HOW TO USE NATURAL STONE IN INTERIOR DESIGN
Natural stones are a fantastic way to infuse timeless elegance into any interior. Their unparalleled aesthetic appeal, coupled with inherent durability, makes them the ideal materials for homeowners and designers looking to add a touch of luxury to their spaces.
At Abacus Tables, we specialise in integrating these magnificent natural elements into the home through our collection of rare marble, granite and quartzite slabs. Each slab will make for an eye-catching table top, creating a focal point of high-end glamour.
Natural stone can be incorporated into various elements of interior design, from grand statement pieces to smaller details. We delve deeper into the use of natural stone in interior design later in the article. First, we provide detailed insights into the unique characteristics of the natural stones we offer, as these differences may influence the choice of stone most suited to your space.
Although each type of natural stone carries unique properties and varying degrees of durability, at Abacus Tables, we ensure that the practicality of our stone table tops is as enduring as their beauty. We achieve this by offering an ultra-protective finish that makes each slab resistant to stains, etches and heat.
The following information serves as a comprehensive guide, designed to help you make an informed decision by aligning your aesthetic preferences with each stone’s unique attributes. Stay tuned as we explore the captivating realm of natural stone in interior design and offer insights into how you can transform your living spaces with our exclusive collection.
MARBLE, GRANITE, AND QUARTZITE: THE CORNERSTONES OF INTERIOR ELEGANCE
The extraordinary allure of natural stone lies in its ability to transform any space into a breathtaking panorama of elegance. Among the array of natural stones available, marble, granite, and quartzite stand out as the cornerstones of interior elegance. Each possesses a unique beauty, a distinct natural appeal, and versatile application potential, making them exceptional choices for home interiors.
MARBLE
Marble is renowned for its regal beauty and timeless appeal. This non-foliated metamorphic rock is formed over millions of years when limestone is subjected to intense heat and pressure. Metamorphism causes variable recrystallization of the original carbonate mineral grains. The resulting rock is typically composed of an interlocking mosaic of carbonate crystal. In its purest form, marble is a sparkling white stone that consist of calcium carbonate. However, marble commonly contains other minerals, such as quartz and graphite, creating colour variations.
As a result of recrystallization, marble displays an ethereal veining pattern against a soft, smooth backdrop, giving each slab a distinctive and elegant character. In interior design, marble often serves as a symbol of luxury and sophistication. It adds a touch of opulence to spaces, enhancing them with its soothing palette of hues ranging from pristine whites to deep blacks and every shade in between. Abacus Tables’ handpicked selection of rare marble slabs offers the perfect embodiment of this stone’s unique charm.
GRANITE
Granite’s reputation as a resilient and strikingly beautiful stone makes it a favourite in interior design. This coarse-grained igneous rock is composed primarily of quartz, feldspar and plagioclase. It forms when magma with a high content of silica and alkali metal oxides slowly cools and solidifies underground. It is common in the continental crust of Earth. It also usually contains a mixture of additional trace minerals. This mixture of minerals and varying amounts of each create the wide variety of colours and textures seen in different granite stone slabs.
Its inherent durability, coupled with its bold aesthetic, makes it a perfect choice for those seeking an element of grandeur in their interiors. At Abacus Tables, our granite collection has been meticulously curated to highlight this stone’s natural splendour and variation, with particular emphasis on ultra-rare granite slabs.
QUARTZITE
Like marble, quartzite is also a non-foliated metamorphic rock. It is composed almost entirely of quartz and forms when quartz sandstone is exposed to intense pressure or heat over millions of years. Metamorphism recrystallizes the sand grains and the silica cement that binds them together. The result is a network of interlocking quartz grains which are extremely strong. Like marble, other minerals are often present during the cooling process, resulting in colour variations and unique veining.
Its beauty lies in its diverse patterns and colours, especially among rare examples like the slabs in our collection. It echoes the charm of marble while offering superior hardness. Overall, quartzite provides immense flexibility in interior design, offering opportunities for subtle elegance and dramatic effect.
The unique formation process of each of these stones results in an array of colours, patterns, and textures that cannot be replicated, making each slab truly one of a kind. Our handpicked selection at Abacus Tables comprises ultra-rare and striking marble, granite and quartzite slabs, guaranteed to create a unique and captivating statement piece for any setting.
Choosing marble, granite, or quartzite for your interior design is more than just a décor decision; it’s a celebration of nature’s artistry, an investment in timeless elegance, and a sure way to create a unique and stunning ambience in your living space.
BEYOND BEAUTY: THE PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS OF USING STONE IN INTERIOR DESIGN
MARBLE
Despite its elegant and somewhat delicate appearance, marble is a robust and durable stone. Its timeless allure, unique colour variations, and elegant veining make it not only a remarkable choice for table tops but also a stunning option for bathroom surfaces and feature walls.
However, due to its porosity, marble can be susceptible to staining, etching, and heat damage if not adequately protected. The softness of marble (scoring 3-4 on the Mohs Hardness Scale) also means it’s more prone to scratches compared to granite and quartzite – it can be scratched by copper.
At Abacus Tables, we offer a state-of-the-art protective finish, guaranteeing each stone table top is stain, heat and etch resistant. However, it’s important to note that nothing can alter the innate hardness of the stone, so it’s important to be careful not to scratch marble surfaces.
GRANITE
Granite, recognised for its strength, durability, and unique earthy beauty, scores 6-7 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, highlighting its high resistance to scratching. Its natural resistance to heat and stains makes it a resilient and low-maintenance choice. The stunning, speckled mineral patterns across each granite slab, along with a spectrum of colours, contribute to its captivating appeal in interior design.
Although granite is less porous than marble, improving its resistance to staining and etching, it still requires a protective finish for optimum preservation. Furthermore, despite its relative hardness, it’s essential to remember that no granite surface is entirely scratch-proof; certain materials like sharpened stainless steel or certain grades of steel wool can still scratch it.
Therefore, careful maintenance is key, as no protective finish can change the innate hardness of the stone. Nonetheless, minor scratches are less noticeable on granite due to its pattern depth and colour variety, ensuring its lasting beauty in your home.
QUARTZITE
Quartzite, scoring a 7 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, is the hardest and most resistant to scratching of the three stones (you would need glass to scratch it). It is also more naturally resistant to staining and etching than marble but less so than granite. Common types of quartzite also bear a resemblance to common types of marble.
This similar aesthetic, coupled with its durability, makes quartzite an appealing choice for those seeking the beauty of marble with increased resistance. However, it’s worth noting that we offer ultra-rare types of each stone, so you’ll have aesthetic options that extend far beyond the standard types.
Don’t forget, we also offer an ultra-protective finish for each stone slab, ensuring it becomes stain-proof, heat-proof, and etch-proof. This additional protection enhances the functionality of our stone table tops, allowing them to compete with the most resistant manufactured tops while retaining their unique, natural beauty. This means that quartzite, with its innate scratch resistance, is the most durable stone when the protective finish is applied.
It’s important to note that no treatment can alter the innate hardness of the stone, so care should be taken to avoid scratches, especially in the case of marble. But with our protective finish, you can rest easy knowing that your table top is protected from everyday wear and tear and is as enduring as it is beautiful.
By considering both the aesthetic and practical aspects of marble, granite, and quartzite, you can make an informed decision about which stone best suits your interior design. With the right care and our protective finish, your natural stone table top will serve as a functional and striking centrepiece in your home for years to come.
INCORPORATING NATURAL STONE INTO YOUR INTERIOR DESIGN
“Stone is a powerful and eye-catching material with innate durability, strength, and presence. Used across the home in small details, you can create an appealing and earthly atmosphere because of its natural textures, tones, and veining.” – Oonagh Turner, Livingetc
The role of texture in interior design is pivotal—it infuses depth and dimension into any space. A sophisticated way to introduce texture is by integrating natural, high-quality materials like marble, granite, or quartzite into your design. These stones are synonymous with luxury and timelessness, adding an irresistible touch to any space they grace.
When you incorporate natural stones into your interior design, it brings not only a slice of nature indoors but also strikes a balance between aesthetics and functionality. Revered for their beauty and practicality, these stones are perfect for various applications within your home.
You might imagine a striking stone fireplace surround serving as your room’s focal point or a sleek quartzite countertop upgrading your kitchen’s aesthetics. You might be considering an opulent marble coffee table to inject luxury into your living room. The options for employing these natural stones in your interior design are truly limitless.
Let’s explore how marble, granite, and quartzite can be strategically incorporated into your interior design to craft spaces that ooze elegance, warmth, and organic appeal.
MARBLE
Marble’s aesthetic appeal makes it a popular choice for statement pieces like dining tables, coffee tables, and console tables. Its sophistication and elegance can also transform bathrooms into spa-like retreats when used for vanity tops, bathtubs and shower interiors. Another popular application of marble is in the kitchen as countertops, lending an air of luxury while also serving as a practical work surface. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that marble is the most susceptible to scratching.
GRANITE
Given its durability and vast range of colours and patterns, granite can be used in numerous ways in interior design. It’s an excellent choice for kitchen countertops, offering a high-end look while being resistant to heat and staining and relatively resistant to scratches. Granite is also suitable for bathroom vanity tops, fireplace surrounds, and flooring, providing a unique, earthy touch to these spaces.
QUARTZITE
Quartzite’s strength and elegance make it a versatile material in interior design. It can be used for a variety of applications, from kitchen countertops to bathroom vanity tops, fireplace surrounds, and flooring. Much like marble, quartzite can bring a touch of luxury to any room. However, its superior hardness makes it more resilient to scratches than marble and granite, providing a durable and attractive solution for high-traffic areas. However, it’s important to remember that quartzite isn’t as resistant to staining, etching and heat as granite.
NATURAL STONE EXAMPLES
STONE DINING TABLES
Introducing a stone dining table into your home is one of the most impactful ways to incorporate natural stone into your interior design. Not only does it serve as a striking centrepiece, but it also infuses timeless elegance into your dining area.
At Abacus Tables, we take this concept a step further by offering an exclusive selection of ultra-rare and extraordinary stone slabs for our tables. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill stones but meticulously selected pieces chosen for their stunning visuals and rarity.
While we do offer well-loved classics like Carrara marble, our real speciality lies in sourcing and showcasing the most extraordinary stones that are seldom found in the mainstream market. Each slab boasts captivating patterns and veining that transform a simple dining table into a veritable work of art.
No matter which stone you choose, you’re investing in a unique, functional piece of natural history. Dining on one of our exceptional stone tables becomes more than just a meal, it’s an experience – a moment of connection to the earth’s past and its natural beauty. And at Abacus Tables, we are committed to helping you find that special piece that resonates with your style and transforms your dining area into a room filled with charm and character.
STONE COFFEE TABLES
A coffee table is a central element in your living room design, and when made from natural stone, it exudes a sense of sophistication and luxury. At Abacus Tables, we elevate this everyday piece to an extraordinary design statement with our selection of ultra-rare and special stone slabs.
Our collection truly shines with its assortment of seldom-seen, captivating stones. And it goes without saying that each slab has unique patterns, hues, and mineral inclusions that make it a standalone masterpiece.
Visualize your living room centred around a quartzite coffee table, its complex textures and patterns bringing an element of tranquil elegance. Or consider the robust allure of a rare granite slab, its array of stunning natural patterns adding depth and interest to your space.
Not only is a rare stone coffee table visually stunning, but it’s an inherent connection to nature and the planet’s rich geological history. These are more than just furniture pieces – they’re slices of the Earth’s past turned into functional art. By choosing a coffee table from our collection, you invite a piece of the planet’s heritage into your home while adding a rare focal point to your living room.
At Abacus Tables, we are committed to helping you find the perfect stone slab that will transform your living room into a stunning display of natural beauty and artistry.
UNDERSTANDING THE MAINTENANCE OF NATURAL STONE IN INTERIOR DESIGN
Maintaining the beauty of natural stone, such as marble, granite, or quartzite, requires some care and attention. These stones are long-lasting and durable, but their inherent characteristics make them somewhat susceptible to damage if not maintained correctly. Therefore, proper care is crucial to preserving the aesthetic appeal and longevity of your stone installations.
Here are some general tips to ensure the longevity of your natural stone:
Cleaning: Regular cleaning with a soft cloth or sponge and a mild, neutral pH detergent is recommended for all natural stones. Even with our protective finish, we recommend avoiding abrasive cleaners or acidic substances.
Protection: This is an important step in the maintenance of natural stone. Our protective finish will prevent staining, etching and heat damage. This protection is guaranteed for 10 years. If you have other stone products and features throughout your home, not just from Abacus Tables, it’s important to check what protection (if any) is on offer. For example, many stone elements, such as kitchen worktops, will have been sealed but will require re-sealing every few years.
Avoiding Heat and Pressure: While natural stones are heat resistant, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause damage, especially on stones without our protective finish. As such, we always recommend using a trivet or mat under hot pans or dishes. Likewise, avoid placing heavy items on the stone that could cause it to crack.
Addressing Stains and Spills: It’s important to wipe up any spills as soon as possible to prevent potential staining, particularly in the absence of our protective finish. For tougher stains on unprotected surfaces, a poultice may be applied, but it’s best to consult a professional to avoid causing further damage.
Professional Maintenance: Depending on the usage and wear, professional cleaning or restoration may be needed every few years. Professionals can deep clean, polish, and reseal your stone to restore its original beauty. Our protective finish guarantees a highly durable surface for 10 years.
At Abacus Tables, we’re committed to ensuring that your natural stone stays as stunning as the day you first fell in love with it. That’s why each of our stone table tops comes with our ultra-protective finish, guaranteeing it against stains, heat, and etching.
Remember, while these stones are beautiful and durable, they are also a product of nature, and each piece will have its own unique characteristics. With proper care, your natural stone can remain a gorgeous, functional part of your interior design for decades.
SUMMING IT ALL UP: THE ART OF NATURAL STONE IN INTERIOR DESIGN
Natural stones, with their unique charm and durability, offer a distinct luxury and timeless appeal to interior design. Whether it’s the ethereal beauty of marble, the robustness of granite, or the flexibility of quartzite, each stone holds a unique allure that can transform any space into a masterpiece of elegance and sophistication.
When chosen thoughtfully and maintained properly, natural stone installations can serve as functional, resilient, and stunning centrepieces in your home for years to come.
At Abacus Tables, we strive to showcase the inherent beauty of these natural stones, providing a unique opportunity for homeowners to infuse their living spaces with a touch of nature’s artistry. From handpicking each stone slab for our tables to ensuring its durability with our ultra-protective finish, we are committed to delivering pieces that echo timeless elegance, practicality, and personalised style.
Explore our collection of the world’s most extraordinary and striking stone slabs here.