A Little Bit about Marble
The very brief history… The word “marble” originates from the Greek, marmaros, meaning “a snow white and spotless stone”. Be this as it may, marble can be found in a rainbow of colors.
The use of this stone in architecture dates back thousands of years to ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian cultures. It is a rock resulting from metamorphism of sedimentary carbonate rocks, most commonly limestone or dolomite rock. This process causes variable recrystallization of the original material resulting in beautiful marble rock that is typically composed of an interlocking mosaic of carbonate crystals.
The typical swirls and veins of many colored marble varieties that you are used to seeing are usually due to various mineral impurities such as clay, silt, sand, or iron oxides which were originally layers in the limestone. Some marble can have green discoloration which comes from originally magnesium-rich limestone or dolostone with silica impurities.
Pure White Marble
A pure white stone is the result of metamorphism of a very pure (silicate-poor) limestone or dolomite protolith. Since it is capable of bearing immense weight, this pure white marble was ideal for columns and support structures in temples, churces and other large architectural structures of our past. Today, you most commonly see this in statues and “luxury” architecture.
Marble in Interior Design
At Tiffany Hanken Design, we have been using marble and quartzite (it’s sister stone) in almost every project we do. Marble is stunning in its classical applications and adds luxury to any space that it touches. Just close your eyes and imagine walking into a marble foyer at your favorite luxury hotel. Perhaps you’re ensconced in marble in your dream bathroom…
Many people are scared to use marble materials as it is a little higher maintenance than other natural materials. But fear not! With a little education, you can enjoy marble in any room in your house. Whether your interior design direction is traditional or modern, marble transcends all styles. For this reason, it is one of my favorite materials to use in all spaces.
Examples of Marble in Application
So let’s get on with it. How are interior designers using marble inside home installations? Let me count the ways with a pictorial journey.
Marble Walls
The next two images are from an interior design project with marble that was done by yours truly. Below is one view of the marble bathroom. Make sure to click to see the entire 1910 Major Drive Interior Design Project.
Marble Patterns on Floors
Marble and Quartzite Counter Tops
Do these marble interior design ideas inspire you? Design the life you love with Tiffany Hanken Interior Design. Contact us today.