If you’ve ever lived somewhere with granite countertops, then you know why the material enjoys such a glimmering reputation among homeowners.
It’s attractive, hard wearing, and capable of standing up to just about anything you might throw at it in the course of daily life. For this reason, its typical headquarters is the kitchen, where it does everything from setting the scene for daring culinary adventures to pulling double duty as a workstation for busy professionals and crayon-slinging kids alike.
You might not know that the same traits that make granite so great for kitchen surfaces also make it a perfect pick for other parts of the home.
If you’re curious about ways to use granite countertops and slabs, aside from their most common application, feast your eyes on some of these out-of-the-box ideas.
1. Bathroom Vanities
Granite is an ideal choice for bathrooms, seeing how they’re among the most frequently visited and heavily used areas of the home. Granite’s water-, mold-, and accident-proof properties will ensure easy cleanup for splashes and spills and coolly protect against dents, dings, and scratches of all sorts, no matter how mad-dash your morning routine may be.
2. Sinks
Why stop at a vanity? Like the kind used to fashion countertops, experts can easily carve granite slabs into functional sinks and basins that complement any number of washroom designs. From subtle undermounts and elegant pedestals to thoroughly modern basins and troughs, granite commends itself well in places where water flows free.
3. Desks or Tabletops
Granite can bring the same sense of rock-solid support to working as it does to cooking. Since it’s virtually impervious to scratching and chipping, one of the best ways to use granite countertops is as a table.
It’s more than a match for cutlery, glassware, ink pens, laptops, and all the other objects that get us through life. In a setting like the dining room, the den, or the office, granite’s rugged beauty realizes its full potential.
4. Fireplace Mantels
Though most people don’t associate granite with the fireplace the way they do wood, brick, and concrete, it outperforms the aforementioned materials in almost every category. The stone is renowned for its ability to withstand high heat without cracking or losing its signature sheen. And, unlike those other materials, it’s a cinch to restore to its former glory once soot begins to accumulate.
5. Lazy Susans
The sleekness and durability of granite lend themselves well to both the presentation and practicality of this charming appliance, which has seen a surge of newfound popularity in recent years. You’ll never have to worry about spilled food and beverages staining or otherwise damaging your turntable, and getting it cleaned up after a meal is as simple as wiping it down with a little soapy water.
6. Wall Art
Of course, no rule says granite has to be purely utilitarian. It’s also a naturally handsome stone, characterized by deep earthen hues and rich veins and flecks of red, blue, green, black, and gold. As such, it’s a prime candidate for inclusion in eye-catching mosaic-style installations that are sure to capture the attention of all who pass by.
7. Pavers and Floor Tiles
You’re probably used to seeing granite on walls and fixtures of various kinds, but what about underfoot? Centuries ago, granite was used to pave the roads of some of the proudest cities civilization has ever spawned. If it can do that, you can bet it will lend an element of timeless splendor to a driveway, patio, pool deck, courtyard, or outdoor lounge.
8. Memorials and Markers
Since its inception as a building material, granite has been prized for its toughness, longevity, and tendency to weather gracefully. One of its most important applications throughout history has therefore been the crafting of commemorative monuments.
It’s not uncommon to find head- and footstones, plaques, tablets, insignia, and even entire structures chiseled out of granite, a stone every bit as enduring as the memories it honors.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, granite is suitable for far more locations than just the kitchen.
Lavatories, dining rooms, studies, walkways, transitional areas, and venerated landmarks can all benefit from the addition of granite surfaces, whether as functional features or delightful decorations.
If you’re looking for renovation ideas, let our experts at Washington Marble Works help you incorporate the beautiful and unique natural wonder of granite into your home. With over thirty years of experience, our team can help bring your vision to life. Contact us to request a quote on your project.
Where will your imagination take you?
