Selecting Granite

Over the past couple of weeks, I have spent considerable time with several clients selecting the perfect stone for their bathroom or kitchen countertops. During the process, I have found myself repeating some of the same phrases. I thought you might find them helpful if you are selecting a countertop in the near future.

1. “It’s ok to feel overwhelmed. There’s a lot here.” Walking into a granite warehouse can feel daunting. There are thousands of slabs.  So many beautiful things! Which one do you choose? You don’t want to make the wrong decision! Take a deep breath. Recognize that it is ok to feel overwhelmed and then take it one slab at a time.
2. “Start by walking through the entire place and making note of the slabs that grab your attention.” Don’t overanalyze why you like a specific piece on the first pass. Get a good feel of what is there and what grabs your attention. You might be surprised how your expectations change.
3. “Step back and look at the bigger picture.” Don’t focus on that tiny spot, but step back and take in the blending of colors for the whole picture.
4. “Now let’s begin the process of elimination.” It’s always important to bring samples of the cabinet, flooring or other prominent accents in the rest of the room to compare with the slab of granite or marble you are considering.
5. “Let’s compare all the slabs of that color.” Ask the warehouse staff to spread out the stack of slabs in the color you are considering. This is especially important if you need more than one slab for your project.
6. “Are we happy with the decision?” If you can’t leave happy, don’t commit. This is a large element in your kitchen and bathroom and it’s important that it be right.

Are you going to be selecting a granite or marble slab in the near future? I’d love to hear how it goes and what you learn! Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com.

Italy and Il Dolce Far Niente

Last fall I had the joy of visiting Italy for a couple of weeks. We traveled to Rome, Sorrento, Positano, Ravello, Capri and along the Amalfi Coast. To say it was amazing is an understatement. While this wasn’t a work trip, I did learn some things that I find helpful in the kitchen, bath and home arenas.

First, if you use fine and quality materials, you don’t have to add much else to it. From the food to the architecture to the clothing, quality materials were used and withstood the test of time. Use fresh, local ingredients for your meal, simply prepared and there is nothing better. Use quality stones and wood and metal and that beautiful door will last for hundreds of years. Fine wool and silk crafted into classic suits and scarves will far outlast my lifetime. I’m the first to admit there is a fine balance when building or remodeling a home. Is it your forever home or are you simply fixing it up to sell in the near future? Do you really need to put that $1,200 faucet in a $250,000 home? For most of us the answer would probably be no. But for you it may be yes. Examining and really being clear on your priorities is very important in the home building or remodeling process.

Second, do what you want! People ask me all the time what the latest trends are and I tell them “Whatever you want.” Today’s styles and trends are all about personalization and customization for each individual person. No size has to fit all. If you want that turquoise front door, go for it. Want to wear stripes and polka dots? Wear it with confidence and start a new trend. Want to mix chocolate in your pasta? Do it-you might have discovered the next greatest dessert.

Third, “Il Dolce Far Niente”. “The Sweetness of Doing Nothing”. As the busy holiday season is upon us, take time to be quiet and be still. To listen to the fall leaves rustle in the wind, the fire crackle and pop and the sun warm your head. Sit and enjoy the laughter of children, give thanks for the loved ones around you and remember with love those who are no longer with us. Enjoy good food and a glass of wine by the fire. Listen to great music. Dream about the future. Be present in each moment and revel in the sweetness of doing nothing.

I’ve definitely been bitten by the travel bug and am always planning the next adventure. What have you learned on your travels? Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com.