3 minute read
Sustainable Innovations That Meet Consumer Demand
By Brian Kang & Sylvia Yoo
A recent study found that countertops are the first feature homeowners upgrade during kitchen renovations. Approximately 42% of homeowners undertake kitchen renovations for a complete style change, and 29% do so to enhance the resale value of their homes. These statistics clearly indicate a market demand for innovative and irresistibly attractive designs. In recent years, the quartz trend has centered around mimicking Calacatta designs, but today’s consumers are yearning for something fresh and exciting. Material manufacturers across the globe are answering the call by innovating extraordinary designs that stand the test of time.
Best of Both Worlds
When it comes to surface materials, the beauty of natural stones, especially quartzites, is hard to beat. However, alongside the aesthetic allure, quartzites come with inherent drawbacks such as high costs, demanding maintenance requirements, and limitations in chemical resistance and fabrication complexity.
But what if capturing the essence of quartzites while addressing these downsides was possible? HanStone Quartz, for example, has pushed the boundaries of design to introduce the Opimo Collection, a line that captures the allure and sophistication associated with quartzite while meeting the durability, chemical resistance, and ease of maintenance that quartz is renowned for.
This remarkable collection is an outcome of HanStone’s unwavering commitment to innovation, being the first quartzite-looking quartz created leveraging the latest Italian technology. With the implementation of this cutting-edge technology with the premium material, the Opimo Collection achieves a new level of depth and translucency that has never been seen in quartz surfacing, ensuring a lasting impression. Similarly, no two Opimo slabs are exactly alike, just like the natural quartzites. Each slab showcases slight color variations and translucency, faithfully mirroring the captivating beauty of quartzites. Every detail of the collection has been carefully considered to deliver an authentic quartzite experience.
Step Toward Sustainability
The benefits of this technological breakthrough extend beyond design alone. Taking into consideration a heightened awareness of ecological impacts and far-reaching consequences on the environment, sustainability has become a focal point in many decision-making processes. Concurrently, an increased understanding of health-related concerns prompts manufacturers to evaluate the potential impacts of countertop materials on fabricators’ well-being. Countertops free of harmful chemicals not only establish a safer environment for food preparation but also contribute to the overall well-being of those living in the household. The shift toward sustainable countertops is more than a trend; it embodies a conscious commitment to reducing the impact on the planet.
Manufacturers like HanStone Quartz have responded to this call by embracing eco-friendly practices and innovative approaches to countertop creation. The production of the Opimo Collection is optimized to reduce energy and material consumption, epitomizing the dedication to sustainability and responsible manufacturing. HanStone’s investment of approximately $4.6 million in solar panels was strategically placed throughout its Sejong facility in Korea. Through the use of these panels, a notable annual reduction of 686.2 tons in CO2 emissions was realized, coupled with a concurrent 15% reduction in electricity consumption.
In a world where our choices increasingly impact the environment and overall well-being, HanStone Quartz’s Opimo Collection is a terrific example of forward-thinking innovation and stands as a beacon of progress and possibility. It embodies what discerning homeowners have longed for — the perfect blend of beauty, modern convenience, and steadfast commitment to a sustainable future.
To see the entire Opimo Collection, please visit www.hyundailncusa.com/hanstone-featured-colors.
