The Value of Granite

I know that the granite/stainless steel/cherry cabinet trend is really just a phase in kitchen design. Like all popular styles, its day will end and I'm curious to see what takes its place. I have heard some say the "white kitchens are coming back." Maybe, maybe not, we'll have to wait and see.

I for one hope the ad men in charge of selling a new product don't dissuade people from granite counters. Beyond being just a fad, they are a truly wonderful surface to have in the kitchen. In addition to being hard as, well, stone, they are extremely functional. Because they will absorb heat and cold, they are hand when dealing with a "just out of the oven pot" without leaving a burn mark. They are also a great surface to thaw frozen foods on. The stone will absorb the cold temperature thus cutting your thawing time in half! Also, unlike laminate tops which have a core of wood, stone tops are impervious to water--something to consider in a "plumbing rich" room like the kitchen.

The value of many trends may very well be dubious but granite counter tops are an upgrade that one should seriously consider. If you spend much time in the kitchen, the price will be well worth it.