Reclaimed Materials: The Latest in Countertops

As the trend toward green building grows, Americans are seeking more ways to incorporate environmentally-friendly products into their homes. But did you know that saving the planet can also be done in high style? Among today's cutting-edge products, reports general manager Inga Barnard of Shirestone of the Carolinas, are "countertops made out of recycled materials that are good for the environment, and are as unique as they are beautiful."

From her office in Charlotte, Barnard scouts the latest trends and says the construction industry's Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) initiative has sparked the development of new products. For that reason, she says, "Many of the new countertops we offer at Shirestone of the Carolinas allow you to make both an artistic and environmental statement." BioGlass(tm), IceStone(tm), Teragren Bamboo(r), and PaperStone(tm) are just some of the stylish and eco-friendly products made from "green" materials like recycled glass, bamboo, and paper.

One Charlotte homeowner who came to Shirestone for a help was Molly Blythe. "I wanted countertops that would make a statement and coordinate with my French Country decor."

Barnard and her expert staff helped Blythe select a product that fit her needs and lifestyle. "They even customized the color and finish of the material I chose," Blythe adds. "The process didn't take long, but they really spent the time to get it right."

Blythe found just what she needed and illustrates Barnard's belief that every client deserves to see all of today's options, from conventional stone to newer materials. "There are beautiful products made from old computer screens, windshields, perfume bottles-even recycled money!" she exclaims.

Shirestone goes the extra mile to bring these unique products to Charlotte homeowners for a reason. "We are family-owned and we are passionate about providing our clients with innovative, cutting-edge products," said Bernard.

Superior service is also important, she believes, because "remodeling or building a home can be stressful. Our job is to take away some of that stress by finding out who the customer is and how they live. Then we can match them with a unique and beautiful countertop they're going to enjoy for years to come."

Find your own unique countertop at Shirestone of the Carolinas by visiting www.idealcountertops.com, calling 704-523-0360, or touring the Charlotte showroom at 2809 South Boulevard in the Sedgefield Shopping Center.