21 September 2023

Trend Watch: Coloured Marble

Marble isn’t a new trend in the interiors world – for centuries, people have loved its classic, luxurious and elegant feel. What is new is the array of coloured iterations that offer a fresh, dramatic and fun way to use the stone. Here, interior designer Emma Shone-Sanders walks us through the look and how to use it in your own home.

By Georgina Blaskey

Images: LAURA BUTLER MADDEN; ELIZABETH ROBERTS ARCHITECTS; ARENT & PYKE

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Bergman Design House; NICK SMITH

How are people using marble in their homes these days, Emma?

White Carrera has been popular for a long time in kitchens and bathrooms. It’s classic, timeless and you can’t go wrong with it in the majority of spaces, but we are starting to be a bit more adventurous – think bold and striking colours with beautiful veins flowing through it, swirling together to create stunning show-stopping moments

How can you make a statement with coloured marble in a residential setting?

You can have fun with coloured marble in a bathroom – cladding a bathtub in the centre of a room or installing a bespoke marble basin and vanity can look amazing. I also love a striking marble fire surround to create a real focal point in a room. On a smaller scale, incorporating it into a coffee table or side table is sometimes enough.

LAURA BUTLER MADDEN; DESIGN & THAT STUDIO

Which colourways are proving popular?

Rosso Levante is a stunning marble blend of deep reds and burgundy, with a contrasting white vein swirling through it that can really set the mood – be it in a bar counter, a dining table or a small coffee table. The colours all work together in harmony, so it really is a work of art in itself.

Are these unusual colourways more expensive than regular marble?

Unusual colourways can often be more expensive, as marble pricing depends on the rarity of the stone. Often, the more striking and consistent the veining is throughout the slab, the more expensive the marble will be. Softer, more subtle veining can sometimes be more affordable. Marble is generally more expensive than quartzite, which is another natural stone that offers the same look.

Arent & Pyke

Bergman Design House; NICK SMITH

Is coloured marble less durable than regular marble?

It depends on whether you use quartzite or marble. Quartzite is a tougher and more durable stone compared to marble. It’s also extremely heat resistant and can withstand hot pots and pans, and won’t etch from acids such as lemon or vinegar like some marbles do. Marble can stain or etch easily in any colour, but the darker tones don’t show up the marks as easily.

Finally, is there anything else worth considering?

With a softer marble, the wrong cleaning product, lemon juice, red wine, tomato sauce can all etch it so be sure to use coasters, cutting boards, and trays for hand soaps. Stains and etching can be avoided by using a good sealant on the marble surface and resealing every few months. However, I always say to clients that the natural patina and wear and tear can add to the beauty of real marble – it’s all part of it in the same way we love unlacquered brass.

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