Education

Creating a bathroom space with Marble

Designing a marble bathroom creates a luxurious and sophisticated ambience. Marble is a timeless material known for its elegance and durability. Here’s a basic outline of how you might approach creating a bathroom space with marble:

travertine grigio chiaro on bathroom walls and floors — Carrara Marble

1. Marble Selection

Marble comes in various colours and patterns. Choose a type of marble that complements your design vision and blends well with other elements in the bathroom. Some of the most popular marble types include our Snow White, Antarctic White, Florence, Carrara, Calacatta and Statuario.

2. Flooring

Consider a format that matches your bathroom space and size when choosing marble tiles for your floor. Alternatively, opt for a marble mosaic pattern to add visual interest. Ensure that the tiles are properly sealed to protect them from moisture.

3. Wall Cladding

You can cover entire walls or create accent walls. Marble wall cladding can be used behind the vanity, around the bathtub, or in the shower area. This will add a touch of luxury and create a spa-like atmosphere.

statuario marble installed on bathroom vanity and shower walls and floors — Statuario Marble

4. Vanity Countertops and Sink

A marble vanity countertop can be a centerpiece of your bathroom. It adds elegance and sophistication to the space. You can choose a marble slab with distinctive veining or colour to create a unique look.

5. Shower and Bathtub Surrounds

Using marble in the shower and around the bathtub adds a lavish feel. Marble is water-resistant and can be an excellent choice for these areas. Consider creating a marble accent wall inside the shower or a marble tub surround.

6. Care & Maintenance

Keep in mind that Marble (and all kinds of natural stone) requires proper sealing to retain its beauty. Marble must be finished correctly with an appropriate sealant during installation and re-sealed after a few years, depending on surface usage and traffic.

From the rich veins of Marble to the warm tones of Limestone and the classic charm of Granite, explore the diverse world of natural stone in our latest bathroom designs, created by Australia’s most renowned interior designers and architects.

To Our Bathroom Gallery

September 18, 2023 0 comment

Natural Stone – A Sustainable Choice

In light of recent media coverage of the silicosis hazards in engineered stone (80-90%), the obvious choice would now, of course, be Nature’s own creation – Stone.

Natural Stone is the original sustainable green building material that doesn’t need other materials or resources to create it. Marble contains less than 5% organic silica and doesn’t emit VOCs, ensuring a healthy environment for fabricators and end users

TIMELESS & DURABLE

Natural Stone has been used in buildings and homes for thousands of years, as evident from many ancient structures that stood the test of time. While there’s been a surge in the availability of engineered material, the unique veining and colour, and timeless essence of solidity and quality of natural stone are impossible to replicate.

QUARRYING AND PRODUCTION

Stone is abundantly available across the globe. The Stone industry has implemented advancements in technology and improved methods of quarrying, extraction, and fabrication. By conserving resources, preventing pollution and minimising waste, the industry has become eco-friendly through practices, thus supporting sustainable design requirements.

RENEWABLE

Stone is completely recyclable and has the potential to serve many different uses and purposes over its lifetime. Salvaging and recycling stone is a viable option and a sustainable way to ensure that its useful life will be extended to its fullest. Using natural stone in your home or business ensures that it will never have to be replaced or end up in a landfill.

ENVIRONMENTALLY ACCOUNTABLE

Natural Stone is an environmentally responsible choice for any build, enhancing value and beauty. Stone has numerous structural, design and environmental advantages over any other building material – enduring life cycle, durability, ease of care and maintenance, recyclability, and energy efficiency. Thanks to its unique properties, natural stone plays a key role in sustainable architecture and design without damaging our environment.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

If maintained properly, natural stone will provide a beautiful, elegant, and classy ambience for many years. Most stones can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Environmentally friendly, pH-neutral cleaners are also recommended over harsh cleaners for natural stone.

RESTORATION AND LONGEVITY

Unlike engineered material, natural stone can have chips repaired, stains and etchings removed and restored to its natural beauty. Natural Stone should be periodically re-sealed, just like wood and any other natural materials.

Do you have any more questions about Natural Stone and Sustainability?

We at STS STONE are passionate about sustainable products and ethical choices and carry a vast array of Natural Stones in a multitude of sizes, formats and finishes, all fit for purpose and endless applications. Get in touch with us to learn more about green living and let our experts assist with your design process.

March 3, 2023 0 comment

Your complete guide on Marble

Where does Marble come from?

The word “marble” derives from the Ancient Greek μάρμαρον (mármaron) that translates into “crystalline rock, shining stone”. Marble is a metamorphic rock composed of recrystallised carbonate minerals, most commonly calcite or dolomite. It forms from limestone being subjected to an immense amount of pressure and heat for long periods of time.

Marble’s popularity as a building material began in ancient Rome and Greece, often used for structures, massive pillars or sculptures. Right from the impressive columns of the Parthenon in Athens to the Pantheon in Rome, marble has been incorporated by architects for centuries. More examples of the countless historic architecture across the globe crafted by marble include the Taj Mahal, the leaning tower of Pisa as well as the Washington Monument & Lincoln Memorial. While Marble is quarried around the world, today’s biggest marble producers are Italy, Spain, China, Greece and Turkey.

Is Marble durable?

Marble is an extremely durable material, usually harvested in enormous slabs directly from mountain sides, making it ideal for large applications. Marble is also heat-resistant and remains cool naturally which makes it a popular choice particularly for countertop surfaces and interior or exterior flooring. If you are seeking for a higher level of density and durability choosing the right type of marble and stone finish is a vital factor to consider.

Like all natural stones, Marble is a living, breathing material which needs a little more diligence when it comes to upkeep. Finishing your marble countertop or marble floor tiles with an appropriate penetrating sealant is vital for long-term performance. As long as you are aware of the measures of sealing and caring for your marble properly, you can be a proud owner of a distinctive masterpiece that is exclusively yours and will last a lifetime.

Below are some guidelines to keep your marble looking its best.

Are Marble bench tops and tiles easy to maintain?

The maintenance requirements depend on the type and texture of marble that you select for your project, but as long as you follow these simple steps your marble stone will stay looking beautiful for years:

Like for all natural stone, regular sealing and cleaning are vital for the long-term performance of marble:

Sealing: All marble products must be finished correctly with an appropriate sealant during the installation process and re-sealed after a few years, depending on surface usage and traffic. We recommend and supply various ‘Lithofin Stain Stop’ sealants for different applications. Find more information about Lithofin at the bottom.

Cleaning & Maintenance: Marble surfaces must be cleaned with warm water and a mild pH neutral cleaner only, as harsh chemicals and acid cleansers can eventually break down the sealer and disturb the finish. Spilled liquids should not be left unattended and wiped up quickly to avoid staining and etching of the material. Always use protective mats to place hot items on the natural stone and put coasters under glasses to prevent unseen spills from remaining on the marble benchtop.

Is Marble suitable for both, indoor and outdoor use?

Unlike some other flooring types, marble tiles are timeless and will still look as beautiful many years down the track as it does today. It’s a natural material that offers a multitude of textures, colours, and patterns that can add significant value to a home.

Marble is suitable for use both inside and out seamlessly connecting your indoor and outdoor spaces. Thanks to its versatility marble tiles and slabs suit virtually every style of home. When it comes to using marble outdoors, choosing an appropriate stone finish is a vital factor to the function of the stone. Learn more about how different finishes alter the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the stone here.

The most common forms of marble tile and slab installations (residential or commercial) include:

Countertops & Backsplashs
Flooring and walls
Stairs
Bathroom/shower floors and walls, tub surrounds
Decorative Joinery
Pool surrounds and coping
Fireplace surrounds

Bottom Line – Why choose Marble?

Marble has carved its place in history, endorsed by the ancient structures that withstood forces of nature and stood the test of time. It is a natural stone in a class of its own, prized for its timeless beauty, durability, and versatility.

When it comes to sheer luxury Marble has no rivals and never goes out of style. A material renowned for its unique ability to adapt to contemporary lifestyles and tastes.

Marble stone is heat-resistant and is used to cool down living spaces. It’s also commonly used in fireplaces and can withstand high temperatures without losing any of its beauty.

There are countless varieties of Marble tiles and Marble slabs with a colour palette to suit all tastes. Indoors, marble tiles can be used in every part of the home, elevating interior spaces to new levels of refinement. Outdoors, it keeps cool, even in direct sunlight, ideal for the Australian lifestyle.

While it has been the epitome of historical buildings and architectural delights for years, the material has become a touch of elegance for every modern home. Marble is an excellent investment – with mindful use and a good design, it is a cost-effective way to enhance the value of your home.

View our marble range

OUR NATURAL STONE SEALANT TIP FOR YOU

Lithofin Stain Stop Sealers & Pre-Sealers
For invisible protection against staining and facilitating the maintenance of natural stone. Lithofin Stain Stop penetrates into the surface and coats the capillaries with an extremely thin, invisible film. Contact us and we will gladly advise the Lithofin product specifically suitable for your chosen type of stone and finish.

marble

You have any further questions, need professional advice on natural stone or a quote?

Don’t hesitate to give us a call or complete the form below and we will be in touch shortly.

T 02 9387 6616 E [email protected]

March 24, 2022 0 comment

Natural Stone Finishes for Indoor & Outdoor

Surface finishes not only alter the appearance but more importantly the performance of natural stone tiles. It is essential to choose finishes suitable for the intended use, particularly for any outdoor floor application. Using different techniques will affect the stone’s functionality providing different slip resistance, weather resistance and water resistance. Our natural stone tiles are available in a wide variety of finishes, colours and sizes. Let’s explore the most popular natural stone finishes of STS STONE:

Natural Stone Exterior Finishes

SANDBLASTED

In sandblasting, a high-pressure jet of siliceous sand or steel shots is applied to the area to be treated. This treatment produces a smooth abrasion, leaving the material with a slightly scratched (but not rugged) surface. The colour tones and the veins are slightly dulled. Sandblasted stone has a degree of slip-resistance, making it an ideal finish for exterior applications.

Recommended use: Outdoor floors, alfresco & pool areas, pool coping, paving, pathways, driveways

ANTIQUE (SANDBLASTED & BRUSHED)

After the stone has undergone a sandblasting process, the surface is then brushed with mechanical wires to make the stone smooth and slightly restore the colour. Stone in Antique finish is perfect for outside areas when slip-resistance is important.

Recommended use: Outdoor floors, alfresco & pool areas, pool coping, paving, pathways, driveways

FLAMED & BRUSHED

This process entails passing a blowpipe that emits a high-temperature flame over the surface to be treated. The heat acts by blowing the crystals out as they suffer thermal shock, with an effect that is particularly evident in materials composed of minerals with various degrees of expansion, (such as the vast majority of granites). The resulting surface is rough, non-slip and generally faded in colour, thereby hiding defects and tone variations. Ideal for all exterior applications.

Recommended use: Outdoor floors, alfresco & pool areas, pool coping, paving, pathways, driveways

BUSH HAMMERED & BRUSHED

A bush-hammered and brushed effect is obtained by pounding the material surface mechanically or by hand with a specific multi-pointed tool. End result is a rugged surface full of little grazes at the impact points and a lighter colour. This process gives the stone more texture and enhances slip resistance. Mostly used in exterior areas.

Recommended use: Outdoor floors, alfresco & pool areas, pool coping, paving, pathways, driveways

TUMBLED

The tumbled finish is essentially an ageing effect. This finish creates softer surfaces and rumbled edges suited for Travertines & Limestones. Tumbled look is aesthetically pleasing and exudes character and warmth and suits an French provincial design style. Suitable for use indoors and outdoors.

Recommended use: Travertine tiles in tumbled finish for outdoors. Limestone tiles in tumbled finish for indoors

Interior Finishes

POLISHED

A polished finish is created when a stone surface reaches its most refined stage. It is buffed to the highest level possible, and the results are either a high shine or the actual highest level of shine that can be achieved naturally. This finish gives the stone a very elegant and rich look, providing it with a pinnacle depth of colour.

Recommended use: Indoor only. Floors, walls, benchtops, kitchen islands, splashbacks, bathrooms, cut to size features

HONED

A honed finish is achieved when rubber heads smooth out the stone’s surface to create an overall consistency and uniformity in the stone’s texture. When suppliers are finalising a honed finish, they typically sand the stone just before it reaches the polishing phase. This accounts for its lack of glossiness and gives the stone a more matte appearance. Natural stones in Honed finish have a smooth, non-reflective, satiny sheen and are mainly used for interior floors and walls.

Recommended use: Indoor only. Floors, walls, benchtops, kitchen islands, splashbacks, bathrooms, cut to size features

BRUSHED

The brushed finish gives the stone surface a slightly textured feel and aged nature. Using hard nylon or steel mechanical brushes the natural stone tile results in a rough to the touch but rather smooth finish.

Recommended use: Indoor countertops, vanities, feature walls.

LEATHERED

A leathered finish stone has a surface that is textured and pebbly, like leather. This type of finish is achieved by further processing the stone through sanding and buffing, sometimes using brushes and water jets. While the surface appears well-worn and weathered, it is pleasantly smooth to the touch. Stone in a Leathered finish feature a soft sheen and a textured appearance. Only certain hard-wearing types of stone slabs like quartzite, dolomite and granite can get leathered.

Recommended use: Indoor bench tops, kitchen islands, feature walls.

October 12, 2021 0 comment

What you need to know before, during and after tiling natural stone

To achieve a perfect end result here are the top natural stone guidelines to understand your product better and to be informed.

What you need to know and do BEFORE, DURING and AFTER the natural stone tiling process:

August 26, 2021 0 comment

3 EASY STEPS to bring your pool & backyard to the next level

To ensure your pool area is ready for our hot Australian summer – now is the ideal time to consider its facelift and plan renovation or remodelling. Pools are currently not in use which gives you enough time to complete your work. And with long awaited holidays to exotic destinations currently unattainable, planning a staycation resort in your own backyard is a brilliant idea in these challenging times.

Creating your personal oasis vibe will let you relax and unwind, relieve stress, spend more time with the family and maximise your outdoor living space for many years to come. Whereas trends and ideas come and go glass mosaics and natural stone pavers remain popular and aesthetic choices. STS STONE professionals will guide you through the process of choosing the right stone tile, paver, pool coping or mosaics and most importantly the appropriate stone finish ensuring safety for all.

3 EASY STEPS to bring your pool & backyard to the next level

1. RESTORE YOUR OUTDOOR PAVERS

Irrespective of the pool design, choose natural stone outdoor pavers for its surrounds that will compliment your home and garden. Factors to consider should be appearance, durability, surface finish and the sealant. Appropriate stone finish is vital to maintaining safety around the pool. STS STONE has readily available stock and various options of durable, dense and hard-wearing pavers in a non-slip finish suitable for pool surrounds.

2. UPDATE YOUR POOL COPING

Pool coping is the edging used around the exterior rim of the pool that protects the pool’s structure and provides a finished look. Choose an edge profile that is safe and that will suit your pool design and surroundings. More rounded edges are less susceptible to chipping compared to square edges. Commonly used edge profiles include Pencil Round (radius of a standard pencil), Bullnose (a rounded edge finish), Mitred Joint (two edges joint around a corner) and Drop Down edge.

3. ADD DECORATIVE MOSAICS

Glass mosaics have revolutionised the look and feel of modern pools. Elaborate designs, shimmering colours, and an extensive array of possibilities will transform any pool into a beautiful retreat. Glass compliments the characteristics of water, reflecting and refracting sunlight to create an enchanting effect. Mosaic tiles are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to chemical corrosion and other types of damage. Whatever your personal choice – Glass Mosaic tiles will create a truly unique look and add a touch of fun and sophistication to your pool.

OUR POOL TOPSELLERS

& more

View Pool Gallery

July 20, 2021 0 comment

Five Major Benefits of Italian Capri Terrazzo

Thanks to its versatile look and practical benefits Italian Terrazzo is an ever-popular material. Find out the 5 key benefits and everything else you need to know about Terrazzo:

April 1, 2021 0 comment

How to handle natural stone once delivered to site

A quick guide:

Ensure that stone is always covered to protect from dirt and elements. If stone was exposed to rain, please allow at least one week to air dry.
Stone removed from crates should be stacked on a small angle against the wall ensuring that there is a corflute or similar underlay beneath the tiles. This will prevent it from unnecessary chipping and damage.
Tiles stacked on top of each other need to be placed either back to back or face to face.
Tiles stacked in columns must have spacers between the columns to avoid chipping. Overhang is also not recommended.
Placing building materials on top of exposed stone should be avoided as this might also cause damage. Same goes for using stone as table- top for drinks or food as it may result in spillage & staining.
Stone might be damaged by the building activity on and around it and should be covered as much as possible until all building works ceases.
If the stone is designated for use on polypads/pedestals, please conduct own assessment using appropriate spacers to sides and the center of tiles to ensure adequate support.
Natural stone is porous and sealing is a vital part of the installation process.
After the stone has been laid & grouted it must be thoroughly cleaned & dried before applying the sealer.

FOR A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE ON BLENDING, SEALING AND GENERAL UPKEEP OF THE STONE, PLEASE REFER TO OUR GUIDELINES:

Top Installation Guidelines For The Perfect End Result

To achieve a perfect end result here are the top natural stone installation guidelines to understand your product better and to be informed. What you need to know and...

June 22, 2020 0 comment

Natural stone in the bathroom: What you need to know

Today’s bathrooms have become a part and parcel of our domestic architecture, reflecting our living style.

Use of natural stone tiles and slabs on walls, floors, showers and vanity tops are now increasingly popular not only for the sense of comfort and relaxation but also as an instant visual impact of luxury and timeless splendor.

MARBLE, GRANITE, DOLOMITE & QUARTZITE are the most popular natural stone bathroom tiles options that will bring beauty, durability and a bold statement of elegance and style to any bathroom design.

Natural stone is one of the easiest to maintain and is the most permanent of all surface materials. Stone tiles destined for bathrooms, showers, vanities and bath surrounds will add a significant value to your home, however their appearance and longevity will greatly depend on being adequately maintained. Here are a few tips how to clean a natural stone bathroom tile, sink, bathtub, shower or vanity top:

MOULD, MILDEW & VENTILATION

Irrespective of what stone you choose, ensuring your natural stone bathroom and shower is properly ventilated will help prevent mildew and mould growth. The issue with mould and mildew is not the shower surface, but the water that does not drain fully. If your surfaces are water repellent, drained properly and dried quickly, mould and mildew will not form.

After wiping your shower down to remove excess water, open the shower door or window, or keep your fan on to help the stone dry faster.

KEEP THE GROUT CLEAN

Grout is susceptible to mould and mildew growth if not cared for. Use a stone-safe grout cleaner that’s non-abrasive and gently lift the grime with a soft nylon brush.

REGULAR CLEANING

Clean the stone with a mild detergent or stone soap. Soaps that are formulated for the natural stone used in your shower can be found at most hardware stores. Using more soap isn’t always better. Too much soap could result in streaks or a film remaining on the tiles after cleaning. Avoid harsh cleaners including vinegar that can damage the surface of the stone. Only use cleaners that are pH neutral.

For more natural stone bathroom ideas visit our image gallery

To Bathroom Gallery

June 18, 2020 0 comment

Tips to care for your natural stone bench top

A stone bench top will always be a feature in your home and in order to keep it looking its best certain precautions should be exercised.

THE DO’s AND THE DON’Ts OF NATURAL STONE BENCHTOP CARE

Don’t ever sit or stand on your benchtop. Whilst the stone is very strong, the under cabinet or substrate may not be.
Don’t place extremely hot things on your benchtop. Most of the stones are heat resistant but not heat-proof. Always use a hot plate rest or trivet.
Most Natural Stone react on contact with acid, including acids found in food like tomato, fruit juice, vinegar etc. It’s best to use a cutting board or any other form of surface protection when working on it. This will prevent reactions between stone and the acids from different foods as well as avoiding scratches.
Avoid everyday use of abrasive cleaners when cleaning, household cleaners will only remove top polish. It is also important to avoid spilling alcohol drinks or fruit juices as it can etch into the polish. Never leave wet perfumed soaps or aerosol cans on the marble bench tops as they can create stains. Refrain from using sharp objects as they can scratch the surface.
To clean stone bench tops use a pure soap that is diluted in water. For best results when cleaning use a clean soft cloth. Don’t use scouring powders or creams, these products may scratch the surface of the stone.
Majority of natural stones are factory sealed post production, however you may want to ensure it with a second sealing.
Sealing your new benchtop is essential to prevent liquids from soaking in and being absorbed by the material, causing unwanted marks and stains that can be a pain to get rid of.
Resealing is generally recommended every 2-5 years but completely depends on the type of stone you have and how the benchtop is used.
A quick way to check if your natural stone benchtop needs a new coat of sealer is to pour some water on it and see what happens. If the water puddles up on top of the stone – then your sealer is still working. If the water penetrates into the stone – you know it’s time for a new coat of sealer.
Benchtops in Natural Stone provide a beautiful, elegant and classy ambience for many years if they are properly cared for.

View Our Benchtop Gallery

June 4, 2020 0 comment

Indoor, Outdoor Harmony

Walking through Sydney’s suburbs, it is evident outdoor living is a major part of our culture. While many of us still spend most of our time indoors, integrating the outdoors into our day to day, remains of high importance. Architects and designers are constantly seeking out design solutions that will sustain the malleability between indoor living and outdoor lifestyles. Using the same stone in a different finish creates a fluid indoor and outdoor space, connecting our surroundings in an easy and effortless way. The STS STONE range of natural stone is available in a variety of finishes: Honed and Polished are ideal for interior spaces; Sandblasted, Brushed or Bush Hammered work well outdoors, with their high slip resistance.

March 17, 2020 0 comment

The golden rules of stone care Do and Don’t

The golden rules of stone care, ensuring the longevity of your stones, can be summarised as follows:

July 5, 2018 0 comment

Travertine – The Part of Limestone Family

Travertine is a beautiful natural stone material from the limestone family. It is made of soft calcium carbonate and is usually found in the form of deposits near bubbling warm or hot springs. When quarried by man the open holes are filled at the surface with either epoxy or travertine dust to offer a smooth closed finished look .

June 26, 2018 0 comment

Slip Resistance Guide

Everyone who specifies flooring products has to ensure that flooring surfaces do not pose a safety risk. In our case, we talk about slippery resistance that shows how slippery the floor is. Natural stone have to be tested due to the fact that the product is natural and has the significant variation of hardness and surface finishes which give different slip results.

May 9, 2018 0 comment

The Beauty of Natural Stone & Why I Love To Use Them!

Published on April 27, 2015 by Stephanie Henley (Principal/Co-Owner of Beasley & Henley Interior Design Published)

Why do I like natural stones, what are some of its benefits and how is it used today? I am a fan of natural stones with all of their unique qualities, durability, elegance and the fact that they are environmentally friendly. There is no need to worry because these stone do not release toxins or chemicals into your home.

April 30, 2018 0 comment

Every Day Care

The natural stone you have in your home, office, or commercial building is an investment that will give you many years of beautiful service. Simple care and maintenance will help preserve your stone’s beauty for generations to come.

February 26, 2018 2 comments

Stone Stories

What are the different types of Natural Stone?

February 7, 2018 0 comment

Sealing and Protecting Natural Stone

Natural stone is the perfect choice to add a luxurious element to your property. To ensure that your surfaces retain a beautiful and pristine appearance and last for years to come it is essential that you apply an effective sealant. This applies to whatever type of natural tile you choose.

September 7, 2017 0 comment

How to keep your Natural Stone in excellent condition.

Natural stone doesn’t require a lot of upkeep and the sealing will help prevent stains, however here are some general recommendations to keep your stone in excellent condition:

June 22, 2017 0 comment