Maximizing Small Spaces: How Granite Can Enhance Compact Kitchens and Bathrooms

It doesn’t matter how big your kitchen or bathroom is. The right materials will enhance their value and elevate the small spaces. Granite is the perfect choice. Not only is it an attractive, durable material with a proven record for retaining its value, but it also has a knack for giving a room a more open appearance—provided you choose the right material.

In this article, we take a look at why granite is a great option for small spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. We also take a look at considerations to keep in mind as you purchase new granite countertops.

What Makes Granite Special?

Granite has several qualities that make it a versatile option for bringing the best out of any space. These include:

• Diversity of options. There are almost endless shades and pattern options that allow you to adopt granite countertops/backsplashes to suit almost any circumstance. You can get creative, using your countertops to contrast or match your cabinets and other kitchen/bathroom fixtures as you see fit. Or, you can get whimsical, choosing a design that feels original and fresh.
• Granite is easy to clean. It’s nice to have a kitchen or bathroom that you love to look at. That said, these spaces are ultimately about functionality more than anything else. Granite is considered one of the least porous stones to be used in building. You could spill red wine on your countertop and never need to worry about staining.
• It is durable. Perhaps partially because granite is so easy to maintain, it’s also known for retaining its appearance for decades. Granite you install today will look just about as good thirty years down the line. Naturally, it is also very solid, and not at risk for the same type of deterioration experienced by synthetic materials.

Granite also retains value and can increase your home’s selling price by up to 25% of your purchase cost. This may not sound like much, but in terms of ROI on home renovation projects, it’s a great return.

How can you make granite work for your small spaces?

Simplicity is Key

You don’t want to make a small space conspicuous with a busy pattern. One of the nice things about granite countertops is that they have a low-key presence. They are eye-catching and attractive, but they also have an effortless quality that works well in modestly sized spaces.

Granite is also available in light, low-profile colors that will benefit homeowners who want to make their kitchen or bathroom feel more open. There is a scientific reason why light colors make spaces feel larger. White/light-toned countertops will subtly reflect light, making the room look bigger than it actually is.

Heavy, dark colors, by contrast, absorb light, creating a more restrictive feeling. To that extent, not all granite patterns will be created equal. Below, we take a look at some considerations that will help you choose the right countertops for your needs.

Think Actively About Your Greater Design Concept

Choosing light colors in a small space is a common, but basic way to make the room feel more open. While this approach may accomplish what you want it to, it’s not the only way to use granite effectively in your cozy bathroom or kitchen.

Think about the larger design concept. A visually interesting space can be just as effective as one that is light and airy. For example, are your cabinets a lighter color? In that case, choosing a contrasting shade of granite may enhance the cosmetic appeal of the space.

Continuity may be another consideration to keep in mind. Do you have granite already woven into your home décor? Consistency may beat out the value of finding a lighter shade. For example, if you have a granite bar counter in your basement, and a granite outdoor countertop by your grill, it may ultimately be best to consider the overall design concept of your home.

The “light colors make rooms look bigger,” notion is a good starting point, but you don’t need to let it limit your creativity. There are many ways to achieve beauty in small spaces.

Think Beyond Countertops for Small spaces

It’s also worth remembering that granite can be used beyond the kitchen/bathroom counter. It’s great for backslashes, shelving, and even windowsills. In the last heading, we talked about continuity, and creating visual interest. Thinking beyond the countertop is a great way to do it. Your kitchen may be cozy, but you can make it eye-catching and unique with a little bit of creativity.

To put it plainly, granite looks great pretty much anywhere you put it. Ready to get started? Buying granite from a reputable dealer is the best way to ensure a quality product and a headache-free installation.

Contact BRZ Granite and Marble for a free quote.