News Archive - Terra Stone Gallery

How Natural Stone is Cut for Kitchen and Bathroom Sinks

One of the most exciting parts of choosing natural stone for your kitchen or bathroom is seeing how it transforms into a finished product. While a slab may start as a massive, raw piece from a quarry, precise fabrication is what turns it into a stunning countertop or vanity with a perfectly fitted sink. At Terra Stone, a trusted natural stone provider in the Chicago area, we work with experienced fabricators to ensure every cut is precise, durable, and beautiful. Here’s how the process works.

Step 1: Selecting the Stone Slab

It begins with choosing the right slab of marble, quartzite, or granite for your kitchen or bathroom. Each slab is unique, so placement of the sink cutout is carefully considered to highlight the stone’s veining and patterns while maintaining strength in the surrounding areas. At Terra Stone, all slabs are hand-selected for quality, ensuring the best possible starting point.

Step 2: Measuring and Templating

Before cutting begins, fabricators create a detailed template of the countertop layout. This includes exact sink dimensions, faucet holes, and any edge profiles. Modern fabricators often use digital templating technology for maximum accuracy, eliminating guesswork and ensuring a perfect fit once installed. You can learn more about preparing your space in our blog on how to measure for a stone slab upgrade.

Step 3: Cutting the Stone

Using specialized CNC (computer numerical control) machines or waterjet technology, fabricators cut the sink opening into the stone slab. These machines use diamond-tipped blades or high-pressure water mixed with abrasive material to cut through the stone with incredible precision. This step ensures clean lines and exact sizing to fit undermount, drop-in, or farmhouse-style sinks.

Step 4: Polishing the Edges

Once the cut is made, the inside edges of the sink opening are polished and finished. This step is crucial for both appearance and functionality. A smooth edge prevents chipping and makes cleaning easier, while the finish can be customized—whether you want a simple eased edge or something more decorative to match your countertop style.

Step 5: Reinforcement and Quality Checks

Because natural stone is heavy and the sink cutout creates a thinner section in the slab, reinforcement may be added to ensure strength and prevent cracking during transport and installation. Fabricators carefully inspect the piece before it leaves the shop to guarantee it meets both design and structural requirements.

Step 6: Installation

Finally, the fabricated countertop is transported to your home and installed by professional contractors. The sink is mounted and sealed in place, ensuring a water-tight and long-lasting result. Choosing experienced installers is essential—our blog on choosing the right contractor for stone installation explains why this step matters so much.

Bringing It All Together

From quarry to finished sink cutout, natural stone goes through a meticulous process of selection, cutting, and finishing to deliver the look and durability you expect. At Terra Stone, we proudly source premium slabs from Brazil, Italy, and Greece and connect clients with trusted fabricators who can bring their vision to life.

Visit our Schiller Park showroom in the Chicago area to explore our collection of marble, quartzite, granite, and porcelain slabs. Whether you’re planning a kitchen renovation or a luxury bathroom, our team is here to help you every step of the way.

Quartz vs. Granite: Which Is More Cost-Effective?

When planning a kitchen or bathroom renovation, many homeowners ask: which is more cost-effective, quartz or granite? Both are popular choices, both are durable, and both bring beauty to any home—but they differ in important ways. At Terra Stone, a trusted natural stone provider in the Chicago area, we carry a premium selection of granite slabs and can guide you in comparing them to engineered quartz. Here’s how the two materials stack up.

Granite: Natural, Unique, Timeless

Granite is a natural stone quarried directly from the earth, cut into slabs, and polished for use in kitchens and bathrooms. Each piece of granite is unique, with colors and veining that cannot be replicated. Pricing for granite varies depending on rarity, color, and demand.

Cost: Can range from affordable to premium, depending on the stone’s rarity and source.
Durability: Heat resistant and highly durable with proper care.
Maintenance: Requires periodic sealing but offers a lifetime of performance.
Value: Granite is considered a luxury feature that adds resale value to a home.

Bottom Line: Granite’s one-of-a-kind character makes it a top choice for homeowners who want a natural centerpiece. For more on value, see our post on how natural stone increases home value.

Quartz: Engineered, Consistent

Quartz countertops are engineered stone, made from crushed quartz crystals mixed with resin and pigments. This process gives quartz slabs a consistent color and pattern, making it easier to match across larger projects.

Cost: Pricing tends to be more predictable and usually falls in the mid-to-high range.
Durability: Resistant to stains and scratches, ideal for busy households.
Maintenance: Non-porous and does not require sealing, making it easy to maintain.
Value: Popular among modern homeowners for its sleek look and practicality.

Bottom Line: Quartz is a good option for those who want a low-maintenance surface with reliable performance and consistent design.

Long-Term Cost Considerations

When comparing cost-effectiveness, it’s important to look beyond the upfront price tag and consider maintenance, durability, and resale value.

Granite – Known for its toughness and heat resistance, granite makes an excellent kitchen surface. With regular sealing and care, granite can last for decades and is a strong selling point for homes.
Quartz – Quartz is also durable, with high resistance to scratching and staining. Its consistent crystalline structure gives it strength and makes it a versatile option for both kitchens and bathrooms.

Which Should You Choose?

If uniqueness and timeless character are most important, granite may be the better investment. Each slab is one-of-a-kind and adds natural luxury to your home.

If convenience, consistency, and low maintenance are top priorities, quartz may be more cost-effective in the long run. Its durability and ease of care make it a popular choice for modern kitchens and bathrooms.

Visit Terra Stone for Guidance

At Terra Stone, we specialize in premium granite slabs and can help you compare the benefits of granite to engineered quartz. Our Schiller Park, Illinois showroom is easily accessible to the Chicago area, and we ship nationally for homeowners, contractors, and designers across the U.S.

Visit us today to explore our hand-selected granite collection and learn which surface is the most cost-effective for your next project.

Natural Stone FAQs: What Homeowners & Designers Ask Most

At Terra Stone, a trusted natural stone provider in the Chicago area, we aim to empower clients with expert information on marble, quartzite, porcelain, and more. Here are the most commonly asked questions we receive:

What Are the Benefits of Natural Stone Countertops?

Natural stone offers unmatched beauty, durability, and resale value. Each slab is unique, making it a standout choice for kitchens and baths.

Discover why natural stone increases home value in our post: Elevate Your Home’s Value In Illinois with the Timeless Allure of Marble and Quartzite

Does Natural Stone Require Maintenance?

Yes — but it’s straightforward. Regular use of pH-neutral cleaners and routine sealing every 12-24 months (depending on stone type) is all you need.

See our full care guide here: How to Care for Marble and Quartzite in Kitchens and Baths

What Stone Finish Should I Choose?

Finishes affect both look and wearability—choose polished for shine, honed for softness, or leathered for texture.

Learn about all finishes in our detailed guide: What Natural Stone Finish Is the Best?

Will Stone Chip or Crack Over Time?

Stone is highly durable when installed correctly. Proper installation by qualified professionals ensures longevity without damage.

Read more about why the right contractor matters: Choosing the Right Contractor for Natural Stone Installation

Can Terra Stone Recommend Installers?

Yes. Terra Stone works with a vetted network of qualified contractors throughout Illinois and nationwide to ensure flawless installations.

Is Natural Stone Suitable for Outdoor Use?

Absolutely. Durable stones like quartzites and granites perform beautifully outdoors, offering resistance to heat, moisture, and UV exposure.

How Should I Measure for Stone Slabs?

Accurate measurements are key. Be sure to account for cabinetry, overhangs, backsplashes, and fixture placements.

Follow our step-by-step guide: How to Measure for a Stone Slab Upgrade

Does Stone Add Resale Value?

Yes. Natural stone is considered a premium upgrade. It enhances curb appeal and kitchen/bathroom elegance, which buyers value.

Learn how stone boosts market appeal in our post: Natural Stone & Home Value

Can I Install Stone Myself?

We strongly advise against it. Professional installation prevents damage and ensures structural support and precision.

Where Does Terra Stone Source Its Materials?

We handpick premium slabs from Brazil, Greece, and Italy—with expert eye for color, pattern, and quality.

Read more about our stone origins: From Quarry to Countertop: The Journey of Natural Stone

Where Is Terra Stone Located?

Find us at 4310 Transworld Rd, Schiller Park, IL 60176. We’re accessible via the 294 Expressway and O’Hare Airport—shipping nationwide.

Have More Questions?

Contact Terra Stone today for personalized advice, stone recommendations, or to plan your visit to our showroom collection.

Stone Finish Options: How to Choose the Perfect Look for Your Space

Choosing the right finish for your natural stone slab can completely transform the look and feel of your space. At Terra Stone, serving the Chicago area, we offer a variety of finishes to suit any aesthetic—from sleek and polished to textured and rustic. Here’s a guide to help you find the best finish for your project.

Popular Stone Finishes Explained

Polished Finish – A glossy surface that reflects light beautifully and highlights the stone’s rich color and veining.
Honed Finish – Matte and smooth, honed finishes provide a softer, more understated look.
Leathered Finish – Brushed for a natural texture, these finishes offer depth and character while hiding fingerprints.
Brushed Finish – Subtly textured with softer grooves, adding warmth and authenticity.
Satin Soft Leather – A velvety sheen that balances matte and glossy aesthetics.
Deep Leather, Honed & Polished, Polished & Leathered, Translucent – Specialized finishes that offer visual contrast, tactile richness, or dramatic backlit effects.

What Finish Works Best for Your Space?

The ideal stone finish depends on both style and function. Want a sleek and formal look? Choose polished finishes. Prefer warmth and texture? Leathered or brushed finishes add visual depth and practicality. For a design-forward approach, consider satin soft leather or even translucent slabs for unique backlit applications.

For a deeper dive into each finish and how they compare, check out our earlier post: What Natural Stone Finish Is the Best?

Finish & Trend Pairings Designers Love

Design trends often pair specific finishes with stone colors and layouts. For example, in our post on Top Trends for Kitchens & Baths in 2025, we highlight how honed and leathered finishes are increasingly popular in warm, organic color palettes, especially when paired with soft cabinetry and matte hardware.

Why Terra Stone Offers So Many Finishes

As a premier natural stone provider in the Chicago area, our Schiller Park showroom stocks an extensive range of finishes—from classic polished to luxurious deep leather, satin, and translucent options. Each slab is hand-selected to ensure quality and design integrity, giving you access to the most refined finishes available.

Takeaway: Finish Matters as Much as the Stone

The finish you choose has a major impact on aesthetic, texture, maintenance, and mood. From sleek polished surfaces to textured leathered slabs, the right finish allows your natural stone to shine. For expert advice and finish guidance, visit Terra Stone or explore our finish collection online.

Visit Terra Stone Gallery in Schiller Park, IL to explore our complete stone finishes and discover how the right finish can elevate your next project.

The Rise of ‘Cashmere Kitchens’

The kitchen design world is moving in a warm and welcoming direction in 2025—and it’s called the Cashmere Kitchen. This trend embraces soft, cozy tones and natural textures to create a sophisticated yet calming space. Think warm whites, creamy taupes, brushed brass accents, and organic stone finishes that bring subtle luxury to modern homes.

At Terra Stone, a leading natural stone wholesaler in the Chicago area, we’ve seen this trend firsthand, with more homeowners and designers requesting natural materials that radiate understated elegance.

Natural Stone as the Foundation of Warm Luxury

Cashmere Kitchens are all about texture and tone, which makes natural stone a perfect fit. Whether you’re leaning into the velvety finish of honed marble or the soft shimmer of Taj Mahal Quartzite, these materials elevate the warmth of your space while offering timeless beauty.

Some of the most popular natural stones for this trend include:

Taj Mahal Quartzite – Soft beige tones with delicate veining
Pirgon – A classic marble with hues of pink
Travertine Crema – Subtle tans in a smooth, matte finish

Each stone slab at Terra Stone is hand-selected for quality, offering the character and variation that make Cashmere Kitchens feel layered, elegant, and natural.

Why Designers in the Chicago Area Are Embracing This Trend

Designers and homeowners across the Chicago area are turning to Terra Stone for premium materials that embody this warm minimalist look. The soft tones of natural stone pair beautifully with the neutral cabinetry and matte finishes dominating this trend. As a trusted natural stone wholesaler, Terra Stone carries an extensive selection of warm-toned quartzite, marble, and porcelain—ideal for both cozy home renovations and upscale new builds.

Whether you’re updating a city condo or designing a luxury suburban kitchen, the Cashmere Kitchen trend is a stunning and versatile choice. Visit Terra Stone in Schiller Park, Illinois, to find the perfect slab for your project.

Why Interior Designers Love Working with Terra Stone

Fondovalle Infinito Calacatta Gold Polished 2

Interior designers know that the right surface can elevate a space from beautiful to breathtaking. That’s why so many professionals in the Chicago area and across the country choose to work with Terra Stone, a trusted natural stone wholesaler located in Schiller Park, Illinois.

Access to Hand-Selected, World-Class Stone

Terra Stone sources premium natural stone from around the globe, including elegant marble from Greece and Italy, and stunning quartzite from Brazil. Each slab is hand-selected for quality, color, and character, ensuring that designers can offer their clients a one-of-a-kind luxury finish.

When designers bring their clients to Terra Stone’s warehouse, they’re not just browsing inventory—they’re selecting from an exclusive gallery of rare and exotic stone slabs that aren’t found in big box stores or typical showrooms.

Designer-Friendly Services & Support

From inspiration to installation, Terra Stone partners with interior designers to make projects seamless. The team provides personalized service, expert advice, and even connects designers with qualified contractors for flawless execution.

Need help choosing the perfect finish? Want to know which stones work best for certain applications? Terra Stone’s knowledgeable staff is here to guide every step of the way.

Serving the Chicago Area and Beyond

Located just outside of Chicago in Schiller Park, Terra Stone is easily accessible via the 294 Expressway and O’Hare International Airport, making it a convenient resource for both local and out-of-state design professionals. With nationwide shipping, Terra Stone supports design projects across all 50 states.

Start Your Project with Terra Stone

If you’re an interior designer looking to impress your clients with the finest stone slabs available, make Terra Stone your go-to natural stone wholesaler. Visit the warehouse, explore rare finds, and bring your designs to life with exceptional materials and service.

Deep Colors in Natural Stone: A Bold Trend for 2025

2025 is ushering in a bold new era for natural stone —one that embraces dramatic, deep colors. While whites and neutrals will always have their place, homeowners and designers are now gravitating toward richly colored stones that add warmth, luxury, and personality to their interiors.

At Terra Stone, a leading natural stone provider in the Chicago area, we’re seeing increased demand for deep hues like midnight black, emerald green, stormy gray, and rich burgundy—each slab offering a story of depth and sophistication.

Why Deep-Toned Stones Are Trending

Deep colors evoke emotion and richness that lighter surfaces can’t always match. They make a statement while still blending beautifully with modern, industrial, or classic styles. From Brazilian quartzite to Greek marble, Terra Stone sources stones with intense color profiles that instantly elevate a space.

Black and charcoal quartzites offer timeless elegance with modern edge
Dark green marbles create a luxurious spa-like atmosphere in bathrooms
Burgundy and rust-colored granites bring warmth and drama to kitchen islands

Applications That Showcase Bold Stone

Deep-toned stone works beautifully in a variety of applications, especially where you want to draw the eye or create contrast. It pairs especially well with lighter cabinetry, wood tones, brass hardware, and neutral palettes.

Full-height backsplashes in deep stone create a sleek, seamless look
Fireplace surrounds become focal points with rich, veined slabs
Bathroom vanities and walls feel more spa-like with moody stone tones

Terra Stone: Your Source for Exotic & Dramatic Color Slabs

At Terra Stone, we carry an extensive collection of rare and exotic stone slabs imported from Brazil, Italy, Greece, and other world-renowned stone-producing regions. Each piece is hand-selected for its depth of color, unique veining, and overall character.

As a trusted natural stone provider in the Chicago area, our Schiller Park warehouse gives clients access to premium slabs that are perfect for bold, dramatic spaces. We also ship nationally, helping homeowners and designers across the country bring their visions to life.

If you’re looking to embrace the trend of rich, deep-colored natural stone in 2025, visit Terra Stone and let our team help you find the perfect slab for your next project.

How to Care for Marble and Quartzite in Kitchens and Baths

Marble and quartzite are two of the most luxurious and durable natural stones available for kitchen and bathroom design. When properly cared for, they offer a lifetime of beauty and functionality. As a leading natural stone wholesaler in the Chicago area, Terra Stone wants to ensure that customers know how to preserve the elegance of their investment.

Daily Maintenance Tips

Use a soft cloth or sponge and mild dish soap with warm water for everyday cleaning.
Avoid abrasive scrubbers or acidic cleaners like vinegar and lemon juice that can etch natural stone surfaces.
For quartzite, a pH-neutral cleaner is ideal to maintain its natural resistance to staining and scratching.

Sealing Your Natural Stone

Sealing is one of the most important steps in natural stone care. While quartzite is denser and more resistant to staining, sealing once a year is still recommended for added protection. Marble, being more porous, may require sealing every 6 to 12 months depending on usage.

Wipe up spills quickly—especially wine, coffee, and oil—to prevent staining.
Apply a high-quality penetrating sealer recommended by your installer or stone provider.

Preventing Damage in High-Traffic Areas

In kitchens and baths, countertops and floors can take a beating. Protect your marble and quartzite surfaces with a few easy precautions:

Always use cutting boards and trivets—never cut or place hot pots directly on the stone.
Use rugs or mats in front of sinks and bathtubs to prevent wear from water and foot traffic.

Why Choose Terra Stone

Terra Stone, based in Schiller Park, Illinois, offers hand-selected marble and quartzite slabs sourced from around the world. As a trusted natural stone wholesaler in the Chicago area, Terra Stone not only provides premium products but also expert guidance on how to maintain their natural beauty.

Let Your Surfaces Shine for Years to Come

Whether you’ve just installed a statement marble vanity or a durable quartzite kitchen island, proper care will help your surfaces stay stunning for decades. Start your journey with Terra Stone and enjoy premium stone that’s as practical as it is beautiful.

Top 5 Design Trends for Kitchens and Baths in 2025

Whether you’re remodeling or building new, staying ahead of design trends helps create a space that feels fresh, functional, and timeless. At Terra Stone in Schiller Park, Illinois, we’ve seen a surge in demand for both natural stone and luxury porcelain—each offering beauty, performance, and long-term value. Here are five of the top design trends for 2025 that showcase how stone is transforming kitchens and baths across the Chicago area and beyond.

Natural Stone Statement Islands

Bold kitchen islands with dramatic veining and rich colors are in high demand. Stones like Brazilian quartzite and Italian marble are being used not just for functionality, but as sculptural centerpieces.

Oversized slabs add drama and elegance
Bookmatched designs create a mirror-like visual effect
Waterfall edges highlight the natural beauty of the stone

Porcelain for Walls & Countertops

Porcelain slabs are redefining modern kitchens and baths. Their ultra-sleek appearance, large format sizing, and durable composition make them ideal for full-height backsplashes and countertop surfaces.

Low-maintenance and stain-resistant
Available in marble-look finishes for a luxe feel
Perfect for minimal, clean designs

Earthy & Organic Color Palettes

Homeowners are moving away from stark whites and embracing earthy tones, soft neutrals, and natural textures. Stones with warm undertones, textured finishes, and organic veining bring comfort and sophistication.

Think beiges, soft browns, creams, and olive greens
Honed and leathered finishes are trending over polished

Full-Slab Shower Walls

In the bathroom, tiled walls are giving way to large-format stone and porcelain slabs that reduce grout lines and create a spa-like feel. This trend is both luxurious and easy to clean.

Quartzite and marble slabs add drama to showers
Porcelain offers sleek, modern alternatives

Mixed Materials & Textures

Combining different materials is a top design strategy in 2025. Designers are pairing natural stone with porcelain, wood, and metal for layered looks full of depth and character.

Porcelain countertops with wood cabinets and stone backsplashes
Textured stones like brushed or leathered finishes add warmth

Discover These Trends at Terra Stone

As a leading natural stone provider in the Chicago area, Terra Stone offers a vast collection of premium natural stone and porcelain slabs—sourced from Italy, Greece, Brazil, and beyond. Our hand-selected inventory is designed to meet the latest in design and durability.

Visit our showroom in Schiller Park, Illinois to explore the newest styles and get inspired for your next kitchen or bath project. Our knowledgeable team is here to help bring your vision to life.

How to Clean and Maintain Porcelain Surfaces for Lasting Beauty

Fondovalle Infinito Onice White Polished 1

Porcelain has quickly become a favorite among designers and homeowners for its luxurious look and low maintenance. Now that Terra Stone proudly carries high-end porcelain slabs alongside our rare and exotic natural stones, clients across the Chicago area and beyond can enjoy the beauty of porcelain with peace of mind.

Why Porcelain is So Easy to Maintain

Porcelain is non-porous, stain-resistant, and highly durable, making it a top choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and even outdoor spaces. Unlike natural stones that may require sealing, porcelain surfaces repel moisture and resist most common household stains with ease.

This means you can enjoy daily use without worrying about wine, coffee, or oil leaving permanent marks—especially helpful in high-traffic areas like countertops, backsplashes, and floors.

Daily Cleaning Tips

To keep your porcelain surfaces looking flawless, all you need is a mild, pH-neutral cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive pads or harsh chemicals, which can dull the surface or cause unnecessary wear over time.

Simply wipe down surfaces with warm water and a gentle cleaner to remove residue. For tougher messes, use a soft brush and a solution of warm water and mild detergent.

Preventative Care is Simple

While porcelain is tough, it’s still a good idea to use cutting boards and trivets. Even though the material resists heat and scratching, practicing basic care will extend its lifespan and preserve its luxurious look.

For flooring, sweeping regularly and using a damp mop will keep dirt and debris from building up in textured finishes.

Long-Term Maintenance

Porcelain does not require sealing like marble or quartzite, making it one of the most maintenance-free surfaces available. However, it’s still wise to inspect areas occasionally for any build-up, especially grout lines or matte finishes. If your porcelain features a polished or satin surface, regular cleaning will help retain its brightness and depth.

Trust Terra Stone for Premium Porcelain

Terra Stone is proud to be one of the fastest-growing natural stone and porcelain providers in the Chicago area. Located in Schiller Park, Illinois, our expansive showroom now features a curated selection of luxury porcelain slabs—perfect for modern kitchens, bathrooms, and architectural spaces.

We ship nationally and work with some of the most skilled fabricators in the industry to ensure your porcelain surfaces are installed and maintained to perfection.

Contact us today or visit our warehouse to explore our premium porcelain collection and find the perfect slab for your space!