Even if we all look for new pretty solutions when renovating, renting or buying a new house, this is often not enough: we want durability, beauty and practicality inside our dreamy space.

Whether you are looking for modern high-tech faucet style for your home, or for a more practical and easier to use gadget, I am pretty sure this guide will help you to make the right decision when buying the new appliances for your space.

1- Types of Faucets

Let’s start with the basics: Deck Mount and Wall mount faucet. The difference? The deck mount faucet is attached to the countertop or to the sink, while the wall mount faucet is attached to the wall. Both styles look amazing: we leave this decision to you! If you are starting from scratch, it is important that you choose the faucet before the sink, so that way you can buy a sink with the right number of holes for your faucet selection.

2- Style x functionality

As mentioned before, many things inside your home will be there just to make it pretty, but faucets are not among those.
Buying responsible means using your abilities to choose something that fits your space and that would do wonders for your everyday tasks.
In the market, you will find different brands with a million of possibilities and styles of gorgeous faucets: some brands even allow you to personalize your faucet to match the style of your ambient. Check them out to make your life easier once you’re ready to buy!

Calcatta Quartz Countertop with single handle kitchen faucets

Design By CWB Architects 

3- Finishes and features

Choosing finishes is another very important step in design. A technique that always works is to look at the color of your cabinet hardware. Let’s say it is brass, well, then brass finish faucet will be! As eclectic kitchens are a trend now, you can definitely decide to mix and match! Matte, brass, stainless steel, chrome and so many more materials are available and just waiting for you!

3.1- Features

Filters are a great option if you want to filter tap water, but as everything come with maintenance, be conscious and check first if this is the best option for your wallet.

Hot Water dispensers are also an amazing option that will save you loads of time whenever you need to use warm water.

Motion sense: The power of a hands-free faucet! Your faucets won’t need to be cleaned constantly from handprints, dust and dirt.

LED light: Some models come with LED light that indicates the water temperature.

Ready sensor: place an object below the spout and have the incredible surprise of the activation of water flow. Better yet, pass your hand over the wave sensor to have a constant stream of water.

Complete sink access: 360º swivel for a better use. Nothing has ever felt more practical!

Double sprayer functions: Delicate stream for everyday tasks or strong stream for heavy tasks. This faucet has it all, you definitely won’t be disappointed!

White Kitchen with Gold Faucet

Design By Craig Veenker

4- Installation

If you are an expert, you know the drill! But if you are fairly new, here is a little step to step guide on how to install your new faucet:

How to replace an old faucet:

1. 1. Make sure you turn off the water valves under the sink (rookie mistake!). To relieve the pressure on the lines, turn on the faucet.
   2. Take a picture of the configuration of the plumbing before doing anything else, in case you forget.
   3. Before disconnecting the lines, make sure to place a bucket under it so it the water that might fall won’t spread all over the place.
   4. Ask someone to hold the faucet from above while you use a basin wrench to lose and remove the nuts that holds the faucet.
   5. Remove the faucet and clean the sealant from the surface.

Installing a new faucet:

1. 1. Place the gasket or the trim ring over the faucet holes and place the deck plate.
   2. Add faucet lines into the holes
   3. Install the washers and nuts underneath the sink. In case you have used caulk or plumbers’ putty for the gasket, make sure to wipe off the excess underneath the sink.
   4. In case you used a pull-down faucet, attach the hose to the supply pipe. Pull down the hose and attach the weight.
   5. Connect the water supply lines (use plumber’s tape). Don’t overtight the line connections.
   6. Slowly turn the water on and check if there are leaks.
   7. Next step is removing the aerator from the faucet, slowly turn on the water and let it run. Double check for leaks.
   8. Turn off the faucet and replace the aerator.

You can DIY the installation, but we strongly recommend a plumber if you’re doing it for the first time, so that you will avoid failures and mistakes that would end up costing you more than expected.

Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer Kitchen Faucet in Chrome

Design By Tim Clarke Design 

5- Cleaning Your Faucet

Cleaning your kitchen faucet is not the most difficult task, and trust me, a beautiful and clean shiny (or matte!) sink faucet can make your kitchen look flawless effortlessly.

5.1 Scrubbing: Big Mistake!  Before anything else, you will need to find out the material of your faucet! If you have a faucet with a matte finish, scrubbing could be the worst mistake you will ever make, as it will ruin the material for good. Check with your manufactures the finish of your product and the best ways to clean it up!

5.2 Warm water and some soap clean everything, right?  With a cloth, gently rub the faucet with the dish soap and dry it with an unused cloth.

5.2 Removing Stains: A small amount of baking soda, a toothbrush and a bit of water will do the job perfectly!

Two-Handle Bridge Kitchen Faucet with Matching Spray, Chrome

Design By Cheryl Scrymgeour Designs 

6- Cost

Another important factor to be considered: how much it will cost. As with everything else, it all depends on the material, brand and finishes of the item. Pricey doesn’t always mean better quality, as cheap doesn’t mean it will break on day two. The price of the installation should also be an important factor in your decision. It can range from around $100 to $200. If you need to remove an old faucet and install a new one the price range will be a bit higher: between $200 to $300.
Be reasonable – and don’t be scared to spend a bit more for quality-, I’m sure you will have a beautiful design.

Bronze Single-Handle Standard Kitchen Faucet with Side Sprayer

Design By Wood Specialties, Inc. 

7- Choosing your supplier

Most people claim they have had many issues when purchasing faucets from big companies. As said before, a wise choice can determine the livability of your product.

When purchasing from plumbing houses, the customer support could make a big difference in case you have any issues with your product, and avoid days, or months of stress while waiting for an answer.

Cost-benefit is also something else to consider when making this choice, as the products might be a bit pricey in local business.

Conclusion 

After having read this article, you can definitely consider yourself a Kitchen faucet specialist. Go ahead, do your research and start designing your dream home. Good luck!

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Quartz Countertops in Reston

In certain cultures, food, cooking, and culinary habits are at the center of the family and social life. And in some houses, the kitchen becomes the spot around which a lot happens: not only meals and dinner parties but cooking, baking and much, much more. This is why you should always feel comfortable in this room and make it yours as much as possible. And for that to happen, nothing better than choosing the right material for your kitchen and have a great installation: Sky Marble wants to make sure you will make the right decision!

Countertops come in endless shapes, colors, and styles: there is really a million possibilities and no chance to get bored. The options on the current market make it really difficult for us costumers to simply choose one and stick with it. Or is it just me?

For practical and beauty reasons granite is still the number one choice for kitchen countertops – and not only for them! You have probably seen beautiful and shiny granite countertops in a few kitchens/ambients at this point, but have you ever wondered why this material is so deeply rooted in kitchen design?

There are many reasons homeowners are buying Granite Countertops in Chantilly VA?

• Granite is a very tough material, much more than most of the other common materials for countertops, and resistant to scratches and knife cuts, which can come in handy in a kitchen surface,
• it is also heat resistant, therefore hot pots and frying pans won’t be adding to your concerns,
• if sealed, it will not absorb any stains or liquids, making it waterproof and well maintained for years ahead.

And this does not even scratch the surface – pun intended- of what a great material granite is: besides being a functional and practical idea for countertops, it is also stunning when implemented into your space. The variety of colors it comes in is huge, and some of them can contribute to your space in different ways, for example making it look way larger than it actually is, or lighter and breezy. Honestly, those are two great characteristics you are should definitely look for in your space!

– How to choose the perfect color for your kitchen?

You might ask, and you would be right doing so, what is the most appropriate color for your space. Also, you can read our previous article here >> READ

Granite comes in an endless list of equally beautiful colors, and in order to help you fight the overwhelming feeling of the immensity of choices: here I come to the rescue. I will now present you some types and colors of granite and which style of the kitchen to pair them with:

MOON WHITE GRANITE 

This gorgeous stone can be used as a surface for a more contemporary kitchen. White cabinetry, undermount sink and matte black hardware’s will create an eye-catching color scheme when paired with the beautiful pattern of this material.

Photo Credit | Karen Biwersi and Designer Viewpoint

SUPER WHITE

You will find this material paired with a lot of kitchen styles, from contemporary to modern. This stone can be matched with a variety of colors of cabinets, therefore you won’t need to worry about color matches at all! If you have a black cabinet or prefer wood tones, this surface will help you create a very interesting contrast in your space!

Photo Credit Kathleen Walsh Interiors, LLC 

ALASKA WHITE

Alaska Whiteis the perfect match for white cabinetry and dark hardware. It can be used in more traditional kitchens as well as in modern ones, depending on your favorite and which one you are going for.

Interested? We love it!

Photo Credit | Sky Marble and Granite, INC

ABSOLUTE BLACK

This beautiful dark stone can be found in farmhouse kitchens and minimalist ones. With stainless steel appliances and white cabinetry, you will obtain a wonderful result.

Photo Credit |  Paul Moon Design

TYPHOON BORDEAUX

This earthy tone stone will match your traditional kitchen beautifully and looks even more gorgeous when paired with stainless steel appliances. Create an amazing color scheme with earthy tones cabinetry or white toned ones!

Photo Credit | Nicholson Builders

Conclusion 

Have you chosen yours yet? You can find a variety of other stones here and if you want more information you can request an in-home estimate! What are you waiting for?

• What to consider/expect when choosing granite instead of other stones?

Pretty is amazing, but when remodeling a delicate area such as the kitchen, the first of the things to consider is the durability of the material. Find the perfect compromise between gorgeous and rock hard solid!

Long term thinking is a great friend when remodeling or building, considering that you won’t be doing it again soon enough, and it’s better to spend a bit more in the beginning than having the trouble to change or re-do that space year after year.

When purchasing Granite, you can expect a long-lasting material: something that you will want to stick with. Granite is extremely resistant, and if well taken care of and treated, it will last (almost) forever!

And of course, since our eyes also need to feast, the colorations and styles it comes in become extremely important. We promise there is enough for everyone and so many variations that your head will spin but allow yourself to fall in love with your favorite and get started with your new kitchen!

And in case you were wondering where do all these shades and variations come from it really depends on the combination of the minerals in the stone. Some contain more potassium than others, giving them a salmon coloration, while others have a whiter and clearer coloration.

But let’s talk numbers. Another thing that you should consider is the price: you do not want to overdo it and be forced to cut on your basic needs. Well, great news here: granite is reasonably affordable! Of course, the final price really depends on the quality of your stone, but the average price is around $75 per square foot. Not bad at all, right? Think about the final look you will achieve: flawless

You can check the variety of colors here

• Is it easy to clean?

Yes, yes, yes! Thousand times yes: granite is easy to clean and maintain.

As mentioned above, a well-sealed granite counter top won’t absorb any liquids or stains, but every once in a while, (depending on how often you use your kitchen and how messy you are) you will want to clean it to make it look shinier!

Things to absolutely avoid are acidic cleaners. Lemon, lime, vinegar…not such a good idea. We highly discourage the use of ammonia and bleach: not a good combo for granite.

In fact, all these products will heavily weaken your sealant if used too much, and we definitely don’t want that to happen.

If you are gently treating your granite, it will last longer: what we recommend you to use are warm water, dish soap, and a cloth. As easy as it comes!

Following those guidelines, you will have a brand-new spotless and shiny surface. How amazing?

• Trends

Granite is a surface that has been used for years now, and the trend is definitely not on its descending curve. Many are still falling in love with its colorations and using it for countertops all over the world!

We must admit, more than a trend granite is a certainty: not only you will find it in many public places – in countertops, sculptures, sinks and so much more! – but it adapts to the most different people, social classes and styles.

It really doesn’t matter the type of kitchen you are planning, you will find one stone coloration that will match your space and perfectly marry your style, making your kitchen look elegant and flawless.

Remember, choosing the right countertop is important! Not only it takes up a big part of your space, but it can be used to modify what is around, making space look bigger, classier or accentuating other materials. Designers everywhere are coming up with creative solutions to make the homeowner satisfied, as matching two different types of granite… can you imagine the effect?

If you are worried about the constantly changing trends, simply don’t! Granite is always “in”, and it is a guilt-free choice: practical, tough and affordable for most.

Talk to your designer and make sure you love the final result: enjoy your granite!

Click here for more ideas and inspirations

• The City of Chantilly

The City of Chantilly, located in the northern part of wonderful Virginia, is named after a mansion and farm of the early 1800s, which was named after a plantation of the early 1700s in Westmoreland County, Virginia. The name “Chantilly” originated in France with the Château de Chantilly – Chantilly Castle-, about 25 miles north of Paris.

The city with almost twenty-four thousand habitants hides great treasures for any taste.

If you like to go Outdoors for a walk/ hike the Ellanor C. Lawrence Park is a great call, or if you are planning a Sunday out with your family, the Frying Pan Farm Park it’s a great place to see animals and go on a farmhouse tour! If you have a passion for aviation, check out the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, an extremely interesting museum; if you are more of a historian, then we have the perfect solution: take a look at the Sully Historic Site, and find out about the War of Secession! We are waiting for you in Chantilly!

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Quartz Countertops in Reston

Reston Virginia is one of the best places to live in The United States. This fact makes its residents “tough customers ” when renovating a kitchen and choosing their Granite kitchen countertops. In the spirit of Reston Virginia’s, “Best New Town” rank, it has a history of fantastic countertops using Granite. Reston was designed and Influenced by a movement that emphasized “planned” and “self-contained” living, its inhabitants, have planned and shaped beautiful, Granite Countertops since Reston established itself in 1964. In 2018, Reston ranked as the, “Best Place to Live in Northern Virginia” by, “Money Magazine.” Its abundance of parks, lakes, golf courses, and bridle paths, as well as the numerous shopping choices, are significant factors in the magazine’s decision to award this to Reston, and Granite Countertops there have kept in step with that excellence.

Granite Countertops Reston VA

Granite is light-colored and naturally occurring, with structural integrity much more enduring than Marble. Since there were kitchen’s, granite has been a favored stone in kitchen countertop design material. Using Granite in a kitchen is academic in its choice for kitchens and gives is a sense of environment. Choices in Granite countertops have become as diverse as the minerals that make up the material itself. It is the quartz within Granite that gives this stone a soothing and lovely white shade of color, although, obtaining a true-white Granite countertop is a rarity.

Regardless of the style, Granite countertops will shine brightly when polished.  With that said, Granite countertops are available in a wide variety of natural colors. If the elusive, pure-white, countertop is too not available, there are many different variations of white-Granite. Those variations of white include, gray, black, and red or blue specs of stone throughout this natural wonder. Granite will also help a small kitchen, or as a realtor puts it, “a cozy kitchen,” appear larger and more open give. The cabinet selection will add to the effort to make a small space appear more open

Here are the top 10 fantastic Granite countertops one will find in Reston :

1-Alaska White

Although Northern Virginia’s winters are temperate compared to other States with four seasons, Reston Kitchen’s often will have a have a “blizzard warning” with Alaska White Granite. Alaska White granite is an icy blend of soft silver and a cool white, available with warm neutrals and onyx hues.

Check the color details >>>

Photo Credit | Sky Marble and Granite, INC

2-Babylon-Gray-Quartz

Babylon Gray Quartz is a first-class surface perfect for busy countertops in a busy kitchen. Choose this gorgeous gray into one’s nook and create a spectacular Granite countertop.

Photo Credit | Sky Marble and Granite, INC

3-Black Pearl

This fashion of Granite countertop will have a person taking a few extra sips of their coffee in the morning to enjoy the elegant look of their kitchen. Starting the day relaxed or unwinding with friends in the evening within a hip kitchen is what “Black Pearl” will emotionally evoke in its inhabitants’ kitchens.

Photo Credit | unKnown

4-Taj Mahal

With the Taj Mahal is one of the most important monuments and the world, the Countertops better follow suit! This fantastic material, in actuality, hails from Brazil and is an amber-colored stone with a beige background and it is somewhat transparent. It gets its name from the impression it gets from people that see it displayed on a countertop. Significant! is a bit transparent.

Photo Credit | unKnown

5-Fantasy White (Super White)

This Reston, VA favorite, AKA, Super White Granite is very special among the Granite family of stones. It mimics the look of marble but achieves the strength of the superior, Granite material, with more resistance and durability.

Photo Credit | Sky Marble and Granite, INC

6-Moon White

This style of Granite traditional and contemporary has a paradoxical value to its allure. Delicate only refers to how easy on the eyes is White is but maintaining the enduring consistency Granite for which GRanite is known, but optically a delicate-white meets the eyes.

Photo Credit | UnKnown

7-Titanium

With the root word of Titanium being, “Titan,” your Granite kitchen countertop will make a big impression. Spectacular in appearance and mirroring a natural home’s different natural setting, this will mesh with any exterior view.

Photo Credit | Hunter and Company Interior Design

8-Venetian Crème

A trip to Venice is as easy as making this choice for a Reston Granite countertop. This variety offers a creamy background and features black flecks with deep canals similar to its namesake.

Photo Credit | Unknown

9-Luna Pearl

This inspirational and rustic this Granite countertop offers complexity in its pattern of relaxing grays and vibrant whites.

Photo Credit | Unknown

10-Marble White

With Pencil Canal Marble and Granite combined is the best of both worlds in this choice of Granite count. The countertops are white granite with a marble pencil backsplash. For those caught between a marble and a hard place (Granite), this is for the choice.

Photo Credit | Sky Marble and Granite, INC

Conclusion 

Although this is a top ten list, all of the fabulous Variations of Granite Kitchen countertops above are almost equally popular. The margins between “Alaska White” (#1) and “Marble White” (#10) are minimal. One cannot go wrong with any style of Granite kitchen countertop when renovating a Reston, Va kitchen. Granite has proven to be the most enduring, beautiful and, most popular choice for kitchen remodelers. The hard part is deciding which color and style from which to choose as one will find many that mesh well with a kitchen.

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