What Are the Best Home Design Materials to Use For You?
Designing a new home is one of the most exciting parts of the building experience, but it also comes with many important decisions. From countertops and flooring to tile and exterior siding, the materials you choose greatly influence your home’s look, durability, maintenance needs, and long-term value.
At Ernest Homes, our Design Studio gives you access to thoughtfully curated standard features and beautiful upgrade options, all selected to help you build a home that fits your lifestyle, budget, and personal style.
Use this simple guide to understand the most common design materials you’ll select for your new Ernest home.
1. Kitchen Countertops
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and countertops are one of its most important design features.
Granite (Standard)
- Natural stone with unique veining
- Heat-resistant and durable
- Requires periodic sealing
Quartz (Popular Upgrade)
- Non-porous and stain-resistant
- Never needs sealing
- More color consistency and modern style
- Excellent long-term durability
Why it matters: If you cook frequently or want a low-maintenance surface, quartz is often worth the upgrade. Granite is perfect for homeowners who love the character of natural stone.
2. Bathroom Countertops
Bathrooms demand materials that can stand up to moisture, daily use, and frequent cleaning.
Laminate (Standard in Some Communities)
- Budget-friendly and versatile
- Scratch- and stain-resistant
- Available in a wide range of finishes
- Must be replaced, not repaired, if seriously damaged
Cultured Marble (Standard or First Upgrade)
- Seamless, molded vanity tops
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Provides a polished, upscale look
Quartz or Granite (Upgrades)
- Highest durability and visual appeal
- Ideal for primary baths and long-term homes
Tip: If you want a spa-like look or enhanced durability, quartz or granite creates an elevated finish in your bathrooms.
3. Flooring Options
Flooring impacts the feel, comfort, and performance of every room.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP/LVF) – Standard in Wet Areas
- Water-resistant and highly durable
- Kid- and pet-friendly
- Comes in realistic wood-look finishes
- Ideal for kitchens, baths, and laundry rooms
Tile – Upgrade
- Best for bathrooms and laundry rooms
- Easy to clean and very long-lasting
- Handles moisture and heavy use well
Hardwood – Upgrade
- Warm, classic aesthetic
- Best in living areas and bedrooms
- Not recommended in wet areas
Our recommendation: Stick with LVP or tile for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Hardwood works beautifully in living spaces but requires more maintenance.
4. Tile Selections
Choosing the right tile helps you balance style, durability, and cleanability.
Ceramic Tile (Standard)
- Affordable and versatile
- Available in many colors and patterns
- Great for walls and light-traffic areas
Porcelain Tile (Upgrade)
- Denser and more durable than ceramic
- Excellent water resistance
- Ideal for high-traffic and wet areas such as kitchens and baths
Understanding the differences between ceramic and porcelain helps you prioritize the features that matter most for your lifestyle and budget.
5. Exterior Materials
Your home’s exterior affects curb appeal, energy efficiency, and long-term maintenance.
Vinyl Siding (Standard)
- Cost-effective
- Low maintenance
- Good durability and color options
Hardie Board (Cement Siding – Upgrade)
- Superior durability and weather resistance
- Resistant to moisture, pests, and fire
- Provides a more upscale, timeless appearance
- Lower maintenance over the life of the home
If you plan to stay in your home for many years, Hardie siding is often a smart long-term investment.
Designing Your Ernest Home with Confidence
Ernest Homes offers a range of standard features and curated upgrades so you can create a home that matches your taste and lifestyle. Our experienced Design Studio team will walk you through each option, helping you choose materials that balance durability, beauty, and value.
Your dream home starts with thoughtful selections made with confidence and support.
Ready to begin? Explore our available homes and communities, or connect with our team to start designing your new Ernest home today.
