What makes natural stone the perfect building material? This blog will help you determine the best stone for your next project.

Natural Stone

Nothing compares to the appearance, durability, and versatility of natural stone as a design element. Since the earliest signs of civilization, people have utilized the medium without the technology or industrial development we have today.

People gravitate toward natural stones for a number of reasons, including its longevity. It withstands natural elements, including colder temperatures so you won’t have to worry about the constant upkeep of chipping, cracking, or crumbling material. A few types of natural stone options to keep on your radar: 

LIMESTONE

Limestone is a traditional stone used to build notable projects from Rockefeller Center to Yankee Stadium in New York.

Although Rockefeller Center has undergone a recent interior transformation, interior designer Andre Mellone of Studio Mellone appreciates the timeless beauty of natural stone. “I was inspired by Rockefeller Center’s original materials, which are limestone and brass,” says Mellone. “The complex is an icon.”

This porous rock is robust and ages well for any design. Find an array of color variations and grain patterns perfect for your next wall or floor installation. 

 TRAVERTINE

Travertine is another popular choice from external walls to floor tiles and showers.

The Romans’ Colosseum is one of many architectural achievements made by travertine. Some of the features have faded, but the travertine piers and arcades remain intact.

The Getty Center in Los Angeles is another notable structure built with imported travertine from Italy. Architect Richard Meier used a combination of rough and polished stone. He drew inspiration from historical and ancient building concepts to bring his architectural vision to life.

Its bold, original pattern makes for a great exterior. Choose from shades of yellow, red, and grey for tiling. 

MARBLE

Not too many stones are as universal as marble. The calcium-rich material can be polished and used to make buildings, sculptures, paving stones, and monuments.

This stunning stone has famous roots. Marble and limestone were used to construct famous buildings worldwide. The Taj Mahal in India and the Supreme Courthouse in Washington D.C. are two influential architectural structures that transcend in majestic white.

Marble is a tough stone that can withstand damage, making it a great choice if you’re considering the material for your home. Like Travertine and Limestone, you can find a color best suited for your project. 

ADOQUIN

Adoquin is a unique stone from Mexico, formed from volcanic ash compressed over millions of years, making it a lightweight yet durable material.

San Juan, Puerto Rico, is one of many destinations where you’ll see bright blue adoquin cobblestone streets. The distinctive shade comes from age and dampness, as the porous stones absorb water that seeps from the pavement.

This dramatic stone is great for indoor and outdoor applications, whether using it as a stone base or tiling. Find hues of grey, brown, orange, and other earth tones to match your exterior and interior designs

Which One Will You Choose?

It all comes down to personal preference when choosing natural stone!

If you need assistance or want to learn more about our natural stones, our MATERIAL experts are ready to help. Use our Stone Comparison Tool to assess color, finishes, and application differences.

Or visit one of our showrooms to discuss your ideas with our design team! We will review your options on site before helping you bring your vision to life. Should you require extensive design work or custom pieces, we can produce drawings of what our artisans will be handcrafting.

There’s nothing like the quality and beauty of high quality natural stone.