Masters Countertops
Countertop Trends in 2026: The Future of Stone, Texture, and Design
As interiors continue to evolve, countertops are no longer treated as background surfaces. In 2026, they take on a more architectural role—bridging design, function, and long-term value. Homeowners, designers, and builders are moving away from purely decorative choices and toward surfaces that feel intentional, tactile, and integrated into the overall structure of the home. This…
Read MoreInterior Design Uses of Stone
Stone has always been associated with permanence, craftsmanship, and luxury—but today’s interior design trends are redefining how stone is used throughout the home. No longer limited to standard countertops, natural and engineered stone now play a starring role in architectural details, sculptural features, and highly customized surfaces. From fluted stone edges and bookmatched slabs to…
Read MoreCountertop Budgeting Guide: What to Know Before Replacing Countertops
Replacing your countertops is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make in your kitchen or bathroom. It transforms the look of your home, increases functionality, and can significantly boost resale value. But when it comes to budgeting, many homeowners underestimate the true cost of countertop replacement — not because contractors hide fees, but…
Read MoreCountertop Thickness: 2cm vs. 3cm
When choosing new countertops, most homeowners focus on material, color, or edge style—but countertop thickness is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. From stability and durability to cost, installation requirements, and overall design impact, the thickness you choose will influence both the performance and appearance of your new countertops for years to come.…
Read MoreOpen Concept Kitchen Flow: How to Select Countertops That Connect Spaces
In today’s homes, the kitchen isn’t just a place to cook—it’s the heart of open-concept living. The boundaries between the kitchen, dining, and living spaces are dissolving, creating a seamless environment where design and function merge. In these layouts, countertops do more than provide a workspace; they visually and functionally connect the entire home. At…
Read MoreHow to Protect Countertops During Parties & Entertaining
The holidays are coming — which means gatherings, cooking marathons, hosting family and friends, and (let’s be honest) some kitchen chaos. Thanksgiving rolls into Christmas, which rolls into New Year’s… before you know it, your countertops become the landing zone for wine glasses, hot serving dishes, charcuterie boards, gravy spills, kids’ baking projects, food coloring,…
Read MoreCountertop Overhangs Explained: Standard Depth, Seating, and Support Requirements
When homeowners start planning new countertops — especially for kitchens with an island or breakfast bar — one question comes up more than almost any other: 👉 “How far can my countertop overhang without support?” Whether you’re designing a seating area, adding a waterfall edge, or extending an island into a functional dining space, understanding…
Read MoreReplacing Countertops Without Redoing Entire Kitchen
A Complete Guide to Smart Kitchen Upgrades A full kitchen remodel can transform your space—but it also requires significant time, expense, and disruption. If your cabinets are still in good shape and your layout works, you might be asking the same question many Chicagoland homeowners do: Can I replace my countertops without redoing my entire…
Read MoreExploring the Beauty and Benefits of Stone Wall Applications
When it comes to natural stone and quartz, countertops often steal the spotlight. But more and more homeowners, designers, and architects are discovering that these same materials can create breathtaking full wall applications — from kitchen backsplashes and fireplace surrounds to shower walls and statement features that redefine interior spaces. At Masters Countertops, we’ve seen…
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