Mixing Old and New Elements in a Room Remodel

Sometimes a partial remodel without gutting all of the existing elements is best.

There are times when a homeowner will want a granite countertop installation in their kitchen or bath, but they already have a backsplash or other tile elements in place that they’d like to keep. Or maybe they love the glass enclosure for their shower but want a marble counter. 
 
The point is this: in addition to granite, there are many other beautiful materials which nicely compliment stone elements. And mixing a variety of materials in a living area is not only acceptable but should be encouraged.
 
Unique look
 
Keeping some of the existing elements of your kitchen or bath when you install a stone countertop creates a unique look.The right designer can help the homeowner find a granite color and texture that will enhance the existing elements. Not only does the client keep the features they love, but the beauty of those features is accentuated. 
 
Best of old and new
 
The homeowner should never feel compelled to do a whole room remodel only to satisfy the tastes of a contractor or designer. Keeping existing kitchen or bath features is a sign of the times; homeowners are becoming more eclectic in their tastes, but refusing to part with the tried and true.
 
Having it all
 
BnB owner Dennis told us that he wanted to keep the slate backsplash that was already installed when he decided to get rid of the old Formica for a granite countertop. By honing the black granite, the stone was transformed from a mirror like shine to a soft, eye-pleasing matte finish. The combination of the slate, granite, and tile border dovetailed together. The combination,  both functional and beautiful, became the focal point of the kitchen. It should be noted that expert installation may become a crucial factor to avoid damage to either the new or old features.
 


Sustainability
 
Sometimes, a kitchen or bath has deteriorated badly, to the point where complete room remodeling is necessary and justified. However, if there are treasured elements within the room, a more logical and ecologically sustainable option is to retain those features and replace only that which is worn out.
 
During a renovation, going with a partial remodel and keeping some of the old features can not only make the homeowner happy but will also save some remodeling funds.  Many customers come to us with the idea of adding granite countertops to a kitchen with existing elements they want to keep. They dislike the countertops but are happy with the rest of the kitchen. We can work with the owner, so they get the granite counter they’ve been so desperately wanting without a massive remodeling cost or unnecessary waste of elements which still offer joy.