stone versatility
In addition to granite countertops and marble vanities, natural stone is useful in a variety of other uses. Granite’s durability and strength allow it to be used in ways that wood, plastic, or even concrete wouldn’t hold up as well. For centuries, granite and marble have been used to make housewares, furniture, and works of art. These natural stone items have the longevity to outlast the life of their owner. Natural stone, including granite, marble, travertine, and onyx, have natural properties that allow them to withstand daily wear and tear while aging gracefully. Stone can also be manufactured in a number of different finishes, making it easy to select the right option for a particular use or to achieve the right look. In addition to maintaining the natural finish, their versatility allows them to be easily polished like glass, polished to an eggshell shine, or even roughened to help with slip resistance.
architectural elements
Common architectural elements made of solid stone are marble stairs, marble trim, granite countertops, and travertine tiles. Marble stairs are often seen in historical and government buildings. Although often combined with wood and metal railings, they look majestic when completed with marble balustrades and banisters along the steps and around the landings. Other architectural elements that add character include marble window frames, marble columns, and marble door frames. Popular interior finishes used in many homes today are granite countertops and natural stone wall tiles in marble, travertine, and limestone with subtle patterns.
product design
Products for daily use are made of marble and granite. Items such as vases, bowls, tombstones, and pestles and mortars can be carved from granite. Since they are available in so many different styles and colors, granite and marble are also used in furniture making, especially as furniture tops on buffets, coffee tables, and dining tables. Many kitchen items are made from marble because it is dense, easy to clean, and maintains its temperature. Some of the most popular items are pastry boards, rolling pins, serving utensil handles, and cheese boards. A growing trend in bathroom design is vessel-style sinks that mount above the countertop and can be carved from granite, marble, travertine, or onyx. Due to the nature of stone, sinks can be finished in many different ways to achieve a certain style. Granite vessel sinks can have a polished finish on the inside and a rough finish on the outside. Travertine vessel sinks are typically polished both inside and out, with marble and onyx most often being polished.
landscaping elements
Granite countertops for outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly popular as they are weather resistant and easy to clean. In addition to countertops, granite is used in many other landscaping features, including pavers, columns, and steps. These built-in granite elements add great value to an outdoor space or backyard and provide an authentic sense of nature that concrete doesn’t. Granite outdoor furniture and decorative items wear better compared to other materials due to its longevity and durability. Some examples of outdoor granite would be fire pits, benches, tables, fountains, and sundials. Another natural stone that is popular for outdoor use is marble. Carved marble sculptures done in both realistic and abstract styles have been fixtures in gardens since man began carving marble. Granite and marble can be used in a variety of ways that make life easier with their low maintenance and high durability.
