Q&A With Cambria: Appealing to Today's Luxury Builders and Their Homeowners
September 11, 2025
Summer Kath, executive vice president of design at Cambria, is joining us today to discuss the type of builder that would consider using their products, why quartz is so popular, how quartz countertops are made, other quartz surfaces beyond countertops and what makes Cambria more appealing than other quartz surface options in the marketplace.
With over two decades at Cambria and a portfolio of over 200 innovative designs to her name, Summer leads the company's design strategy, product development and global trend direction — guiding Cambria's evolution as a design-driven brand at the forefront of surface innovation. A true tastemaker with a global perspective, Summer travels extensively to spot emerging trends and source creative inspiration. Her cross functional leadership spans not only design but also marketing, brand strategy and product positioning, bringing cohesion to Cambria’s voice across all touchpoints.
Our question and answer session is transcribed below.
Let's start out with how you would describe the type of builder that should consider using your products.
Kath: The builders who should consider Cambria are those who take pride in elevating every project — from custom luxury homes to multifamily developments — with surfaces that combine uncompromising beauty and performance. Cambria is ideal for builders who want to differentiate their work through premium materials that are timeless, durable and American-made.
Our partners are typically forward-thinking, design-driven builders who value craftsmanship, low maintenance and peace of mind for their clients. Because Cambria is non-porous, maintenance-free and backed by a transferable Full Lifetime Warranty, it gives builders confidence that their reputation will be protected long after the project is complete.
Ultimately, any builder — whether boutique or large-scale — who cares deeply about design integrity, long-term performance and delivering an elevated experience for their clients will find Cambria to be the right partner.
According to a recent survey of HomeSphere builders, nearly 85% are using quartz as a countertop material in their homes. So why is quartz so popular? How is it different from granite?
Kath: Quartz has become the material of choice because it delivers the best of both worlds — luxury design and everyday performance. Homebuyers today want spaces that are beautiful, low-maintenance and built to last. Quartz answers that need: it’s non-porous, never requires sealing, resists stains and is exceptionally durable against daily wear. That reliability saves builders callbacks and gives homeowners peace of mind.
Compared to granite, quartz offers far more consistency and design versatility. Granite is a natural stone, so it varies widely in color, pattern and porosity. It also requires regular sealing and upkeep. Cambria quartz, by contrast, provides a curated palette of sophisticated designs inspired by nature but engineered for lasting performance. Every slab is consistent, maintenance-free and backed by a transferable Full Lifetime Warranty — something granite simply can’t match.
In short, quartz has surged in popularity because it elevates the home both aesthetically and functionally, giving builders and homeowners confidence they’ve made the right choice.
And how are quartz countertops made? How are Cambria's quartz surfaces different from those of your competitors?
Kath: What sets Cambria apart is how we do it. We use only the highest-quality quartz, all surfaces are proudly made in America and every slab is subject to strict quality controls. Beyond performance, Cambria invests heavily in design innovation, offering a palette that blends natural inspiration with sophisticated artistry you won’t find elsewhere. And unlike most competitors, Cambria provides a transferable Full Lifetime Warranty and unmatched customer support.
The result: surfaces that don’t just look stunning on day one, but continue to perform and inspire for a lifetime.
The Cambria Difference. Family Owned. American Made. With fearless artistic expression, quality American craftsmanship and industry-leading innovation, Cambria transforms exceptionally pure quartz into stunning surfaces that command attention. Cambria makes the best products and they stand behind them for life — guaranteed. Visit the Cambria brand page for more information.
Hover over image below to reveal Cambria design name and click on image to enlarge for detail.
Cambria creates more than just countertops. We've heard of "quartz surfaces" as going beyond countertops. Could you share a unique, interesting or cool projects or installation Cambria has done lately?
Kath: Absolutely — while countertops are a core application, Cambria surfaces are being used in increasingly creative ways. Designers and builders are embracing quartz for full-height shower surrounds, fireplace cladding, accent walls, flooring and even custom furniture and moulding. Because Cambria is available in multiple thicknesses including 1cm, and a variety of finishes, it opens up opportunities well beyond the kitchen.
A recent favorite is a luxury primary bath retreat where Cambria’s 1cm slabs were used floor-to-ceiling in the shower for a seamless, spa-like environment — no grout lines, no maintenance. We’ve also seen stunning hospitality projects where our designs are carried from bar tops to feature walls, creating a cohesive, elevated look. These kinds of applications show how Cambria isn’t just a countertop — it’s a design material that inspires new possibilities for living beautifully.
Could you describe the process of how Cambria comes up with new designs to appeal to the discriminating eye of interior designers and luxury homeowners?
Kath: Our design process is equal parts art, science and storytelling. It begins with deep research into global design trends, architecture, fashion and even nature — seeking inspiration that resonates emotionally as well as aesthetically. We also draw heavily on direct insights from our network of designers, builders and homeowners, ensuring that each design solves real needs while sparking desire.
From there, our design and R&D teams collaborate to translate those inspirations into unique quartz patterns, testing variations in color, movement and finish until they achieve both beauty and balance. Every detail matters — vein direction, scale, depth and tone are refined until the design feels timeless yet fresh.
The result is a curated collection of surfaces that don’t just keep pace with design culture, but often set the tone for it — pieces that appeal to the discerning eye of luxury homeowners and interior designers who demand both style and substance.
Talk with us about how you draw in custom and high-end production builders who want to appeal to their homeowners. Also, how would you describe your service? Would you classify it as “white-glove”?
Kath: We attract custom and high-end production builders by giving them a product and a partnership that elevates their homes in the eyes of discerning buyers. Cambria surfaces not only deliver timeless design and maintenance-free performance, but they also reinforce a builder’s reputation for quality. Homeowners recognize Cambria as a mark of luxury, which helps our builder partners differentiate themselves in competitive markets.
Just as important as the product is the service. We pride ourselves on providing a true white-glove experience — from fast, reliable delivery to professional installation and responsive customer care. Every detail, from slab selection to warranty support, is designed to be seamless and hassle-free. Builders can trust that when they specify Cambria, they’re not just getting a surface — they’re getting a partner dedicated to making them look exceptional in front of their clients.
In what ways do you help to reduce callbacks for builders? Can you tell us more about the quality of your product?
Kath: Cambria helps reduce builder callbacks by delivering a product that’s maintenance-free, non-porous and exceptionally durable — no sealing, no staining, no surprises. And if a homeowner ever does have a question, they can call our dedicated customer care line at 1-866-Cambria, where our team provides free, responsive support. Combined with our American-made quality and transferable Full Lifetime Warranty, this ensures builders can install with confidence and know their clients are cared for long after the project is complete.
"What sets Cambria apart is how we do it. We use only the highest quality quartz, all surfaces are proudly made in American and every slab is subject to strict quality controls. Beyond performance, Cambria invests heavily in design innovation, offering a palette that blends natural inspiration with sophisicated artistry you won't find elsewhere. And unlike most competitors, Cambria provides a transferrable Full Lifetime Warranty and unmatched customer support."
Discuss your warranty with us. How can builders leverage your warranty as a selling point for their homeowners?
Kath: Cambria offers a transferable Full Lifetime Warranty, which is one of the strongest in the industry. That means if a homeowner ever has an issue, Cambria stands behind the product for life — at no cost to them. Builders can use this as a powerful selling point, showing buyers they’re not just getting a beautiful surface, but one backed by lasting protection and service. If you move out of your home, our quartz warranty stays behind with the new owners.
For builders, this warranty also reinforces trust: it helps close sales, differentiates their homes and gives buyers confidence that their investment is safeguarded. It’s more than a countertop warranty — it’s peace of mind that reflects the quality of both Cambria and the builder who chose it.
How do you attract builders and their homeowners interested in environmental consciousness and sustainability?
Kath: Builders and homeowners who value sustainability are drawn to Cambria because we take a responsible, people-first approach. All Cambria products are proudly made in America, which means shorter supply chains, rigorous environmental standards and strong community investment. Our manufacturing is certified by leading third-party organizations for sustainability, and we recycle 100% of water used in our plants.
But our commitment goes beyond the environment — it’s also social. One example we’re especially proud of is our complimentary English-language learning program for non-English speaking employees, which creates career and personal opportunities and empowers our team members. For builders and homeowners, choosing Cambria means not only getting a surface that will last a lifetime, but also supporting a company that cares about its people and its footprint.
Let’s quickly summarize why custom and higher-end production builders should look at Cambria. And what are the benefits that the builder can highlight when selling to their homeowners?
Kath: For custom and higher-end production builders, Cambria is a way to elevate every home with a product that blends beauty, performance and peace of mind.
Builders can highlight that Cambria surfaces are:
- Luxury design – a curated palette of nature-inspired, timeless looks.
- Maintenance-free – no sealing, staining, or special upkeep.
- American-made quality – crafted under strict standards with reliable availability.
- Unmatched support – a transferable Full Lifetime Warranty and dedicated customer care at 1-866-Cambria.
The result is confidence for the builder and confidence for the homeowner — an upgrade that enhances both the value of the home and the reputation of the builder.
Cambria Quartz Installation Process
- Measurement: A Cambria technician will take detailed measurements of your space.
- Countertop Customization: Based on the measurement data, Cambria technicians will create a custom blueprint for your countertops.
- Countertop Installation: A professional team will deliver and install your Cambria countertops, which have been expertly packaged for safe transit.
The inspiration behind Cambria's quartz designs.
Interested in using Cambria?
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