Our Designers’ Favorite Kitchen Countertops Right Now

Contributed Blog by Jordan Fuller, Pratt Home Builders Interior Designer

Over the last few years, kitchens have become more unique and specialized because as some say, the kitchen is the heart of the home. There are so many components and aspects that go into a kitchen such as the cabinet, color palette, countertops, hardware, appliances, backsplash, and flooring. It’s a perfect place to express the essence of those who live there, and can provide a mood to tee off of the the whole-house design.

Pratt offers around 35 different countertops that range from Granite to Quartz for homeowners to choose from while they are in Design! Countertops are typically one of the main focuses within a kitchen or a bathroom that hold many different attributes which affect the way the kitchen or bathrooms are visualized. Regardless of the space, countertops are constantly used and hold high visual impact within a room.

Here are my top 5 countertops, in no particular order, that can change the look of your space and how to turn your kitchen into the heart of your home!

1. CALACATTA GOLD – QUARTZ

Calacatta Gold is our highest tier countertop we offer at the moment here in the Design Center at Pratt Home Builders. Quartz has become a major trend over the last few years in the design community due to its minimal maintenance, high scratch resistance, stain & acid resistance along with a high impact resistance as well. This quartz pairs well with just about every cabinet color we have to offer.

2. BLACK PEARL – GRANITE

Black Pearl is a beauty within itself and makes a bold statement, so it’s perfect for customers who want higher drama or a sleek look in the kitchen. This specific countertop is a granite composition which is a natural stone. Black Pearl Granite is well-loved not only for its attractive aesthetic, but also for functional properties such as easy cleanability, family friendly, high durability and a high heat resistance. Paired with a light color cabinet, this countertop will make its own first impression that is timeless and eye-catching.

3. ETERNAL STATUARIO & ETERNAL CHARCOAL – QUARTZ

Both of the quartz countertops play off of one another and compliment each other when installed in the same room. Recently one of our other designers, Rebecca, had a client that chose these two countertops for their kitchen – one for the kitchen perimeter and the other for the island. The light and delicate veining between the two contributes to create a high contrast and bold look within the kitchen once it is installed. Although the two quartz countertops stand greatly on their own, when combined, they create a unique pairing to match your personality & style for your home!

4. SIBERIA – GRANITE

With the plethora number of countertops we offer at Pratt, Siberia is one of my top choices for granite. The black speckles within the natural stone stand out against the white milky base color. My favorite design with Siberia is a white or grey cabinet with black hardware to bring out the black speckles within the granite. I have seen this done with a black kitchen / bathroom faucet or champagne bronze as well. This specific countertops speaks for itself with the luxury of also having low maintenance, a unique look and having a stain resistance protection.

5. UBATUBA – GRANITE

Here at Pratt, this specific countertop comes STANDARD with no additional charge while clients are in design. Since I have been at Pratt, this countertop has been chosen many times whether it was for a kitchen, a main bathroom or even guest bathrooms! UbaTuba is a darker granite that showcases black and brown within the stone itself. I personally love when materials and products can be viewed differently when we pair it with different surrounding finishes. One of my favorite ways to style this certain granite is with our boardwalk stained cabinet and with either black or bronze hardware / plumbing finishes. OH – and did I mention this granite is standard?

Our Designers’ Favorite Kitchen Countertops Right Nowgmwebservices2025-11-25T13:30:52+00:00

Top 2024 Home Decor Trends Combine Function and Aesthetics

The world of home furniture and decor is undergoing a transformation that embraces
both functionality and aesthetics. Here are the 2024 Home Design Trends shaping our living spaces this
year that can transform your new Pratt home into a sanctuary of style and comfort:

1. Sustainable Choices

Environmental consciousness and sustainable furniture
is more than just a trend; it’s a necessity. Expect to see an increase in eco-
friendly materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, and recycled metals. These
pieces will not only reduce our carbon footprint but also lend a unique, rustic
charm to interiors.

2. Multi-functional Designs:

With the rise of remote work and smaller living
spaces, furniture that serves multiple purposes is gaining traction. Think modular
sofas with built-in storage or coffee tables that can be transformed into work
desks. These versatile pieces maximize space without compromising on style.

3. Minimalist Aesthetics:

The mantra “less is more” continues to dominate design.
Clean lines, neutral color palettes, and clutter-free spaces are in vogue.
Minimalist decor creates serene environments that promote relaxation and
mindfulness.

4. Tech-Integrated Furniture:

Smart homes deserve smart furniture. Expect to see
pieces equipped with wireless charging pads, built-in speakers, and LED lighting.
These innovations seamlessly blend technology with design, enhancing our lives.

5. Artisanal Craftsmanship:

In an age of mass production, 2024 Home Design Trends shine a light on furniture that
stands out for its craftsmanship and authenticity. Handcrafted pieces, be it
pottery, textiles, or furniture, add a personal touch to interiors, celebrating the
human touch in every creation.

6. Biophilic Design:

Inspired by nature, biophilic design incorporates natural
elements into our living spaces. Expect to see more indoor plants, natural
textures like stone and jute, and large windows that connect interiors with the
outdoors. This trend not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also promotes well-
being by fostering a connection with nature.

7. Color Trend: Earthy Tones and Sage Green:

This year, nature dominates the color landscape. The 2024 Home Design Trends nod to earthy hues, reminiscent of tranquil forests and sandy terrains,
evoke a sense of grounding and serenity. Complementing this palette, sage
green emerges as the color du jour, infusing spaces with a refreshing,
rejuvenating vibe.

Contributed blog by Michael Turner, Owner at Huck and Peck

Top 2024 Home Decor Trends Combine Function and Aestheticsgmwebservices2024-01-18T18:19:51+00:00

Why buying New is the “new normal”

These are unprecedented times, but that doesn’t mean your plans to become a homeowner, upgrade to a larger home, or downsize to a home that makes more sense for your lifestyle have to be put on hold. In the Chattanooga market, we’ve seen a drop in inventory across the board, but here at Pratt Home Builders, business is booming. Here are a few reasons why we think new construction is the new normal.

Apprehensive Sellers

The bottom has fallen out of area inventory, and it’s understandable! Sellers are choosing to protect themselves and their families during this uncertain time as experts continue to learn more about COVID-19, but this means there are fewer resale opportunities for hopeful buyers to choose from. Many sellers don’t want to invest in remodeling and updating their homes not knowing the future. Others do not feel comfortable allowing buyers and Realtors inside their homes for the sake of their health. Job uncertainly, for some, is also contributing to putting plans on hold.

New Homes

When you buy new construction, you don’t have to worry about the history of the home. It’s new, fresh and clean! Whether you purchase a market home or choose to build, it’s sanitized and ready for you.

Customer Warranty

Little expenses can add up quickly in a resale. Sometimes these make sense when they help increase the value of the home, but other times these expenses are needed to simply maintain and prevent deterioration. The great thing about buying new construction with Pratt Home Builders is that we provide a 10 year warranty. That’s 10 years of additional expenses you get to save. Not only do you save on the materials, but you save on the labor since our warranty department will handle any repairs. It’s great peace of mind in uncertain times.

Built-in equity

When you build, you put down your deposit but you get to lock in a purchase price months before you close! This means you basically lock in a home at a lower rate than it will be by the time you close! In this dynamic market, you can most likely expect the value to continue to rise – which means in all probability, your home will be worth more when you close than you actually paid for it.

Desirable locations

So, if you’re still confident about your work, want to take advantage of lower interest rates, less competition, and essentially make money when you buy in this dynamic market, it is still a great time to consider homeownership.

Why buying New is the “new normal”gmwebservices2020-05-30T20:58:16+00:00

Design Details: Interior Doors

Interior Doors are easy to overlook – until they’re not. You know the old, hallow, orange-wood doors at Grandma’s house that match the wood paneling accent wall in their basement? Those are not the kind of statement interior doors that are breaking into 2020. We are talking about the modern and trending interior doors that everyone should be buying this year.

Sleek and simple is the name of the game at the start of this new decade, which is why we are starting with the classic stile and rail, or panel, door. These classic two, four or six paneled doors have been a popular choice since the mid-1900’s. While this style door has been around for quite a while, it is a classic style that is taking on new, leaner features that allow it to stay relevant. The panels have become much simpler over time and the ornamental details have minimized. Even the six panel doors have taken on a more modern design than they once had, giving them a step up from something trending that will be out of style in a few years. While six panel doors are still an active player in the game, the two-panel door remains the star of the show.

While it’s never a bad idea to go with a classic, sometimes the edgier, more trending interiors pull at homeowner’s heartstrings. If this is you, an exterior mounted sliding-track barn door might be right for you. This interior element acts as an architectural detail, framing cased openings as the center of attention in any room. The spotlight cannot help but shine on this feature, as it silently claims all attention.

This is not your ordinary interior door—the metal frame of the door adds an industrial look and depending on what door you choose, anything from a modern to farmhouse to traditional look can be achieved. Some opt for a rustic look to match interior farmhouse style décor. To achieve this, add a pop of Barn-wood red paint on the door or use old, reclaimed wood to tie in the rustic feel of the other interior design choices.

If your style is a little more modern or industrial, look for a two-panel shaker style door—for extra pizzazz, use glass inserts on the recessed panels of the door. Frosted glass can make a huge impact if you’re wanting something more streamline than wood but don’t want to lose the privacy of a solid door.

Interior doors are something that are easy to forget about but can make a lasting impact if the details are not overlooked. Remember when selecting interior accents and décor to find a theme or color pallet you love and can stick to long-term. This will help your home feel cohesive and well put together. Choose accents that follow similar themes, materials, textures and colors that will allow your home to host a complex environment that is layered with pieces you love. Doors are just one piece to the puzzle!

Design Details: Interior Doorsgmwebservices2025-11-25T13:33:18+00:00

How to Choose the Perfect Front Door for Your Home

Whether it’s draped in a Christmas wreath, guarded by a fun, fall-quoted mat or framed with blooming florals, your front door should be a statement when it comes to the exterior of your home. Reds, yellows, blues—oh my! The options are quite literally endless and once you add stains to the mix, it can become a little overwhelming to commit to a pallet. So how do you know what color front door is right for you? Your front door should be as individual as you are and make a statement while still tying into the rest of your home. It’s important to note the other colors and tones on the exterior of your home before sealing the deal on a paint color.

When you are looking for a refresh on an old door or just deciding which direction to go with a new one, look to the colors in the brick, siding or stone that frames your front door. Is there lots of texture and movement? Are you looking at an achromatic or monochromatic scheme? The easiest way to create a pallet is to find the colors present and pull from those. The hints of blue or red in a monotone brick are what can turn a random burst of color into a purposefully picked theme on your front porch.

When it comes to making a statement on your front porch, it’s important to keep in mind the long-term design of whatever you choose. Does your front porch receive a make-over during the holidays? If so, what color is your fall and winter décor? If you’re bouncing between themes and color pallets, you might opt for a classic stain or neutral swatch so that the façade is not dictating what décor you can use. If you routinely use one color pallet—for example, if your fall décor is made up of warm tones like reds and oranges, and your winter décor also plays off a similar bright red color—you may choose a warm-toned door. This allows your entryway to become a part of your decoration. If you want it to stand out from the color pallet you use when decorating, pick a complimentary color to play off the décor you have; however, if your Halloween pieces and Christmas wreath have no correlation, definitely go with something more transitional like a rustic grey or classic stain so that your front porch can path the way for the theme of your home.

Whatever color pallet you choose for the front of your house, let it make a statement and be the focal point as the entrance to your home. Let your creativity take flight and put your own mark on the home you love to live in.

How to Choose the Perfect Front Door for Your Homegmwebservices2025-11-25T13:34:00+00:00

Pratt Home Builders Fall Open House Weekend

We’re excited to kick off fall with an open house weekend at two of our communities! If you’re looking for a new home that’s move-in ready, look no further. These Market homes are designed by our in-house team and boast beautiful, modern finishes. Both of these homes happen to be our Lynden floor plan, which is a customer favorite, and with good reason. The Lynden offers a beautiful open concept kitchen and living room, a guest room and full bathroom on the main, a high impact entryway, and a second living area on the second floor.

Below, each community expert shares the special features about each of this weekend’s featured plans.

Our first featured home is in Boulder Pass at The Canyons in Falling Water, at 409 Stone Valley Lane.

The onsite agent, Chris, will be available this weekend to answer questions. Chris said “The Lynden home design is is situated on a larger cul-de-sac homesite with scenic views of Signal and Mowbry mountain. This traditional home is located in highly desirable Canyons neighborhood situated 15 minutes from downtown and 10 minutes from the heart of Hixson. The Lynden offers 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. Gorgeous quartz countertops and sleek grey and white tile backsplash highlight the kitchen which overlooks an airy great room featuring a wall of windows allowing a plethora of natural light. A bonus room, butlers pantry, garage storage nook and large drop zone also are popular features found in this home. Come see it Saturday or Sunday.”

The second home is convenient to downtown in the Ooltewah area, a little closer to Hamilton Place and between Chattanooga and Cleveland at 8217 River Birch Loop, Ooltewah.

The onsite expert Charlene, said “You have been looking at it online, dreaming about living in it and now you can! The stunning 4 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath Lynden model home at The Farm at Hampton Meadows is for sale! Don’t miss this great opportunity to see this one in person and make it your own. Our former model is rich with features including an oversized barnwood kitchen island, granite top butler’s pantry, tons of craftsman-style trim, coffered ceiling dining room, mudroom built-ins and sliding barn door, floor-to-ceiling stacked stone fireplace and built-in home office with finely-crafted cabinetry and butcher block wood tops. Let this home wow you at only $373,900.”

If you have any other questions about the Open House Weekend, get in touch online at prattliving.com or call 423-757-7687.

Pratt Home Builders Fall Open House Weekendgmwebservices2025-10-22T11:58:33+00:00

Magnolia Farms

The Farms at Creekside

The Trails at Freewill

Nestledown

Engel Park

Cottages at Brow Wood

The Fields at Huntley Meadows

Bainbridge

Retreat at Oakbrook

The Sanctuary at Signal Forest

The Inlet