People have been harnessing the useful properties of granite since 2650 B.C. It features in the pyramids of Ancient Egypt and the Roman Pantheon.
Nowadays it’s used on a smaller scale to add grandeur and luxury to internal living spaces all over the world.
Find out how you can install a little extra sophistication into your home with durable and attractive granite decor.
What Makes Granite Decor So Special?
Apart from being one of the most durable building materials around, granite is a luxury addition to any home.
Granite comprises elements of biotite, feldspar, and quartz, along with other minerals. These minerals show up in the unique colors and patterns of granite slabs.
Not just a pretty piece of rock, granite is also low maintenance, hard wearing, waterproof and stain resistant.
It’s difficult to scratch or burn granite and the striking colors never fade.
What’s more, granite slabs and tiles are way more versatile than you think when it comes to decor.
Here are a few gorgeous ways granite features in interior designs.
To Add Color and Texture
Since granite is a natural substance, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to the available color combinations.
Each piece of granite is unique, but the available colors are loosely grouped into the following shades:
- White
- Black
- Grey
- Pink
- Black and White
- Beige
- Red
- Blue
- Green
These colors depend on the chemical makeup of the stone, which can affect its durability. Generally, red and brown granite is harder, while grey and white are softer.
You can also choose your granite in a range of finishes. These are:
- Polished granite for glossy appeal that highlights the character of the stone
- Honed granite with a matt finish and non-slip properties
- Flamed granite which has a textured, rough surface
- Brushed granite featuring a silky, finely structured look
- Leathered granite which falls somewhere between flamed and brushed
With all these choices it’s easy to see how you can find a place for granite in your home.
Kitchen Countertops
The kitchen has been the domain of granite countertops since the ’80s and they’ve never gone out of style.
Granite is non-porous and can’t harbor bacteria, making it a hygienic choice for bathrooms and kitchens.
With granite there’s no worry about accidentally burning them with hot pots, serving dishes or cooking utensils.
Lighter shades of granite pair well with classic touches like stainless steel and glass cabinetry. The lighter shades of granite look stunning when juxtaposed against dark wood cabinetry.
Onyx is a popular type of marble for kitchens due to its translucent properties.
You can create a gorgeous effect when you backlight onyx, although it doesn’t quite compare to granite in other respects.
Backsplashes
A mosaic of broken granite pieces makes an excellent backsplash if you like an art deco look.
Likewise, granite tiles cut to resemble bricks are an attractive addition to an industrial or country-style kitchen.
You’ll never have to spend time scrubbing those nasty behind-the-cooktop grease stains and splotches when you have a granite backsplash.
Leathered granite makes a stunning backsplash as it’s low-gloss surface hides any fingerprints and smudges. Nobody expects you to buff it until it shines either.
If you’re flipping a house or doing upgrades with the intention to sell, a granite kitchen will add to its value and appeal.
Bathroom Finishes
Choosing granite for your bathroom surfaces means you’ll never have to deal with tough stains when cleaning your bathroom.
Granite tile is a great fit for floors and walls in the bathroom and a granite sink is easy to clean, hygienic, and goes with anything.
Granite tile also has its place in the shower and you can order granite bathroom vanity tops in any shape to fit your under-counter storage.
Granite comes in a range of colors to suit any bathroom scheme.
Light gray granite pairs particularly well with stainless steel and glass, as well as dark colors.
If you’re on board with the black bathroom trend, white granite countertops are a smart choice to lighten up this small space.
Floor It
Granite isn’t only for bathroom floors. You can use granite tiles to create a luxurious feel underfoot anywhere in your home.
All the benefits of granite make it the perfect material for flooring. You don’t need to worry about scuffs, stains, or spills and there’s no need to vacuum. A bucket of neutral detergent and a mop will do the trick.
Patio floors and paving stones are easily crafted from granite. For these outdoor spaces, choose flamed granite. This non-slip surface will prevent accidents during rainy weather.
Interiors look best with non-slip polished or matt finishes.
Once again, granite gives you a choice of colors to match any design scheme.
Walls and All
Why stop at the floors? Granite walls add a palatial feel to your living spaces and are impervious to fingerprints and scuff marks from furniture.
You can continue the theme with room dividers tiled in granite, which adds substance and glam appeal.
Granite fireplaces add a warmth of their own, as part of a wall or as a stand-alone statement feature.
Off the Wall
Other living room features extend to furniture. Granite tables and matching benches are not just for outside spaces anymore.
When you bring these indoors you add instant masculine appeal, especially when you pair them with modern leather furniture.
Other unusual granite elements include floating shelves and planters.
Despite its rugged properties, granite cleans up beautifully to suit even the chicest interiors.
What’s Your Take?
Do you know of any other exciting examples of granite decor? Maybe it’s something you’ve seen at a plush hotel or one of your own ideas that worked out spectacularly.
Let us know about your granite success stories in the comments below.
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