Excitement filled the air at the 2016 Granite Transformations Franchise Convention in Vail, Colorado, as the company introduced its keynote speakers (and new North American brand ambassadors), Tarek and Christina El Moussa. The reality TV show stars were at the top of their game as they presented their vision for a successful partnership with the company – along with a formula for successful house flips.
“We are thrilled to be a part of the TREND family and its innovative, quality selection of home renovation products and services,” said Tarek and Christina. “In our business, we value a quick turnaround – a process that Granite Transformations has truly mastered.”
With over a decade of professional real estate experience, the duo has created unique strategies that have earned them an edge in today’s real estate market. With Tarek’s determination for getting the job done right, complemented by Christina’s exceptional talent for design aesthetic – the results are nothing short of exceptional. Bringing their winning design formula to the table, Tarek and Christina are aces at working together to select the perfect style for each home they renovate. Tarek’s specialty lies in exterior design – with a focus on painting, landscaping and backyard design. Christina’s strength lies in the interior of the home – with a focus on the kitchen, bath, backsplashes and flooring. It is through this meeting of the minds and blending of expertise and creativity that has earned them a place in the TREND family.
Tarek and Christina shed some light on house flipping and said that when doing “flips,” they put a bulk of the budget into the kitchen to add value. “The kitchen is still considered the heart of the home,” Tarek and Christina stated. “Potential home buyers make a beeline for this room when they first view a home, so make sure your kitchen is reasonably updated.” Bathrooms come in second as the most important rooms to update, particularly the master bathroom. The duo said that in the hottest housing markets, putting money into a kitchen or bath remodel is a sure-fire investment, and often returns more than 100 percent of the cost.
The time came when the reality stars presented their top picks and hottest trends in kitchen and bath design. Here are some highlights to spark your interest and inspire your next kitchen or bath renovation:
What’s Hot in Kitchen & Bath Design
The hottest shades right now are soft whites, light and dark brown colors of natural wood, and light grey color tones of natural stone.
Kitchen countertops with a natural stone vibe.
Along with the look of natural stone, quartz countertops continue to be a top choice because they are nonporous and are resistant to heat, spills and scratches.
Contemporary cabinet designs feature clean lines, simple hardware and lighter colors.
A full wall of mosaic tile in your bathroom can really elevate the look of the space, and give it a luxurious feel.
A classic black-and-white palette will never go out of style.
Having a neutral palette gives you the power to personalize a room, which will reflect your own style.
Modern wall designs are a popular way to incorporate bright accent colors and patterns.
Some other highlights of their presentation included a watch list of design trends to look for. These included the use of more brass in interior kitchen and bath designs, and a focus on the outdoor season featuring swimming pools.
Partnering with a global industry leader like Granite Transformations and TREND Transformations inspired Tarek and Christina to design The Diamond Collection, their signature kitchen and bathroom collection sold exclusively at Granite Transformation/TREND Transformations. “We share a passion with Granite Transformations/TREND Transformations for creating beautiful, high-end remodels in a cost-effective way that ultimately enhances quality of life,” Tarek and Christina said. This new collection includes four slabs and three mosaics that feature white and grey hues, highlighted with flecks of sparkle to resemble diamonds. The mosaics in The Diamond Collection are offered in a unique size, 4″ x 10″ (a size Granite Transformations does not currently offer). This chic and sophisticated collection is exclusive to Granite Transformations/TREND Transformations and will be available in the fall of 2016. Keep an eye out for it at granitetransformations.com and trend-transformations.com.