Hi there! Welcome to the “Ask Alexa” series. I’m Alexa Drees, the Design Center Director at Drees Homes, and I’m excited to bring you weekly tips, advice, and answers to your dilemmas to help make designing your dream home an easy and enjoyable process. Each week, I’ll be rolling out a new feature. (If you missed our first 15 videos, you can watch them here.)
Today, we’re covering viewer questions. I’m always excited to hear what’s on your mind. I’ll be sharing three inquires we’ve received repetitively through the Ask Alexa series.
1. What are the pros and cons of granite and quartz?
Granite is a natural product that is mined from the earth. Mother Earth puts her own personal stamp on each piece, which means the pattern can be unpredictable. It’s durable, and when used on countertops, creates a statement piece. Marble is also a natural product, but is much softer than granite, which is why we never recommend it for countertops.
On the other hand, quartz is man-made. It’s a nonporous material that is super durable for any lifestyle. New patterns and marble-like looks will make quartz a popular choice in the new year!
2. When choosing a hardwood floor finish, how do you decide what will be timeliness?
Hardwood will always be a great choice. I recommend a five-inch plank in a color that compliments your kitchen cabinetry and countertops. You can do a scraped finish to compliment a rustic look, or a brushed finish that trends well with more refined style.
3. Is it okay to mix and match finishes?
I get this question all the time. Yes, it is okay to mix and match. I actually recommend mixing your lighting, plumbing and hardwood finishes to give your home a designer edge. I’m currently loving brushed golds with bronze and matte blacks with chrome. If that’s too bold for you, try staying in the silver family, and playing with brushed nickels and polished chrome.
Well I hope we were able to provide valuable insight into these hot design debates. Have additional inquires? Be sure to leave them on our Facebook page.
All the best,
Alexa Drees
