Using stone tiles at home has great appeal Check this out

The use of stones in its various forms has always been appreciated. This material not only takes you closer to nature but also makes your home look elegant.

Abhishek Somany, JMD Somany Ceramics Limited says, “Stone has been timeless for home improvements and commercial designs alike. The look of the space maybe traditional or contemporary, stone can give your space a natural yet refined and classy look. The earthiness that stones provide to the look of any space is unmatched by other such elements.”

He adds, “Natural materials are a global trend for floor cover and stone is being particularly chosen by discerning customers.”

There are varieties of stones available like marble, granite, and sandstone among others for interiors. Marble is ideal for flooring, bathroom countertops, stair cases and fireplaces among others. Avoid marble in the kitchen as it catches stains easily.

Granite is a hard stone comparatively and can be used for kitchen counters and flooring among others. As Granite is harder and scratch resistant, it can be used for more prominently used areas. Sandstone is a low maintenance stone. It is a durable stone used for flooring, patios, terraces and garden paths among others.

There are also others like Veneer stone, Limestone, Slate and Travertine. These stones also have various other options depending upon the types and colours.

The prominent use of stone is more in flooring, kitchen surfaces or a wall. However, it can be used in more innovative ways to highlight your decor.

Somany says, “Conventionally thought of as an element for exterior design, stone has been increasingly used to give interior spaces a bold and edgy look. Used to add character, stone is being used for in various interior design elements such as floor cover, wall highlighting, area separators, fire places etc. Adding eclectic warmth to interiors, stone is used in kitchens, living areas, lobbies, bedrooms and bathrooms.” He adds, “The versatility of the material makes it an instant favourite.”

Flooring is the most common area of stones. However, you can try other interesting stones apart from the usual marble and granite. Kitchen counter tops mostly have granite. Instead of usual black, you can go for different colours to match the theme. There is no need that backsplash especially in the kitchen needs to be in tiles. You can go for stone backsplash in accordance with your wall and cabinets.

Countertops, shower enclosures and walls made of stone will make your bath look more aesthetic. The shelves for keeping plants in the patios can be made of stone to lend it an outdoor effect. The artifacts and the show pieces in the house can be of stone to give a good visual appeal. The pathways in the garden are also an option where stone can be used. Even doors or door knobs can be of stone.

Stones are so popular that even tiles with stone effect are gaining popularity in the market. Somany says, “We have designed the Somany stone look tiles keeping this in mind.”

R Kurup, Chief Marketing Officer, H&R Johnson (India) says, “Stone or rock design tiles are most ideal for interiors as well as exterior walls; be it cladding of balconies, facades of houses or compound walls. Earthy colour variations of these tiles can be stunning when paired with the right interior setting and decor items. If you are planning to use these tiles for walls, try lighter coloured designs with the occasional splash of darker design combination to get an overall random natural effect.”

Though not used frequently like stone, rock is also one of the materials used for interiors. It is specially used in large spaces that gives an overall effect. It gives a natural yet royal feel to the décor. Pebbles are also used in homes as an artifact or a décor element in the garden or patio. Stones create a comforting ambience with organic living.