Kitchen design. Transform your kitchen with new countertops

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In these tough economic times many Americans are choosing to forego their massive kitchen remodeling plans in favor of more cost-effective solutions. Experts agree that by simply installing new countertops your kitchen can take on a whole new look and feel.

According to Mark Hanna, President of Montreal-based Leeza Distribution Inc., one of North America's leading distributors of premium countertops such as HanStone Fine Quartz Surfaces and Durcon's Elements epoxy surfaces, sometimes a facelift may be more prudent than a complete makeover.

"I've seen where just replacing the countertops in a kitchen made a major difference and gave an impression of a brand new space," he explained. "It's because your countertops are the most visible source of color in the kitchen. If your cabinets are white or wood, then what immediately catches your eye is the surface you use the most -- your countertop.

Today's latest designs in countertops can take a moderate looking kitchen and turn it into a trendy designer space. You will be amazed at the selection of countertop colors, textures and finishes available. The primary goal, Hanna recommends, is to find a durable, stain-resistant and easy-to-clean surface that will also bring style, elegance and beauty to your kitchen.

The two most popular countertop materials which meet the criteria for both practicality and elegance are quartz surfaces and the emerging epoxy surfaces by Durcon Inc.

"We offer the two hottest products in the market today but taste has a lot to do with your choice," said Hanna. "If you have an affinity for stone, which provides visual impact and dominance in a kitchen, than HanStone is for you. Whereas if a stylishly sleek, yet extraordinarily tough and functional surface is your goal, then Elements would be the ideal choice."

Both surface materials meet the highest standards for hygiene and cleanliness in the industry (certified NSF 51) thanks to their nonporous properties. Also of great importance, both are accredited with Greenguard environmental certification for low emitting products.

In fact, Elements countertops were originally created to withstand extreme conditions found in industrial and laboratory environments. Elements is a proprietary blend of epoxy resin and fine quartz formed through a unique manufacturing process that creates an incredibly smooth and durable surface. It features a contemporary stone look that is silky smooth, timeless and clean, making it an ideal countertop surface for today's ultra-modern decors, which feature clean lines, sleek appliances and a darker color palette.

With countertops it's still all about color and with Elements surfaces you can choose from seven attractive colors or customize your own countertop colors to harmonize with your decor. More information on epoxy and quartz surfaces is available at leezadistribution.com.