Marble

Take White Macedonia, a lovely marble whose white base is softly crisscrossed with a brush stroke-like pattern of greys. White marble is being used more and more in kitchens, to beautiful effect. However, the kitchen countertop is regularly exposed to acids and other corrosive elements. In that situation, a marble like White Macedonia would require a little extra care to stay in tip-top shape. But as a bathroom countertop, this classic marble would require minimal care. Whether in an interior room or in a room with an outside wall with extensive natural light, a white marble like White Macedonia would impart a lightness and airiness to the bathroom without sacrificing solidity.

Onyx

Onyx is another show stopping stone that is well-suited to bathroom use. Our golden-hued Coffee Onyx slab, for example, imparts the feeling of luxury in a way that only gold truly can. As onyx is slightly more porous and prone to staining than other natural stones, it can be put to excellent use as an accent feature, bathroom vanity or similar project. Seeing the beauty of onyx, a stone that often has a translucent, glowing appearance, is a reminder that sometimes it is better to do one thing with excellence than to do many things adequately well. Just because a beautiful stone might need extra TLC in one area of the house is no reason to write it off forever– save it for the room where it will be the perfect fit for your lifestyle!

In this way, choosing natural stone for your bathroom countertop affords you a new breadth of possibility. The lighter demands of typical daily use of bathroom countertops mean that your personal taste need not be constrained, whereas in high-trafficked, hard-use areas like the kitchen, the maintenance needs of different stones must be more of a consideration. Minimal effort will be required to maintain the beauty of your natural stone bathroom countertop. Marble and onyx are just two examples of beautiful natural stones that can be used to up the luxury factor of your bathroom.

For more ideas about how natural stone can become a focal point of your bathroom, visit our design blog or arrange a visit with one of our design specialists in Doral. There is a perfect natural stone for any space.

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Your bartop should be durable, pleasing to the eyes, and should suit your style. From marble to granite and everything in between, there is no shortage of great stone selections for bartops.

Entertaining guests is your main goal when it comes to your bar, which makes the design of your space key to creating the perfect ambiance. Create the right atmosphere with these great stone selections for bartops.

Quartz Stone for Bar Countertops

Quartz countertops have amazing qualities that make them a great stone selection for your bartop. Quarts is an attractive stone that can come of sleek and chic, regal and elegant, or colorful and bold. Similar to granite, Quartz is a strong, durable natural stone that holds up against spills, hard drops, and won’t chip or crack easily. It is non-porous, making it a great choice for resisting stains. Being non-porous also means it will not harbor any bacteria and will be easier to clean.

Benefits of Granite Bartops

Granite is one of the great stone selections for bartops, since it is sanitary, stain resistant (when sealed), and incredibly durable. This makes it perfect for indoor or outdoor use. Another great thing about using granite for your bartop is the wide variety of colors available. This means you can make your counters as bold or as elegant as you like.

In this Boca Raton residence, Marmol used the stunning Volga Blue granite slab to create drama and visual interest in the outside bar:

Exquisite Marble Bartops

There is an unmistakable class and elegance that is created when you introduce marble into any space. It has an unmatched beauty and wide stone selection. Marble is a cool natural stone, making it listed as a heat resistant stone. It will not burn or catch fire. Marble is also durable when sealed and will last a lifetime when properly cared for.
When decorating a Boca Raton getaway home, Marmol chose the beautiful Bamboo marble slab in the home sports bar so the owners could entertain guests in style. Marble adds immense visual interest and looks sleek and polished in any space.
Whether your bar is commercial or a home entertainment area, choosing from our great stone selections for bartops will make all the difference in the look of your space. Come see our selection of over 250 different styles of natural stones in our catalog and start dreaming of your perfect bar.

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Granite, marble, and travertine all have their own benefits. From being heat resistant and perfect for high-traffic areas to simply having unmatched beauty. There are plenty of reasons to consider the pros and cons of different natural stones before starting your design project.

Today we’re talking about which stone is right for you and your lifestyle/space, granite, marble, or travertine?

Is Marble the Stone You’re Looking For?

Marble is a timeless natural stone that was used in many famous structures, such as the Taj Mahal. Its appearance is unmistakable, with a smooth base and deep veining. Marble looks crisp, elegant, clean, and timeless. It is a hard, durable stone that can be used in high-traffic areas so long as it is well maintained over the years with regular sealing. This stone has many uses in the home, such as flooring, backsplashes, and most popularly in countertops.

Marble has a luxurious appearance that makes it highly appealing to designers. Marble tile is considered to be high-maintenance in comparison to other natural stones. It is a porous stone which means it must be sealed to retain its appearance. This means you must wipe up spills immediately and avoid acidity on or around the counters so that they do not stain or etch.

Using Travertine in the Home

If you are looking for a stone is looks majestic, rustic, or classic and hold up in high-traffic areas, travertine is for you. Travertine is one of the oldest materials in the world. This stone gives a sense of prestige to any home in inhabits.

Travertine is a highly durable stone, making it perfect for flooring. Unlike some other natural stones, the weathering effects of time give travertine a distinct, attractive appearance. That said, Travertine is a porous stone, which means you may decide to seal it to ensure it is protected from scratches and water damage. Travertine retains temperature and is easy to repair.

Granite as your Natural Stone Choice

If you’re looking for a durable, long-lasting tile that is aesthetically pleasing, look no further than granite. This stone comes in a wide array of colors and patterns, making it completely customizable for any space.

Since granite is so durable, it can be used in counters, bathrooms, backsplashes, or floors without a second thought. Granite is also great for installing by the pool or on the porch since it will not fade under sun exposure. Like most other natural stones, sealing this stone regularly will help keep it looking lustrous and will protect it from damage.

The post Granite, Marble or Travertine: Which Stone is Right for You? appeared first on Marmol.

When it comes to home flooring, choosing the right material for the right room can seem daunting. With so many options to choose from, all with their own unique pros and cons, your choices can get overwhelming.

If you need help narrowing down which natural stone floor is the right material for the right room, look no further. Here is everything you need to know about decorating with natural stone flooring.

Natural Stone Kitchen Flooring

Your kitchen is likely one of the most high-traffic areas in your home. Spills, heat, and splatter from the oven and plenty of movement at you kitchen table make durable floors a must. Marble floors give your kitchen a stunning appearance, but they will be a lot of work to maintain in such a busy room.

You may choose to opt for more durable flooring such as granite or the popular choice of limestone flooring. These materials may still be porous and require sealing before use.

Bathroom Flooring Options

Natural stone gives any room an automatic air of luxury. You may think that natural stone is too porous to be used, but the truth is any natural stone can be installed in a restroom or shower so long as it is sealed and properly maintained. One of the best natural stone for a bathroom floor is granite. While no natural stone is entirely waterproof, granite is a dense stone that is less susceptible to absorbing water. It is also easy to clean, which is a bonus for bathroom maintenance.

Remember that acidity from bathroom accidents and water splashes from the sink and shower mean that your granite floors should be cleaned regularly and sealed for protection.

Right Materials for Your Basement Floor

So long as they are sealed, natural stone is perfect for your basement floor since it is attractive, hard, and durable. Granite is a great choice for a basement floor since it reflects light and makes your room look brighter and can withstand heavy traffic. Granite is also easy to clean. Sealed marble is also beautiful in a basement, giving it an expansive and luxurious feel.

Remember that with any natural stone that is frequently exposed to moisture, you will need to provide regular maintenance. This means wiping up any spills, not using acidic products on the stone, and having it sealed regularly to ensure luster and shine stay brilliant.

Outdoor Natural Stone Flooring

Travertine is a great choice for outdoor natural stone flooring. This stone has the beautiful appearance of marble without as much work. Travertine tiles and pavers are often found by outdoor pools since, when unpolished, have a high friction grip. This is perfect to prevent slipping.

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Using columns in your home doesn’t have to be gaudy or overpowering. There are simple tricks to make columns look regal and modern. Our newest blog post is showing off our favorite tips for using marble columns in home design and making your home feel like your personal palace.

Creating a Grandiose Atmosphere                                                     

Using columns as an architectural feature has endless possibilities. For example, properly structuring marble columns in home design is a great way to create a grand atmosphere. Place two marble columns on either side of your entryway (pictured above) to create height and dimension to your space.

Designate Open Concept Space with Marble Columns

One of the classic designs for marble columns is to make them a part of your walls. You will often see this when two marble columns create an archway in the home. This gives your home a fantastically European atmosphere with rounded entryways and strong columns. Columns are a great choice for those with open-concept living, since it will help designate space without creating a solid wall. For example, placing four marble columns around the kitchen space in an open concept home will help designate an eating area.

Bold and Understated – The choice is yours

Many think that using marble columns in home design automatically means making a bold statement in your home. This isn’t always the case. Using small marble columns by closets, entryways, or in an expansive living room actually fills space.

You can vary the level of boldness that your columns bring out by the marble that you choose. For example, using the Moda White marble gives an ambiance of elegance that is understated due to its smooth design, whereas choosing a marble like the boldly veined Calacatta will create a true focal piece that will steal the show.

Styling a space using marble columns in home design creates a sophisticated, stylish look. Creating a plan for how you would like to use marble in your home will ensure that you will appreciate the grace and beauty your columns bring for years to come.

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Marble is a great choice for those looking to brighten up their dark stairwells. This stone is bright and inviting with unique veining that will add charm and elegance to any atmosphere.

Mohs Hardness Scale is used to determine how strong and durable various natural stones are. Diamonds, for example, come in at 10 being the hardest material, while marble (or calcite) comes in at a 3 or 4. Considering this, is there any reason to hesitate?

So, is there any reason why you wouldn’t want to use marble for stairways? There are certainly things to consider. Here is the best marble to use for stairways and how to ensure your stone remains durable in high traffic areas.

Versatile Marble

Aside from its aesthetic appeal, marble is a versatile stone that can be used nearly everywhere in the home, business, or office. You can use marble for kitchen counters, floors, showers, backsplashes, fireplace surrounds and of course, staircases. But, is it wise to use such a high-maintenance stone in a high-traffic area like a staircase?

Be Committed

It is natural for marble to age over time and change appearance, but you can slow down this aging process by taking good care of your stone. If you are using marble for a stairway you must be committed to keeping up with the maintenance. Because marble is porous, you must be quick to clean up any spills so that it does not stain the stone. Keep acidic liquids away from marble to avoid any etching. Sealing or polishing marble after installation can also help protect it from the elements.

The Best Marble to use for a Stairway

Is one form of marble better or stronger than another? Besides the color and veining, there is very little difference from one marble to the next when it comes to durability. If you are worried about etching, choose darker marbles such as Marmol’s Obsidian marble. While these slabs will likely not be more resistant to etching than, say, Carrara marble, the dark tones will hide them better.If you are consistent with your cleaning and keep a healthy view that marble will have an organic, ever-changing appearance you’ll be good as gold.

Marble is an excellent choice to bring out the best in any stairwell. If you are consistent with your cleaning and keep a healthy view that marble will have an organic, ever-changing appearance you’ll be good as gold. Have some decor ideas of your own? Share with us @marmolexportusa.

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Various types of marble will all give your room a slightly different look, as each has its own unique color and veining. No two slabs of marble are going to appear the same, even if they are the same type. This is one of the reasons having marble in your home can make it feel so opulent – It’s refined and unique to your space. All you have to do is decide which one is for you.

We’re showing you the differences between three classic marble types – Carrara, Calacatta, and Statuario marble.

Carrara

Appearance: Carrara marble has soft veining and is takes on a blue-gray appearance. The gray background of this marble shows off subtle gray flecks and feathery, linear veining.  In comparison to other marbles, Carrara has a more subtle appearance.

Origin: True to its name, Carrara marble is quarried in northern Tuscany, Italy, in the city of Carrara. The Apuan Alps have more than 600 quarry sites for Carrara marble. That is more than any other marble quarry in the world!

Application: Various well-known monuments and statues were created with Carrara marble, such as Michelangelo’s David, the Pantheon and London’s Marble Arch. Aside from its structural uses, modern applications for the stone include wall panels, flooring, stairways and countertops.

Availability: Marmol carries Bianco Carrara marble in both honed and polished finishes. It’s available in the following sizes: 12”x12”, 16”x32”, 18”x18”, 24”x24”, 24×36, 36”x36” and 3/4″ Slab. Set up a showing.

Calacatta

Appearance: Calacatta marble has a pure white background with gorgeous, dramatic gold and gray veining. Calacatta does not follow a linear pattern and is often considered one of the most luxurious and pure marbles in appearance. If you’re looking for a heavy veining, this choice is much bolder than Carrara marble, with thicker and larger patterns.

Origin: This marble is also quarried in Carrara, Italy. This location causes confusion between Calacatta and Carrara marble, since they are quarried in the same region.

Application: Calacatta is a classic look for residential and commercial applications, like its use as elegant floor tiles, countertops and backsplashes.

Availability: Marmol carries Calacatta marble in a polished finish. It’s available in the following sizes: 12”x12”, 12”x24”, 18”x18”, 24”x24”, 36”x36” and 3/4″ Slab. Set up a showing.

Statuario

Appearance: Statuario marble is a more exclusive stone with distinct gray and gold veining throughout and a striking, bold pattern. This marble is considered to be one of the major white marbles. Statuario marble contains heavy, bold gray veining mixed with thinner patterns.

Origin: Statuario marble is also quarried in Italy. The mountain quarries of Statuario marble are located above Carrara. Statuario has limited availability and high demand. The low availability of this marble makes it more of a rare find.

Application: Statuario marble is an ideal stone for indoor applications such as kitchen countertops and backsplashes, bathroom vanities, and floor tiles. Statuario marble should not be used for exterior applications.

Availability: Marmol carries Statuario marble in a polished finish. It’s available in the following sizes: 12”x12”, 18”x18”, 24”x24”, 36”x36” and 3/4″ Slab. Bookmatched slabs also available. Set up a showing.

Note that regardless of the type of marble you decide to use in your space, all marbles should be sealed before use to reduce the appearance of stains and sustain the integrity of the stone. Light scratching will also occur with all marbles mentioned. Since marble is a natural stone it will age and change with time.

Which is more your style – Carrara, Calacatta, Statuario or another marble pick? Share with us @marmolexportusa.

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There are dozens of clever fall decorating ideas to spruce up your home for the season, but what if you want that warm and cozy look all year-round? Embracing fall colors with beautiful tiles and slabs is one way to add this gorgeous look to your space no matter the season.

Whether you’re looking for a complete floor overhaul or a new kitchen countertop, fall-colored stones are a breathtaking way to add color and warmth to any room of the house. Check out four of our favorite fall-colored stones.

Reds

Have you ever noticed how red brings instant boldness to any room? Marmol’s Rojo Alicante marble stone brings depth and class to your space. This polished stone has a heritage appeal that will remind you of apple picking in autumn. Use this gorgeous stone as an accent floor tile or as a slab on your kitchen countertop for a rustic chic look.

Oranges

From crisp, changing leaves to bright pumpkins, orange is one of the most recognizable fall colors. This bold color choice adds instant warmth to any space. Choose beautifully marbled finished to add depth and interest to any room, like with this orange translucent quartz slab from our OKITE Translucent Collection. The orange slab is the perfect addition to a bar top or other wow-worthy location with its backlit feature and bright colorful pop.

If you’re looking for the fun of decorating with fall colors without being too bright and bold, simply pair your orange tiles or slabs with other warm neutrals such as natural wood, beige, and white accents.

Browns

Another way to decorate with fall colors is to go the brown route. This classic hue makes for a modern finish to any surface. Keep your style classic and trendy by matching chocolate browns against contrasting white accents for a clean and sleek look. Our Eramosa marble slab is the perfect addition to any room with its polished, textured appearance. Use this stone with other fall colors such as warm beige, copper, and muted reds to really make your room stand out.

Golds

When we think gold, we think opulent riches and you can be sure the rich fall color of gold tiles and slabs will take any room from boring to breathtaking. Pair our gold tiles, such as Coffee Onyx or Madura Gold granite with rich browns to make a modern and chic looking space. Using a texture tile will break up any monotony and add a modern appeal to your kitchen or bathroom space.

Pumpkin orange, rustic red, and beautiful brown and gold hues are all fantastic colors to decorate your home with that scream fall and look great year-round. Spruce up your space and get ready for fall decorating with our gorgeous autumn inspired stones.

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White on white continues to dominate in trends for home design due to its clean and minimalistic approach.

This style can be used in any room of the house to create a crisp and classic style. White is also versatile and can go with any style from antique to modern.

Are you ready to make your home fashion forward? We’re looking at trendy tips on how to decorate your home with the perfect white on white space.

Choose the Right Wall Color

Your base white is going to be the white paint you choose for your walls. You’ll want to be picky when it comes to this color, as something with gray undertones may look too muddy and a bright white may make your room look to stark or sterile. Choose a fantastic middle ground white such as Cotton, Eggshell, or Honeymilk. These colors have warm undertones that will make your room feel both bright and inviting. These are the perfect white shades to build your room around.

Don’t Stick to One Shade

White rooms shouldn’t feel cold; rather, they should feel inviting and homey. You can accomplish this look by playing with all different shades of white. Don’t be afraid to use pale grays and ivory tones in the same room. Stark, solid white accent pieces, such as a vase or lamp, can really pop against a creamy white background. Mix up your shades to make your room feel fresh and comfortable.

Play With Textures

Since you’re decorating with the same color scheme, it’s important to play with textures to keep visual stimulation. This will prevent your room from looking dull or drab. Create visual interest by using different textures and patterns. Examples of this would be a white shag carpet, white painted brick walls, smooth or metallic decor, and even gorgeous marble tiles.

Marble veining is a big style trend for fall 2016. Use natural marble tile as accent pieces in your room to add depth and elegance to your white on white space.

Gallery Walls Take Center Stage

Art galleries are usually white in color. This is because it allows the artwork to shine as the focal piece of the room. Mirror this effect by using your white walls to create a beautiful gallery. Hang abstract prints, watercolor art, or your favorite quotes in eclectic and embellished frames to create a beautiful gallery wall in your home. This is also a great way to incorporate pops of color into your white on white room.

White on white is a gorgeous decorating trend no matter what room you’re styling. Follow our tips to create the perfect lived-in room with a modern twist.

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Remodeling your bathroom is an exciting time. Whether you’re doing a complete overhaul or something more modest, this is the time to decide what your space says about you. These are four ways to incorporate natural stone into your bathroom

Natural Stone Flooring

There’s something majestic about using natural stone flooring in your washroom. Classic marble may be your first choice when it comes to decorating your bathroom. And why shouldn’t it be? Marble, like White Wood, gives off an immediate air of opulence with its classic look. Just make note of its tendency to absorb liquids (think hair dye, colored soap, or shampoos) and potential upkeep.

As an alternative, stones like travertine or limestone are both excellent choices for natural stone bathroom floors, as they come in a wide variety of colors and designs. Both are durable, strong, and is dense, meaning they can stand up to heavy traffic and spills in your restroom. Choose classic Travertino Antico for a polished look or make a stunning statement with Fantasy Blue limestone tiles.

Stone Countertops

Make a splash with your countertops and use beautiful stone to highlight your faucet and oversized bathroom mirror. While marble may be a little too high maintenance for your flooring, the low traffic area of the bathroom counter would be much easier to care for. Be sure to seal and regularly clean your marble countertops.

For a more durable stone with just as much elegance, try using a striking quartzite, like Ice Quartz, or a bold granite, like Black Absolute.

Luxurious Bath Tiles

One way to add a splash of elegance to your bathing area is to incorporate natural stone in your bath tile, or the area around your shower. Not only will this add an air of sophistication to the room, it also stands out as a great focal piece. Gorgeous marble, travertine, and limestone also look magnificent as a backdrop for a glass shower.

An Accent Wall

If you love the look of a natural stone slab, why not let it be the focal point of your bathroom space? For symmetry and elegance, opt for a bookmatched marble slab, like Statuario. Bookmatched slabs are cut in a way that the two sides are mirrored like each other. This look is ideal for a luxurious statement piece in any bathroom space.

No matter what your style or budget, natural stone options provide you with a variety of patterns and looks that are sure to be a perfect fit for your bathroom. To see more of Marmol’s available stones, visit our catalog.

The post Ways to Incorporate Natural Stone into Your Bathroom appeared first on Marmol.

Whether you’re focused on getting clean, or soaking up the bubbles with a good book, your bathroom is where you go for absolute relaxation.

A great master bathroom should feel like a luxurious spa getaway right in your own home.

From luxe options to affordable accents, you can make your bathroom into the calming sanctuary you’ve always dreamed of. Turn your master bathroom into relaxation central by learning these four essentials for a luxurious master bathroom.

A Luxurious Shower or Bath

When it comes to designing a luxurious master bath, your tub and shower are going to make all the difference. When you go for a bath, you want to make sure your whole body can become immersed in the water. Jet or claw-footed tubs add that extra elegance to any bathing area.

High-end homes are decked out with amazing ‘mood reading’ showers that radiate different colored lights, sounds, and scents to give you the most opulent shower of your life. However, for those with a more modest budget, simply swapping out your standard shower head for a contemporary (and and more affordable) rain shower or pulse shower head is sure to turn your otherwise ordinary shower into a relaxing oasis. Once you have a faux rain forest shower, you’ll never go back.

An Elegant Taste of Marble

When it comes to class, you can never go wrong with marble. Ever. Whether you’re looking to do a sleek and elegant tub surround, create a modest vanity top, or want the full luxury experience of marble shower walls, this natural stone has your back. The beautiful creamy texture and hypnotizing veining can make any room look extraordinary. Polished marble can be slippery in bathrooms, due to the likely wet floor. When choosing marble for your master, choose a matted finish for safety and style.

Good Things Come in Doubles

His and her sinks are a great and easy way to add an air of class to your master bathroom. A chic double vanity, with elements like modern vessel sinks and waterfall faucets, gives you the feeling of your own personal space, adds style to the bathroom and certainly doesn’t hurt your home’s market value. If space doesn’t allow for two sinks, invest in a large gorgeous mirror above the sink to give the illusion of a larger master bath.

Go Green

One of the easiest ways to add that spa-like feel to your master bathroom is by adding greenery. Choose plants, like peace lily and aloe, that double as air purifiers in your home. The neutral colors of the plants can create a soothing atmosphere, while the plants themselves can reduce the number of toxins in the air.

These essentials for a luxurious master bathroom will take your boring bath to a relaxing sanctuary in just a few steps. Exercise your love for remodeling and make your master bath into a spa retreat you’ll love to show off.

The post Essentials for a Luxurious Master Bathroom appeared first on Marmol.

There are many tiling options available for every room of your house. No matter what look you’re going for, there are endless colors, sizes, and styles – but, where do you start?

You can update your room in an instant with new flooring, but there are several things to consider, like the area of the home your tiles are going in and what materials you wish to use. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting your next floor tile.

Where are you Laying Tile?

There are several considerations before choosing your dream tile. The material you choose must be suitable for the room which you’re redoing the flooring for. For example, if you are laying tile in a bathroom, know that a polished finish will likely be too slippery for a space that will endure wet floors. On the other hand, if you are laying tile in the kitchen, you’ll want to choose a stone material that will withstand food and drink spills, as well as potential heat damage.

Kitchen Tile Ideas

Whether you consider yourself a master chef, or a less-than-skilled artist in the kitchen, your flooring is going to want to stand up against a lot of culinary abuse. Dropped pots, hot water, stains and spills are just some of the common habits of a kitchen-dweller. Because of this, you’re going to want to choose a durable tile. Anything from granite and slate to travertine and limestone will work for durability. Marble can also be a good choice if you’re quick to clean the occasional spill.

Bathroom Tile Ideas

When it comes to your bathroom, choose durable tiles that are easy to clean and feel great on your feet, such as limestone. Floor space plays a part in choosing a proper tile for any room in your house. For example, oversized travertine tile appears sleek and chic in a living room, but it doesn’t garner the same results when your bathroom can only fit in two of the tiles. Smaller sized floor tiles, like intricate cement tiles, are great space-pleasers and look great in any size bathroom. Marble is also a classic and luxurious choice for bathroom floors, and will add a hint of opulence to the space – just be sure to get a more matted finish to avoid slippery floors.

Living Room Tile Ideas

When it comes to living room flooring options, there are plenty. Neutral-colored tiles, like Crema Europa limestone, are typically a big hit, as they can coordinate well with any type of existing décor, as well as flooring that may already exist in other rooms. Unlike bathroom floors, the living room is where you’ll want to place larger sized tiles in order to give the appearance of a more spacious room. Be sure to regularly sweep or vacuum natural stone tiles in high traffic areas like your living room in order to prevent dulling.

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There are many different kinds of marble you can use in your home, with white marble being a classic selection. All marble types have their own beautiful intricacies and various purposes depending on where and how they’ll be used in a space.

Marble is a calcium rich natural stone, meaning it continues to change over time with use, adding character to the piece. This can be most obvious with white marble, as imperfections are more visible. When taken care of, it can remain in tip-top shape, preserving its unique personality while still looking luxurious. For those looking to add white marble into their home, take a look at these 6 different types of marble and their best uses.

Carrara Marble

This popular white marble has a clean look with its subtle gray hues. You can spot Carrara marble by looking at the type of veining contrasted against the white/light gray background, as it’s typically thin, linear and feathery versus dark, sharp and bold. Some of the best uses for this white marble include countertops, backsplashes, fireplaces, shower walls, and tile flooring. See Marmol’s Bianco Carrara marble.

Calacatta Marble

This classic Italian marble comes from a quarry in Carrara, Italy, making it one of the more valuable and favored white marble stones. More dramatic-looking than Carrara, this marble takes on a warm white tone and contains a mixture of beige/gold and grey veins that vary in size. Calacatta marble is typically used for kitchen or bathroom countertops, fireplace surrounds, large tiled floors, wall slabs and backsplashes. See Marmol’s classic Calacatta, Calacatta Cremo and Calacatta Vagli.

Statuario Marble

Statuario marble contains the subtle gray hues found in Carrara with similar gray veining that you’ll find in Calacatta slabs. This stone is a very bright white in color, also making it incredibly valuable. While Statuario is haled in Italy for being the perfect marble for carving statues, it is also a highly sought after material for residential and commercial projects. This white marble works beautifully as a large tile option, countertop slab or bookmatched backsplash or wall panel. See Marmol’s Statuario and Statuario Venato.

Thassos Marble

Thassos marble is crystal white in color and comes from the island Thassos in Greece. This marble is distinguished by its almost glowing, sparkling appearance. Popular even in ancient times, Thassos marble is excellent for reflecting light and brightening up a space. The simple color palette of this white marble makes it suitable for various home design styles, with the ability to contrast or complement an existing scheme. The polished white marble is best used for kitchen and bathroom countertops, as well as tiled floors. See Marmol’s Thassos marble.

Mystery White Marble

Mystery white is a marble stone has been used for centuries. The white marble gives off a clean and pure look with its white background and cream-colored veining throughout. This marble looks soft and is ideal for those who love the appearance of marble, but prefer a lighter contrast in their marble veining. Mystery White can be used for countertops, tub surrounds, bathroom spaces, and more. See Marmol’s Mystery White marble.

White Himalaya Marble

This other Greek marble, White Himalaya (or Volakas), has similar characteristics to Carrara. The veins of White Himalaya marble can range from gray and brown to slightly purple-colored hues, all atop the solid white background. This marble definitely makes a statement and can be used for bathrooms floors and countertops, wall panels, tub surrounds and waterfall kitchen islands. See Marmol’s White Himalaya and White Himalaya Spider stones.

 
 
 
 
 
There are many different marbles to choose from when designing your countertops, backsplashes, floors, and more. To get expert help on which stone is best for your space, speak with one of our Design Specialists.

The post Types of White Marble and Their Best Uses appeared first on Marmol.

Your choice of a natural stone kitchen countertop should actually make your life easier in the long run. Not only will you have a chic and stylish kitchen area, but choosing the right stone will make care and maintenance in your kitchen a breeze. Unsure which natural stone is right for your kitchen countertop? We’re here to help.

There are many different luxurious stone countertops that would work perfectly for your kitchen. We’re helping you narrow down your search by showing you 4 natural stone kitchen countertops that make for a functional and stylish space.

Popular Granite

Granite is one of the most popular stone kitchen counter options. Not only is this high-end surface visually stunning, its hard texture makes it impervious to scratches. Granite comes in a wide variety of patterns and colors, is cost-effective, durable, and widely available. These are just some of the reasons why granite has become a favorite for kitchens across the world. These points aside, Granite is a porous stone, meaning to get the most out of this stone kitchen countertop option you will want to have your counter properly sealed to avoid stains and damage. See which granite countertop is best for your kitchen here.

Quartz Kitchen

Quartz countertops are absolutely trending for kitchen countertops. Not only does quartz offer a sleek finish in a large selection of colors, it is also highly durable. Unlike many other stone kitchen countertops quartz is a non-porous surface, meaning it is resistant to stains, heat damage, and scratches. Quartz does not need to be sealed and is a highly recommended countertop for those looking for stylish, low-maintenance kitchen. Browse our collection of quartz slabs.

Marble Countertops

Who doesn’t feel luxurious when setting their hands on an ever-so-elegant and beautifully made marble countertop? Used in palaces across the world, marble is world renowned for its rich appearance and the luxurious style it can bring to any room. If you’re looking to fool your guests into thinking your kitchen was taken right out of a Miami mansion, then a beautiful marble countertop is for you. That being said, marble is susceptible to scratches and stains and requires a little more maintenance than other stone countertops. Sealing and regular maintenance a must to keep it looking pristine. Fall in love with marble countertops by checking out our catalog here.

Quartzite – Not to be confused with Quartz

Love the look of marble but want something with a little more resistance to it? Much like quartzite’s cousin quartz, this natural stone countertop is created strong with the ability to resist chips, heat, scratches, and other damage. Quartzite is a durable choice that can contains veining that closely resembles the luxe appearance of marble. See our quartzite collection.

Looking for more natural stone options for your kitchen counter? Browse through Marmol’s stone selections for even more beautiful options.

Your kitchen should feel uniquely you and your countertop is no different. Choose a countertop that is most efficient for your space, reflects your style and makes your job easier in the kitchen. For more expert help on deciding on the right natural stone countertop for your kitchen, get in touch with one of our Design Specialists.

The post Which Natural Stone is Right for Your Kitchen Countertop? appeared first on Marmol.

Luckily, the beauty of home design and remodeling is that you don’t have to choose just one style.

There are many ways you can coordinate different flooring options throughout your home to make your space feel a continuous work of art. From the master bedroom to the laundry room, the kitchen, or your home gym, the rooms in your house serve differing purposes and styles, so why should the floors all be the same?

Here are 4 tips on how to have fun with your remodel and coordinate practical flooring options for your gorgeous new house.

1. Appropriate Use of Flooring

When it comes to designing your home, there are many different types of flooring to choose from. Natural stone tiles (like those in Marmol’s catalog), gorgeous wood flooring, carpet, and cement all have their own special place and use in your home. For example, cement flooring is ideal for your laundry room for drainage purposes. Carpeting will work great for turning cold and drafty basements into inviting modern spaces. And natural stone flooring, like marble, adds a clean and luxurious feel to kitchens, bathrooms and living areas.

2. Creating Continuity

When it comes to covering a large living space, stick with the same type of flooring. For example, if your wish is to mix marble tiles with wood floors, make sure you’re not also mixing different wood types or different marble types. Using the same two types of flooring in the appropriate spaces will add continuity to your home.

3. Carefully Choose Your Hues

While you can definitely blend different textures together, be mindful of how the colors will match up with one another. For example, choosing for a dark hardwood floor to line up against a stark white tile may be a jarring sight that’s better left avoided. One way to make sure that your mixed flooring options will flow smoothly throughout your home is to choose tiles and wood that have the same undertones. If you are choosing a dark hardwood, be sure that your matching tiles have a beige or brown hue that will seamlessly blend the textures together.

4. The ‘Less than Three’ Rule

Having more than two different types of floors colliding with one another is confusing to the eyes and may make your space seem cluttered or mismatched. When making your design choices, do not exceed more than two different types of material per floor of your home.

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Not only is it luxe, attractive, and easy to clean, it also goes with nearly any color or texture you could ever want in your house. Whether you’ve just bought your first house, or you’re looking to redecorate and re-sell, marble will add high market value to your home.

This durable stone can be used for flooring, countertops, outside patio walkways, and even as tiles in your shower. Still not sure if marble flooring is for you? While your interest may be piqued, there may still be some things you don’t know about marble options. Here are 5 facts to know about marble flooring.

1. Marble is found in many famous structures

Marble has been used for centuries in various structures and buildings. This beautiful stone was a sign of prominence and wealth, making it even more fitting that it was used in many famous structures.

The Taj Mahal was constructed entirely out of gorgeous marble – an expensive mausoleum, to say the least! The Taj was commissioned by Shah Jahan as a tomb for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is estimated that it took more than 20 years to fully complete and cost 23 million rupees (over $800 million USD) to build. The Taj Mahal has rightly been a wonder of the world ever since.

The Taj Mahal wasn’t the only famous structure to take luxe and opulence from the marble stone. The Greek Bust of Artemis, Washington Monument, Supreme Court Building, The Duomo Cathedral in Florence and so many other architectural wonders also employed the use of marble.

2. Limestone is used to make marble

While you’re right in thinking that marble is a natural stone, the truth is it actually comes from metamorphosed dolomite or limestone rock. Limestone is a fascinating rock. If you’ve ever seen stalagmites or stalactites formed in deep caves – that’s limestone! Limestone comes in a variety of colors, can be beneficial for animal diet, and becomes metamorphic marble once it has been processed through intense heat and pressure.

3. Marble is durable and easy to clean

If you’re looking for a floor that looks gilded and clean without having to put much effort into upkeep, marble flooring may be for you. Homebuyers are often surprised at the ease the care and maintenance of owning a marble floor. Marble floors are a breeze to clean, and if they are polished correctly won’t hold stains or scratches, making it a favored flooring option for public buildings such as libraries and government buildings.

4. Impurities give marble its unique colors

Impurities such as sand, silt, clay, and iron oxides are what create these beautiful impurities. These create layers and patterns within the stone. Different colors can be attributed to different characteristics of the rock. For example, if there are shades of green found within your marble, this was a sign that there was a high level of magnesium in the limestone before it became marble.

5. Marble flooring is hypoallergenic

Do you suffer from allergies? This can make all the difference when you are selecting a floor for a remodel. Those with allergies, asthma, or other breathing problems may have a hard time with carpeting or certain kinds of wood. Unlike fibrous carpets which hold in hairs, dust and dirt, marble flooring has a non-porous finish that sends allergens packing. Also, unlike carpeting, marble flooring will not hold in odors or pet dander.

If you’re interested in decorating your home with marble flooring, be sure to check out Marmol’s catalog of luxurious options. With a wide range of styles and colors to choose from, you’ll have no trouble redecorating your home in the perfect style.

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Choosing Outdoor Marble

As you may have guessed, not just any marble will hold well exposed to the outside elements. The polished marble countertop you have in your kitchen, for example, is not something that would work well in your patio. Steer away from polished marble stones for any outdoor use, as they can be very easily damaged when exposed to outdoor elements.

Instead, opt for marble picks like Coliseum Stone Rustic, Seashell or sandblasted Crema Europa. These stand up well to different climates and have a very natural look, perfect for an outdoor area. You’ll find that marble stones that work well in outdoor spaces will typically have a slightly textured surface, different than what you’d find used on an indoor countertop.

When choosing marble for your outdoor space you will want to consider the size of the tile and the overall look you want to provide. Remember, the bigger the tile, the more spacious an area will appear.

Keep in mind that outdoor tile isn’t just for flooring. Depending on your outdoor space and your style, you can also use marble tile to create an outdoor accent wall. This is the perfect area to display potted plants and water fountains.

Maintaining Outdoor Marble

Weather conditions can effect outdoor marble tile quickly causing them to look matte, stained, dull or dirty. You should still maintain and properly care for your outdoor stone by knowing the proper cleaning methods. For dirt and grime, use a natural stone cleaner. These cleaners are the right consistency to effectively clean marble, as well as gentle enough to prevent damage.

Outdoor marble can become stained from harsh weather and exposure to the outdoors. If there are just a few small stains you can mix baking soda and water together to form a paste. Gently scrub the stains with the mixture until they are removed.

Marble is a natural stone that can make any outdoor space, big or small appear elegant, sophisticated and well put together. Choosing the proper look and style for your desired outdoor living space and maintaining proper care of the marble will provide you with years of enjoyment.

The post Choosing and Maintaining Outdoor Marble appeared first on Marmol.

Spotlight Flooring

Marble has been used as flooring in luxurious hotels, cruise ships and more. Since marble is a high-quality material, some people feel that it is unattainable in their space. This doesn’t have to be true. Marble flooring can be the accent of any bathroom big or small. Even if it’s the only marble in your home, it is well worth the investment since it is durable and long lasting. A feature marble floor is especially exquisite in small spaces since it adds luxury and style without overwhelming the area. In larger bathrooms marble flooring creates an elegant spacious feeling.

Shower and Bath Walls

Stepping into a warm shower or immersing yourself in a warm bath helps melt away stress. Imagine being surrounded by exquisite marble walls that match your luxurious flooring? Marble shower walls and surrounding bath tub walls are an excellent way to surround yourself with luxury, sophistication and elegance. You may choose to cover all of the walls in the bathroom with coordinating polished marble to create an open feeling. Light-toned marble creates an open, fluid space while darker marble tones create sophistication and depth.

Contrasting Marble Colors

A modern trend that is gaining popularity is the combination of black and white marble. There are a variety of ways you can use the contrasting colors in your bathroom. You can have black marble flooring and white marble walls, or vice versa. Another trend is black marble walls and flooring with a white marble accent wall, or vice versa. The unique touch the contrasting marble has creates an exquisite space that looks and feels surreal.

Whether you are adding a small amount of marble such as a counter top or indulging and creating an all-marble bathroom oasis, your unique vision will come to life and last for years to come. Black, white and beige marble tones are best suited for those who prefer to change their bathroom accents and décor on a regular basis. The basic colors will allow a good foundation for frequent or seasonal décor changes. Try these modern bathroom trends in your bathroom remodeling project today and enjoy being surrounded in luxury and elegance.

The post Marble Bathroom Trends: Remodeling Ideas appeared first on Marmol.

Durability

Since an open floor plan is going to receive plenty of traffic throughout from your family, pets and visitors, you will want to choose flooring that is durable. A common choice for chic durable flooring is natural stone tiles like granite (ex: Black Absolute), marble (ex: Mystery White), limestone (ex: Marbella) or travertine (ex: Travertino Navona).

Natural stone tiles exude warmth and elegance and can be incredibly versatile. You can find them in a variety of colors, giving you lots of options that will suit your home decor style and furniture perfectly.

When choosing durable flooring remember to think about the future in regards to color and design. It is wise to discuss your final vision of what you want your home to look like with a professional. Describing the feel you are wishing to have in your home, will help the flooring specialist guide you towards choices that will reflect your desire.

Simple Color

One of the benefits of an open floor plan is the wide spacious feeling it exudes. To keep your home feeling extra roomy and avoid the individual spaces looking too separate, choose one material and simple flooring color for the main areas (kitchen, dining room and living room). Since your flooring choice will be durable, it’ll likely outlast your furniture and decor pieces. Therefore, you’ll want to choose a color that is capable of blending and complementing a variety of different color and style choices. You will want to focus on choosing neutral colors such as beige, white, grey and brown.

Getting the perfect flooring sets the foundation for a gorgeous home and adds great value to the space. Choosing the right flooring is a big decision, so make sure to consult with a professional to assure you’re going with the material that’s best for your needs and for your preferred design style.

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Marble

Marble is a natural stone that can be an elegant choice for bathroom floors, backsplashes, vanity tops and tub surrounds. Marble in a polished finish is glossy and tends to be slippery, so be cautious about where it’s placed. For a bathroom floor, an honed finish may be preferable. Marble slabs come in a variety of colors, from classic white to stunning black. Choosing neutral tones will allow you to change small bathroom accents that will easily complement each other.

Onyx

This layered distinguished stone has transparent qualities, making it a unique bathroom addition. It is best used for vanity tops, wall panels and bathtub surrounds. Onyx stones typically have dramatic veining, giving them a very natural look. Backlit options are available for a more dramatic appearance. The distinct design makes this stone a work of art with itself.

Limestone

Limestone is a sandy stone that’s available in quite a few earthy colors ranging from beige to gray. The stone can be honed to create a matte finish, but beware of its absorbent nature. Because of this, knowing the proper cleaning is important for keeping it well maintained. It’s important to use a good sealer on your limestone surfaces and avoid any acid-based cleaners.

Travertine

Travertine is a form of limestone, which is why you’ll find their traditional color selections to be similar. This, along with its natural matte finish, gives it a rustic yet sophisticated appearance that can be incredibly versatile, allowing you to have fun with the rest of the bathroom design. Large slabs of travertine are best suited for walls and countertops.

Granite

Granite is a popular option for bathroom countertops and bathtub surroundings. It comes in a wide range of colors and often has the appearance of multiple color flecks. It is a highly durable natural stone that is difficult to stain or scratch. Granite typically comes in a polished or leather finish and helps create a luxurious feel to any bathroom.

Since natural stone slabs come in a variety of different materials, finishes and coloring, your opportunities are practically endless when trying to create a unique look for your bathroom. It is wise to have it professionally installed, as you want to make sure the job is done right.

The post Using Natural Stone Slabs for Your Bathroom appeared first on Marmol.

Flooring

Start with the foundation of the room, the floor. You will want to choose flooring that makes sense with the space. For example, carpet may not be the best choice for any entryway, as it will dirty or stain easily as people walk in. For a captivating focal point, go with marble tile in rooms like the master bedroom or a honed marble (not slippery) in the bathroom. The natural veining provides a luxurious appearance and adds a quick touch of color. Also consider investing in a complimentary area rug for added warmth and texture.

Furniture

You can choose modern, elegant, sophisticated, casual, or any style you find attractive for the look you desire. For big furniture pieces, like a couch or bed, choose a different white shade than the floor for subtle variety. For a table selection, try glass or acrylic if you’re trying to avoid another all-white furniture piece.

Decor

Use mirrors in the room to reflect light and make the room seem larger. Placing mirrors on walls in a variety of shapes and sizes is a great accent that adds excitement to the room without directly adding color. Here’s where you can add small bits of color for a stunning pop. Add character to the room by placing complementary decor pieces such as vases, picture frames, plants / flowers and ceramic figurines. Try placing them in groups of two or three for a balanced appearance. Chic lamps or glass chandeliers will provide plenty of light as well as act as focal points throughout the room. Add a few soft textured throw blankets and pillows for a cozy feel.

Using these tips will allow you to create an all-white room that is filled with interesting textures, exciting focal points and conversational pieces. You will create a space that is filled with serenity, complexity and the ability to captivate the mind. Continue seeking white items and accessories for your all-white space until you feel it is complete and you are satisfied with the result.

The post Creating an All-White Space That Isn’t Boring appeared first on Marmol.

Whether your room is open and large or small and cozy often makes a difference in choosing the best flooring color. Light hues, for example, often open up a small space and give it the feel of being larger. On the other hand, darker, earthy color choices for the floor can make a large and cold room feel warmer and more intimate. For this reason, lighter flooring is often popular in spaces such as bathrooms and hallways, where darker colors are more commonly found in larger rooms, like kitchens and living rooms.

Consider Lighting

While lighting may seem unrelated to choosing a flooring color, it truly is a factor that can make a major impact for two primary reasons. First, colors tend to change the way they look when exposed to different types of lighting. If you know your lighting type before you shop for flooring, you can be sure to take this into consideration when picking out your perfect shade of tile. Secondly, how much light a space has matters, because certain colors reflect or absorb light more than others. If you find yourself replacing flooring in an already dark space, selecting a light and bright color is smart, whereas a darker, more absorbent color works best in well lit rooms.

Consider Color Combinations

Before you finalize your flooring color choice, take time to reflect on how your selected shade works with other colors and the number of color combinations that are pleasing to you that can be created with the hue. This is important because flooring can be expensive to replace and you want to make sure it will not only work with the style and color of the room you want to create today, but that it will be versatile enough to work with other color combinations you may want to experiment with in the future.

Consider Use & Mood

Because colors are believed to affect a person’s mood, it is important that your flooring color doesn’t work against a desired outcome of use for the space. For example, if you are choosing a flooring color for a room that should be tranquil in nature, such as a bedroom or spa themed bathroom, try colors that are soothing and calming by design. On the other hand, if you want to create energy and vibrancy, bolder colors work to create this type of atmosphere.

The post What to Consider When Choosing Flooring Color appeared first on Marmol.

Filled & Honed

Most often, a filled and honed finish for stone is used with travertine, but is also found in marble and a few other natural stones as well. Honing is basically a grinding down of a stone product to give it a smooth and flat or matte finished look, while filling is the process of “plugging up” any holes that may be present in the natural stone. The combination is a finish that is easy to keep clean, and relatively strong. A filled and honed finish makes a good choice for flooring.

Filled & Polished

Much like the previous finish, a filled and polished stone is one that is grinded flat and filled in, but with an extra step at the end. This additional process is polishing, which uses a buffering mechanism to refine the stone surface until it is very smooth and quite reflective. Many people choose marble in a filled and polished finish, especially when using it for wall or floor applications due to its ability to conceal flaws and hide imperfections. It is also a very popular option for bathroom countertops.

Natural

Natural finishes are just as they sound…natural! This type of finish has the least amount of modification, before it is ready to install. Depending on the type of stone that you are working with, this usually equates to ridges and bumps, indentations and holes, as well as a relatively rough feel. While the natural look is often very beautiful, it can be harder to keep clean and less practical for many applications. It does, however, make a wonderful choice for backsplashes, fireplace surrounds, and other decorative stone applications.

Sandblasted

Another technique that creates a unique finish is sandblasting. While limestone is the natural stone that is most widely sandblasted, it can be used on concrete and some other stones as well. Generally speaking, sandblasted finishes have a “dimpled” look that is rough and fairly consistent. It is most popular in exterior spaces, such as patios. Alternatively, sandblasted finishes are sometimes used when trying to match new portions of limestone with older, much more weathered pieces, to make them as uniform as possible.

Honed & Tumbled

If you are looking for a more rustic, or matured finish, then a honed and tumbled stone might be a good choice. Tumbling stone creates rough edges, and an appearance that is antiquated and weathered. Once the tumbling stage is complete, the stone is then honed slightly to smooth really rough edges out and give it a very matte, yet aged, appearance. This finish is popular for decorative applications, as well as flooring.

The post Different Stone Finishes for Different Applications appeared first on Marmol.

Marble

If you are looking to give your bathroom an extremely elegant feel, then marble tile may be just the flooring option for you. Marble tiles are one of the more expensive flooring choices, but also one of the most beautiful. When polished, marble floors reflect light well, making a small bathroom space feel more open and large. Marble also features veins and coloring that can be hard to find in other natural tile flooring materials. There are a few things to note about marble before making your final selection. First, marble tends to stain due to its very porous nature, so some maintenance is required to keep it looking its best. Marble floors can also be somewhat slippery when wet. If you believe that may be an issue, we recommend placing a rug or non-slip surface outside of the shower or tub.

Granite

Considered to be one of the most durable natural materials for flooring tile, granite is a very popular choice in the bathroom for several reasons. First of all, granite tiles are extremely hard to chip, crack, or break, making them a good selection for both flooring and countertops. Granite also comes in a wide variety of color choices, with something to fit nearly every bathroom style. Granite is a naturally porous material, so it will require some sealing and maintenance to keep it looking brand new.

Travertine

Over the last few years, travertine has increased in use as a bathroom flooring tile material, and continues to grow in popularity. To begin with, travertine is more affordable than many other natural stone tiles, such as granite or marble, but is just as unique and often as beautiful. Travertine tile can be found in a textured finish, which has natural non-slip properties, as well as a more polished product.

Limestone

Limestone, while not as popular for bathroom floors as some of the other natural stone materials, really can be a good option to consider. Limestone is similar to travertine, but it is generally harder and more resilient. While the colors are not as vibrant and vivid as those found in marble or granite flooring, limestone has unique striations that give it a “wood” look and make it unique. Limestone, though, does absorb water quickly and easily, so be cautious as to what particular area you use it for in your bathroom.

The post Selecting the Right Bathroom Flooring appeared first on Marmol.

Flooring

Marble tiles and hardwood planks have each been considered a favorite material to use in flooring for countless years. When combined, though, they make a statement that is breathtaking. One way to combine them is with patterns, such as diamond shaped wood planks, with the centers filled in with marble tiles. Another way to mingle these two elements together is by creating a wood flooring “rug” in the center of your marble floored area. This works well in dining areas, entryways, or even living rooms.

Fireplace

As a focal point of a room, the fireplace is another great area to mix wood and marble elements. Traditional marble works great when used as a fireplace tile, and adding a wood mantle, trim, or even wood shelving units really can enhance the look.

Bathroom

Whether you want to add to the “wow factor” of a large master bathroom, or simply increase the appeal of a small powder room, combining marble and wood elements in the bathroom will help to add character, impact, and style. Marble makes a really fabulous countertop choice, and wood is the likely material choice for vanities. If you want to go a step further, combine wood plantation blinds with marble window sills or marble flooring with wood décor elements.

Kitchen

Another place in the home that seems to be a natural choice for combining marble and wood elements is the kitchen. For a classic pairing, consider marble flooring and countertops matched with deep wood cabinetry. For a more modern, and creative concept, wood flooring paired with a marble waterfall island is a great idea. View some of our favorite kitchens for more inspiration.

Walls

While most people do not consider adding marble or wood to their walls, it can be a great way to add a focal point or interest to an otherwise plain canvas. Whether you are dressing up the wall space behind the television in the living room, or adding interest to the wall area behind the bed of a master suite, marble tile with wood shelving, wood trim, or even wood patterns mixed throughout can transform a wall into a piece of art.

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Make Them Match

While many people love the look of a backsplash that stands out, there is a growing trend to make the backsplash an extension of the countertops. In fact, many granite and marble suppliers have begun offering tile that perfectly matches to their countertop slabs for this very purpose. If you choose to match your backsplash to your countertop, be sure to purchase the products from the same supplier, as the colors and patterns will be easier to duplicate this way.

Make Them Complimentary

If you aren’t too keen on the look of matching countertop and backsplash, or you are unable to duplicate your countertop as a backsplash, another option is to find similar designs and colors that compliment one another. For example, if your countertops are a cream color, with flakes, specs, or swirls of chocolate brown, consider a chocolate colored backsplash with cream accents. Another popular option is to take several colors out of your countertop and make a pattern using glass tiles in these same colors. If you have a solid color countertop, backsplashes that include that color, but also incorporate other colors will also work well.

Make Them Contrast

Looking for something a little bolder, that will really stand out? Contrasting your backsplash with your countertops might be the solution. To achieve this look, select a backsplash choice that is opposite your countertop, but that still works well with it. A great example that is popular in kitchens with an industrial feel is to pair a stainless steel or copper backsplash with a black countertop. Another idea, if you want to add pops of color, is to go with a neutral colored countertop, such as white or cream, and then choose a backsplash that has a brightly colored pattern in your favorite hue. Reds, blues, and greens are very popular, and can be as subtle or as brilliant as you choose!

Whether a simple pattern in muted colors or a complex mosaic made with intense color, a kitchen’s backsplash really is a wonderful way to invite character and appeal to your space.

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Travertine Browns

If your kitchen is more traditional, and you like the durability of travertine tile, consider creating a checkered flooring pattern using light and dark shades of brown. The rich patterns of travertine will create interest, but the color coordination won’t make it appear quite as dramatic as other options. Colors that work well together for a checkered floor include Travertino Amber and Glamour Silver.

Grayscale Elegance

When it comes to a luxurious and a very polished look, marble and quartz really are two fabulous materials to use for flooring. For kitchens that are designed with an elegant décor, white marble or quartz tile, patterned with shades of grey, give definite contrast without overwhelming the space. Our favorite color combos include: Thassos and Grigio Pompeii marble or Super White and Crystal Ice in quartz.

Modern Color

Creating pops of color, sparkle, and strong depth within a space is a must, especially if the style of your kitchen is contemporary and modern. One way to accomplish this is with colorful granite flooring, laid in a checkered pattern. To begin, select dark, nearly solid color granite, like Black Galaxy or Emerald Pearl. Next, choose a contrasting granite tile choice in the color you feel best accentuates your style. For very industrial kitchens, we like the silver coloring in Black Marinace or Matrix.

Solid + Wood

Wood brings warmth to a space, and has been a flooring favorite for many years. If you currently have wood flooring in your kitchen, or want to incorporate wood into a checkered pattern, using a wood / solid option is a perfect compromise. Golden woods, like oak or maple usually pair best with black solids, while light, white washed, or very weathered wood looks best with white. Wood / solid checkered patterns can really add interest to kitchens that have a rustic, shabby chic or even cottage feel to them.

Classic Black & White Style

Last, but certainly not least, is the classic black and white checkered pattern. This look was originally made famous as a flooring choice for diners and restaurants, but it really adds whimsy to residential kitchens as well, especially those with a retro style. Our favorite natural stones pairing for this look is Black Absolute and Crema Marfil. When paired with bright shades of red or muted stainless, black and white checkered becomes modern. However, if the goal is a softer or more eclectic feel, adding splashes of pastel colors is key.

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Marble

Marble has long been considered one of the most elegant of materials used in natural stone floors, often being found in lavish bathrooms and opulent entryways. It also makes a fabulous neutral flooring choice for bedrooms because of the many versatile color selections that are available. From pale palette varieties, like Thassos and Silver Dune, to warmer toned options such as Giallo Mares and Graphite, marble truly can add luxury and style to any bedroom décor while still keeping a neutral feel.

Travertine

The old world look and feel of natural stone makes travertine a popular material for those wanting a rustic or aged flooring choice for their bedroom. With rich, yet neutral color choices like Travertino Navona, Travertino Ivory, and Travertino Antico, travertine brings depth and color dimension to a bedroom without being too overwhelming or strong.

Limestone

If natural veining and definitive color variations are not really your style, then limestone may be the best flooring choice to select. Limestone, while containing some subtle patterns and color specks, is much more uniform, giving it a clean look when used as flooring. Neutral colors are typically in shades of whites and grays, with our favorite colors being St. Croix and Venetian Gray.

Slate

If the word “neutral” seems just a bit too lackluster or uninspiring, but you still desire a flooring choice that is versatile and easy to blend with a variety of decors, slate may be the perfect solution. Slate features amazingly vivid hues, like the blues and browns found in California Gold, that all flow together seamlessly in natural beauty. While a bit stronger and more daring than other neutral options, slate still offers a color blend that can be easily matched when décor, style, or space needs change.

Whether the goal of your bedroom is luxury and modern, traditional and cozy, or bold and colorful contemporary, natural stone flooring choices, in neutral color tones can help you achieve the look and flexibility you desire!

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• Marble: Marble, as a timeless stone, is decidedly elegant and looks fabulous as a kitchen countertop. It’s lighter hues add light to any space, creating a welcoming feel. While marble countertops are frequently used in kitchens, especially in bakeries, it is known to chip more easily when compared with some other natural stone choices, so it typically requires more care and maintenance.
• Granite: Considered to be one of the most durable natural stone countertop materials, granite is a very popular choice for several reasons. First, granite countertops are heat resistant, and extremely hard to chip, crack, or break. Granite also comes in a wide variety of color choices, with something to fit nearly every style. A downside to granite, though, is that it is a naturally porous material that requires regular sealing and maintenance.
• Limestone: Limestone is becoming more popular for uses such as kitchen countertops, as it is a very durable material. Limestone is typically only offered in very light colors, making it resemble elegant marble. The porous nature of the stone makes it easy to stain, so some cleanup is required.  Food prep directly on the countertop should be limited, as limestone is vulnerable to damage if it comes into contact with acidic substances.
• Quartz: If maintenance free is what you desire in a kitchen countertop, then quartz may be the best material to select. Natural quartz is both durable and tough, and is also non-porous, meaning it will not absorb liquids into the stone and stain easily. Cleaning is simple and there is no regular maintenance recommended. Quartz is also available in many color combinations.

• Slate: Slate countertops, while more limited in color choices than granite, are often known for their beautiful shades of black, gray, green, and even rich purple. Slate is also quite durable and will usually require less maintenance than some other natural stone choices. Slate is not an extremely hard material, though, so it is more susceptible to scratches.

• Soapstone: In recent years, soapstone has gained a lot of popularity as a natural stone material used in kitchen countertops. While soapstone does not have the wide array of color choices that granite or quartz offers, most shades are rather neutral and go well with various décor choices. Soapstone, which is largely made of talc, has a softness to it that other natural stone countertops do not, making it rather easy to sand out scratches and stains that damage the surface. Soapstone is not maintenance free, but only requires a regular rub down with mineral oil to maintain its beauty and shine.

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Though there are multiple ways in which you can go all white and bring a timeless finish to your bathroom, there are certain tips that will make your white bathroom stand out in a striking and alluring avatar. And of course, being of such pure and radiant essence, it is important to pay special attention to the cleaning and maintenance of these bathrooms so that the purity retains its natural glow and shine for a long period of time.

Go through the following design ideas and maintenance tips on why and how you should go for an all white bathroom and how you can maintain its ambiance without much hassle on your part.

Choose the Right White

Even when it comes to white, the choices in hues and textures are endless and each of these can individually bring a refreshing spunk to your bathroom. Marble tiles prove to be the best choices in this regard, as they are not only timeless, but also complement the tone better than any other tile material available in the market.

You can go for pure snow white marble tiles like Arctic Snow and Ice White, choose a white that has a warm undertone to it like Mystery White or experiment with marble tiles that have a natural sheen and pattern like the Ajax and Calacatta Cremo.

Detailing can make it stand out

A little attention to detailing will make even the most simplest of bathroom look like a design out a catalogue. Let your creativity flow and choose white tilling and details for borders, sides and bathroom fittings to create a stunning effect of white on white.

Different Whites for Different Tiles

Choose a varying pattern of white hues, designs and textures for the different areas in your bathroom like the flooring, walls, shower areas etc. Mix and match so that they all fit in an eclectic finish yet stay individual and bring out the true essence of purity and modernity in their appearance.

Accessorize with Perfection

Accessorizing your all-white bathroom with some final touches will give it the kick and eye-catching zing that you will absolutely love! White cabinets with a little border detailing, glass decorative items along the fixtures or even some tall glass vases with pure white tulip blossoms will give a fresh and subtly modern attraction to your bathroom.

Maintain your Whites

Maintaining and cleaning your white tiles regularly is a critical point that you should not miss. Any imperfection on your white bathroom will be easier to spot; therefore, clean and maintain your all-white bathroom regularly to retain its opulence for years.

An all white bathroom symbolizes tranquility, peace and a refreshing appearance in every syllable. Choosing exquisite white tiling for floors, walls, complementing fixtures and bathroom fittings can make the bathroom look larger, brighter and chic in a simple and timeless way.

Give your bathroom a refreshing change by opting for some bright and purely white tiles today and relax, unwind and revere in the final glow of the experience!

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