Marble can an incredibly versatile, hard-wearing and beautiful material that can upscale the appearance of any interior. It's important not to go over the top, however, by adding too many marble features and also to ensure that different types and colours of marble are matched to create a stylish interior. Here, Matt Rotherham, Commercial Director of J. Rotherham shares his top tips for using marble in the home.
- Matching or complimenting different types of natural stone such as marble in one scheme can be achieved in any room of the home, where you can create the most beautiful and elegant vanity tops, bath surrounds, kitchen work surfaces, solid shower trays, flooring and also wall cladding.
- Marble will effortlessly create a look that is both strong and sturdy, via the use of simple block geometric shapes and sleek, ergonomic, curved forms. So, to complement and soften the monolithic qualities of marble partner it against a muted colour palette of mutual whites, greys and mocha pastel shades. By doing so, you will create a balanced interior with everlasting appeal that evokes a delicate strength.
- If you are incorporating marble in the home, try not to over complicate the overall design as this will allow the stone to boast its highly luxurious, natural aesthetic without contest. ‘Less is more’, so if you take a disciplined sense of restraint when it comes to the finishing touches, you will guarantee a space where marble is supreme.
- When it comes to maintaining your marble flooring then a regular sweep, dust and mop will remove any dirt or surface debris that could otherwise harm the marble or dull its shine. It is also important to remember that marble is a natural stone and therefore porous, so you must ensure you use an acid-free surface cleaner with appropriate pH level and spillages are cleaned up straight away to prevent any unwanted staining or erosion. For a high shine finish and to ensure no water is left on the marbles porous surface, then simply take a dry cloth or towel and start buffing!
- The biggest advantage to marble is its extreme versatility, able to create intricate and detailed designs, patterns and motifs. With little investment you can create an exquisite centre piece to your hallway floor, incorporate a highly original checkerboard design in your kitchen worktop or go all out with a complete marble scheme for the height of drama. Giving an air of prosperity like no other natural stone marble is the all-purpose choice; especially helpful if you’re looking to increase the value of your home.
- Dependent upon where you use the marble, it may make perfect sense to seal the stone, as once sealed, the stone will be protected against everyday dirt and spills. However, it is always best to consult a professional as some topical sealers can alter the surface texture and finish, as well as build up on the surface creating a layer that is less durable than the stone in natural form. My advice is to consult an expert who can give you their opinion in terms of what material to use, its application and appropriate finish or protection required.