Benson Stone Company | 1100 11th Street Rockford, IL 61104 | 815.227.2000

Luxurious Modern Kitchen Remodel

One of the greatest joys of being a home design store is getting to work with truly creative people and seeing breathtaking design ideas come to life. And when a local designer chooses us for her own home? Well, that is just the highest compliment we could ask for!

We recently had the pleasure of contributing to this stunning kitchen remodel for Ali Chance, the talented owner of A. Tanner Designs, and we simply must show you the unbelievable results. This is a kitchen that screams “high-end designer touch” in the most elegant and timeless way.

The moment Ali selected the material, we knew this project would be spectacular: Leathered Taj Mahal Quartzite.

Now, if you haven’t seen Taj Mahal, it is truly one of the most sought-after natural stones today. It has that creamy, sophisticated blend of soft whites, pale taupes, and subtle gold veining, giving you all the warmth of marble but with the incredible durability of quartzite. And the “leathered” finish? Divine! It gives the surface a soft, matte, slightly textured feel—it’s absolutely luxurious to the touch and hides fingerprints beautifully.

We are so proud of the seamless fabrication and installation performed by our incredible granite team.

Ali chose to wrap her stunning kitchen island in a waterfall edge. For those of you who might not know the term, a waterfall edge means the stone countertop doesn’t stop at the edge of the island; it continues down the sides, flowing right to the floor. This technique creates a continuous, luxurious ribbon of stone that makes the island look like a piece of sculptural furniture.

Achieving that seamless look requires immense skill, especially when matching the natural patterns of stone like Taj Mahal. Our fabrication team carefully engineered every cut and seam to ensure the veining flows perfectly down the sides. It is intricate work that truly showcases the precision and expertise our staff brings to every job.

Imagine standing in this kitchen: the same elegant, flowing stone sweeps across the expansive countertops, cascades down the sides of the island, and then climbs the wall behind the range. This consistency creates a unified, quiet luxury that is the hallmark of top-tier design. It’s a trick that professional designers use to make a kitchen feel expansive and totally bespoke.

It is always rewarding to work with a fellow creative like Ali, and we are so proud that our team’s dedication to quality craftsmanship—from the precise slab layout to the flawless installation—helped her achieve her dream. When you are investing in a beautiful, natural material like Taj Mahal, you need a team that respects the stone and knows how to execute a high-end vision. That’s what we deliver every single day.

If you are dreaming of a luxurious kitchen where the counters truly shine and set the stage for years of happy hosting, please know that our team is here to bring that high-end designer look into your home!

Organic, Transitional Kitchen Remodel

I am so excited to share with you this Organic Transitional kitchen remodel we just wrapped up. I enjoyed working closely with Armbruster Construction, Inc.

This project incorporates modern trends with timeless elegance. It’s all about mixing that super-clean, modern aesthetic with rich, tactile, organic elements that make you feel instantly at home. It feels functional and homey, with many unique features and appliances.

When we started, we knew we wanted to use color in a grounding, sophisticated way. We went with the David Bradley Danali Door Maple cabinetry, which gives us that nice, tailored look. For the perimeter, we chose a gorgeous Evergreen Fog color that instantly grabs your attention. The island is painted a deeper, dramatic Shade-Grown color. It’s moody, elegant, and provides the perfect visual anchor for the space.

To balance out that depth of color, we had to introduce warmth, and that’s where the White Oak comes in. Look at that stove hood! Finished in a rich Pecan stain, the natural grain of the wood gives the kitchen texture and soul. Incorporating natural wood grain like this, achieving that true organic feel—it’s just beautiful.

Because this kitchen will get lots of use, we needed materials that were as hardworking as they are beautiful. For the countertops, we went with the timeless Cambria Snowdon White Polished quartz. It gives us the clean, pristine look of a light stone without any maintenance fuss. It has just enough subtle speckling of grays and tans to make it look incredibly natural and pair beautifully with the two-toned cabinets.

And speaking of grounding the room—you can’t overlook the floors! We chose Kentwood Abode Tempo Natural Brushed Oak engineered hardwood. This wide-plank, brushed oak flooring is a huge favorite because its natural characteristics and texture instantly warm up the entire space, giving you that perfect foundation.

No kitchen is complete without the finishing touches. The hardware is like the jewelry of the room! We selected the Top Knobs Garrison Dempsey Knobs and pulls in a Honey Bronze finish. This specific, warm bronze tone is the current gold standard—it pops against the dark colors and ties back perfectly to the pecan-stained hood and oak floors.

For seating and light, we kept the transitional theme going. The Amisco Ronny Swivel Stools are comfortable and have a clean, modern metal frame, and the Hinkley Oliver Pendants in dark matte gray add just a touch of clean, tailored, industrial chic over the island.

What do you think of this Organic Transitional blend? I truly believe this is a kitchen that will feel fresh and welcoming for decades to come! What’s your favorite element we used here? Let me know in the comments!

 

(779) 210-3447

Kayla Hauch

Kitchen & Bath Designer

301 S. Main St. Rockford, IL

I am incredibly excited to welcome you into the stunning new luxury apartments at 301 S. Main St in downtown Rockford. We were proud to partner with the great folks at Urban Equity Properties by contributing the stunning quartz features that define this beautiful property. This project shows how the right material selections can transform a modern space, making it both luxurious and unforgettable.

The design goal for the lobby of this property was to make a dramatic and elegant first impression—and the quartz selection certainly delivers. For the floor, we used we used Woodcroft quartz by Cambria Surfaces. This magnificant stone features rich ebony tones and micro-shimmering gold veins. The effect is a bold, artistic statement that greets residents and guests immediately upon entry, setting the tone for the quality found throughout the building.

In the kitchens and bathrooms, we used elegant Serene White quartz countertops by Wilsonart, adding a touch of luxurious tranquility.

A huge thank you to Urban Equity Properties for your continued support and partnership. We love seeing stunning visions come to life and we’re so proud to be part of Rockford’s evolving downtown!

Our team takes pride in exceeding your expectations. If you have an upcoming commercial project that demands a high level of quality, attention to detail, and a partner you can trust, you know who to call.

Peat Beggs
Commercial Granite Sales
Benson Stone Company

Roscoe Junction Townhouses

I am excited to showcase a recent collaboration with Ambassador Homes, LLC on the impressive Roscoe Junction Townhouses in Roscoe, IL. This large-scale project was a study in strategic design, demonstrating how sophisticated style and budget-conscious construction can perfectly align.

The goal for these townhouses was to create market-ready units with a timeless, welcoming style that appeals to a wide range of renters. Our Kitchen & Bath Designer, Erin, collaborated closely with the developers, focusing on a neutral, enduring palette. The units feature crisp linen-painted cabinets, beautiful polished quartz countertops, and luxury vinyl flooring in a soft, neutral tone. This combination provides a clean, bright canvas that future residents can easily personalize.

You can see this commitment to thoughtful design elevated in the bathrooms, particularly in the walk-in showers. Here, we used full quartz slabs on the walls, creating a seamless, sophisticated finish that is not only visually gorgeous but also exceptionally easy to clean and maintain—a huge value-add for both the builder and the resident.

Sourcing materials for a complex, high-volume project like Roscoe Junction doesn’t have to be a logistical headache. Local builders like Ambassador Homes have trusted us for years because we simplify the entire process. As your one-stop shop for commercial and residential building materials, we supplied it all: custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, attractive luxury vinyl flooring, and carpet.

This convenience goes hand-in-hand with budget control. We offer a full range of product price points, from reliable builder-grade basics to custom luxury lines. This flexibility allowed Ambassador Homes to mix and match materials effectively—upgrading key elements like the quartz while maintaining budget targets elsewhere.

A great design requires flawless execution. Our talented team ensured every unit reflected the quality and attention to detail necessary to impress potential renters. From the efficient fabrication of every countertop in our shop to the final, precise installation of all materials, our master craftsmen delivered a seamless experience.

If you are a builder who values convenience, transparent pricing, and a design-forward partnership that saves you time and fits your budget, we would welcome a conversation.

Peat Beggs
Commercial Granite Sales
Benson Stone Company

Modern, Organic Kitchen Remodel

I am absolutely thrilled to unveil this stunning kitchen remodel I am so proud of! This project is a testament to how thoughtful design can completely transform a space, making it both beautiful and highly functional.

The biggest game-changer in this kitchen was undoubtedly the layout. We said goodbye to the restrictive old island peninsula and replaced it with a massive, central island positioned right in the heart of the kitchen. This strategic redesign instantly opened up the entire room, creating a seamless flow and offering the homeowner significantly more space for both serious cooking and effortless entertaining. It’s truly a breath of fresh air!

The color palette for this kitchen feels charmingly modern and organic, striking a perfect balance of depth and light. We opted for a rich Stella Thyme on the lower cabinets and the impressive new island, which beautifully grounds the space. This earthy tone is perfectly balanced by the soft Stella Stonewash used for the upper cabinets, creating an inviting and harmonious feel. These custom cabinets are by Woodharbor, known for their exceptional quality.

The Verde Peak Quartz by Wilsonart countertops further enhances the natural elegance of this kitchen design. Those captivating veins of green, gold, and gray are absolutely everything, adding depth and a touch of organic luxury that ties into the entire scheme.

Every element in this renovation was meticulously selected to contribute to the overall aesthetic and functionality. We swapped out the previous subway tile backsplash for a super chic Hampton Snow Picket Tile by Soci Design, adding subtle texture and modern appeal. The dark floors were traded for a lighter, wider Adelaide Salisbury Wide Oak Engineered Flooring by Portercraft, which instantly brightened the room and enhanced the open feel.

The final, elegant touch came with the Regents Park pulls and knobs in Honey Bronze by Top Knobs. This warm hardware beautifully complements the green and gray tones, tying the entire design together with a sophisticated flourish.

What do you think of this truly spectacular kitchen transformation? We are incredibly proud of Jessica and the entire team for bringing this vision to life!

(779) 210-3447

Jessica Hughes

Kitchen & Bath Designer

Warm, Contemporary Bathroom Remodel

You seriously have to see this warm, contemporary bathroom remodel! We took this master bathroom from a dated, early-2000s setup to a space that feels utterly luxurious and perfectly functional. This renovation is a huge win for smart design and collaboration.

The goal here was to give the homeowners a clean, sleek, and bright sanctuary that felt exciting to walk into. Working alongside the talented crew at Blackstone Building & Remodeling, Inc., every choice was made to maximize beauty and usability.

We started by ditching the old bathtub and installing a spacious, walk-in shower. We then lined it floor-to-ceiling with stunning Touch Snow Crest Tile from Virginia Tile Company. It’s bright, seamless, and turns a basic shower into a genuine moment of indulgence.

One of the most impactful changes was figuring out how to get the homeowners more storage. We realized the old, small shower was taking up prime space. By removing it, we made room for a second, full vanity area! That immediately created a ton of extra storage and counter space—no more morning battles for the mirror.

The original vanity got an upgrade, too, with a thoughtful drop-down countertop specifically designed as a makeup vanity. It’s those little, personalized details that make the space truly work for them.

The final touches bring everything together. Warm wood cabinets add a touch of modern comfort, while the beautiful Pyrenees quartz countertops from Casabella provide that elegant, durable finish. The quartz looks amazing and helps tie the entire room together beautifully.

This is a lovely example of how much good design can change your daily routine. We were so proud to be a part of creating this absolutely stunning master retreat!

 

(779) 210-3447

Kayla Hauch

Kitchen & Bath Designer

Warm, Contemporary Kitchen Remodel

You have to check out this warm, contemporary kitchen remodel! These homeowners recently moved into a beautiful home from the early 2000s, but were ready to say goodbye to their dated kitchen and hello to a space that felt clean, sleek, and contemporary. The goal was to create a kitchen that looked stunning and was highly functional, to fit their family’s needs.

One of my favorite features from this project is undoubtedly the Taj Mahal quartzite. I love to see this beautiful natural stone used for countertops, but the homeowners were bold enough to use it for a full-height backsplash as well. A stunning choice! This creates a seamless, waterfall-like effect that is both luxurious and eye-catching.

One of the challenges we faced was the homeowner’s request for no visible outlets on the backsplash. To achieve this clean, uninterrupted look, we devised a creative solution: we strategically placed the outlets directly underneath the upper cabinets. This placement allows for easy accessibility while allowing the quartzite’s natural beauty to shine without distraction.

While the quartzite commands instant attention, the other design elements were chosen to add warmth and balance the space. We installed Bedford rift-cut white oak cabinetry in a warm wheat stain. The subtle grain of the rift-cut oak adds beautiful texture and a touch of organic warmth. To complement the cabinets, we chose stunning Maison Chateau Crepe engineered hardwood floors that tie the entire space together.

For the finishing touches, the homeowners selected Honey Bronze hardware for the cabinets. The warm, metallic tone of the hardware provides a subtle contrast against the natural wood and stone, completing the cohesive design.

It was a true privilege to work with these homeowners to bring their vision to life. Their trust and collaborative spirit made this project an absolute joy. The finished kitchen shows the power of thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship.

We’re so proud of this transformation and are grateful to the homeowners for allowing us to share their beautiful new space with you all.

(779) 210-3447

Kayla Hauch

Kitchen & Bath Designer

Bright, Transitional Kitchen Remodel

What a gorgeously bright, transitional kitchen this is! I am so excited to show you this one, as it’s a testament to how the right design choices can completely transform a space. I was so grateful to partner with the awesome folks at Ambassador Homes, LLC to bring this very dreamy remodel to life.

The stunning Crema Latte Quartzite countertops are the undisputed star of this show, looking so lovely on top of the blue spruce island. This island adds a perfect pop of color, creating a nice contrast against the crisp white Seabrook perimeter cabinets from WoodHarbor. This combination brings a classic yet modern feel to the kitchen.

The Glow Salt backsplash tile provides a seamless, subtle shimmer, creating a beautiful transition between the countertops and cabinets.

The new white oak hardwood flooring replaced the previous tile, instantly adding warmth and elegance. This change made the entire room feel more homey and inviting, completing the transformation from the ground up.

Perhaps the biggest transformation came from knocking down a wall that divided the kitchen from the dining nook. We absolutely love how bright and airy the transformed space now feels—it’s truly the heart of the home.

I have to give a huge shout-out to Robert, one of our furniture designers, for his beautiful work on the Phoebe Swivel Stools. The champagne metal on these stools is simply stunning, adding a touch of glamour that elevates the whole room.

I am so proud of the work we did on this one!

(779) 210-3447

Erin Knabe

Kitchen & Bath Designer

Modern Rustic Kitchen Remodel

Now this is one gorgeous modern rustic kitchen remodel that I am so excited to share!

This project was a complete refresh, and every element was chosen with intention to create a stunning, updated rustic masterpiece. From the new cabinets and countertops to the flooring and furniture, no detail was overlooked. The result is a space that feels both modern and timeless.

The heart of this design is the rich, wood-stained cabinets from Marquis Fine Cabinetry. They are absolutely breathtaking and bring a sense of warmth and natural beauty to the space. The homeowners wanted a touch of modern sophistication, so we adorned the cabinets with elegant matte black hardware from Schaub Hardware, which provides a beautiful contrast and a nice, modern touch.

To create visual harmony, we chose Shiprock quartz countertops from Trends Flooring and a classic subway tile backsplash from Emser Tile. The subtle veining in the quartz and the clean lines of the subway tile complement each other perfectly, creating a beautiful and cohesive backdrop for the stunning cabinetry.

We also replaced the outdated tile flooring with gorgeous white oak hardwood. This was a key decision in the design, as the new flooring instantly brought warmth and unity to the room, tying the entire space together beautifully. The hardwood floor elevates the design and adds a sense of timeless elegance.

This project was a privilege to work on, and seeing the finished kitchen is truly rewarding. The transformation is nothing short of amazing. This kitchen is now a beautiful and functional space where countless new memories will be made.

(779) 210-3447

Kayla Hauch

Kitchen & Bath Designer

Bright Scandinavian Kitchen Remodel

Goodbye dark tones, hello bright, Scandinavian charm!

Every project is a chance to bring a homeowner’s vision to life, and I couldn’t be more excited to share this recent kitchen remodel. This bright, beautiful kitchen was a joy to work on, and the final result is a testament to the trust and collaboration we shared with the homeowners.

The original space, with its darker tones and closed-off layout, had so much potential. The most impactful change was removing the wall that separated the kitchen from the living room. This wasn’t just about knocking down a wall; it was about opening up the heart of the home, instantly creating a more connected and spacious feel. Now, cooking can be a social experience, and natural light can flow freely through the entire space.

Our goal was to transform the kitchen into a light-filled sanctuary, and every decision was made with that in mind. The former dark brown cabinets were replaced with luminous ivory cabinets from Marquis Fine Cabinetry. These cabinets are more than just storage; they are a key design element that effortlessly brings light into the space. We paired them with stunning Calacatta Lucia quartz countertops, which add an elegant, timeless quality. The quartz’s delicate veining is a beautiful contrast to the clean lines of the cabinets, creating a look that is both sophisticated and inviting.

To complete the transformation, we carefully selected new appliances. The darker, dated appliances were replaced with cohesive, lighter options that blend seamlessly into the new color scheme. We also completely updated the flooring, replacing the old tile with a gorgeous luxury vinyl from Evoke. The new flooring adds a subtle texture and depth to the room, tying the entire design together beautifully.

This project was a true collaboration, and I’m so grateful to the homeowners for their vision and for allowing us to be a part of their home’s story. Seeing the joy on their faces when they saw the finished kitchen was the most rewarding part of the entire process. This isn’t just a new kitchen—it’s a bright, welcoming space for them to create new memories for years to come.

(779) 210-3447

Jessica Hughes

Kitchen & Bath Designer