So You’re Shopping for Stone—Now What?
Thinking about upgrading your countertops or designing your dream kitchen? Walking into a stone slab showroom can be exciting—but also a little overwhelming if you’re not sure what to expect. Rows upon rows of stunning marble, granite, quartz, and porcelain in every color imaginable… it’s a lot to take in.
But don’t worry—we’re here to help you feel confident and prepared before you even walk through the doors. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a renovation regular, knowing what to look for (and what to bring) can make your showroom visit smoother and a whole lot more productive.
What You Should Bring With You
You don’t need to show up with a blueprint and a contractor on speed dial, but bringing a few key things can really help narrow down your choices:
- Photos of your current space – Cabinets, flooring, backsplash, and lighting all affect how a stone will look.
- Paint and cabinet samples – If you’ve already chosen finishes, bring samples so you can compare tones side-by-side.
- Rough measurements – Knowing your layout and square footage helps give a ballpark on price and feasibility.
- Your wishlist – Write down what you’re hoping to get from your new surface (durability, wow factor, easy maintenance, etc.)
Bonus points if you bring some inspiration pics—our team loves seeing what kind of vibe you’re going for.
What to Expect in the Showroom
The first thing you’ll notice is size—stone slabs are massive. That’s actually one of the biggest advantages of shopping in person: you get to see the full pattern, veining, and texture in real scale—not just a little corner sample.
A knowledgeable showroom team (like ours here at Architecture Stones) will guide you through:
- The differences between stone types (marble vs. quartzite vs. granite, etc.)
- The pros and cons of each surface for your lifestyle
- How natural lighting or artificial lighting might affect your final look
- The fabrication and installation timeline
And don’t be shy—ask questions! We want you to walk out of here excited and totally confident in your choice.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Give yourself enough time. This isn’t a 15-minute in-and-out kind of visit. You might fall in love with something unexpected, or you may need to compare options side-by-side before deciding. Either way, we always recommend taking a few photos of your favorite slabs and jotting down names or codes so you can revisit them later.
Ready to plan your visit to our Rockville showroom? Explore our wide variety of granite countertops, check out our curated quartz selection, or browse stunning marble slabs and countertops to spark ideas. Want to chat before stopping in? Contact us here and we’ll help you prep for a smooth, inspiring showroom experience.