Natural stone is a favorite choice for interior designers and homeowners looking to add style and value to the kitchen. Granite, quartz, marble, and soapstone are long-lasting and easy to clean—perfect for busy families who love to cook and entertain. But stone can be used for so much more than islands and kitchen countertops. From outdoor ovens to accent walls, here are five design ideas where natural stone can make a sensational statement beyond the kitchen.
Natural Stone Fireplace Surround
Nothing brings warmth to a home like a fireplace—literally and design-wise. A stone fireplace surround can add a spectacular focal point to any room. Natural stone is heat-resistant, so you can really stoke the flames on chilly nights. For a traditional feel, you can’t go wrong with a classic, white marble design, while black or blue marble can offer a sleek, contemporary look.
If a contemporary feel is more your style, layers of light-colored granite or quartz lend a down-to-earth vibe while elevating the room. With a variety of textures and colors to choose from, natural stone can create a welcoming environment, while adding to the value of your home.
Stone Accent Walls for Any Room
An accent wall of natural stone makes a dazzling design statement, while adding weight and depth to the space. Selecting a dark color stone slab can create a dramatic contrast to a brightly painted living room wall. Custom insert shelves within the stone provide a space for personalization—books, mementos, and photos. You can even use small blocks of quartz or marble for stylish bookends.
Incorporating a marble accent wall into a bathroom design yields an exotic result. The dramatic veining and cool textures give off a high-end feel. If your goal is luxury, a wall of marble behind the tub will make a real splash.
Natural Stone Behind the Bar
Serve up some class with unique stone designs for your wet bar. A raw, rough-cut stone countertop and accent wall behind the bar can achieve the feel of a rustic farmhouse.
For a sophisticated, modern look, a white onyx bar, with an under-glow of soft light, creates an ethereal atmosphere. Or shake up a martini behind a striking, curved countertop with a pop of red porcelain tiles. With the right mix of natural stone and a dash of creative backlight, you can really bring the wow-factor to your happy hour.
Stone Fire Pits
You don’t have to head to the woods to build a cozy campfire. With a natural stone fire pit, friends and family can stargaze in the comfort of their own backyard. A round marble or granite fire pit can lift your s’more-roasting to a new level of elegance. While a rectangular-shaped fire pit offers a chic, communal centerpiece. Add custom stone benches around the fire to tie the whole look together and create an air of intimacy—perfect for nighttime ghost stories. Whether wood-burning or gas, resilient stone fire pits can really take the heat, and bring the hearth outside the home.
Soapstone Outdoor Kitchens and Pizza Ovens
Soapstone is virtually indestructible, making it an ideal choice for outdoor kitchens. Usually gray, green, or bluish in color, its earthy aesthetic blends perfectly with natural surrounds. Soapstone paired with stainless steel creates a modern, polished look. Place soapstone countertops atop stacked natural stones for a rustic, al fresco experience.
Add bar stools and extend the counters beyond the food prep area for expansive seating arrangements. Soapstone offers endless design options and durability—go ahead and place that lobster pot right on the surface!
Showcase your own outdoor pizzeria with a wood-fired oven crafted from natural stone. Guests can assemble their pizzas right on the counter. Soapstone gives you plenty of style without the stress of marinara stains.
Stone Adds Value and Warmth to Your Home
Incorporating natural stone throughout interior and exterior designs promotes fabulous cohesion, while adding uniqueness with every piece. Impenetrable and easy to clean, its functionality and longevity adds great value to your property. Whether your goal is a spa-like getaway in your bathroom, a wet bar for convivial gatherings, or a memory-making outdoor retreat, natural stone will create a warm and inviting home, inside and out.
True Blue Surfaces is here to help you achieve your home design dreams. Schedule your appointment today!