Whether you are buying, selling or updating your home, countertops are a hot topic these days. Keeping in mind that the kitchen is the heart and soul of so many homes, a countertop has a lot to live up to. Of course it must withstand the wear and tear of daily use, and, perhaps more importantly, it should reflect and enhance the style of your home.

Current kitchen trends are pointing to soapstone to meet the challenge, and savvy, sophisticated buyers are turning to this unique material to finish more than just countertops. Martha Stewart is paving the way, installing this unique and exotic material in her own kitchen. This may be why soapstone is rapidly becoming more and more desirable for homeowners who are looking for material to make a statement in their kitchens.

Soapstone is offered in a variety of colors and lends itself beautifully to any design motif, from casually rustic to ultra modern. Brilliantly forged by nature, each piece of soapstone is a one-of-a-kind with unique veining and marbling, adding style and character to your home. It is also luxurious to the touch and is a real treat for the senses.

Thanks to its style, durability and versatility, artists and designers are creating chic soapstone applications that go well beyond the kitchen. For avant-garde tile, sills, island tops and other accessories and fixtures, top designers are looking to Dorado Soapstone, an importer and wholesaler of authentic, natural Brazilian soapstone.

More than an exclusive dealer of high-quality soapstone, Dorado Soapstone is a leader in social responsibility. The company is making a significant in impact in Goias, Brazil, one of the few places that the rare stone is quarried. Working alongside Mosaico of Brazil, Dorado Soapstone provides jobs for the staggering number of unemployed citizens of the region. These workers delicately handcraft soapstone sinks, fountains and even chessboards. The company is also working to encourage and support education in technology fields by helping to sponsor computers in after school programs.

Why choose Soapstone?

• Comfortable in any décor – the warm matte finish is a great design element in all rooms of the home
• Stain resistant – the non-porous surface repels anything from red wine to grease
• Heat resistant – hot casseroles from the oven are no match for this naturally inert material
• Easy to maintain and repair – a mild sanding and a touch of mineral oil will easily remove minor scratches
• Durable for generations – Soapstone holds its value for years, so there is no need to worry when it comes time to sell your home
For more information, visit the experts at the Dorado Soapstone Showroom at 2157 Woodward Drive in Austin, TX, or call 512.444.8600.