Absolutely Marble

In ancient Greece and Rome, the allure of marble made it the natural stone of choice for sculpture, public baths and construction. As time passed, it became the hallmark of the high-end flooring. There aren’t many home features more distinctive than the refined splendor of a polished marble floor. For this reason, it is still one of the most popular choices for foyers—welcoming guests with elegance as they pass through entrances. In recent times, marble flooring has extended from the foyer into kitchens and bathrooms. As marble’s reputation increases, the available options for its uses have also increased. No longer restricted to ground level, this beautiful natural stone is now defining the present and heightening the appearance of spaces throughout the home.

Marble in the Kitchen
Marble is a viable option for homeowners thinking about replacing their kitchen countertops. It is also a spectacular alternative for sinks, islands and backsplashes. White marble—with its diverse veining patterns—complements a wide variety of kitchen cabinet and flooring choices and offers a stunning contrast to darker colors. Even though marble gives an impression of affluence, there are economical choices for the budget-conscious consumer. Carrara and Statuario are less expensive than other types of marble, but still carry a sophisticated air. Marble is softer and more porous than its stone counterparts, but honing or sealing it can prevent staining from food and drinks and alleviate signs of etching.

Marble in the Bathroom
Bathroom renovation experienced a renaissance with the advent of marble. The stone has the ability to make the smallest of spaces loom large with visually-appealing configurations of vanities, showers and bathtubs. Marble tiles can serve as a foundation for the remaining parts of the bathroom by adding a sense of texture because of the stone’s intricacies. Tiles can brighten a previously dull-looking floor or enhance the appearance of walls and showers. Some homeowners are now selecting slabs instead of tiles for showers, countertops and wainscoting to produce a seamless effect.

Marble in Living Spaces
Fabricators can transform natural stone slabs into a variety of luxurious pieces, and marble is no exception. A “hint” of marble can go a long way in accentuating stylish indoor and outdoor living spaces. It also gives decorators and homeowners the opportunity to explore the expansive array of marble available in today’s marketplace. Although white is the preferred choice for many people, hues of black, brown, gold, green and red can offer unique visual and textural experiences. Marble fireplaces bring warmth and comfort to family gathering areas. Tables with dramatic marble tops and matching buffets are perfect for dinettes, formal dining rooms or kitchen eating spaces. Marble desks can turn a home office into a suite fit for an executive.

Even though marble has been used for thousands of years, it continues to provide inspiration because of its enduring and illustrious beauty. This ancient stone is unparalleled in its ability to adorn modern spaces. From flooring to countertops, choosing marble for home improvement or renovation projects can rejuvenate any room.