COVER FEATURE
like playing with backsplash colours and patterns. However, if your countertop stands out, we generally recommend something simple. Vice versa works, as well.”
The vanDuinkerkens say customers increasingly visit websites like Houzz
and Pinterest for project ideas. Tops to Floors’ staff can develop those ideas into functional, beautiful spaces using virtual reality and 3D software, as well as help customers choose cabinet and door styles, customize spaces, add functionality and accessories, and complete the look with hardware.
Flooring
Tops to Floors offers numerous flooring styles and materials. “There are so many products today. It’s important to consider factors like the installation area, how much wear and tear the floor will undergo, and the maintenance requirements,” vanDuinkerken says. He reports that wood floors and tile remain the most popular flooring choices; wide-plank wood floors in warm, natural shades are especially popular. Tops to Floors suggests engineered wood flooring over solid hardwood: engineered wood “provides a real wood finish,” and its stable core is better at withstanding PEI’s moisture, humidity, and temperature changes. Many tile styles are available, with large format sizes prevailing. “Tile is the real deal when it comes to durability, but it is an investment,” says vanDuinkerken. “You want to be happy with your selection for a long time.” While vanDuinkerken says classic, elegant styles have remained popular, he’s also noticing more unconventional shapes, eye-catching hues, and retro designs being made available. Customers are reportedly also opting for water-resistant products like luxury vinyl tile, plank, and laminate; these are particularly popular in high-traffic environments. Alternately, low-maintenance sheet vinyl--which vanDuinkerken says is comfortable underfoot--is often mistaken for real hardwood or tile. And since carpet provides warmth without hindering acoustics, it remains a consistent choice for bedrooms, basements, and home theatres.
Countertops
Countertops are custom-cut in Tops to Floors’ Summerside shop; both the Summerside and Charlottetown showrooms display an array of laminate, solid surface, butcher block, stone, Dekton, and quartz options. Affordable laminate, says vanDuinkerken, comes in various colours and patterns. Meanwhile, nonporous solid surface countertops offer aesthetic appeal similar to glass or granite, and feature unique advantages. For example, seams can be hidden during manufacturing, and wear- and-tear can be buffed away during upkeep. Alternatively, butcher block boasts a warm, natural hardwood appearance, vanDuinkerken says. While it requires sealing and mineral oil treatments, superficial wear-and-tear (like light knife marks) can be sanded off butcher block surfaces. “It provides some character... it’s a great contrast material.” Stone, Dekton, and quartz countertops can add value to any home; they’re beautiful, heat-resistant and durable, vanDuinkerken emphasizes. He notes that Dekton’s unique properties make it especially well suited for staircases or outdoor kitchen applications. However, he adds, the area’s local preference for quartz is clear. “Quartz is strong, and its durability means it’ll look new longer.” Tops to Floors also offers countertop- enhancing quartz, stone, and tile backsplashes. In fact, vanDuinkerken says, backsplashes and tiled walls can create both functionality and personality throughout the home. “A lot of people
Other Specialties
Tops to Floors’ custom stairs elegantly reinforce home aesthetics. “We design, fabricate, and install prefinished stair systems to complement flooring and accent cabinets,” vanDuinkerken explains. “Staircases can be stained or painted, and paired with glass, metal, or wooden railings.” The trendy minimalism of glass, in particular, is reportedly drawing increased interest.
30
www.pei-living.ca FALL 2018
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs