"The home remodeling process, from concept to a finished product, can be a long and stressful time for many couples. An endless number of questions always come to mind and timely decisions must be made if a successful project is desired. This is why we picked Taylor Pro Design and the reason we are so happy with the finished product! Kerry clearly explained what could and couldn’t be done from a design standpoint and the cost implications of the various options we were considering. In terms of the end product we couldn’t be happier. The attention to detail by his contractors is superb and Kerry’s willingness to make sure we were completely satisfied with everything is genuine and trustworthy. We would recommend Kerry Pro Design to anyone." ~ Julie S, Client Designer: Kerry Taylor Photos by: Jon Upson

Example of a small trendy light wood floor kitchen/dining room combo design in New York with gray walls and no fireplace

Inspiration for a contemporary open concept family room remodel in New York with black walls

Farmhouse l-shaped multicolored floor dedicated laundry room photo in Salt Lake City with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, white walls, a side-by-side washer/dryer and black countertops

Ask a kitchen designer in Chicago which countertop question comes up most and you will hear the same answer: white or off-white quartz, and which shade. Homeowners walk into showrooms with a photo saved on their phone, usually a bright, veined slab from a magazine spread, and leave an hour later realizing there are a dozen versions of that same look. The confusion is not about taste. It is about the fact that "white quartz" covers a huge range of patterns, undertones, and price points, and nobody explains the differences before the sale. Older bungalows and newer builds alike are getting stripped of their dated laminate and butcher block in favor of quartz, and the reasons are practical rather than trendy. Quartz does not need sealing, resists the kind of staining that granite can suffer over decades, and holds up to the freeze-thaw humidity swings that Chicago basements and kitchens go through every year. Once a homeowner commits to quartz, though, the real decision starts: which white, and does the pattern justify the difference in cost. This piece walks through three specific slabs that keep showing up in Chicago renovation projects, why designers reach for them in different rooms, and what actually separates a flat white surface from one with real depth. None of this requires a design background to follow. It is mostly about paying attention to how a slab behaves under kitchen lighting, how busy the vending gets, and how it photographs versus how it looks in person. Why White Quartz Took Over Chicago Kitchens Ten years ago, granite dominated Chicago kitchen remodels almost by default. It was durable, it looked expensive, and every fabricator in the metro area carried a wide range of colors. Quartz has since taken over that position, and the shift happened faster than most contractors expected. Engineered stone gave homeowners a more predictable surface, since natural granite varies slab to slab while quartz is manufactured to a consistent pattern batch after batch. The other driver is light. Chicago winters are long and gray, and a lot of kitchens, especially in older two-flats and courtyard buildings, do not get much direct sun. A dark granite countertop in a dim kitchen can make the whole room feel smaller. White and light-toned quartz reflects what little natural light comes through the windows, and it makes a galley kitchen or a north-facing space feel noticeably brighter without touching the cabinetry or the layout. There is also a resale argument that local real estate agents bring up constantly. White quartz photographs well for listings, reads as updated and low-maintenance to buyers touring in person, and does not compete visually with whatever cabinet color the next owner might prefer. It is a safer bet than a bold veined marble look or a colored quartz that might feel dated in five years. Arctic White and the Cost Question Among the flatter, more uniform whites, arctic white quartz price comes up constantly in budget conversations because the slab sits at a more approachable point than the heavily veined Italian-marble-inspired patterns. It reads as clean and bright without the busy movement that some homeowners find overwhelming in a small kitchen. Fabricators in the Chicago area tend to keep it in stock precisely because demand stays steady across both new construction and remodel projects. Part of what keeps this slab affordable relative to its heavily patterned cousins comes down to manufacturing complexity. A quartz surface with minimal veining and a consistent white base is simpler to produce at scale than one that mimics the irregular, high-contrast movement of natural Calacatta marble. That production difference shows up directly in what a homeowner pays per square foot, and it is worth asking a fabricator to walk through that pricing before assuming every white quartz costs the same. Homeowners planning a full kitchen, including an island, backsplash, and perimeter counters, often use a flatter white like this specifically because it lets other elements carry the visual interest. A patterned tile backsplash or a bold cabinet color reads more clearly against a calm countertop than against one already fighting for attention with heavy veining. Designers frequently pair simpler whites with statement lighting fixtures for exactly this reason. What Makes Calacatta Patterns Different Calacatta refers to a family of marble originally quarried in Italy, known for a bright white background broken up by bold, often gold-toned veining that moves in thick, dramatic streaks rather than thin gray lines. Natural Calacatta marble is soft, porous, and expensive to maintain, which is exactly why quartz manufacturers spent years developing engineered versions that replicate the look without the upkeep headaches. The challenge with any Calacatta-style quartz is getting the veining to look organic instead of printed. Early generations of engineered stone struggled with repetitive patterns that gave away the fact the slab was manufactured rather than cut from actual marble. Modern digital printing and layering techniques have closed that gap considerably, and the better Calacatta-inspired quartz lines now vary the veining across each slab batch so two counters in the same kitchen do not look identical. Chicago designers gravitate toward Calacatta patterns for kitchens that function as the visual centerpiece of an open floor plan, which describes a large share of the gut renovations happening in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Roscoe Village, and the North Shore suburbs. When the kitchen island is visible from the living room and dining area, a dramatic veined surface becomes part of the home's overall design language rather than a purely functional work surface. Calacatta Arno Under Kitchen Lighting One of the more popular options in this category, calacatta arno quartz, balances a warm white base with soft gray and gold veining that avoids looking too stark under the cooler LED lighting common in newer Chicago builds. Homeowners touring showrooms sometimes make the mistake of judging a slab entirely under warm incandescent lighting, then get surprised when the same surface looks slightly different once installed under their kitchen's actual fixtures. What separates this particular pattern from flatter competitors is how the veining clusters rather than spreading evenly across the slab. That clustering mimics the way real quarried marble forms, with denser mineral deposits in some sections and cleaner stretches in others. Fabricators cutting a large island slab from a single piece will often orient the pattern intentionally so the busiest veining lands somewhere visually interesting rather than getting cut off at an edge. Because the background reads warmer than a stark white, this pattern tends to pair well with brass or matte gold hardware, a combination that has been showing up repeatedly in Chicago kitchen remodels over the past few renovation seasons. Cabinet painters report a similar trend, with more clients requesting warm white or greige cabinet colors specifically because they complement this kind of veined quartz better than a cooler, blue-toned white would. Silestone's Version of the Calacatta Look Manufacturers compete directly in this Calacatta-inspired category, and silestone eternal calacatta gold represents one brand's specific take on the pattern, distinguished by richer gold veining set against a brighter white base than some competing slabs in the same family. Silestone has built a reputation around anti-bacterial surface treatments in addition to the standard quartz durability, a detail some homeowners specifically ask about for kitchens used heavily by families with young children. The veining in this particular slab tends to run in longer, more continuous lines compared to the clustered pattern found in some other Calacatta-style options, which gives large island surfaces a sense of visual flow from one end to the other. Fabricators working with bigger islands, the kind increasingly common in open-concept Chicago remodels, often favor patterns like this because there is less need to worry about seams interrupting a busy, disconnected pattern. Price positioning for this slab tends to sit toward the upper end of the engineered quartz category, reflecting both the brand's manufacturing process and the complexity of replicating that continuous gold veining consistently across production batches. Homeowners weighing this option against other Calacatta-style quartz should ask their fabricator directly about batch availability, since premium patterns sometimes have longer lead times than standard stock colors. Living With Quartz Day to Day Beyond how a slab looks in a showroom or a listing photo, the daily experience of owning quartz countertops matters more once the renovation dust settles. Quartz resists scratching far better than laminate and holds up to the acidic spills, hot pans, and general abuse of an active kitchen without the sealing maintenance that natural stone requires every year or two. That low-maintenance reputation is a large part of why quartz overtook granite in the first place. Heat resistance is a detail that gets less attention than it should. While quartz handles moderate heat well, manufacturers generally recommend using a trivet or pad for very hot pots straight off the stove, since sudden temperature shock can occasionally cause stress marks in the resin binder that holds the engineered stone together. This is a minor precaution rather than a major limitation, but it is worth mentioning to anyone assuming quartz is entirely indestructible. Cleaning routines stay simple across almost every pattern in this category. A damp cloth and mild soap handle daily messes, and the nonporous surface means wine, coffee, and tomato-based sauces do not soak in the way they can with unsealed granite or marble. Homeowners moving from an older stone counter often mention how much less they worry about everyday spills once quartz is installed, which is a quality-of-life change that rarely makes it into the initial design conversation. Choosing Between the Three There is no single correct answer among these three slabs, and that is exactly why they keep coming up together in the same design conversations across Chicago renovation projects. A flatter white with minimal veining suits kitchens where other elements need to carry the visual interest, while a bolder Calacatta-inspired pattern makes sense when the countertop itself is meant to be the centerpiece of an open floor plan. Budget matters too, and it is worth having a direct conversation with a fabricator about where each option lands before falling in love with a specific slab in a showroom. Lighting, cabinet color, and how the kitchen connects to the rest of the home all play into which pattern will actually look right once installation is finished rather than just in a photo. Whatever direction a homeowner leans, seeing a full slab in person under actual kitchen lighting remains the single most useful step before signing off. Photos only go so far once the countertop is sitting in the room it will live in for years.

Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary marble floor bedroom remodel in Mumbai with white walls

Example of a transitional dark wood floor family room design in Los Angeles with blue walls

Assen Emilov
Example of a trendy bathroom design in London with an integrated sink, a bidet and beige walls

This LEED-H Platinum-certified custom luxury home in Oregon demonstrates an exceptional commitment to excellence. Designed by Green Hammer architect Jan Fillinger, the Fineline House was designed and built with unprecedented precision — from the interior finishes to the state-of-the-art lighting, ventilation, and built-in home energy-monitoring systems. It utilizes Passivhaus detailing and 100% of the lumber used for the structure and framing of the project was Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC)-certified.

Example of a tuscan medium tone wood floor powder room design in San Diego with a vessel sink, furniture-like cabinets and beige walls

Family room renovation with fireplace feature wall. Construction by Murphy General Contractors, South Orange, NJ. Interiors by Nu Interiors, South Orange, NJ. Photographer Greg Martz.

The kitchen, often considered the heart of the home, is a space where functionality and aesthetics coalesce. Among the myriad choices homeowners face when designing or renovating their kitchens, selecting a suitable kitchen splashback is crucial. In recent years, glass splashbacks have emerged as a versatile and universally appealing option. This article delves into the reasons why a glass kitchen splashback is suitable for everyone, blending seamlessly with diverse preferences, lifestyles, and design aesthetics. Versatility in Design One of the key factors that make glass kitchen splashbacks universally suitable is their versatility in design. Glass offers a neutral and timeless aesthetic, effortlessly complementing various interior styles, from modern and minimalist to classic and eclectic. Whether your kitchen embodies a sleek, contemporary vibe or a rustic, traditional charm, a glass splashback seamlessly integrates into the design landscape. Furthermore, the transparency of glass allows it to adapt to any colour scheme or pattern in the surrounding space. Whether you prefer bold and vibrant hues or a more subdued palette, a glass splashback can be customised to match your preferences, making it an ideal choice for homeowners seeking design flexibility. Enhanced Perception of Space Glass has a unique ability to create an illusion of space and openness in a room. This quality is particularly beneficial for smaller kitchens or those with limited natural light. A glass kitchen splashback reflects sunlight, making the space brighter and more expansive. By enhancing the perception of the room, glass splashbacks contribute to an overall sense of airiness and openness, creating an inviting atmosphere that suits various home sizes and layouts. Easy Maintenance and Hygiene Practicality is a paramount consideration in kitchen design, and glass splashbacks excel in ease of maintenance and hygiene. Unlike porous materials such as tiles or grout, glass provides a smooth, non-absorbent surface that is easy to clean and maintain. Spills and splatters can be effortlessly wiped away with a damp cloth, ensuring a hygienic and sanitary kitchen environment. The non-porous nature of glass also prevents mould and bacteria growth, making it a suitable choice for families with young children or individuals with allergies. The low-maintenance aspect of glass makes it a universally appealing option for those who value a clean and sanitary kitchen without the hassle of extensive upkeep. Durability and Longevity Glass kitchen splashbacks are known for their durability and longevity. The tempered glass commonly used in splashbacks is heat-resistant, ensuring it can withstand the rigours of a busy kitchen without compromising its integrity. This durability makes glass splashbacks suitable for households with avid home cooks who frequently use high-temperature cooking techniques. Moreover, the longevity of glass ensures that it remains a sustainable and cost-effective choice over the long term. Unlike some materials that may wear out or become dated, a well-maintained glass splashback retains its aesthetic appeal and functionality for years, making it an investment that stands the test of time. Customisation Options Personalisation is a crucial aspect of home design, and glass kitchen splashbacks offer various customisation options. From selecting the colour and pattern to incorporating personalised designs or digitally printed images, homeowners can tailor their glass splashbacks to reflect their style and preferences. The ability to customise glass splashbacks makes them suitable for everyone, allowing individuals to express their creativity and personality in the heart of their homes. Whether you opt for a bold, statement-making design or a subtle, elegant finish, the customisation options inherent in glass splashbacks ensure a perfect fit for diverse tastes. Conclusion In conclusion, the universality of glass kitchen splashbacks lies in their ability to seamlessly integrate into various design styles, enhance the perception of space, offer easy maintenance and hygiene, exhibit durability, and provide many customisation options. As a versatile and timeless choice, glass splashbacks cater to homeowners' preferences and practical needs across different demographics. Whether you reside in a compact urban apartment or a spacious suburban home, whether your aesthetic leans towards modern minimalism or classic elegance, a glass kitchen splashback is a fitting and universal solution. Its adaptability to different lifestyles and design preferences positions it as a versatile and enduring element in the ever-evolving kitchen design landscape.

David Cobb Photography
Example of a mountain style formal light wood floor living room design in Oklahoma City with beige walls, a standard fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

Trendy concrete patio photo in Other with no cover

A modern, yet traditionally inspired SW Portland home with sweeping views of Mount Hood features an exposed timber frame core reclaimed from a local rail yard building. A welcoming exterior entrance canopy continues inside to the foyer and piano area before vaulting above the living room. A ridge skylight illuminates the central space and the loft beyond. The elemental materials of stone, bronze, Douglas Fir, Maple, Western Redcedar. and Walnut carry on a tradition of northwest architecture influenced by Japanese/Asian sensibilities. Mindful of saving energy and resources, this home was outfitted with PV panels and a geothermal mechanical system, contributing to a high performing envelope efficient enough to achieve several sustainability honors. The main home received LEED Gold Certification and the adjacent ADU LEED Platinum Certification, and both structures received Earth Advantage Platinum Certification. Photo by: David Papazian Photography

Located in San Rafael's sunny Dominican neighborhood, this East Coast-style brown shingle needed an infusion of color and pattern for a young family. Against the white walls in the combined entry and living room, we mixed mid-century silhouettes with bold blue, orange, lemon, and magenta shades. The living area segues to the dining room, which features an abstract graphic patterned wall covering. Across the way, a bright open kitchen allows for ample food prep and dining space. Outside we painted the poolhouse ombre teal. On the interior, we echoed the same fun colors of the home.

Example of a transitional living room design in Other

Take a look at your kitchen cabinets. Do they extend all the way up to the ceiling? Ceiling height cabinets are great for multiple reasons, but here’s why our design experts recommend them: ✓ Add more storage space ✓ Give a custom, high end look ✓ Allow for more cabinet door options Learn more about how you can incorporate ceiling height cabinets into your home by clicking the link in our bio!

Leicht
Kids' room - contemporary gender-neutral kids' room idea in San Diego with white walls