification and "show-stopping" charm is like no other countertop surface. Cheng is an advocate of emotional looks and also constructing homes that capture these feelings, as in the case of Joy as well as Ken Otterman. Cheng ends: "Individuals really want differentiation, something personal, something custom-- and concrete can do that for them."

From top-dollar residences in the San Francisco Bay Location to sprawling hill houses in the Colorado Rockies, differentiating home owners are requiring custom-made layouts as well as surfaces in their kitchens. In particular, they are seeking to share their individuality as well as unique layout choices with the rapid expanding design product of option-- concrete.

As a matter of fact, concrete kitchen counters have become rather of a status sign for kitchens, measuring up to granite and also various other premium kitchen counter surface alternatives. Consumer Information Magazine (August 2004) placed concrete greatest for its "customization" and also "exclusivity" among premium cooking area countertops.

As a personalized item, the quantity of time and workmanship needed to create concrete kitchen counters places them as the most labor-intensive and also priciest among leading counter top products.

Nonetheless, concrete countertops are coming to be more available for those on a small spending plan. The latest diy (DIY) pattern to astound property owners and contractors is developing your own concrete counter top. This sensation has obtained popularity greatly because of Cheng's best-selling book Concrete Countertops: Design, Forms, and also Completes for the New Kitchen as well as Bathroom (Taunton Press, 2002). According to Cheng, there is little financial investment in making concrete kitchen counters, yet the innovative gains of collaborating with concrete are plentiful.

THE SHOWSTOPPER

Increasingly, homeowners are relocating away from the boring, manufactured look of typical countertop surfaces and also selecting concrete for its natural, classic allure. Plus, the alternatives for customizing concrete countertops are unlimited: one can color, polish, stamp as well as tarnish concrete or imbed personal objects like stones, seashells and also fossils right into the counter top's surface, including sentiment and character. Functional features such as drain boards, soap dishes, and trivets can also be incorporated to match the house owners' own needs and also lifestyle.

Concrete is gradually coming to be debunked as classically chilly and also commercial. In contrary, this age-old product is warm and surprisingly tactile; people can not help yet touch their smooth, polished surfaces. Realty agent Pleasure Rasmussen, that has actually just recently offered her hill home-- a temporary investment building in countertops options materials Boat Springs, CO-- recounts her visitors' experiences with concrete: "When I had open homes, site visitors moved to the concrete counter tops-- many individuals around here have actually never ever seen them".

Happiness's 2,265 sq. ft. mountain home was personalized construct by her hubby, Ken Otterman, along with KJ Otterman, president of Classic Unique Personalized Houses. They built pour-in-place concrete counters for the residence's cooking area and three shower rooms by utilizing Concrete Countertops as their guide. The sand-colored concrete kitchen counters were brightened smooth, after that coupled with natural slate of varying shades-- like charcoal, rust and also gold tones-- that creates the backsplashes in the kitchen area and bathrooms. As a design accent, small rectangle-shaped slate tiles were contributed to the edge of the washroom sinks, which supplied an unique detail to the custom-made vanities.

When Delight as well as Ken determined to offer their house, their financial investment in concrete countertops proved its value. "We had the ability to list your house $20,000 over market value, and had no worry offering it," comments Joy, while talking about the lengthy listing of upgrades throughout their residence, consisting of knotty pine strong doors, all-natural slate wall surface accents and also wood floorings. "The concrete counter tops were conveniently the most one-of-a-kind as well as excellent of all the surfaces. I believe they were a massive part in including value to the residence. Around here, all you see in residences are granite counter tops-- as well as I actually assume property buyers are getting rather numb with granite."

" Concrete counter tops are an one-of-a-kind offering to property buyers that see the very same surfaces made use of in home after residence they go to," discusses Delight, offering her observation as a seasoned real estate agent. "Having concrete kitchen counters practically gives you bragging rights-- you have something different from your next-door neighbors."

DAMAGING THE MOLD AND MILDEW

One more advantage of concrete is its adaptability in either modern or typical settings, particularly when combined with various other materials like different metals, timber or rock. "Concrete includes a lot of [opportunities] to stone, as well as the combination with slate, which is extremely popular below, gives the hill homes a general warm, natural touch," states Joy.

Joy as well as Ken have actually since developed a much bigger home (4,000 sq. ft.) that supplies expansive sights of the Boat Ski Resort and is suggested to serve as a lasting investment for the couple. They have actually likewise expanded their list of personalized finishes, consisting of hand-troweled wall surfaces, classy oil-rubbed bronze hardware, knotty ache doors that curve at the top, cupboards in a natural, knotty alder, and also their preferred-- concrete kitchen counter tops.

Unlike in their previous residence, KJ as well as his specialized team poured charcoal-colored counter tops using the pre-cast approach in the incomplete basement of the new residence. Before pouring the concrete, they sprinkled a range of semi-precious rocks in the mold and mildew consisting of Leopardskin, Moonstone, Mother-of-Pearl as well as Blue-green. After the surface area was ground and also gently brightened, the finished outcome was a remarkable blend of shades, "By far, the Mother-of-Pearl was the most incredible," says Happiness.

The L-shaped concrete counter top has a rough, rustic stone look, enhancing its sturdy country environments. An integral drain board as well as trivets supplies feature and also added rate of interest to the concrete countertop. Natural slate backsplashes, distinctive wall accents, and a butcher block kitchen counter at the cooking area island all reverberate with the conventional heat and earthiness of the concrete counter tops.

Pleasure and Ken's respective histories in real estate and custom-made homebuilding, and as financial investment homebuyers, have assisted them realize that concrete kitchen counters can include remarkable aesthetic as well as economic value to a home. Concrete's personalization and "show-stopping" allure is like nothing else counter top surface area. Cheng is a proponent of psychological aesthetic appeals and constructing residences that capture these feelings, as in the case of Happiness and Ken Otterman. Cheng concludes: "People really desire distinction, something personal, something customized-- and concrete can do that for them."