Environment First: CaesarStone, the Original Quartz Surface, Announcing SCS Certification

CaesarStone is pleased to announce the recent Scientific Certification System (SCS) approval of all eight recycled colors in the Environment First collection. As a global leader in independent certification and verification of environmental and sustainable stewardship, SCS has developed internationally recognized standards and certification programs in pursuit of the highest level of environmental performance and social accountability. CaesarStone is proud of this accomplishment and strives to bring forth the most sustainable products and the most environmentally friendly manufacturing practices.

In order to understand what makes a company sustainable, it is important to know what the product that they produce is comprised of. CaesarStone is best known as the Original Quartz Surface which brings forth the following question. What is Quartz? Why is it a better countertop than other surfaces? What makes it so durable? Consider this: What is the most common mineral on the land area of the earth? Sand or silica. Quartz, in other words. What is the one thing that we will never run out of? Quartz. Now consider something else: what is the hardest commonly available mineral on the planet? Quartz.

Quartz is silica created over millions of years by a combination of intense heat and pressure inside the molten depths of the earth and by the minerals in the vicinity. Quartz constitutes approximately 12% of the earth's crust. It can be found virtually anywhere in much larger quantities than any other mineral. The formation process of Quartz is very slow: cell after cell in a hexagonal defined and strong structure. The formation requires large amounts of energy -- which is the source of the energy in the crystal. Quartz does not react with strong acids and it is not dissolvable, flammable or toxic to humans in its solid state. Quartz may be translucent or opaque, and may vary in color, with exposure to different oxides and minerals.

Quartz rates as a seven on the Mohs scale. The Mohs scale measures the hardness of a mineral and just to put this in perspective, a diamond is the hardest at ten. In terms of performance in tests of flexural strength, compressive strength, impact strength, water absorption, and freezing compressive strength, CaesarStone comes out the clear winner against natural stone.

How does CaesarStone Quartz measure up to other surfaces in the marketplace? http://www.caesarstoneus.com/catalog/comparison.cfm. As you can see CaesarStone has answers to all of the various challenges of everyday living. It not only passes life's tests but is also cleaner, safer and more consistent than other surfaces. In addition to its superior performance, CaesarStone has greater consistency than natural stone, which is veined and prone to flaws.

With CaesarStone Quartz surfaces you have the durability and maintenance free product that everyone desires. You needn't worry about the expense and pain of repairing your surface since CaesarStone surfaces are resistant to heat, stains and scratches and are backed by a Residential Lifetime Warranty. There is no need for harmful sealers or chemicals since CaesarStone Quartz surfaces are non-porous. And if all of that doesn't win you over, the surfaces themselves will. CaesarStone offers over seventy gorgeous colors that you can't find anywhere else. Surfaces such as Motivo are available for a stunning and unique application. And you can access some of the most environmentally friendly surfaces on the market today in CaesarStone's recycled collection.

So what are the perfect surfaces for countertops? CaesarStone Quartz Surfaces.

Tags: countertops, Quartz surfaces, Quartz., countertop

Want to win an Apple iPad? “Like” CaesarStone on Facebook!

The Original Quartz Surface is kicking it up a notch on Facebook. The company that has brought you the hottest colors and newest trends wants you to become its “fan.” CaesarStone’s Facebook page is constantly being updated with fresh stories, new and interesting projects, brand new products, and fun trivia that test your design knowledge and sense of humor. CaesarStone is opening up its page to customers, designers and architects alike. We want you to interact, post projects, give us your input and be our “fan.”

Download your CaesarStone iPad APP in style with this hot design tool by simply hitting “like” on the CaesarStone fan page and entering in your information. This sweepstake will run starting today

October 6^th all the way through November 3^rd. That means there will be FOUR lucky winners, one announced each week!

Remember the first CaesarStone winner will be announced a week from today, so hurry up and “like” us and you might walk away with an Apple iPad!

http://www.facebook.com/CaesarStoneUS

About CaesarStone

CaesarStone is the original quartz countertops & surfaces manufacturer. The company is headquartered in Southern California with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Seattle, Miami, New York, Atlanta, Denver, St. Louis and Dallas. CaesarStone produces premium quartz countertops & surfaces, complementing any design application, from traditional to contemporary, for both home and commercial applications. CaesarStone products are available through kitchen and bath retailers, fabricators, architects, designers, builders and distributors nationwide.

Offering a Residential Lifetime Warranty, CaesarStone products are nonporous, stain, scratch and heat resistant. CaesarStone has earned the respected Good Housekeeping Seal from the Good Housekeeping Research Institute and is in compliance with stringent international environmental standards including ISO 14001 (environmental management system), ISO 9002 (quality management standard), and NSF (public health and safety). A sustainable material, CaesarStone is GREENGUARD certified and is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

For more information about CaesarStone and its products, please visit the company’s website at http://www.CaesarStoneUS.com, or call toll-free 877-9QUARTZ (877-978-2789).

Tags: countertops, quartz countertops

INTRODUCING CAESARSTONE'S NEWEST INNOVATION IN COLOR: DEEP OCEAN

CaesarStone, the Original Quartz Surface, is pleased to announce its newest innovation in color, Deep Ocean (4550). The inspiration for the color came from CaesarStone's ocean front factory. The rich colors of the sea bring a sense of depth and serenity to any space. Deep Ocean encompasses all of the elements of nature that we have come to know and love from CaesarStone's color line-up.

Like all of CaesarStone countertop surfaces, Deep Ocean is scratch, stain, crack and heat resistant. Additionally, CaesarStone is the only quartz countertop and surfaces manufacturer that stands behind their products by offering a Lifetime Residential Warranty and a 10-Year Commercial Warranty. CaesarStone was recently named one of the 12 most mentioned brands by designers by Interior Design Magazine. For photos and information visit www.caesarstoneus.com or call 877-9QUARTZ.

About CaesarStone

CaesarStone is the original quartz countertops and surface manufacturer. The company is headquartered in Southern California with offices in Los Angeles, CA; San Francisco, CA; San Diego, CA; Seattle, WA; Miami, FL; New York, NY and Atlanta, GA. CaesarStone produces premium quartz countertops & surfaces, complementing any design application, from traditional to contemporary, for both home and commercial applications. CaesarStone products are available through kitchen and bath retailers, fabricators, architects, designers, builders and distributors nationwide.

Offering a lifetime warranty, their products are nonporous, stain, scratch and heat resistant. CaesarStone has earned the respected Good Housekeeping Seal from Good Housekeeping Research Institute in addition to ISO 14001 (environmental management system), ISO 9002 (quality management standard), GREENGUARD certification, a member of USGBC (The U.S. Green Building Council) and NSF (public health and safety) certification.

For more information about CaesarStone and its products, please visit the company's website at www.CaesarStoneUS.com, or call toll-free 877-9QUARTZ (877-978-2789).

Tags: countertop, quartz countertops

What Makes a Modern Kitchen?

Homeowners who want to remodel their kitchen often look for a more modern look. Luckily nowadays the materials available can offer you a two for one: a kitchen that is both modern and energy efficient. Since the buzz now is going green, many people are choosing green home options in order to increase energy efficiency and preserve resources. Using eco friendly elements in kitchen modeling is no longer a passing fad, but is a way of life. Homeowners are particular in choosing environment friendly products that are sleek, modern, and beautiful, but also that are safe for their families.

Since kitchen cabinets and countertops could account for almost half of the renovation budget, it’s important for homeowners to incorporate green elements in their kitchens by choosing a quality countertop and cabinet manufacturer who’s into environmental sustainability. Look for companies with KCMA’s Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP). Companies will only get the ESP seal shown on their products if the certification requirements like product resource management, air quality, process resource management, and environmental stewardship and community relations are all met.

Also a staple in the modern kitchen is an open and inviting entertaining area with its benchtop the focal point. CaesarStone is low maintenance, as well as stain- and scratch-resistant. It’s non-porous, waterproof and heat-resistant, and best of all looks fantastic. Stainless steel is reat for that cutting-edge industrial look and feel, it is highly durable. However, you must maintain it regularly, as scratching can occur quite easily.

If you are very particular about surfaces, there are many more eco-friendly options like timber, tile and concrete. Most modern kitchens are moving away from the traditional-looking countertops such as granite and marble because they are often imported, harder to maintain, and require regular sealing to cover the porous materials from growing bacteria. Glass, concrete, and quartz countertops are all very durable nonporous materials that require little chemicals to maintain them. With LEED certification now available for residences, choosing an eco-friendly countertop is one way to gain LEED points, while helping the environment by reducing your environmental footprint -- something to think about while enjoying your morning cereal or brushing your teeth.

CAESARSTONE AND HOUSE BEAUTIFUL PARTNER FOR 3rd ANNUAL KITCHEN OF THE YEAR

CaesarStone, the original quartz surface manufacturer, announced today that the company will be taking part in the 3^rd annual “Kitchen of the Year” in New York next week http://www.housebeautiful.com/KOTY. This event showcases the best in kitchen design, cooking, entertaining and contemporary lifestyle. The 1,000 square foot, fully functioning kitchen will be available to tour in New York’s Rockefeller Plaza from July 19-23, 2010. This year, Jeff Lewis of Bravo’s hit series, Flipping Out, is designing the chef's dream space.

In addition to the weeklong Kitchen of the Year events CaesarStone is participating in they are teaming up with the stars of another hit Bravo design show 9 By Design (http://www.bravotv.com/9-by-design) for a market day in the Snaidero USA showroom on the 22^nd of July from 10am-2pm. Editors in attendance will get a sneak peak at CaesarStone’s newest summer color while being pampered with manicures and breakfast.

“CaesarStone is pleased to be working with Bob and Cortney Novogratz of 9 by Design. They are the perfect hosts for our market day as their design aesthetic paired with their wonderful personalities make for an educational and entertaining afternoon. We look forward to the wonderful projects to come with this talented duo.”

- Mitch Sebolsky, Marketing Manager

On the eve of the 22^nd CaesarStone will also host a private event from the Kitchen of the Year in celebration of their 3^rd annual partnership. The “Kitchen of the Year” installation celebrates outstanding American design and decor. Enclosed in a glass conservatory on Rockefeller Plaza where the Christmas tree sits each holiday season, the “Kitchen of the Year” will be the hot spot of the week.

About CaesarStone

CaesarStone is the original quartz countertops & surfaces manufacturer. The company is headquartered in Southern California with offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Seattle Miami, New York, Atlanta, St. Louis and Dallas. CaesarStone produces premium quartz countertops & surfaces, complementing any design application, from traditional to contemporary, for both home and commercial applications. CaesarStone products are available through kitchen and bath retailers, fabricators, architects, designers, builders and distributors nationwide.

Offering a Residential Lifetime Warranty, CaesarStone countertops and surfaces are nonporous, stain, scratch and heat resistant. CaesarStone has earned the respected Good Housekeeping Seal from the Good Housekeeping Research Institute and is in compliance with stringent international environmental standards including ISO 14001 (environmental management system), ISO 9002 (quality management standard), and NSF (public health and safety). A sustainable material, CaesarStone is GREENGUARD certified and is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).

For more information about CaesarStone and its products, please visit the company’s website at http://www.CaesarStoneUS.com, or call toll-free 877-9QUARTZ (877-978-2789).

About Cortney and Robert Novogratz

Husband and wife team Cortney and Robert Novogratz are SIXX DESIGN. Over more than a decade, this young, hip and artsy couple has developed and designed many unique properties in Manhattan, rebuilt (from the ground up) entire blocks in the city, and turned funky into fabulous, with every detail considered and executed with the utmost taste, confidence and luxury.

Robert and Cortney Novogratz, their work and family (the couple has seven children!) have been profiled globally in the media in The New York Times, The Times of London (“The Coolest Family in the World”), Sunday Styles, Italian Vogue Casa, Architectural Digest (in several editions), Emirates Home, Interni (in several editions), Oprah, Family Circle, Daily Candy, T Magazine, Elle, Living, Etc. and more.

Together, this couple wears all the hats in developing and executing their striking aesthetic. SIXX DESIGN’s first book published by Rizzoli, DOWNTOWN CHIC, has become a best-seller worldwide. Their tv show, 9 by Design, is an unqualified hit on the Bravo network.

Currently living in a new, 10,000 square foot glass house on Manhattan’s West Side Highway among the Richard Meier towers, that they created has been profiled around the world. Since the first SIXX DESIGN project in Chelsea, the duo has developed and designed fantastic living spaces in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, Trancoso, Brazil, not to mention two fabulous places in Soho on Thompson Street that sold, ultimately, for record prices. SIXX DESIGN has just completed work on a six-story townhome for a well-known interiors writer and her family, in NYC’s East Village, and will be working on some very high-profile, exciting projects in the near-future. Not to mention a second season of 9 by Design on Bravo!

www.sixxdesign.com

*For editors requesting more information about the market day please contact Olivia Stansfield.

Tags: countertops, quartz countertops

Countertops - the biggest bang for the buck to recreate a kitchen

Countertops are horizontal work surfaces and form an essential part of kitchens, food preparation areas, bathrooms, lavatories and work rooms. They are positioned at an ergonomic height for users, and the particular task for which its designed. Countertops may be constructed of various materials, both natural and man made. Each has its particular attributes with respect to functionality, durability and aesthetics.

Quartz is one of the most sought after countertop materials. Quartz countertops are used in kitchens, bathrooms, table tops, flooring and wall paneling. Both natural and engineered quartz are used. Engineered quartz slabs are manufactured from 93% quartz and polymer resins, compacted under intense vacuum, vibration and pressure. They are then cured, gauged to precise thickness and polished. Available in a wide range of colors, quartz countertops retain the cool tactile qualities of natural stone, while offering design freedom. They are extremely smooth, tough, durable, non-porous and resistant to heat and scratches.

Countertops are the focal points of kitchens and bathrooms. As such, the functionality, the durability and possibly most importantly; the appearance of the countertop is of critical concern. As the centerpiece of the kitchen or the bathroom, the countertop must both enhance and match the style of the room.

In modern homes, the kitchen countertop is the center of the busiest of rooms. In the past, Kitchen Countertops made of formica and plastic laminates ruled the roost. However, with changing tastes and budgets, kitchen countertops are nowadays made from granite, quartz and concrete. Kitchen countertops made from granite are of high quality, tough and durable. They are matchless in toughness, scratchproof and heat resistant. They are available in an impressive variety of colors; from ruby red to verdant green and to jet black. Although expensive, off late more and more average people are using it.

Quartz is growing in popularity as kitchen countertop material. As quartz is crystalline, it adds shimmering depth and beauty to any kitchen. Available in a wide variety of colors, it’s is exceptionally smooth, hard and non-porous. Both natural and engineered quartz are used. Although engineered quartz cannot quiet match the variety of texture and grain of natural quartz, it mimics the natural one closely and requires less maintenance.

Polished concrete kitchen countertops are very beautiful and quiet affordable. One can make ones own concrete countertop. Available in many colors, they have an attractive glossy finish.

Tags: Countertops, Quartz countertops, Kitchen Countertops.

CaesarStone Atlanta is Launched by Granite Countertop Warehouse

Granite Countertop Warehouse today announced the launch of a new marketing and website campaign for CaesarStone Atlanta. Serving Atlanta and all of Georgia, as well as much of the Southeast, Granite Countertop Warehouse specializes in the fabrication and installation of Natural (granite/marble) and engineered stone countertops. The new website, www.CaesarStoneAtlanta.com, will highlight current products, specials, and discounts as related to CaesarStone®. Comprised of 93% natural quartz, CaesarStone quartz surfaces and countertops offer the ultimate combination of form and function, allowing for a more diverse, durable, and
practical countertop surface. With its stain, scratch, and heat-resistant properties, CaesarStone is an ideal choice for carefree countertops.

Granite Countertop Warehouse has been in business for more than seven years. They specialize in kitchen, bath, and bar countertops made of granite, marble, and quartz (engineered stone), as well as sinks, backsplashes, fireplaces, and more. With its quick and steady success, the company has grown to a staff of 50 in those seven years, with more than 100 years of combined experience in countertop sales, design, and installation.

“The primary objective of the CaesarStone Atlanta campaign is to inform the public and businesses in Atlanta, Georgia and the Southeast that Granite Countertop Warehouse offers discounts and special pricing for the CaesarStone® engineered quartz product line, including fabrication and installation, said Manuel Enrique “QuiQue” Lopez, spokesman for Panorama Press, the marketing agency behind the campaign. “We want them to know that the Granite Countertop Warehouse has on display a large variety of CaesarStone® slabs, tiles, sinks, and more for kitchen counters, backsplashes, bathroom counters and more, while also offering some of the best prices and warranty options anywhere.”

The CaesarStone Atlanta campaign is a multimedia operation including ad placements in various media, supported with online promotions including blogs, articles and other online strategies. The website, www.CaesarStoneAtlanta.com, is an interactive web portal that makes it easy for consumers and businesses to learn more about the many options available for CaesarStone® slabs, tiles, countertops and more in Atlanta, Georgia, and the Southeast. The site will inform and promote the many colors, patterns, styles, finishes, and sizes of CaesarStone® available. The site will also focus on promoting how the wide array of CaesarStone® products and styles offered will give unique qualities to kitchens, bathrooms, bars, and many other home areas.

CaesarStone Atlanta by Granite Countertop Warehouse is located at 2595 Baker Road, in Acworth, GA 30101. They can be reached by phone at 404-592-5599 or by email at info@CaesarStoneAtlanta.com.

For more information, or to set up an appointment online, visit, Caesarstone Atlanta.

For information on Panorama Press Marketing, please call 678.391.9136 or visit the website at www.PanoramaPress.net.