In order to take advantage of the breathtaking views surrounding a private residence in Monument, CO, the kitchen of the home was designed with an open concept, featuring a large bay window and a free-flowing design, and granite played an integral role.

“The intent of the home was to take advantage of the 360-degree view with mountains to the back and a valley view from the front,” explained homeowner Kathy Mutz. “We wanted a roomy kitchen where more than one cook could be in there at a time and have space to move around. We also wanted the room to be adjacent to the great room and bar area where we entertain a lot.”

Before deciding on a specific material, the homeowner considered several stone options. “I learned all about the surfaces as far as maintenance and durability were concerned,” she said, adding that she kept finding herself drawn to granite.

Delirium granite, which was fabricated and installed by Planet Granite of Colorado Springs, CO, was ultimately selected. “I saw [Delirium granite], which was new in the country, and I liked the fact that I hadn’t seen a whole lot like it out there. What closed the deal for me was that it’s so easy to care for, and it looks nice too.

“The material is so unique and so different,” Mutz continued. “I am attracted to ocean colors, and so what I really liked about this material was the turquoise aspect of the stone mixed in with the grey and black colors. Also, the maple wood cabinetry really brought out the gold flecks in the granite.”

Mutz also liked the fact that the material was somewhat subtle. “It gave such a Monet impression,” she said. “It was so blended and not a real strong pattern. You get so much more when you look at this slab than you do when you see a typical patterned granite.”

Additionally, a slab of Delirium granite was fabricated for a bar top, which is adjacent to the kitchen area.

In order to complement the granite, the homeowner and her husband selected glass tile from Hakatai’s Ashland Iridescent series for the backsplash. “It adds a little contrast in color, but blends well with the granite,” said Mutz.

According to the homeowner, a curved granite piece that was used for a built-in desk area cracked substantially, and had to be replaced. “Planet Granite was so great in finding another piece to match perfectly,” she said. “A lot of the Delirium slabs had a black streak in them, and we didn’t want that. They found us a great match and installed it with no problem.”

Due to Planet Granite’s excellent service, the Mutz’ also selected granite for a bar top for their finished basement, which the company was installing at the time of press.

The homeowners purchased the lot in April of 2006 and moved into the home in February of 2007. Mutz said that the stone installation took less than two days. “The whole thing went together pretty quickly,” she added. “We absolutely love it. Everything was exactly how we pictured it to turn out. The materials came together perfectly with the stainless steel appliances, which pick up the colors so well. We have gotten so many compliments on the home.”