New products have just landed!

When it comes to our showroom’s selection of gorgeous natural stone and marble, the options are never set in stone! With new products quarried from exotic locations around the world arriving regularly, there’s plenty of fresh, new products for all customers of Euro Marble to enjoy.

Let’s take a look at some of our newest stones and products fresh off the ship from Costa!

Blue Roma Quartzite

The stunning and opulent-looking Blue Roma Quartz is quarried from the mines of Brazil. The elegantly balanced blue shading mixed with iconic gold and brown veined textures evokes both luxury and the beauty of our natural world.

If you’re looking for a hardy yet eye-popping stone to use on your walls, floors or staircases, Blue Roma Quartz might be just for you. This hardy stone is more than up to the task and can even be used in high traffic areas and applications, such as kitchen benchtops or bathroom vanities.

The calming aesthetic of this blue quartzite makes it highly suitable for domestic and commercial applications, especially throughout the hospitality industry. The splash of subtle colour ensures that any room you use it in will come alive without being too overwhelming.

Calcite Caraibica Blue

Our range of Calcite Caraibica Blue stone has just arrived and with it comes the unique opportunity for our customers to incorporate this one-of-a-kind natural material into their home.

The Calcite Caraibica’s iconic crystal aesthetic is most commonly translucent or even clear, but with each slab being unique and different, it’s not uncommon for the calcite to feature indications of blue or green veining. This unique chemical composition allows the calcite to both add a lightness and airiness to any room it’s incorporated in whilst still evoking memories of the sky, ocean or forest.

The nature of Calcite Caraibica Blue’s crystalline make-up means that there’s a wide range of aesthetics when you’re comparing one slab to another. This ensures our customers have plenty of options to find not just the exact style and colour they’re looking for, but to truly own an exclusive slab not replicated anywhere else in the world.

This stunning stone can be used in a wide variety of applications throughout the home, especially in kitchen benchtops and bathroom vanities where the blue-undertones will make for a warm yet light addition.

Concordia

The entire team at Euro Marble is excited to be welcoming the iconic Concordia marble to our collection. Also known formally as Cote D’Azure, Concordia even has many ‘nicknames’ that are indicative of its unique aesthetic. From “iceberg marble” to “invisible grey marble”, there are few stones that can match Concordia for its blend of luxuriousness and visual drama.

While the stone itself is rather neutral in colour–think cream and beige–making it perfect for understated application throughout the home, it’s veined with darker grey patterns and shading that bring the entire surface of the slab to life. There is still plenty of variation in the patterns and exact shading, so you can find the perfect balance of colours to suit your aesthetic.

Thanks to its properties as a highly versatile and highly durable marble stone, Concordia is particularly well suited for kitchen benchtops, floors exposed to lots of foot traffic, staircases and even vanities. Of course, like most marble, this beautiful stone can come in both polished or honed finishes depending on your personal preference.

Cosmopolitan Quartzite

There’s simply no walking past the truly gorgeous Cosmopolitan Quartzite. This unique natural stone is also quarried in Brazil and shipped all around the world so people everywhere can enjoy the rich red wine aesthetic. The rather striking shading of the Cosmopolitan Quartzite is complemented by the complex, arresting veining that adds a sense of depth and sophistication to the stone itself.

While known for its red shading, the tones do vary. From white and grey to black and brown, there’s plenty of variety to choose from amongst our newest selection. Plus, there are even slabs that feature higher translucency so wherever you decide to incorporate Cosmopolitan in your home, you can be guaranteed a light and yet visually awe-striking effect.

Being quartzite this stone is extraordinarily tough and hardy, so it can be used in a whole range of applications throughout the home. Many of our customers choose to incorporate it outside as well whether it’s the garden or window sills.

Cristallo Rosa

The exotic Cristallo Rosa is yet another recent addition to our showroom that hails from the quarries of Brazil. This quartzite boasts an illustrious and long history of use in construction projects of all kinds thanks to its perfect blend of visual beauty and practical hardiness.

Known for its white and semi-translucent shading, Cristallo Rosa slabs come with glittering flecks of crystals, delicate flourishes of veining and engaging pale pink patterns. This wonderful balance of sophistication and luxurious simplicity gives you the opportunity to incorporate Cristallo in just about any home or setting of your house. We highly recommend considering it for the kitchen or bathroom, both areas where you’ll want to use a light colour to help increase the amount of perceived space.

Check out our new products in our showroom today!

We absolutely love talking about all things stone, marble and quartzite, and we’re beyond excited to share our new Costa products with our customers. But if you want to experience the natural stone at its best and get a real, tangible feel for just how beautiful these stones are, make sure to come on in and visit our showroom at 11 Rich Street, Marrickville.

How to Clean Tile Grout Naturally

If you’re wondering how to clean grout from your tiles in a natural, simple and easy way – you’ve come to the right place.

Cleaning tile grout doesn’t need to include the use of harsh chemicals or require an investment in specialist equipment. In fact, both of those suggestions are at best a waste of time and money and at worst damaging for your tiles.

Nevertheless, tile grout is something that does need cleaning. That’s why we’re going to explore some natural and gentle ways in which you can preserve the natural beauty of your stone tiles with natural grout cleaner materials and methods.

Cleaning Tile Grout

Grout is the dense fluid that is used to fill the gaps between the stone tiles on the floor and walls of your home. In addition to providing the necessary adhesive strength to keep your tiles in place, grout also contributes to the visual appeal of your floor or walls.

That’s why keeping your tile grout cleaned and sparkling is important. Dirty grout left to accumulate over time can detract from the aesthetic of your space and the visual appeal of your home.

When Do You Need a Tile Grout Cleaner

In most applications the grout used in tiles is light in colour and porous in material. There are good reasons for this. Dark grout can crowd out the beauty of your stone tiles and non-porous grout may not be as pliable in application.

But there is a down side as well: It makes it more prone to staining. When we say staining we’re not just talking about spills by the way. Dirt, debris, mould and soap can all build up between stone tiles and discoulour them quite visibly over time.

When you notice the grout starting to get darker and, to be honest, uglier it might be time to learn how to clean your grout.

How to Clean Grout Naturally

Cleaning grout doesn’t have to be overly expensive, time consuming or energy consuming. In fact, there are natural ways to clean your tile grout with basic household cleaning materials and some simple instructions.

Basic Tile Grout Cleaning guide

Step 1 – Water

Grab a cup or a bucket and make sure that it is clean. Then fill it up with lukewarm water – cold water won’t be as effective and hot water can be damaging.

Step 2 – Baking Soda

Add enough baking soda to make the water thicker in consistency but not enough that it becomes gluggy or ruins its viscosity.

Step 3 – Dish Soap

Add a small amount of natural dishwashing soap. Any natural soap will do as long as it does not have a high acidity level.

Step 4 – Mix

This one is self explanatory really. Just mix the above concoction until the ingredients blend.

Some people like to add a small amount of vinegar when cleaning grout between non-natural stone tiles. We strongly recommend you seek advice from your stone manufacturer or supplier before applying vinegar and avoid vinegar for natural stone grout.

Step 5 – Apply

Apply the water-baking soda-soap mixture to the grout. There’s no need to soak the groat but ensure that the stained, dirty sections of the grout are all subjected to the mix.

We recommend using a spray bottle to gently apply the warm water and soap to the tile’s grout.

Step 6 – Scrub

When we say scrub, we actually mean to gently scrub. You don’t want to scrape away or degrade the grout in your efforts to clean it.

Pro tip: Scrub the grout in as circular a motion as possible. Scrubbing back and forth or up and down can damage the grout.

Step 7 – Rest

Let your grout and mixture sit still for a few minutes and take the opportunity to rest yourself.

Step 8 – Check

Have a look at the grout. More stubborn and persistent stains and dirt might need another round of mixture and scrubbing.

Is the stain still there?

If the stain or dirt is proving tougher than anticipated, you may need to adjust your cleaning mixture. Adding some more natural, non-acidic soap may help. For non-natural stone, you may want to consider adding some more vinegar depending on the application.

Is the stain just not going away?

For deeply embedded stains, a more thorough approach may be needed.

Option 1

First and foremost, make sure to seek professional cleaning advice. Once you’ve got the a-OK from your supplier to use bleach, use a small amount of hydrogen peroxide in your warm water and baking soda mixture.

Option 2

Alternatively, and this requires a bit more time, skill and investment, you can carefully scrape off the top layer of your tile grout using a specialised grout knife tool.

You will need to then apply a grout sealer afterward to protect it from further dirt, staining and damage.

Step 9 – Wipe

Take a soft sponge and wipe the excess mixture from the grout and tiles.

Step 10 – Dry

Now, step back and let the tile grout dry completely.

Tips for Cleaning Grout

Always let the floors and walls dry properly before assessing the grout.
Clean your tiles regularly with non-damaging cleaners.
Always vacuum your floors before mopping to prevent the dirt from soaking into the grout between tiles.
Get your grout professionally sealed and resealed regularly.
Avoid harsh chemicals, materials with high levels of acidity and abrasive substances.
Do not use vinegar or bleach on natural tiles.
Always patch test your cleaning solution in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure that it does not worsen the discolouration or damage.
Avoid hard-bristled brushes, steel wool and other abrasive tools. Be careful not to scrub too hard!

Speak to the Natural Stone Experts Today

Here at Euro Marble, we’re not just passionate about sourcing the best quality, most visually dazzling natural stone slabs from around the world. We’re also experts in ongoing maintenance and cleaning of natural stone and tile grout.

So, if you have any questions before getting started cleaning your grout, make sure to give us a call today.

Kitchen Layouts: A Complete Guide

The kitchen layout in your home is very important for determining more than just the aesthetics of the space. Kitchens are one area of the home that is bound to see a lot of activity and traffic, so the layout needs to be suitably functional and practical for everyday use.

Whether your kitchen space is compact and small or open and large, there are a number of ways in which the layout can make or break the usability of the space. From the placement of certain features to the height and length of your benchtop, there’s certainly a lot to consider. In this article, we’ll help you understand the basics of kitchen design layouts and provide some ideas to help inspire you.

Understanding the Basics of a Kitchen Layout

The Work Triangle

One of the most commonly known principles of a kitchen layout is the ‘Work Triangle’. The theory behind this principle is that there should be a clear, unobstructed and ergonomic space that allows for easy access to the three mainstays of food preparation:

The stove top
The sink
The refrigerator

The space between these three parts forms the kitchen triangle. While by no means a law, this kitchen layout idea serves to ensure easy movement and a foundation from which you can build out the rest of your kitchen design.

Depending on how well you wish to conform to the Work Triangle, there are certain other considerations to take into account, such as ensuring there are no appliances or cabinets that intersect the ‘legs’ of the Triangle, and ensuring that each side of the Triangle does not exceed 2.7 metres. While the motivation behind the triangle is important, at the end of the day you need to go with what works for you.

Kitchen Zones

Another way to approach your kitchen design layout is to focus on the different zones of the kitchen.

In this instance, a zone refers to a specific space which is dedicated to completing a particular kitchen-based task. For example, the sink may be primarily dedicated to washing up dishes etc. Your benchtop is designed for food chopping and mixing.

This important point here is to focus on each particular zone to ensure that there is sufficient space and working area to complete the relevant task. Additionally, you’ll want the appliances and cabinetry related to that task to be close at hand. For example, your bin should be close to the space where you’ll be chopping vegetables.

Every zone needs to work and function in a way that complements you and your family. Working from zone to zone to ensure each aspect of the kitchen is optimised is a handy and systematic way to go without getting too overwhelmed.

Space Planning

Planning how to use the space in your kitchen is certainly a balancing act but it’s an integral part of the kitchen layout design. If your kitchen is compact and tight you might be tempted by maximising your storage with cabinets and cupboards, but this will impact your ability to incorporate a kitchen island or certain layouts (more on this soon).

Your kitchen layout needs breathing space not just from a visual point of view but also practically speaking. Think about who will be accessing the space and when? What will you be doing and is there enough room to move around while you’re busy prepping and cleaning?

Ideally, keeping a minimum of 1 metre space between walls or cabinets is ideal while anything more than 3 metres is likely to be an under-utilisation of space. Of course, there are no hard and fast rules and you’ll need to think about what works for you and your home.

Kitchen Layout Ideas

Single Wall

A one-wall kitchen is a simple layout design and can be used to great effect with vertical storage and cabinetry. Of course, the Work Triangle may not be possible, but there’s still no reason why consideration can’t be put into the layout of your oven, fridge and sink to ensure intuitive movement when you’re busy hustling up and down. Tip: think bright tiling or natural stone to help brighten and add visual space to the area, such as Blue Roma Quartzite.

Island Kitchen

If your kitchen is open plan, an island offers a practical and large work surface. Without boxing in your kitchen layout, a beautiful island can be practical and visually pleasing. Whether you incorporate other features, such as a sink or bar fridge, into your kitchen island is really up to you. Remember to consider where your other zones are located, however, to ensure that the island adds to the natural flow of movement and traffic in the kitchen.

There are plenty of choices for benchtop materials, including the hardy yet still stunning marble natural stone. Check out our Concordia Marble and New York Marble for classic yet stunning kitchen benchtop options.

Galley Style

The Galley Kitchen refers to two rows of cabinetry facing each other; think of it like a mirror-image of the single walled kitchen. This economical kitchen design layout allows you to make the most of the space for storage and appliances while having slightly more flexibility with regards to where everything can go. One tip for making the most of each centimetre of space while still ensuring ease-of-movement is to have all of the work areas on the one side with all of the storage and other appliances on the other.

The Letter-shaped Kitchens

Among the many kitchen layout options you have, especially if building a kitchen from scratch, are the ‘letter shapes’. Each of these layout ideas come with their own pros and cons, so it’s worth thinking about what sort of size space you want and how you plan on using your kitchen.

L-shape kitchen – This layout offers enormous flexibility in how you set up your Work Triangle and zones. Plus, the creation of a corner offers unique storage opportunities as well as the extended kitchen bench which can be used for meal preparation or a breakfast bar!

U-shape kitchen – This kitchen layout is wonderful for large and open-spaced kitchens that require plenty of storage for many appliances. You can pack as much utility as you want into the three sides without affecting the Work Triangle in the middle.

G-shape kitchen – This layout offers much of the space of the U-shaped kitchen but with some highly practical extra benchtop space. While you may sacrifice some of the openness, you’ll find plenty of food preparation space to help you get meals ready to go. Plus, the extra cabinetry will absolutely not go amiss!

Let’s Talk More Kitchen Layout Ideas Today

If you’re still unsure about which kitchen layout is right for you, or you know what you’re looking for and are ready to find stunning natural stone slabs to incorporate, make sure to reach out to our team here at Euro Marble today to discuss all things kitchen layouts!

Choosing Kitchen Sinks & Tapware For Your Kitchen

When it comes to designing your kitchen, you’ve probably given a lot of thought to the larger aspects of the space such as the countertop and layout. However, taking the time and expending the effort to choose the right kitchen sinks and tapware for your kitchen is just as important.

Your sink and tap are some of the most frequently used parts of the kitchen but there’s a lot more to these humble features than just their utility. Despite being understated, choosing the right material and design that complements the overall aesthetic of your kitchen and home can really go a long way to bringing your interior design together.

To help you, we’ll run through the basics in kitchen sinks and tapware.

Flush mount vs undermount sink – the types of kitchen sinks available

Inset sink

If you’re operating on a budget and are happy to go with the simplest and most commonly used option, an inset sink is ideal. Affordable, practical and durable, the standard inset sink is set into the countertop. The tapware can be mounted to the sink itself or to an adjoining surface. There are a variety of sink rim designs to choose from, including bevel edges or raised rims, depending on your personal preference.

Undermount sink

The undermount sink is similar to the inset sink in many ways but is tucked further under the surface of the benchtop. This gives the entire look a cleaner, minimalist and more streamlined aesthetic, if that’s your preference. There are practical elements as well to the undermount sink as you can more easily wipe liquid or spills into the bowl, but other considerations such as drainage and the likelihood of chipping are also important to think about.

Flush mount sink

There is some confusion when comparing flush mount sinks vs undermount sinks. In essence, the undermount sink is placed into the countertop with an opening cut out from it. The flush mount, on the other hand, does not get installed into a cut hole but directly onto the top of the counter surface. This allows for a sleeker look but does make replacing the countertop sometime in the future more complicated. Flush mount sinks are also generally more expensive to purchase and when it comes to installation due to the complexity.

Material Options for Sinks

Sinks, basins and vanities are available in a variety of materials, each with their pros and cons.

Enamel

Enamel-finished sinks are quite easy to clean and maintain which makes them practical and provide a variety of options of finishes. However, they can be heavy and require additional reinforced cabinetry, plus the enamel can be worn away over time.

Stainless steel

A stainless steel sink offers many practical benefits. It’s hygienic, durable and among the cheaper of options. Apart from the metallic aesthetic of stainless steel, some sinks can be prone to making a lot of noise with running water and low quality steel can become scratched with usage.

Composite material

Composite materials are often made from a mixture of quartz, natural stone and resin. There are many reasons to choose a composite stone: from its durability to its stain resistant nature, but boiling water and water marks can be an issue.

Brushed brass

A brushed brass sink can look fantastic in a number of rustically themed or country-styled kitchens and homes. Durable and easy to maintain, brushed brass is practical but it does come at a higher price point than other types of sinks.

Natural stone

Natural stone is a popular and luxurious-looking option for sinks. There are a variety of options of natural stone available, such as granite, quartzite, travertine, onyx, and marble. There’s also plenty of aesthetic variety with colours and shading ranging from bluey-caramel with the Azul Macubas and light grey Tundra limestone to the pale pink and intricately veined Cristallo Rosa quartzite, and everything in between!

What to Consider with Tapware

The best kitchen tapware for your kitchen will depend a lot on your particular stylistic preferences, the overall aesthetic of your bathroom and the general layout of your sink.

Matching your kitchen sinks

The first thing to consider with your tapware is what will match your sinks. While bought separately, there is often wide enough choice available that you can find taps to match just about any sink. Consider both the design, colour, shape and size when you’re looking to match the sink with the tapware.

Choose your style

Do you prefer a single lever mixer that will sit in the middle of your sink? Do you want a tap that sits to the right or left? Does it need to accommodate a soap dispenser of some description? Take the time to consider how you plan on using the tap and how the style being considered will complement your activity in and around the sink.

Height and size

Apart from needing a tap that can be installed physically and is compatible with your sink, taps, faucets and spouts come in all heights and sizes. There is no size that suits everyone’s ergonomics or preferences. So take the time to think about the functionality of any tap in consideration.

Look around the sink

Due to the fact that every kitchen is different and the layout and cabinetry are different, make sure to think about the area surrounding your sink as well. Low hanging cabinets, electrical appliances and a variety of other factors can help you determine what type of tap is right for you.

Explore Stone Kitchen Sinks and Tapware at Euro Marble

Euro Marble is a leading supplier of the highest quality of natural stone in Australia. If you’re considering different types of kitchen sinks and accompanying tapware, make sure to come into our showroom or contact us today to find out just how gorgeous and practical a natural stone sink can be for you!

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8 Granite Countertop Alternatives

antique white granite kitchen top 400x400 1

Granite and granite alternatives are highly popular materials for use around the home. Whether it’s in the bathroom, kitchen or fireplace, granite can be used to great effect in many applications.

While its hardiness and durability as a natural stone are important advantages when considering what material to use in your countertop, granite also offers a unique crystalline aesthetic.

However, natural stone is not by any means the cheapest material on the market. While you certainly get your money’s worth in its long term return on investment, there are cheaper substitutes that offer some, if not all, of the benefits of granite.

To help you, we’ll break down the various granite look alike materials and cheap granite alternatives to help you find the very best material for your particular project.

Solid Surface

Solid surface is a man-made construction material that is often used for kitchen or bathroom countertop installations. Made from a combination of a number of resins and pigments, such as alumni trihydrate, acrylic, epoxy and polyester, it comes in a variety of colours, designs and aesthetics. If you’re looking for a granite substitute but still want to achieve a unique visual depth, suitable solid surface options can be found.

Apart from being a cheap granite alternative on the aesthetic front, solid surface is also commonly chosen because it allows for a seamless-looking countertop. If you’re a fan of the single-slab design of using natural stone, such as granite, solid surface can help you achieve a similar effect.

Stainless Steel

While once this material was relegated to the confines of industrial kitchens, the use of stainless steel countertops in particular is becoming a more common, popular and chic option in the home as well.

Stainless steel is very practical as it is hygienic and easy to clean. Not to mention that its non-porous nature means it’s useful for areas such as the kitchen’s benchtop or splashback.

While it is a practical granite alternative, stainless steel certainly looks quite different and will add a distinct feel to your kitchen compared to granite stone itself.

Concrete

Concrete floors and benchtops are also becoming more and more popular. In many ways this granite substitute is more similar than it is different. Afterall, concrete is a durable and long-lasting material provided it gets simple ongoing maintenance and resealing as needed. Plus, there’s a surprisingly wide range of styles available when it comes to concrete, so it’s easier to find an option that’s closest to a granite look alike.

Concrete is also a relatively cheap alternative to granite, so if you’re operating under a tight budget it’s definitely worth considering.

Laminate

Laminate is another man-made synthetic product that can be used as a granite substitute. Composed of various materials including resin, laminate comes in as wide a range of styles, colours and aesthetics as you can imagine. Often used for flooring, the benefit of laminate is that it can really emulate the visual quality of granite.

Good quality laminate can be strong and durable, while still being a far cheaper option for many applications. If you’re after the aesthetics of granite without the expense, laminate is certainly a good option for you.

Wood

Classic, versatile and affordable, wood is a good granite alternative whether in your home kitchen or bathroom. While you’re certainly going to find it harder to match any type of wood or timber to granite visually, there are many benefits to this construction material.

Comparatively cheap, wood is also one of the more simple granite substitutes to repair if it gets damaged, scratched or stained. This allows you to enjoy a long lasting and still relatively inexpensive choice of material.

Other Natural Stones

If you love the thought of natural stone there are other popular and practical options to granite.

Marble, for example, can be used throughout the home and across a wide variety of applications. Gorgeous in aesthetic, this classic stone oozes sophistication without compromising durability or practicality. With simple maintenance and professional sealing, marble countertops, flooring, staircases or bathroom vanities will add a stunning quality to just about any home.

Quartzite

Quartzite is one of the newer innovations of stone in the home environment. Nonetheless, this increasingly popular material is durable, high quality and available in a very wide range of colours.

Unlike natural stone, you don’t need to seal and reseal quartzite. It remains abrasion resistance, chemical resistant and fire resistant from the day it’s installed until long into the future.

Engineered Stone

Engineered stone, often referred to as quartz, is an artificially made material that emulates many of the aesthetic and practical properties of natural stone. Made of resin and quartz, among other things, this granite alternative can be produced in a wide variety of styles so you can find one that looks similar to your choice of granite.

While still a relatively pricier option compared to laminate or even wood, engineered stone is certainly a cheaper alternative to granite and other natural stones.

Let’s Find the Right Granite Alternative For You

If you need some assistance finding the right granite substitute and are unsure exactly which option is right for your application, contact our friendly team here at Euro Marble on (02) 8585 2999.

We may be specialists in all things natural stone, but we’re more than happy to help you find the perfect solution for your new kitchen countertop, bathroom vanity, fireplace, or flooring no matter what material you’re looking for!

How to Remove Stains from Marble

Marble is a magnificent natural stone for use in and around your home. Whether it’s in the form of a kitchen benchtop or a bathroom vanity, the luxurious look and practical durability of marble is what truly makes it a winning option.

However, as far as construction materials and even natural stone go, marble is among the more porous of options. This means that it can be more susceptible to staining, especially if you’re using it as a countertop where it’s likely to be exposed to food, liquid and a significant amount of activity.

An important component to knowing how to remove stains from marble is understanding how to prevent damage in the first place. After all, preventing stains is the ideal solution.

Preventing Water Stains, Oil Stains and More on Marble

Sealing

Professional sealing, and subsequent resealing every 3 to 5 years, is a very effective way to keep your marble looking and functioning as good as new for long into the future. Not only do sealants make this porous stone more resistant to staining, whether it’s oil, water or wine, but it also helps improve its resistance to scratches and abrasion.

While there is going to be a cost in having your marble benchtop sealed and resealed, it’s well worth the investment considering how long lasting and durable marble can be.

Maintenance

Simple and quick daily cleaning habits can help maintain your marble stone and prevent stains from occurring. Avoid hard chemicals and abrasive sponges when you’re wiping down any marble. Use warm, soft and safe-for-stone soap only with a microfibre or similarly soft material cloth.

A simple wipe down at the end of the day will go a long way to ensuring your marble remains sparkling and unblemished.

Clean up spills

It can be difficult to know how to get stains out of marble, especially stains that have set in and dried. That’s why it is always recommended that when an accident happens–and let’s face it, they do happen–you mop up the spill as soon as possible.

Remember to blot a spill first to soak up as much liquid as possible. If you try to wipe it off straight away, you’ll likely just spread the spill more and increase the chances of staining.

Protective accessories

If you have a marble table or countertop, make sure you have coasters, heat pads and other helpful kitchen accessories. By placing mugs of coffee, tea cups and hot pans, trays and dishes onto these protective items you’ll prevent heat stains and other potential damage from being caused to the precious marble underneath.

How to Remove Stains From Marble

If you miss a spill or don’t manage to clean it up quick enough, you might find your marble has suffered a bit of a stain. There are different ways to remove stains from marble depending on the type of stain.

If you’re in doubt, it’s always best to be safe rather than sorry. Make sure to contact the team here at Euro Marble for advice or bring in a professional to get rid of the stain for you.

If you do want to tackle the stain removal yourself, here’s a guide on what to do.

How to Remove Organic Food Stains From Marble

For most organic food stains, you should use a solution that contains 12% hydrogen peroxide and just a couple of drops of ammonia. Use warm water and a clean, soft cloth and gently apply the solution to the stain. Make sure the marble is completely dry after you wipe the solution away.

How to Remove Oil Stains on Marble

For oil stains, or anything stained from liquid with an oil base, use a special stone liquid cleanser. Be careful not to use any detergent that contains harmful chemicals or has high levels of acidity.

How to Remove Water Stains From Marble

Water stains are generally removed using white vinegar (at least when it comes to household cleaning solutions) but it’s best to avoid any acidic substances when working with marble. That’s why we recommend baking soda. The key to knowing how to remove stains from marble with baking soda is to remember to expose your stone to the substance for short periods of time only.

When you do try to get rid of the water stain, rub the baking soda into the stain thoroughly. Rinse it off straight away without leaving it to sit and cause further damage using warm water and a soft, clean cloth. Then make sure you dry the stone completely, but do not press too hard or rub too vigorously as this can also cause further damage.

Using Poultice

Many marble stains can also be removed quite effectively using a simple homemade solution called a poultice. In essence, a poultice is just a thick paste that can be applied to the stained marble and that then draws out the stain when removed.

The basic method of creating a poultice is to combine a marble-safe solvent with water or baking soda. Depending on the type of stain you are treating (see above) you might want to add in some hydrogen peroxide or the like. Once the ingredients are mixed together, keep mixing it until it turns into a thickened paste.

The poultice can then be applied to the stained area. Make sure it is cleaned beforehand but that the marble is slightly damp. Once applied, seal it with some plastic wrap and leave it for between 24 and 48 hours. Then remove the poultice carefully using a plastic or wooden spoon so that you don’t scratch the stone, and wipe down the surface with a soft, damp cloth. Lastly, make sure that the marble is completely dry.

Euro Marble – your one point of call for all things marble

If you’re still unsure how to remove stains from your marble countertop or you would like professional assistance, make sure to contact our team today. We’re always here to help you out and take great pride in ensuring our customers love every square centimetre of their marble, stains and all!

Stone Feature Walls: what you need to know

Why You Should Consider a Stone Feature Wall

A feature wall is a particular wall designed in terms of texture and colour to add aesthetically to a room or space. Feature walls can be used to great effect internally or externally, and are often designed to contrast against the other walls and/or design choices to add a sense of energy, depth and interest to an area.

The potential for your feature wall really depends on your creativity and preference (and budget). A feature wall can be created through a simple coat of paint or by a completely reconstructed wall.

A classic and enduringly popular option, however, is a stone feature wall.

Stone Feature Walls

Natural stone feature walls offer plenty of benefits.

Aesthetic

If you love the look of a stone wall but are not ready or able to incorporate stone throughout your home, containing it to a feature wall is a great solution. Few things look as fantastic as a stone feature wall.

Durability

Stone is a very durable and hardy material to use throughout the home. Even though you might just be adding stone to a single wall, your feature wall will last for long into the future. It’s easy to keep clean and maintain as well.

Affordability

Stone, especially natural stone quarried directly from the ground, is not the cheapest of construction materials. However, with a stone feature wall you can still benefit from the luxury and opulent aesthetic without having to invest in floor-to-ceiling stone walls.

Flexibility

Even within the realm of indoor stone feature walls, there is still plenty of scope to customise your feature wall. Of course the type of stone that you use will greatly impact its overall look, but so will the style and type of wall itself.

Stacked Stone Feature Walls

The term ‘stacked stone’ normally refers to the arrangement of various sized stones to create a wall. While often the stones and slabs used in the feature wall can vary quite significantly in terms of size, this doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. You could opt for more consistent and standardised styling.

Nonetheless, a stacked stone feature wall allows you to customise your wall in many ways. For one, you can choose either one particular type of stone–including colour, shade, and pattern–or include different types of stones as well. Either option is guaranteed to result in a beautiful and eye-catching wall.

Moreover, a popular feature wall option is to include roughly hewn stones so that the wall itself has a jagged surface. Apart from an enhanced visual depth, this sort of stone feature wall is particularly suited to external walls or feature walls around a fireplace.

Don’t worry, though, if you’d prefer a smoother look. One of the many benefits of a stacked stone wall is that the overall aesthetic of many stones allows for a perfect balance of simplicity and depth even if you opt for a single colour or shade.

Stone Cladding Feature Walls

Stone cladding, sometimes referred to as veneer stones or veneer stone cladding, consists of layering an outer layer of stone over a pre-existing wall. Feature stone cladding offers a number of benefits to take into account.

With cladding you get to enjoy many of the benefits of a stone feature wall but at a cheaper price point. Due to the fact that you are not building the wall structurally from stone, you need less actual material. This makes a cladding feature wall a lot more affordable.

However, you still get to enjoy the aesthetic beauty of the stone itself. Not to mention that even stone cladding can add substantial value to your home.

Designing Your Stone Feature Wall

If you’re ready to start putting together some ideas for your natural stone feature wall, you may need some assistance in narrowing down the many choices you have to make.

Purpose

Start with the purpose of your feature wall. This can be as simple as wanting to infuse some colour/light into the room or it might be to create a truly eye-popping feature that will grab visitors’ attention. Knowing what you want to achieve will help you make the rest of the decisions more easily.

Placement

Where is your feature wall going to go? Are you incorporating it inside or outside? Do you want a stone feature wall in your living room or surrounding a fireplace? These decisions can be either very simple or more difficult, depending on your home’s design. Whether you opt for the stone cladding or stacked stone feature wall will make a difference as well.

Budget

Consider your budget for the stone feature wall. If you’re operating on a tight budget, you may need to consider stone cladding and choose one of the cheaper natural stones. There are even DIY guides out there for applying stone veneers to a wall yourself, but we would caution doing it independently unless you feel confident and experienced with your building skills.

Style

Consider not just the style of the feature wall that you want but also the style of the rest of your home. While a feature wall is designed to contrast and stand out against the rest of the room, it shouldn’t look out of place. If your home is rustic, you can consider roughly hewn stone and incorporate a variety of colours and types. If your home is more modern or Scandinavian, you’ll need to pick a suitably minimalist design.

Material

From the stunning opulence of marble to the gorgeous and intricately textured granite, there are many different types of natural stone available to choose from. While all stones are quite hardy and durable, you may want to consider the different levels of porousness, fire resistance or abrasion resistance in the different stones based on your particular application.

Colour

Natural stone actually comes in a wide variety of colours and shades. While it can be overwhelming to choose from the many options, it’s nice to have the flexibility and range of choices to find the one that suits you, your home and your preferences the best.

Find Out More About Stone Feature Walls Today

Whether you know exactly what you want for your feature wall or you need some professional assistance and expert advice, the Euro Marble team is here for you.

Give us a call or come into our showroom and we’ll gladly talk/walk you through the many options available. That way you’ll be confident and excited no matter what sort of natural stone feature wall you choose.

Modern Granite Counters For Bathrooms

A granite bathroom offers plenty of opportunity for you to bring elegance in design and practicality in function. While granite can be and is used in a variety of applications around the home and throughout the bathroom, there’s something special about a bathroom with granite countertops.

If you’re looking for some inspiration for your modern bathroom’s granite counters, we’re here to help steer you in the right direction.

Granite

Granite is a crystalline and granular hard stone. Naturally occurring and quarried from various sites around the world, granite contains a number of other minerals. This gives granite countertops a unique look while still being as durable and pressure-resistant as you need in the bathroom.

Plus, when you keep your granite countertop clean, sealed and polished it will turn your bathroom into a true oasis.

Granite in Bathroom Countertops

The counters in your bathroom are going to be exposed to a range of different elements. From water and soap to cosmetics and hygiene consumables, you need something that is hardy and durable enough to withstand not just the general wear and tear but the various materials being used around and on it. Granite is more than up to the task. As one of the hardiest stones available, with proper care it can last for many, many years.

Moreover, granite is extraordinarily elegant and beautiful. If you simply love a modern, minimalist bathroom that still has character, incorporating a granite countertop is one way to have the best of both worlds.

Granite Bathroom Design Ideas

Matched with Mahogany

The use of deep coloured mahogany wood has become more and more popular in home bathrooms. There are few things that complement mahogany wood as beautifully as granite. A granite countertop surrounded by mahogany cabinetry is both luxurious to look at and practical for use in the bathroom.

Mirror and Lighting

This design idea is a great way to accentuate a granite countertop. By flanking either side of your countertop or sink with side lighting centered by a large mirror will give you all the necessities of a vanity in the bathroom while also effectively highlighting the beauty of any granite countertop you choose.

Self-standing/Raised Sink

The sink you choose for your bathroom countertop will make a significant impact on the overall design and feel of the space. A self-standing and/or raised sink on a granite bathroom countertop is both modern and stylish. This increasingly popular design choice offers plenty of opportunity to customise as well.

Double Sink Vanity – Gray or Dark

There are a wide variety of vanity unit designs but if you’re looking for a him/her set-up few styles beat the double sink countertop. Whether you opt for a refined and minimalist grey or a darker and bolder stone slab, granite perfectly balances simple sophistication with granular complexity to match without cluttering a double sink set up.

Coloured Granite Bathroom Designs

Granite, like many natural stones, comes in a wide selection of different colours. Choosing a feature colour to act as a central visual point for the bathroom is an excellent way to break up the otherwise monochromatic feel of many modern day homes.

Turquoise Granite

Can you think of anything more stunning and calming than a bathroom countertop made from this beautiful turquoise green granite?

Black Granite

Bathrooms, modern ones especially, are often white or off-white. A bold, black granite countertop–with or without accompanying dark wooden cabinetry–can make for a truly spectacular addition to your bathroom.

Light Granite

If you would rather stick with a white or light colour scheme throughout your home, granite comes in a variety of lighter shades. There’s no need to sacrifice any of the hardiness and durability granite brings to the bathroom by going with another stone just to maintain the minimalist bright design of whiter stone.

Grey Granite

However, for those of you who are not quite sold on the bold, black granite but still want something with a bit of coloured depth to it, grey granite can do just the trick. With a subtle boldness, you can mix and match grey granite with just about any modern aesthetic thanks to the depth of the granular surface on this special stone.

Countertop Edging

Granite bathroom countertops can be customised in terms of colour, style, accessories and surrounding amenities.

The edging of your granite countertop might seem like a small feature that won’t make a huge difference but it can really change the entire visual look. There are a few options available offering different benefits depending on your aesthetic preference.

Straight Edge

These slightly rounded edges are clean and simple and are perfect for busier or darker granite countertops.

Eased Edge

Eased edges are less rounded without having sharp or dangerous corners that you wouldn’t want in a room like the bathroom.

Beveled Edge

Beveled edging is perfect for modern bathroom designs and can be further tailored in terms of edge angle, level of flatness and more.

Ogee Edges

A granite bathroom countertop with a rounded ogee edge looks simple yet stunning and is perfect for low key applications.

Bullnose Edges

The bullnose edge is ideal if your countertop’s granite slab is thinner. It will help keep the overall look traditional but not outdated especially in a home featuring modern design styles.

Waterfall Edge

If you’re going for modern and contemporary first and foremost, few things stand out better than the waterfall edging. It’s elegant without being over the top and will effectively highlight your granite stone.

Granite Bathrooms Start at Euro Marble

It doesn’t matter whether you’re feeling inspired and clear-headed about how you want to incorporate a granite bathroom countertop or you need more granite bathroom design ideas, make sure to contact Euro Marble.

We’re a premier supplier of natural stone, including quality and beautiful granite, and we would love to help you achieve the modern bathroom of your dreams!

9 Granite Kitchen Countertop Ideas

When it comes to renovating your kitchen or designing a new one, finding the right granite kitchen countertop is a must. After all, the kitchen countertop doesn’t just need to be a functional centre piece to the room but it also presents a very important opportunity to infuse a sense of luxury and aesthetic style.

What is Granite?

Granite is one of the most hardy of the natural stones. Unique in its crystalline aesthetic, granite is granular in nature which makes it a very distinctive-looking construction material as well as extremely practical.

There are plenty of reasons to choose granite for kitchen countertops. For one, its durability and resistant nature makes it perfect for the high amounts of activity that goes on in the kitchen. Plus, being simple to maintain and keep clean, your granite countertop will be as easy on the eye as it is easy to maintain.

But there are so many style-related options in granite kitchen countertops that it can be difficult to know where to start. To help you, here’s a list of some of the top countertop ideas for using granite in your kitchen.

Granite Kitchen Countertop Ideas – Colours

Blue Granite

If you’re considering using granite for your kitchen countertop you might want to consider the different colours available. Blue granite is an excellent way to infuse a vibrant feature colour into your home. The truth is that despite the name, blue granite slabs actually contain multiple colours and its granular structure will make for a really jaw-dropping addition to the kitchen.

Light Granite

When people tend to think of off-white and light coloured stone it’s understandable why their minds go immediately to the iconic marble. Granite, however, comes in a range of shades including the luxurious Taj Mahal. Light coloured granite kitchen countertops give you all the practical benefits of granite with the simplistic elegance of lighter stone.

Black Granite

If you have a white kitchen already and want a granite countertop that will anchor the entire design and really impress visitors, black granite is the way to go. There are even different shades of black and, coupled with the granular aesthetic of granite, makes for an arresting visual depth and moodiness.

Feature Colour

Aside from the more classic off-whites, blacks and even blues, granite comes in a wide range of other colours such as red, turquoise, green and multi-coloured. While not for everyone, a feature kitchen countertop made from an eye-catchingly coloured granite stone slab can be a powerful choice.

Granite Kitchen Countertop Ideas – Style

Solid Slab

Stone countertops, including granite benchtops, come in a variety of styles. One of the increasingly common designs includes solid stone slabs that can be installed in a variety of shapes to suit your aesthetic. Solid countertops provide a bold central statement around which you can design the rest of your kitchen.

Even solid countertops themselves can be further customised depending on your particular preference. In fact, there are three different types of surface patterns to choose from: solid, marbled and speckled.

Marbled Granite Stone

The marbled pattern incorporates streaks and textures of colours throughout. This provides visual variety in shading as well as colours and adds a real level of depth to the slab without being overwhelming.

Speckled Granite Stone

Speckled countertops are great for adding vibrancy and texture to an otherwise bland-looking room. Paired with simple kitchen appliances and monochromatic cabinetry, the speckled granite will stand out and look a real treat.

Glossy Granite Stone

Glossy granite countertops are particularly excellent for reflecting light across the room and making the entire kitchen feel that much larger and more spacious. Easy to maintain and clean for long lasting sparkling, glossy countertops are a popular choice for practical and design reasons.

Stone Tiles

The alternative to a single slab of stone is to install multiple granite tiles with visible but not particularly noticeable grout lines. There are a few benefits to incorporating a tiled granite kitchen countertop.

The lightweight tiles are easier (and require less labour) to install.
The tiles themselves are cheaper to purchase than a single, solid slab.
There’s more versatility in design for your kitchen benchtop.
You can achieve a great sense of visual depth with a nicely patterned stone tile.

Granite Kitchen Countertop Ideas – Edging

7. Eased Edges

Eased edging is a simple and elegant design for just about any granite kitchen countertop. Stunning and clean, it is particularly suitable for modern or minimalist homes.

8. Beveled Edges

Beveled edging is a popular option for granite countertops. The increased level of detailing compared to eased edging gives the countertop a certain level of business and yet still retains elegance and sophistication. There are a variety of types of beveled edging options including the sharpness of the angle, the direction of the edge flowing and more.

9. Curved Edges

Curved edges offer much of the same practicality and simplicity of eased edges but with a softer curving to soften the overall look. If you simply love the flowing aesthetic of a softly curved edge, it will make your granite kitchen countertop simply gorgeous to look at.

Choose Euro Marble for Your Kitchen Granite

Whether you’re fitting out a white kitchen with granite countertops or a rustic kitchen, the team at Euro Marble can help. We’ll find the perfect slab of stone, from colour to sizing, to suit all of your preferences and needs. Ready to find granite for your kitchen countertop? Contact us today or come into our showroom!

Pros & Cons of Granite Flooring In Kitchen

What Are Pros Cons of Travertine Flooring 2

There are few things as functional and fashionable as a granite floor kitchen. Granite is widely used in various construction applications around and inside the home. Made from a variety of minerals including feldspar, quartz and mica, this naturally occurring rock is hard-wearing, spectacular looking and versatile in use.

So, should you install granite flooring and tiles in your kitchen? There are plenty of reasons to consider choosing granite but to help you make an informed and confident decision we’ll run through all the pros and cons of granite flooring for the home and kitchen.

Pros of a Granite Floor Kitchen

Granite Is Exceptionally Durable

Granite is among the hardiest of even natural stones. The exceptional level of durability is one of the many reasons why granite is a popular choice of material in countertops, vanities and kitchen flooring. The truth is that no stone is going to be the cheapest option for home construction and renovation, but granite is most definitely a worthy long term investment thanks to its high level of toughness and resistance to general wear and tear.

Granite Makes a Great Option for Wet Areas

Your kitchen floor–let’s face it–is going to get wet! Bathrooms and kitchens alike need a material that can stand up to moisture without being damaged or compromised. Granite tiled kitchens are very resistant to water, liquid and moisture. Of course, all stone should be sealed and maintained carefully, but with proper maintenance it can last and look great for years. Just remember to wipe up spills as quickly as you can!

Granite Tile Is A Hypoallergenic Flooring Option

One of the lesser known properties of granite is that it’s excellent for families with members who suffer from asthma and/or allergies. Due to the fact that it is easy to keep clean, it doesn’t take much to remove the common allergens found in dirt and dust from your granite floor. More hygienic and cleaner floors aren’t just a win for the allergenic family members, it’s a win for everyone!

Granite Comes In Many Styles

No two granite kitchen floors are alike! Not only is every slab of stone unique unto itself, there are also many different colours, styles, and patterns. Whether you prefer a white or grey granite tile design to match a minimalist home decor or you’re keen to go bold and colourful with a red, brown, blue or black granite, there’s absolutely something for everyone.

Granite is Simply Beauty

Granite stone is simply beautiful. When shined to perfection granite can absolutely sparkle in just about any kitchen. Not to mention the fact that thanks to the signature granular make-up of granite, the crystalline aesthetic offers a deep and rich texture without forcing a crowded aesthetic in your kitchen.

Cons of a Granite Floor Kitchen

Granite Tiles Are Somewhat Difficult To Install

Granite tiles in a kitchen do offer some increased level of difficulty when it comes to installation. This heavy stone may be durable but it comes with more weight as a result. Fortunately, while granite might be tricky for even the experienced DIY enthusiast, it’s not hard to find a professional installer to lay down stunning granite across your kitchen floor.

Granite Floors Need Sealing

Granite, like all natural stone, does require semi-regular resealing to ensure it’s fully protected from moisture, acid and other staining and damaging factors. While not an overly difficult procedure to arrange or costly considering the long-term durability of granite, sealing and resealing is important.

Granite Requires Maintenance to Keep Clean

Fortunately, a granite kitchen floor requires only simple and easy maintenance to keep it gorgeous and shining. Nonetheless, as we mentioned above, if something does spill across the tiles it’s important you blot and wipe up the liquid as quickly as possible. With some simple sweeping and relatively frequent mopping, your granite will look amazing!

Granite Flooring Can Be Cold

A granite floor kitchen can get a little cold to the touch, especially during the colder months of winter. On the plus side, the general Australian climate is mostly warm so even the cooler granite kitchen tiles will be suitable for kitchen floor applications.

Granite Flooring Costs Can Be High

Granite is a highly in-demand material for use inside and outside the home. Due to the fact that it’s high quality and quarried directly from the ground and sent around the world, granite can be pricier than other kitchen flooring options. If you’re looking for a valuable long-term investment, however, it’s still well worth its price tag.

Let’s Talk Granite!

There you have it: the pros and cons to considering granite tiles. If you’re not sure whether granite is right for your home, or if you’re not sure what shade, design and colour of stunning stone will match the rest of your interior design, make sure to speak to the team here at Euro Marble.

We love to chat about all things natural stone and we’ll make sure you’re more than happy with any granite floor kitchen you choose. Call us today on (02) 8585 2999 or contact us via our website.