Modern Home Builders Issue 145 | Page 16

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These material preferences are directly influencing design choices, with a notable shift from stark whites and bright colors to softer neutrals, complemented by bold veining and elegantly rounded edges.
Safety and sustainability drive innovation
When it comes to manmade materials, not all choices are the same. While quartz remains popular, the crystalline silica dust produced during the fabrication process has become a serious health concern for the industry. As a result, we continue to see a shift toward natural stone and newer, safer manmade materials like porcelain and advanced fusion surface, such as Caesarstone ICON TM. made from recycled materials. For wood
elements, which remain a strong trend in kitchens for everything from flooring and cabinetry to butcher blocks, eco-friendly options like cork and bamboo continue to deliver dazzling effects.
Manmade surfaces meet design trends
Ongoing advancements in manufacturing are allowing manmade materials to more closely mimic natural patterns, with stunningly bold veining and earthy tones.
▲ Pictured: Caesarstone Mirabel porcelain
▲ Pictured: Caesarstone Moonflow ICON countertop
Caesarstone ICON represents a breakthrough, blending cutting-edge research and development with environmental responsibility. The surfaces are nearly crystalline silica-free( they may contain traces of less than one percent crystalline silica) and crafted with up to 80 percent recycled materials.
The trend toward eco-conscious homes has boosted the popularity of countertops
This ability to deliver dramatic veining, a feature often missing from industrial materials like stainless steel or concrete, has made manmade materials like porcelain or advanced fusion surfaces the ideal canvas for transforming countertops into works of art, especially on large kitchen islands or as a full-height backsplash.
As kitchens become warmer and more inviting, expect to see more creams, beiges, taupes, and even moody, dark colors like charcoal and deep green. A popular design trend is to use boldly veined countertops on a kitchen island while a different, simpler
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