Our condo kitchen has no windows and with cathedral ceilings the room is dark. It opens on to a great room where there is lots of east sunlight and from there to a sunroom open to the east, south, and west and the sunroom is filled with light. However, the kitchen is somewhat cavelike.

We probably need a light colored granite because of the lighting situation. Given the problems associated with light colored granite (porosity and staining) can you advise me about your recommendations of particular light granites that are more resistant than others to these problems. Also, you write on your site that you recomend tile for backsplashes. We are interested, because the kitchen is small, to keep the product the same on the counter and backsplash. Should we use 3 cm in the countertop and 2 cm on the backsplash. I want to carry the backsplash from the counter to the base of the upper cabinets. The cabinets are merilat oak (cinnamon stain). The floor is light color and is white/beige. The wall color can be changed, but at this point is a medium rose/berry color. Paint color can always be changed of course. Thanks for your advice. We have found your site very informative.

Jay

Hello Jay,

If you can find 3cm stock in Bianco Romano Granite, that would be a good choice with your pallet and lighting situation. I think you would like it. Consider looking on www.GraniteStock.com and review the many white colors there to see what you like. Then check the site to see if a distributor is in your area. You can even find installers there as well.

Regarding staining, yes, lighter colors are more porous but if it is properly sealed, you are fine. The granite in my kitchen is light colored
and is called Kashmir White. It is actually one of the more porous ones but my wife loves the color - Happy wife, happy life! I seal it once a year and I follow maintenance procedures and I detailed in my article. We have never had a stain issue.

For your backsplash, take a look at showrooms and see what you like. Basically, just don’t use 3cm granite slab on the splash. Other than that, it is all preference. You can see the online showroom at www.HomeGranite.com for some ideas.

Best wishes,
Tom Cordova