Granite in the Kitchen: Pros and Cons

Granite kitchen benchtops, splashbacks, wall cladding, floor tiles and sinks are getting more and more popular!

While this unique natural stone has been used in construction and interior design for many, many years, granite remains an increasingly common choice of material. But is it right for your kitchen

That depends on your needs and your personal preferences. To help you make the right decision, here is an introduction to using granite in your kitchen.

Using Granite in the Kitchen

Granite is a natural stone that is formed beneath the Earth’s surface. Its unique composition, primarily consisting of materials such as quartz, feldspar and mica, is formed by a slow crystallisation of magma. More specifically, high temperatures beneath the ground allow the magma to cool slowly over millions of years.

This process and its components is what gives it the iconic speckled and granular aesthetic. It also contributes to its durability and hardiness.

Granite is quarried in many regions around the world. The most well-known and popular quarries are in the U.S., Italy, Canada, China, India, Brazil, and parts of Africa.

This stone is a popular choice of material for use in the kitchen because of its high level of resistance to scratching, heat damage, and staining. However, there are both advantages and disadvantages to using granite – which we will break down below.

Options for Incorporating Granite in the Kitchen

Granite can be effectively used in various applications to enhance both the appearance and functionality of your kitchen.

1. Benchtops

Granite kitchen benchtops are the most popular option. The unique aesthetic of granite and its functional durability make it a stunning and practical option.

2. Splashbacks

A granite kitchen sink splashback is a contained and therefore budget-friendly way of infusing this fantastic stone into your home. It can add a sophisticated and beautiful focal point while providing functional utility.

3. Wall Cladding

If you’re more interested in a grander granite kitchen makeover, consider wall cladding. This natural stone can create a striking visual effect and add both texture and depth to your kitchen.

4. Floors

Granite tiling is a durable and luxurious-looking option for flooring. Its hardiness makes it resistant to heavy foot traffic and activity, and easy to keep clean and maintain.

Pros and Cons of Using Granite in the Kitchen

Pros

1. Durability

As mentioned above, granite is an incredibly hard form of natural stone. This hardiness makes it ideally resistant to scratches and heat. For a room in the home like a kitchen, which is prone to high levels of activity, exposure to food and liquid, and likely to be subjected to items of varying temperatures, using a highly durable material like granite is key.

2. Aesthetic

Granite is a beautiful type of stone. Its iconic granular aesthetic makes it stand out even amongst other forms of natural stone. But, importantly, granite comes in a wide range of colours, patterns, and shades so if you love the thought of using it in your kitchen you can find the perfect slab to suit your chosen design style.

3. Maintenance

Granite needs to be professionally sealed to ensure its integrity and appearance. But once done, it is easy to clean, resistant to stains and simple to maintain. Always use approved cleaners that aren’t high in acidity. Avoid hard brushes. And wipe down regularly with warm water and a clean cloth and your granite will look spectacular for many years to come.

4. Uniqueness

Every slab of granite is unique. Because of the fact that the stone is quarried out of the ground and not produced en masse in a factory, every single stone is singular. When you opt for a granite kitchen benchtop or sink splashback, no other granite anywhere in the world will look precisely the same.

5. Investment

Granite stone is a smart investment when it comes to your home. Not only does the luxurious appearance and popularity of granite enhance the overall value of your home today, but its longevity and durability means that your return on investment will stretch long into the future should you choose to sell your home down the track.

Cons

1. Price

Granite kitchen makeovers can be more expensive than using other materials. Both the cost of the stone itself and the installation cost needs to be considered if you intend on installing a granite benchtop, splashback, flooring or wall cladding.

2. Weight

Granite is also a heavy stone. This means that not all kitchens will be ready and suitable for a granite benchtop as is. Some cabinetry may require additional support to ensure it has the sturdiness and strength to bear the weight.

3. Porosity

Granite is highly durable but it is porous. This is why it is important to ensure your granite benchtop or flooring is properly sealed by a professional every few years. Over time, without the right care and maintenance, it can absorb liquids spilt on it and stain.

4. Cool Surface

This beautiful natural stone has a unique ability to remain cool to the touch. While this is most commonly an advantage in places with warm weather and in rooms of the home likely to see a hive of activity, such as a kitchen, it might not suit all preferences.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Granite Kitchens

What are the benefits of using granite countertops in the kitchen?

Granite countertops are highly durable, aesthetically pleasing, scratch and heat resistant, and every slab is unique. This combination of advantages make it a great choice for use in the kitchen.

How should I maintain my granite benchtops?

To maintain granite, it is recommended that you clean them regularly using warm water and a non-abrasive cloth and detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals and regularly reseal the granite every few years.

How often do I need to seal my granite benchtop?

Sealing frequency can vary based on a number of factors. Generally, every few years will suffice but the more regularly you seal the more it helps prevent staining.

Can I place hot pots and pans directly on granite countertops?

Granite is heat-resistant, but it is always advisable to use trivets or heat pads under very hot pots and pans. Sudden temperature changes have been known to cause thermal shock, and potentially lead to cracks or damage.

Is it necessary to use a cutting board on granite countertops?

Like with heat, granite is scratch-resistant. Nevertheless, we recommend using a cutting board to both protect your knives from dulling and keep your granite unexposed to any potential scratching.

Start Planning Your Granite Kitchen Makeovers with Euro Marble

At Euro Marble, we love all things granite and stone.

Whether you want to incorporate granite around your kitchen sink, are considering end-to-end wall cladding, or just want to arrange a time to come into our showroom and see our beautiful collection of granite slabs for yourself, make sure to contact our team today.

Marble vs Wooden Dining Table Tops

Both marble stone and wood are popular choices of dining table top material. If you are looking to replace the surface top of your dining room table, or you are wondering what the difference between a wood and marble top for a dining table is, this guide is just for you.

Exploring Marble Table Tops

Marble stone is a popular choice of material for use in the home, including for everything from kitchen benchtops to table tops.

Being a natural stone, a marble slab used for your table is more than just a hardy choice – it brings with it an iconic and sophisticated aesthetic. Marble is formed in the ground from limestone which is exposed to high pressure and high temperature resulting in a dense and crystalline stone structure.

When the marble stone is quarried from the Earth, the single slab of stone is then crafted and refined into a seamless and elegant surface for use atop your table.

Exploring Wooden Table Tops

A dining table with a wooden top is also a popular option. There is a wide variety of commonly used wood for dining room tables including Tasmanian Oak, Jarrah, Blackwood, and Victorian Ash in Australia.

Each type of wood brings with it distinct characteristics in terms of its colour, shading, grain pattern, durability and overall impact. Plus, the versatility of wooden table tops means that you can achieve a range of aesthetic appearances and find or commission the perfect wooden slab to suit your preferences.

Comparing Marble Vs Wooden Dining Table Tops

Should you choose marble for your dining table top? Or should you opt for a wooden table?

Let’s break down some key differences between the two.

1. Price

When it comes to price, marble stone is generally more expensive due to the cost of quarrying, processing and transporting the slab. High quality marble might be worth the investment, but it can command a higher price tag initially.

Wood on the other hand is often more affordable. Of course, the price will depend on the type of wood and craftsmanship requirements involved, but is more commonly preferred for the budget constrained.

2. Durability

Both marble and wood are durable materials which contribute to their respective popularity as dining table top materials. Marble, being a tough stone, is known for its durability but it is more porous than some other stone options, such as granite and quartzite, so without property maintenance and professional sealing it can stain or chip over time.

Wood, while also durable, can be more susceptible to scratches and water damage in particular. On the other hand, with the right care, maintenance and protection it can also last for many, many years.

3. Maintenance

Both marble and wood table tops will need regular maintenance to keep them looking and functioning their best. The marble stone table top should be regularly sealed to prevent stain and damage to the stone itself. Cleaning should be done with non-acidic cleaning products and soft materials to ensure there is no scratching or straining.

Wood needs periodic polishing and, sometimes, refinishing to maintain its stellar appearance. To best take care of your wooden table top, always wipe up spills as quickly as possible as liquid exposure can cause warping.

4. Appearance

Both marble and wood are wondrous and stunning materials from an aesthetic point of view. Ultimately, it really comes down to your personal preference and interior design choice.

Marble brings a sense of luxury and unique visual patterns across a range of colours to help achieve an elegant design aesthetic. Wood, by comparison, is great for providing a sense of warmth and a natural feel to your home.

5. Customisability

Both marble and wood table tops can be customised quite easily. From the shape to the size of your dining room table, marble and wood can be tailored to a wide range of aesthetics.

6. Weight

If weight is a concern of yours it is important to note that marble is significantly heavier. On the one hand, this higher density makes moving a table with a dining table top more challenging. On the other hand it also adds to the durability and long-term value of the furniture. Wood, being generally lighter than stone, is easier to relocate if needed.

7. Complementarity

Your dining room’s table top should complement the rest of your chosen aesthetic and decor. Marble stone is best suited for formal dining options or minimalist aesthetics.

Wood, while suitable for formal settings, is often preferred for casual dining room aesthetics and especially interior design styles such as rustic.

8. Heat Resistance

Your dining room table top is likely going to be exposed to some hot dishes. Marble is naturally heat resistant and with the right sealing and protection can withstand direct contact with dishes of a higher temperature.

By comparison, wood is not very heat resistant and placing hot items directly on to it can cause burns, heat stains and warping.

9. Environmental Impact

Marble stone does require some amount of energy during the extraction and transportation process. However, this hardy and natural material means that it can last for many years and offer a sustainable table top solution.

Wooden table tops vary in their environmental impact. Different sourcing practices will determine the level of eco-friendliness so it is important to consider how, where and from whom your wooden top is being sourced from.

The Perfect Marble Top for Your Dining Table is at Euro Marble

It is important to consider your personal preferences, budget, needs and home design when choosing between wood and marble dining table tops.

Ultimately, both materials bring unique benefits, aesthetics and value to your home and with high levels of customisability, you can find the perfect dining table to bring a smile to every meal!

Ready to Choose Your Ideal Dining Table Top?

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Quartz Vs Quartzite

Did you know that quartz and quartzite are not the same thing? While, when it comes to considering different stone materials, these two options are often compared to one another, they are distinct in many ways.

From origin and properties to aesthetic appeal and durability, there are many layers to the quartz vs quartzite analysis, and we are here to break it all down for you.

What is Quartzite vs Quartz?

Origin and Development

Quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock. It is formed from sandstone when it is subjected to high heat and intense pressure. These forces kick start a process that crystallises the quartz grains within the sandstone. The result is a dense and durable natural stone that offers both practical and aesthetic utility.

Quartz, on the other hand, is not a naturally occurring rock. It is a man-made material and is often referred to by the more descriptive name of engineered stone. In most cases, quartz is created by combining crushed quartz crystals with various resins, polymers and pigments. Normally about 90-95% of quartz is natural quartzite but this can vary.

Use in Construction and Interior Design

Both quartzite and quartz are used widely in construction and interior design. Quartzite is widely used for countertops, wall cladding, and outdoor design thanks to its unique natural aesthetic patterns and colour, as well as its hardiness to scratches and heat resistance.

Quartz or engineered stone is widely used in kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities and interior flooring. This non-porous material makes it easy to maintain and resistant to maintenance. Plus, being man-made it can be manufactured in a variety of standard colours and patterns.

Comparing Quartz vs Quartzite

1. Natural vs Artificial

The main difference between these two stone varieties is that quartzite is a natural stone and is quarried from the ground for use in construction and design. On the other hand, quartz is not a naturally occurring material and is made in a factory.

2. Practical Functionality

The truth is that both quartzite and quartz are hardy and durable materials – hence their popularity in construction and home design. However, there are some slight differences. Quartzite is a naturally occurring rock and therefore, thanks to the intensity of its formation process, is extremely durable. By comparison, quartz is highly durable but ever so slightly less so.

When it comes to porosity, which can make a material more or less resistant to staining when exposed to liquid, quartzite is slightly more porous whereas engineered stone is non-porous. It is recommended that any natural stone surface is regularly resealed to best protect it from staining and other damage.

3. Heat Resistance

If you are considering quartzite vs quartz countertops or just about any kitchen-based application, heat resistance is an important consideration. For best practice, we always recommend using a trivet or mat and not placing hot dishes and pots directly onto any stone benchtop. Nevertheless, for the highest level of heat resistance, quartzite is the best option. While quartz is still moderately resistant to heat, it is less resistant when compared to its natural counterpart.

4. Customisation

Both quartz and quartzite can be highly customised. But in different ways. Quartz is produced in a factory so it can be customised to achieve just about any colour, pattern and style. But availability is subject to the production line and every slab or quartz in that run will be identical. Quartzite is a natural stone and is therefore limited to the natural variations of the rock in its respective quarry. What this does mean, though, is that every single slab is unique in its own right.

5. Price

Quartz is most commonly the cheaper option. This human-produced stone does not need to be quarried from the ground and transported around the world. So while quartz offers a more budget-friendly option for those constrained when it comes to price, quartzite is a premium choice that should be considered as more of a long-term investment that will last, in terms of aesthetic and functionality, long into the future.

Understanding Engineered Stone Use in Australia

In Australia, both quartz and quartzite are quite popular options for use in construction and interior design.

Quartz is favoured for its versatility, uniformity in production, lower price and ease of maintenance. In the past, this has made it a common choice for use in modern kitchens and bathrooms especially. Quartzite is appreciated for its natural beauty and strength. Being a premium natural stone material, it is often preferred in high-end designs.

However, recent regulatory developments in Australia have impacted the production, use and availability of engineered stone/quartz.

As of 1 July 2024, the government has prohibited the ongoing use of engineered stone entirely. Why? When engineered stone is cut, it releases a fine silica dust that – when inhaled – can and has caused lung disease (or silicosis). Recent reports have indicated that workers have been developing diseases at an alarming rate and over time the calls of unions and health advocates has resulted in stricter regulations. Recently, an ultimate ban on the manufacture, supply, processing, and installation of engineered stone products was put in place.

Find the Perfect Stone at Euro Marble

Ultimately, while both quartz and quartzite serve valuable and unique roles in construction and interior design, their origins, properties, and implications for health differ significantly.

Of course, the recent ban on engineered stone in Australia due to silicosis risks, makes natural stones like quartzite the more accessible, safer and better option for future projects.

Learn more about Quartz and Quartzite

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Using Marble in Contemporary Design and Architecture

Contemporary interior design and modern architecture offers a surprisingly blank canvas on which highly personalised and aesthetically wonderful creations can be made.

Creating a space that reflects modern design trends, state-of-the-art technology and current cultural values isn’t as hard as you might think and marble design work can be the key to just that.

In this article, we’ll dive into the role of marble in contemporary design and architecture, outline why you should consider using this unique natural stone and provide some tips for incorporating it in modern projects.

Understanding Contemporary Design and Architecture

The general period covered by the term ‘contemporary design and architecture’ stretches from the late 20th century to the present day. Contemporary design and modern architecture go hand in hand but are distinct in their own rights.

Classical architecture tends to be governed by a set of aesthetic and structural principles, while modern architecture has become more fluid in application and more varied in style.

Classical design similarly tends to be more distinct and consistent in style, while contemporary design moves the focus more to originality, personal expression and preference, and even eclectic combinations.

Some of the more recognised elements of modern day design and architecture are:

Asymmetry – unconventional shapes, non-linear forms, and unique layouts are all features differentiating modern design/architecture from traditional and symmetrical design of the past.
Materials – modern styles open the door to using more diverse materials and creating striking contrasts with those materials (in both aesthetics and textures).
Sustainability – current trends tend to focus on more environmentally friendly, energy efficient and more sustainable practices.
Nature – Open spaces, large windows and other design elements typical of modern design and architecture are focused on blurring the distinction between indoor and outdoor environments to promote greater integration.

Incorporating Marble Design

Marble stone is a metamorphic rock. This means it is formed under intense heat and pressure from its original state as limestone into the iconic and beautiful stone we recognise instantly today.

Due to its unique aesthetic beauty and functional durability, marble has been used in architecture, construction, design and art for centuries. Ancient palaces throughout history and modern homes across the globe use marble in varied and wonderful ways.

Today, contemporary interior design trends and modern architecture practices make great use of marble still and with its various colours and patterns, and structural and decorative applications, it’s not hard to see why this versatile natural stone has remained popular.

The Benefits of Using Marble

1. Visual Appeal

Marble is stunning in every sense of the word. Its luxurious shading and visually arresting veining adds elegance and sophistication to every application.

2. Durability

Like all stones, marble is strong, durable, hardy and long-lasting. This makes it particularly functional and practical for use in both indoor design and outdoor architecture, and vice versa.

3. Heat Resistant

Marble is also unique in its thermal properties: It remains cool to the touch, even in hot climates, which makes it perfect for use in Australia in particular.

4. Timeless Style

While contemporary interior design trends are likely to change over time, the classical beauty of marble is timeless and won’t lose its luster or appeal over the years.

5. Versatility

Marble design is incorporated in many applications. From flooring to wall cladding, and from kitchen benchtops to fireplaces, there is almost no space in the home in which marble can’t be enjoyed.

6. Sustainability

Responsibly sourced marble in conjunction with energy-efficient shipping methods can ensure a smaller environmental footprint than many other architecture and design materials.

7. Easy Maintenance

Regular, simple cleaning with warm, soapy water is more than sufficient in keeping marble looking pristine. Coupled with professional resealing every few years, your marble stone will continue to exude natural beauty for many years to come.

8. Home Value

Marble is a beloved stone and incorporating it into your property will add to its potential resale value as buyers are always looking for luxury aesthetics and high quality materials.

9. Complementarity

Marble offers seamless fusion with other materials commonly used in modern contemporary interior design and architecture. So, whether you’re coupling it with wood, glass or metal, marble will help to enhance your modern and eclectic style.

How to Incorpore Marble in Contemporary Design and Architecture

1. Use marble design as a statement feature

Marble is more than a practical construction material: It’s a work of art in its own right! That gives you the opportunity to use marble as a statement piece in and of itself. This visual design anchor can add a sense of luxury and aesthetic appeal to any space of the home.

2. Create visual depth and variety

As mentioned above, marble can be combined with a variety of other materials. In contemporary interior design, where mixing and contrasting different elements is popular, this gives you plenty of opportunity to achieve complementary and beautiful visual depth.

3. Keep your interior design minimalistic

Minimalist trends remain an enduring component of contemporary interior design. Fortunately, marble complements exactly this style. Thanks to its natural beauty and subtle but striking veining, large slabs of marble can be used for flooring, walls, or benchtops balancing a sense of minimalism with retained visual sophistication.

4. Artistic elements, furniture and accessories

Marble doesn’t have to be used in great quantities to make a great impression. There are many decorative elements (such as feature walls), furniture opportunities (such as coffee tables), and accessories (such as sculptures) in which marble can be utilised to add an element of personalisation and creativity.

5. Enhance the aesthetic design of your outdoor spaces

Marble is not just a great addition inside the home, and contemporary design and architecture includes your outdoor space as well. Marble stone can be used in patios, for garden paths or around pool areas to help elevate and enhance the overall look whilst still being functional and practical as well.

For More Marble Design Ideas, Contact Euro Marble

Marble is a compelling, popular and fantastic choice of material in modern contemporary interior design and architecture.

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Thoughtful incorporation and consideration of this timeless stone has helped designers, architects and homeowners achieve some fantastic creations. If you’re interested in discussing more marble design ideas or want to find the perfect type of marble for your contemporary interior design project, make sure to contact our team here at Euro Marble.

Our Guide to Backlighting Stone

Are you considering using backlighting and stone in your home or commercial property?

It’s a fantastic idea! Backlit stone looks amazing and can work wonders in all sorts of spaces. But this unique stylistic choice does need correspondingly unique considerations to ensure it looks and functions as well as it ought to.

Here is our guide to how to go about using natural stone for your backlighting feature.

What is Backlighting?

Backlighting is a stylistic design technique that involves the placing of a light source behind a material that is either semi- or fully translucent. The effect is one of illumination as the light passes through the material without the harshness of direct brightness.

There are many ways to create stunning visual effects using backlighting. With backlit stone, for example, you can bring out the inherent beauty of the stone itself and highlight particular aspects of its composition.

Backlighting is a popular feature of interior design nowadays as it can be a simple and yet refined way of adding a bit of flair and opulence to an otherwise bland lighting arrangement.

What are the Best Options for Backlit Stone?

Natural stone is a fantastic option for both internal and external design, but not all stones are great for backlighting. Translucency is the key here. Without an element of translucency, the light source will not shine through and the entire effect of backlighting will be lost. So what are the best options of stone for backlighting?

Onyx Stone

Backlit onyx looks spectacular! Onyx stone is known and beloved for its translucent properties. This is why it is in fact the most popular stone for use in backlighting.

Its ability to diffuse light creates a bold and dramatic effect, softening the light itself, whilst bringing to life the stunning patterns of the stone.

You can use onyx throughout the house: It’s beautiful as is for incorporation on a feature wall or it can blend seamlessly into your home as a kitchen countertop.

Quartzite Stone

Quartzite is a popular stone for many reasons. Its high level of durability and hardiness makes it a functional and practical option for use in construction and design. Yet it’s not just about the brawn – quartzite is beautiful as well.

Different types of quartzite offer varying degrees of translucency so you will need to consider the specific type and slab when choosing this wonderful stone. Nevertheless, translucent varieties of quartzite can absolutely work visual wonders with backlighting behind it.

Marble Stone

We couldn’t possibly leave marble off the list here, could we? Like quartzite, this iconic natural stone comes in a wide variety of types. Make sure you consider the variety in front of you to ensure you achieve the optimal effect with your backlit marble.

However, with the right translucency, few things measure up to the aesthetic appeal of lit marble stone. The translucent crystal patterns and subtle shading that is so beloved of marble only becomes more stunning when set in front of the backdrop of carefully designed lighting.

Granite Stone

Granite is not as commonly used as a backlit stone as the options above. Yet, with the right type, it can really serve a powerful visual statement.

Granite is known for its granular make-up and unique aesthetic, so with the right degree of translucency, this intricate material can become absolutely glorious when enhanced with backlighting.

How to Choose the Right Stone for Backlighting

When choosing a stone for backlighting, there are several key factors to consider.

1. Translucency

It is likely obvious by this point, but worth including here for comprehensiveness’ sake. Translucency is the most important factor when considering backlit stone. Only translucent stone tiles will allow the light to pass through to create the desired effect to begin with.

To this end, while onyx is considered the most translucent stone, you can make sure that any variety of stone slab under consideration has the right level of translucency to achieve the look you are after.

2. Veining and Patterns

This one is all about personal preference. Natural stone comes in all shades, with a wide range of patterns and numerous different veining aesthetics. The play of backlighting and the effect of the subsequent shadows is part of what makes this design choice so alluring.

So consider what sort of pattern you want to create? What sort of mood are you trying to achieve? What sort of colours will make your room sing? Once you know what you’re after, you can begin finding the right beautiful stone to enhance with perfectly arranged backlighting.

3. Thickness

Like translucency, the thickness of a stone slab or tile can affect the ability of light to pass through. Thinner stone panels allow for better diffusion of light.

There are some modern design techniques that use super thin stone panels, reinforced with other materials, to enhance translucency even more. But this comes down to personal preference and the aesthetic you’re trying to achieve.

Best Locations for Backlit Stone

Backlit stone can be used throughout the home to create ambiance, infuse style and make a strong aesthetic statement.

In the Kitchen

Backlit countertops or backsplashes are becoming more and more popular as they can serve as eye-catching features while also providing functional lighting.

In the Bathroom

Brightly lit up stone can enhance the aesthetic of bathroom vanities or shower walls, helping to create a spa-like atmosphere.

In the Living Room

Backlit stone makes for a create and simplistic feature wall to either work as a focal visual point in the room, add some needed depth or simply bring in some colour.

In the Hallway

Backlit stone panels can create both a welcoming ambiance and functional path guide to turn your hallway into an inviting, warm space.

Euro Marble - premier supplier of natural stone

Whether you’re considering a backlit marble feature wall or onyx countertop, Euro Marble is the premier supplier of natural stone throughout Sydney.

Why choose Euro Marble?

Our team of stone enthusiasts are always here to give a helping hand and some expert advice on how best to bring your backlit stone ideas to life.

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The Ultimate Guide to Super White Dolomite

What is super white dolomite, how does it differ from marble stone and what benefits can this material bring to your home?

In this ultimate guide to all things super white dolomite, we’ll introduce you to this fantastic natural stone so that you can incorporate it in your next home build or renovation project.

Super White Dolomite: what is it?

Dolomite is a sedimentary rock primarily found in sedimentary basins. Sometimes referred to as dolostone or dolomite rock, dolomite is formed in a similar process to limestone. For that reason, it shares many of the same characteristics and properties.

Super white dolomite, specifically, is a variety of dolomite that is known for its striking white colour and accompanying subtle yet stunning grey veining. Considered a luxury stone, super white dolomite has been used in internal and external construction and design for many years. In recent times, this fantastic natural stone has become even more popular thanks to its combination of aesthetic appeal and functional utility.

Where does super white dolomite come from?

Super white dolomite is sourced from quarries in the Bahia region of Brazil. As with all natural stone, it is extracted from the ground by being cut out as large blocks of stone. These blocks are then polished and cut into slabs for use in various applications.

Each slab of dolomite is inspected to ensure that it is of a high enough quality–aesthetically and structurally–to meet international standards, before they are processed and shipped around the world.

What is the difference between Dolomite and Marble?

Super white dolomite and marble are often compared against one another. This is understandable, of course, seeing as both stones come in the iconic stone aesthetic of white with grey veining.

However, there are compositional and property-related differences that are important to consider. For one, dolomite–like limestone–is denser than marble. This means that it is less porous and can often be more suitable for areas of the home exposed to liquid and moisture. (Think a super white dolomite kitchen or super white dolomite bathroom…)

Super white dolomite is also more durable and hardy, which means that it is generally more resistant to scratches, chips, stains and cracks. For that reason, many people opt for dolomite over marble for applications that are exposed to high levels of foot traffic and home activity as well.

Using Super White Dolomite

Being the versatile and functional natural stone that it is, super white dolomite can be used throughout one’s home.

1. Kitchen Countertops

Your kitchen countertop or benchtop is a fantastic opportunity to incorporate a beautiful and functional stone slab. Super white dolomite is not just stunning but highly durable and therefore quite popular for use in kitchens.

2. Bathroom vanities and flooring

Like kitchens, bathrooms require significantly durable material to ensure they can stand up to the high levels of moisture and humidity typical of the space. Super white dolomite brings with it not just the light, bright and luxurious aesthetic quality often associated with marble but a high level of practical durability as well.

3. Wall cladding

Super white dolomite is a great option for use in wall cladding. Whether you decide to use it across a full wall’s worth of space or only have the inclination (and budget) for a dolomite feature wall, this natural stone will look amazing in just about any application.

4. Fireplace

Your fireplace offers a unique opportunity to infuse a bit of glamour and beauty in an otherwise rather practical space. To this end super white dolomite brings an opulent quality that is most commonly associated with marble but with stronger heat resistance and durability.

Benefits of Choosing Super White Dolomite

1. Aesthetic Beauty

For one thing, super white dolomite is beautiful. Its aesthetic means that you can achieve a similar visual effect to marble but without the associated maintenance requirements and price tag.

2. High Durability

As mentioned above, super white dolomite is highly durable and hard wearing. This makes super white dolomite bathrooms and kitchens very functional, as its high density provides significant resistance to everyday wear and tear.

3. Heat Resistance

It’s not just about scratches and chips though. Dolomite is also high in heat resistance, so that exposure to higher temperatures–especially in the bathroom or kitchen-won’t compromise the material functionally or aesthetically when properly maintained.

4. Easy to Maintain

Super white dolomite, like marble, does require resealing every few years to keep it clean, pristine and as good as new. However, between reseals, maintenance is easy. Simply use a soft sponge and warm water to regularly wipe down your stone benchtop or vanity.

Here is a similar guide to keep your dolomite looking and functioning as well as possible.

Always clean up any spills as soon as possible (by blotting and not wiping) to prevent staining.
Do not cut directly on to the stone itself to prevent scratches.
Do not put hot pots and pans directly onto the stone itself.
Keep the stone regularly and professionally sealed to maintain its protective barrier.
Always clean with warm water and a soft sponge. Hard, abrasive sponges and chemical cleaners can damage the stone.

5. Affordability

Compared to marble, super white dolomite’s price is more affordable. This has added to its surge in popularity in recent years as homeowners and interior designers can achieve similar visual effects as marble but without the associated higher price tag.

6. Timeless Style

Whenever you’re designing or renovating a home, the cyclical nature of styles and fashions can cause some aesthetics to look dated over time. Super white dolomite is understated in its aesthetic quality and timeless in its appeal, which means your investment will avoid trends that can quickly become outdated.

Explore Super White Dolomite at Euro Marble

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Choosing Natural Stone For Your Fireplace

A stone fireplace is a beautiful and functional choice for your home.

However, if you are trying to choose between the different types of natural stone for your particular fireplace, it can be tricky to make a decision.

There are a lot of important considerations. Of course you want it to look beautiful, but you also need a stone material that is suitably heat resistant, durable and requires little ongoing maintenance. Natural stone ticks all of these boxes – so how do you choose the right type of stone for you?

That is exactly what we are going to break down for you today.

What You Need to Consider for Your Fireplace

There are a few material characteristics that should be at the focus of your deliberation when it comes to stone fireplaces.

Heat Resistance

Is the stone able to withstand exposure to the high temperatures of a fireplace without cracking or deteriorating?

Durability

Is the stone strong enough to resist basic wear and tear, especially if your fireplace is going to be subject to heavy use?

Maintenance

Does the stone offer easy maintenance with minimal upkeep and is it easy to keep clean?

Benefits of Using Natural Stone for Fireplaces

Using stone cladding around your fireplace certainly ticks all of these boxes.

For starters, natural stone–having formed under intense pressure and heat in the Earth’s surface–is not only durable in the face of heat exposure but is able to absorb and store that heat. Stone slowly releases the absorbed heat which helps to maintain and sustain the warmth of the room.

Natural stone is also hardy and resistant to wear and tear, making it a sound investment. It is easy to clean, requiring nothing more than regular wiping with a clean, soft cloth and warm water.

And, importantly, natural stone is a highly valuable and popular material. With each stone slab being unique and one-of-a-kind, you will be adding character to your fireplace. In fact, using fire stone cladding can increase the resale value of your home quite significantly.

A Guide for Choosing Your Fireplace Stone Type

1. Budget

Let’s start off with this important piece of the puzzle. You might be surprised to know that different natural stone varieties come in at various price points. So, make sure you have an understanding of your budget before starting to weigh up different options.

2. Style

Your stone fireplace should complement your overall style. Whether your interior design aesthetic is rustic, modern or traditional, natural stone can suit it all. But it is important that you don’t start mixing and matching different styles or your fireplace will look out of place.

Ask yourself the following two questions if you’re stuck trying to choose the right style for your fireplace?

What colour, pattern and finish do you love?

Start off with the superficial. Just look at the colours and finishes of the rest of your home and think about the style that will complement or intentionally contrast in an aesthetically pleasing way.

Do you want the fireplace to blend in or stand out?

Now you need to decide what purpose you want your fireplace to fulfill. It can either become the focal feature point of the room or it can blend in with the rest of your room’s design.

3. Maintenance Appetite

As mentioned above, stone is relatively easy to maintain. But that doesn’t mean all varieties of stone are alike. Marble, for example, despite its beauty is more porous than other stones, so it will require more regular resealing to keep it looking and functioning as good as new.

4. Context

Context matters. Is your fireplace outside? Is it inside? Understanding the climate extremes and the likelihood of exposure to the elements will greatly impact what sort of stone is best suited for your particular home application.

Stone Fireplace Ideas

Granite

Granite stone is popular for a host of reasons. Apart from its singular and iconic granular aesthetic, it is highly practical too. Granite is durable, heat resistant and requires low maintenance.

Limestone

If you love the warmer and earthier look, limestone is a great option. Like granite, it is heat-resistant and only requires basic upkeep to keep looking great. But it has a unique aesthetic and natural-looking quality.

Marble

We just love marble! It looks luxurious. It is striking visually. And with a wide range of veining, colours and shades available, you can find the perfect stone to enhance your interior design. However, marble stone does require some more frequent sealing but for a stone this stunning it is well worth the investment.

Quartzite

Quartzite is known for its durability and hardiness. This heat-proof and stain-resistant natural stone is popular for many applications around the home, including fireplaces. Plus, quartzite slabs offer a sleek and modern look that will perfectly suit minimalist interior design styles.

Travertine

Travertine brings a refreshing and rustic charm to any space. Its unique aesthetic and texture makes it a wonderful addition to the home. However, like marble, it does require careful sealing and regular resealing due to its slightly more porous nature.

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Carrara Marble vs. Calacatta Marble

Few construction and interior design materials stand up to the beauty and elegance offered by marble.

In particular, two of the most distinct varieties of this special natural stone are Carrara Marble and Calacatta Marble. Being two of the most sought-after types of stone and seeing as they are similarly named, it is not surprising that they are confused with one another.

We’ve put together this handy guide to help clarify the differences and distinctiveness between Carrara and Calacatta Marble. From aesthetics and source of origin to durability and functionality, by the end of this article, you’ll be able to make an informed decision as to which of these fantastic options best suits your needs.

The Source of Marble

Interestingly, but confusingly, both Carrara and Calacatta Marble are found in the Carrara region of Tuscany, Italy. This area has been used as a quarry for literally centuries–at least since the days of ancient Rome.

Nevertheless, there are individual quarries within this geographical location and each one offers unique marble with distinct characteristics. Carrara Marble is the more commonly found and available of the two. This makes it more affordable generally than its sister marble.

Calacatta Marble is rarer, even in the region, and this exclusivity coupled with global demand adds to both its cost but also its appeal.

The Visual Aesthetic

Perhaps the most distinguishing feature between Carrara and Calacatta Marble is aesthetic appearance. If you look closely at the two slabs side by side, you will notice differences to both their colours and veining patterns.

Carrara Marble

Carrara Marble features softer and more subtle veining patterns. Its general shade is more off-white and sometimes even a light grey with gentle undertones and striations of blue-grey colouring. The veins themselves are slightly darker than the background colouring, almost a light or water grey that seems to dissipate naturally into the rest of the stone.

Calacatta Marble

Calacatta Marble is bolder. Its veining is far more dramatic and is often thick and easily aesthetically defined. The stone itself is brighter than even white Carrara Marble which only serves to contrast more with the darker grey veining. Sometimes, the veining can even be brown or gold, depending on the variety.

Durability and Maintenance

Both Carrara Marble and Calacatta Marble have similar levels of durability and maintenance. Comparatively, marble is a porous material by natural stone standards. This means that it requires regular sealing to prevent staining, scratching and etching. Acidic substances in particular can damage the surface of the stone, so swift cleaning of spills is critical for best maintenance.

However, marble is still hardy and durable as a material. With proper care and some simple, consistent maintenance, you can ensure both the longevity and aesthetic quality of your marble.

Overall, Calacatta Marble is often less porous than Carrara Marble and will require resealing slightly less frequently. Similarly, its denser composition also makes it slightly more resistant to scratches, etching and damage.

How to Take Care of Your Marble

To begin with, as mentioned above, sealing your marble stone is important for ensuring it is protected from liquids and staining. A simple test you can run is to drop a small amount of water onto the stone surface. If the droplets do not bead up, we recommend you consider resealing.

When you do spill something, always make sure you clean it up as quickly as possible. Blot instead of wipe to ensure you don’t actually cause the liquid to spread more.

General cleaning can be done with gentle, soft cloths and using pH-neutral cleaners that are not acidic and designed specifically for marble.

Last but not least, always use mats or other protective items when placing hot dishes, pans and pots so that the intense heat from the utensil does not damage the marble itself.

Functionality and Application

Both Carrara and Calacatta Marble can and are used in a wide range of home design and construction applications. These include everything from kitchen benchtops and flooring to vanities and wall cladding.

But there are subtle differences in best practice application.

Where Carrara Marble Works Best

Carrara Marble is often used for areas of the house that don’t see such heavy traffic. This is not just a reflection of the material itself but its softer veining and more subtle aesthetic quality makes it much easier to blend seamlessly into the rest of the home design scheme. In other words, you can use Carrara Marble over large expanses of surfaces, such as walls and floors, without risking overpowering that space.

Where Calacatta Marble Works Best

On the other hand, Calacatta Marble is more often preferred for areas where you want more dramatic flair. Thanks to its bold veining patterns and more glamorous and luxurious appearance, it is more suitable for feature areas. While you certainly can use Calacatta Marble in large quantities, it also makes for excellent use in smaller, focused amounts such as a fireplace or countertop.

How to Use Your Chosen Marble

At the end of the day, you can’t really go wrong with marble. It looks fantastic. It works great. It’s classic and classy, beautiful and functional.

But if you press us for an opinion, we recommend Carrara Marble for homeowners wanting a more natural-looking and softer aesthetic. Plus, it is often more affordable so it can be more practical for many people.

If bold and stunning is the look you are after, we recommend Calacatta Marble. This sophisticated natural stone can glamour-up any space in which it is used and will catch the eye of family, friends, guests and visitors alike.

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Why Italian Marble Is the Finest Marble in The World

Natural stone has earned a unique reputation as a high quality, highly popular choice of design and construction material;, and amongst varieties of marble, Italian marble has garnered a following even more so.

Why is Italy widely recognised as the home of some of the finest and most luxurious marble in the world? What makes it different from marble quarried in other countries?

Let’s dive right into it: What makes Italian marble the finest stone in the world?

Exploring the World of Italian Marble

Italian marble is a highly sought after building material for use both externally and internally. It has a well-deserved reputation for unparalleled quality and unique visual appeal. Throughout the world, Italian marble remains highly sought after and highly popular.

A Brief History

Of course, you may recall that iconic Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo and Donatello used Italian marble in their sculptures. Michelangelo’s extraordinary “David”, for example, utilised two forms of white marble: Calacatta and Statuario.

But Italian marble has been a preferred type of natural stone beyond just works of art. Thanks to its durability, its aesthetic distinctiveness and its usefulness, structures, buildings and facades have used marble for centuries. The Vatican, famously, uses marble generously throughout its museum displays and its building structures. It’s also widely used in wall cladding and interior flooring applications in ancient structures throughout history.

The question remains: Aside from beauty, does Italian marble live up to the hype? The answer is yes. Luxurious marble is an exceptional stone; it is pretty unmatched when it comes to durability. Apart from its luxury aesthetic indicating status and sophistication, it is a relatively hardy material which makes it all the more appealing for use in construction and interior design.

But there is another component here as well. Italy has a long-standing tradition of stone work. Italian artisans pioneered many of the quarrying techniques that are still used in the modern world today. Thanks to their high standard of craftsmanship and penchant for both quality and precision, the Italians have earned a glowing reputation right beside their natural source of marble.

What Makes Italian Marble More Durable than Other Types

Why is Italian marble so much more durable than other types? Well, there are actually a few factors.

1. Quality of the Raw Materials

Where is Italian marble from? (And don’t say Italy!)

One of the most popular quarries is located in the Carrara region. The reason this area has become so popular is that the marble found there is amongst the naturally purest in the world.

Marble stone is formed in the Earth from intense heat and pressure. The specifics of this process determines just how pure the particular layer of stone is and the rock found in Carrara, as well as other regions of Italy, developed into strikingly white marble with minimal flaws. Hence its popularity and reputation.

2. Structure of Italian Marble

Carrying on the theme of marble formation, Italian marble has developed large and tightly-bound ‘crystals’ so to speak during its development under high heat and pressure. The tightly bound crystals have resulted in making the marble much harder and much more durable than its pre-existing forms of premium stones, i.e., limestone.

Additionally, this crystalline structure allows the marble stone to be polished into a high shine which is a popular look and has become iconic of the marble aesthetic.

3. Quality Control

Out of pride and over centuries of development, Italian quarries have implemented high standards of quality control in the selection, cutting and packaging of its marble. This attention to detail has ensured reliably exceptional quality.

There are a variety of techniques employed in this respect.

Quarrying methods – Italian quarry workers developed flawless processes for extracting large blocks of marble without compromising purity or quality.
Precision cutting – The next step, cutting and carving, is done using advanced tools and techniques that minimise waste and reduce the likelihood of slabs with defects sneaking under the radar.
Rigorous criteria – As mentioned above, Italians have a strict set of criteria regarding aesthetic, quality and durability that all exported stone must meet.
Customisation and innovation – The Italian artisans are rightfully proud of their beautiful marble and they have channeled that passion into mastering new and innovative ways of showcasing their wondrous natural stone, including not just quarrying techniques but polishing methods and the like.

Why Italian Marble is Expensive

The price of Italian marble really comes down to two main factors: Demand and supply.

On the demand side, being such a highly popular and fashionable choice of stone, its price is correspondingly high. There is simply more interest in Italian stone and its aesthetic appeal than current availability.

On the supply side of the equation, Italian marble–like all natural stone–is not produced in a factory. It is quarried directly from the ground, cut into slabs and then shipped around the world retaining its natural texture, aesthetic and quality. The cost of doing this can be higher than your cookie-cutter engineered stone or other forms of building material.

How to Clean Italian Marble

Marble, like other types of stone, is highly durable and hardy. But its natural texture can be damaged when exposed to intense heat, staining liquids and scratches or intense physical trauma.

White Italian marble in particular is more porous than some other stones, so it can be susceptible to etching from acids and other damaging items.

Fortunately, a good quality sealer that is professionally applied can effectively protect your Italian marble from everyday damage and preserve its aesthetic appeal. Aside from your once-every-few-years resealing, make sure you regularly wipe down your Italian marble with a warm, wet and soft cloth and avoid using harmful chemical cleaners.

Popular Varieties of Italian Marble

So, you’re now just as in love with Italian marble as we are! In that case, you may want to consider some of the more popular varieties if you’re struggling to choose from the many fantastic options.

Carrara Marble

Carrara marble is one of the most commonly quarried types, iconic for its natural beauty. It has an iconic blue-grey background and features rather fine linear striations. Also, importantly, its greater availability means it is also among the more affordable options.

Calacatta Marble

Calacatta Marble is known for its rarity and instantly recognisable for its white marble luxurious aesthetic. It features that classic pure white background with dramatic shading and veining in gold, light brown or grey.

Statuario Marble

Statuario marble also boasts a white and bright colour but is known for its bold and visually appealing grey veining. This classic, timeless natural beauty is suitable for a range of applications. Due to the more limited supply and the unbalanced high demand for Statuario marble, it is generally a more expensive option to Carrara or Calacatta marble.

Explore the Timeless Beauty of Italian Marble

Are you an interior designer looking for the perfect Italian marble for your next project?

Are you a homeowner wanting to bring your living space to luxurious life?

Are you an architect needing a bit of inspiration to wow your client?

The Euro Marble team can help with it all and more. We would love to show you around our extensive showroom and talk all things Italian marble (and other premium stones). With a strong understanding of your preferences, budget and application, we can ensure that we find the perfect marble selection to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for marble flooring or marble tiles for luxury bathroom vanities, feature walls, kitchens or other interior decoration applications, we can help.

Get in touch with us today or simply drop by our showroom for a visit.

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Natural Stone for Shower Walls: Pros and Cons

Have you considered incorporating natural stone shower walls in your bathroom?

Natural stone shower walls can transform your bathroom into a luxurious and spa-like retreat. But while stone offers a lot of advantages, there are some drawbacks that are important to take note of.

Let’s explore the pros and cons of a natural stone tiled shower so that you can make an informed and confident decision for your next bathroom renovation.

The Pros of Using Natural Stone for Shower Walls

1. Unique Beauty

Natural stone is uniquely beautiful and offers unparalleled aesthetic elegance. Each piece of stone has its own one-of-a-kind pattern, colour and shading. This makes your shower a unique piece of art. Natural stone shower walls bring more than just a hint of sophistication, regality and beauty to your bathroom.

2. Durability

Natural stone, particularly granite and quartzite, is an incredibly durable and hardy material. It can last the lifetime of a home when properly sealed and maintained. For your shower, you need such a material. Apart from the daily use and exposure to potential scratches and chips, shower walls are also exposed to moisture, steam and water. Natural stone is a great value-for-money, long-term investment for your home.

3. Increase Home Value

Due to both its appeal and its longevity, natural stone in a house can boost a home’s resale value. Using stone in your shower is an affordable way of incorporating this fantastic and luxurious material. When or if it comes to reselling your home, the natural stone shower will stand out as an attractive feature for potential buyers.

4. Heat Retention

The last thing you want when you are having a shower, for both energy consumption and personal comfort purposes, is for the material of the walls to lose all of the heat from the shower. Natural stone has excellent heat retention properties. This means that your shower will feel warmer and be more comfortable, even during colder months. It can also help maintain a more consistent temperature in your bathroom so you won’t have to rely on artificial heating to the same degree.

5. Flexibility

Apart from the different types of natural stone, stone tiles can be provided in various sizes, shapes and styles. This means you have flexibility in installation and patterns. Whether you prefer a seamless and minimalist design or want an intricate and bold pattern, stone can be customised to suit your preference and complement the rest of your interior design choices.

6. Environmentally Friendly

Natural stone, unlike many other construction materials, requires little to no manufacturing processes. This means that there is less waste and less energy consumption in the production of natural stone tiles for the shower.

The Cons of Using Natural Stone for Shower Walls

1. Higher Cost

Natural stone is not the cheapest of materials for use in your shower. Ceramic tiles or acrylic walls are both more affordable when it comes to installation. However, it is important to consider that while the initial investment is significant, the longevity and value add to a home more than makes it worth it.

2. Maintenance

Natural stone, when properly and periodically sealed by professionals, is durable. However, to keep it looking its best it is recommended that you conduct regular maintenance and cleaning. This will prevent water damage, staining and mould growth.

3. Porosity and Staining

Some natural stone varieties, such as marble, are more porous and can be more subject to damage. Consider the individual features of the type of natural stone you are looking at carefully before installing it in a shower and make sure that the soap and other cleaning agents you use are not likely to leave visual stains and damage.

4. Slipping

Showers get wet, of course. Some natural stones can become quite slippery when wet which poses a safety concern. This concern can be mitigated through the choice of slip-resistant finishes and textures, but is certainly something to consider. If you are planning on only using natural stone for your shower walls but not the floor, this is unlikely to pose a problem at all.

5. Availability

Natural stone is quarried from different sites and then shipped around the world. The consequence of which is that only the stone slabs that are available from your local supplier can be chosen. Artificial materials that are manufactured in a factory are not subject to the same tight supply constraints.

How to Find the Right Natural Stone for Your Shower

Fortunately, and as mentioned above, natural stone comes in a wide variety of colours, shades and styles. Depending on your needs and aesthetic preferences, one type of stone may be more or less suitable for your application.

Choosing the right natural stone is about balancing aesthetic preferences with functionality. The team here at Euro Marble are more than just experts in all things stone, we’re enthusiasts as well.

We would be more than happy to provide you with a custom consult to understand what your needs and wants are. Our team would love to show you around the showroom and help you discover the perfect option for your natural stone shower.

Transform Your Bathroom with Natural Stone

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