By far the most popular loft conversion project in the UK is a new bedroom. For those property owners with a growing family the currently unused roof space is the perfect location to add an extra bedroom or two.
The most common loft designs see parents and homeowners creating a large new master bedroom. By using large centrally placed windows a loft conversion bedroom can produce an incredible amount of natural light whilst, at night, the windows will give a splendid panorama of the night sky. And, with the space available it is very easy to include an en-suite bathroom in your loft conversion.
But kids will also love being in the highest room in the house (and far away from the eyes of their parents) and many loft spaces would be big enough to incorporate two decent sized children's bedrooms.
The second most popular option for loft designs is to create extra living space by building a luxurious main family room. This room can be very large and decorated with classy furniture but careful consideration does need to be given to the overall design as it is important to make the best use of the available space.
The slope of the roof can make it tricky to obtain the layout you want but with careful planning and looking around for furniture that fits comfortably into the available space a very stylish living area can be created for all the family to enjoy.
In recent years another very popular choice amongst work at home property owners when converting the loft has been to use the space for an office. The loft can be the ideal space for an office and, with so many of us now choosing to work from home, the loft can be the ideal location for that new office you always wanted.
If considering this option it is important to carefully plan the installation of the electrical circuits as many additional sockets will be needed for computers and fax machines etc. Another factor to consider is storage and the location of the workstations. Utilising the space under the eaves can lead to some creative storage solutions whilst it is important to consider where the extra sockets will be located when siting the workstations.
But, no matter which loft designs you finally choose you won't be able to please everyone within the family as they will all want the loft to themselves. But, the three loft designs chosen by householders in the UK are; a luxurious en-suite bedroom, a classy and stylish living area and a state of the art well equipped home office.
A soapstone counter top is durable, heat and stain resistant like granite, simple to install and fits most household budgets. A unique feature is the ability to integrate a soapstone sink into the design as well.
What Is Soapstone
Soapstone, also called steatite or soap rock, is a metamorphic rock that is composed mostly of talc. It is produced when the tectonic plates are subducted, and has been used for carving in many cultures for thousands of years. Along with talc, soapstone also contains different amounts of chlorite, amphiboles, and even magnesium.
Characteristics
Soapstone counter tops are silky smooth and feels somewhat "soapy" when touched. It is commonly used in chemistry labs and kitchens, since it resists acid and doesn't stain or absorb liquids. Soapstone is even used in fireplaces and wood stoves for it's ability to retain and evenly distribute heat.
Soapstone will not burn or stain, and acids cannot etch soapstone like marble or other stone countertops. Contractors can easily cut soapstone on job sites, which makes it a much easier material to deal with than marble or granite.
Colors and Design
Soapstone counter tops are available with a limited color range, but colors differ depending on where in the world it was quarried. Untreated soapstone normally has a solid light green or gray color to it, but applying a coat of mineral oil can darken it to a shiny black.
Some varieties of soapstone, most commonly found in Brazil and other Southern American countries, contain white veins similar to those found in marble. This variety of soapstone tends to be softer and potentially more easily damaged.
Soapstone works best for those who are looking for a dark theme in their kitchen, and matches exceptionally great with stainless steel appliances.
Soapstone Sinks
Soapstone sinks are also very popular due to the large basins, integrated drain boards and many other features that can make a smart addition to your project.
Soapstone is easy to work with and virtually any custom size or shaped sink can be created; however, many dealers have basic soapstone sink shapes and sizes for purchased.
Care and Cleaning
A soapstone counter top is highly chemical and heat resistant so regular household cleaners can be used without worry. Always use a cutting board since nicks and scratches can occur when using knives or other sharp objects directly on the surface.
The good news is that blemishes can easily be buffed out with some sand paper and mineral oil.
Sealing is unnecessary, but mineral oil is commonly applied in order to quickly darken the soapstone. This color change will happen naturally over time, but many people prefer the shiny black surface you get from mineral oil.
Cost and Installation
Cost of a soapstone counter top varies from company to company, especially since different companies sell different types of soapstone from all over the world. A higher quality slab of soapstone can run for a few thousand dollars, but is well worth the cost since soapstone can last a lifetime.
Soapstone sinks also vary in price, mostly depending on the size and shape of the sink. Custom jobs require estimates to be made by the supplying company, but typically range from about $300 to $3000.
Soapstone has been used for centuries in household construction. Soapstone counter tops have many desirable characteristics and a proven durability.
The darker colors are certainly sleek and modern, but also work well with rustic or country designs. If your installing a new countertop, definitely consider soapstone. You'll enjoy it's beauty and resiliency throughout years of happy use!
Both Craig Ellyard & Ryan Burden are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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