By KELLEY DAUGHERTY

Special Sections Editor

When it comes to remodeling, the kitchen is the number one choice followed closely by the master bathroom. These days it seems that houses are built around the comforts and conveniences offered by these rooms.

Using natural stone for countertops, floors and furniture in the kitchen and bathroom is quickly becoming the fastest growing trend in remodeling as well as an affordable alternative to synthetic products. With remarkable durability and beauty, granite offers a 100 percent return on investment by its virtually zero maintenance cost and the additional value added to your home.

While homeowners primarily use granite in the kitchen and bathroom, NewWay USA Inc. is showing customers the wide range of possibilities. From fountains, signs and patios to fireplaces, tables and floors, NewWay President Christo Kotze shows customers anything is possible.

"Natural stone keeps on amazing you," said Mareth Kotze, who assists her husband in the selection process. "It brings people into the kitchen, where you constantly discover something new in the pattern."

NewWay can supply granite and marble in over 400 colors in a variety of textures and patterns. Granite can set a cool and country atmosphere with its bits of fossils and chalky appearance or it can create an elegant, formal room with dazzling sprays of garnet and other precious stones embedded in the rock.

Kotze moved NewWay to the United States from his home in Pretoria, South Africa in 1994 after seeing the opportunities available in America. In the granite business for over 11 years in South Africa, Kotze worked primarily on exterior fixtures and walls for businesses all over the country, including the Pretoria Civic Center as well as the Lost City resort hotel, called by many the eight wonder of the world.

Since establishing the company in Palmetto, Ga., Kotze has worked on some of the largest projects in Georgia including the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games and the Hartsfield Atlanta Airport. Furthermore, NewWay designed the kitchens and bathrooms for the Southern Accents Neiman Marcus Holiday House and the Southern Living Idea House as well as many houses locally in Kedron Hills.

Using granite has many advantages over synthetic countertops, which must constantly be protected from heat, stains and cracks. Granite is virtually scratch free, eliminating tiny grooves where dirt, bacteria and food can collect and is heat resistent allowing you take something directly from the stovetop to the countertop without damaging the surface. Furthermore, as every stone is different and NewWay offers all custom-made products, it offers variety and uniqueness.

"It's something you won't grow bored with," said Mareth. "You really will get excited about it."

Mareth also explained that NewWay is unique to other granite and marble companies because they offer a lead time on their products that is unbeatable.

Due to state-of-the-art technology, NewWay is able to produce higher quality, quickly made products to their customers.

Of course, the most important consideration when remodeling is always the price. Mareth encourages those considering new surfaces, to get a quote on a plan and to visit their showroom, where they will work within frugal budgets.

NewWay will have a booth at the Atlanta Home Show this weekend, March 25-28 at the Georgia World Congress Center.