Marble is one of those classic materials that has been around – tastefully – for centuries. This stone is formed of recrystallized carbonite minerals, with the end result showing various degrees of unique striations (“veins”) in a variety of colors. It’s no wonder that the term derives from Greek words that meant “crystalline rock,” “shining stone,” or even “the verb “to flash, sparkle, gleam” – marble is known for lending its beautiful sparkle to whatever object it’s incorporated into.

Marble isn’t exactly a low-cost material, but a little bit can go a long way in adding to the chic factor of your home. Check out these ways that you could incorporate this beautiful resource into your home, and then decide for yourself if it’s worth it for your home.

by Altius Architecture.

This wouldn’t be a fitting article on marble in home décor without starting out in the space we use the most – the kitchen. Marble makes a chic and highly functional countertop in any style of kitchen. The thicker the marble countertop, the more sophisticated even the simplest of spaces appears. (Not that the design of this beautiful contemporary kitchen is “simple”!)

by Autoban212 Studio.

A kitchen island topped with marble is a sophisticated element to any kitchen. Even the almost industrial vibe of a painted brick wall becomes elegant when marble is at waist level and golden ceiling tiles are overhead.

byWonderful kitchens.

Of course, there’s no need to stop just at topping off the kitchen island with marble – if you love the material, consider a contemporary cut where the marble “waterfalls” down the sides of the island as well. The effect is understated yet stunning.

by Virginia Macdonald Photographer Inc.

A marble backsplash, no matter what your countertops are, is a visual feast in the kitchen…especially in an interesting pattern, like these rectangular marble tiles laid in a chevron pattern. Beautiful.

byAntiquefarmhouse

Let’s be honest; marble isn’t inexpensive. For a budget option in the kitchen, consider incorporating marble in smaller doses – a marble cutting board, for example. Keep it on display and in an accessible spot, and you’ll get a big bang for your buck.

If you love a relaxed home décor style but are drawn to the beauty of marble as well, matte marble flooring might be a great option for you. With some natural and woven textiles and some casual furniture pieces, like these Moroccan touches here, you’ll likely strike the perfect balance.

Speaking of balance…marble and wood together combine to create a perfect balance of natural materials. One earthy and organic, the other its shinier and more sophisticated natural cousin. Together, a beautiful blend.

Actually, while wood is an excellent balancing partner to marble, the use of any natural element really works as a juxtaposition to the cold beauty of marble. Keep in mind texture, earth tones, and natural textiles (such as leather and linens) for a spot-on balance.

A marble-topped coffee table makes a simple and elegant statement in any living room. Keeping other components in the room itself neutral and clean emphasizes the rock’s inherent beauty.

bypaoshouji.

If you are able, I see no reason NOT to cover your walls and floor in various shades of marble tile. Including a darker marble tile around the perimeter of the floor, as is done here, creates a warming effect and makes the other flooring seem like a rug. There’s a beautiful sense of elegance and warmth here, despite the stone’s natural cold-like tendencies.

byBetterdecoratingbible

Marble tiles complete the stunning effect of a fireplace surround – maximizing the already intrinsic focal-point nature of a fireplace. Laying the marble with veins flowing diagonally creates beautiful flow within the space and emphasizes the spacious feel of the vaulted ceiling.

byMadison Modern Home

A traditional matte marble mantel warms up a living room fireplace and displays effortless versatility dressed up or down, in a traditional, opulent, or contemporary setting.

Another lower-budget way to incorporate marble (while still creating a look and feel that’s anything but cheap) is to obtain smaller furniture items out of the stone. This pedestal side table is evidence of marble’s sophisticating effect on any space – the subtle veins add a sense of texture and depth while the clean lines of the table itself adhere to the space’s modern tendencies.

Encompassing marble tiles in the bathroom creates an uber chic look and the ultimate relaxation venue. The innate coldness of marble itself is tempered with nature-inspired accessories – some berry branches and an (albeit ceramic) animal head mount.

byavanesova

Warmer grades of marble can be used in any space to keep things elegant and chic without feeling too austere. Varying the sizes of tiles used also provides a lovely sense of proportion and architectural definition.

For those who enjoy the luxe feel of marble but prefer a cleaner, modern look (translation: fewer striations), there are other marble options that match your aesthetic. Such as this crisp and clean grey marble tub surround. Very chic while merging effortlessly into a wholly clean-lined space.

Once again, if you’re not in the place to do a complete bathroom renovation where marble reins supreme, at least consider the stuff on a smaller scale with your bathroom accessories. Soap dispensers, towel racks, or even a polished marble tray are chic additions that won’t break the bank.

When push comes to shove (or not even that), take existing pieces that you love and consider topping them with marble…or basing them with marble. Either method will add a unique design to your piece and help to make it last forever, both physically and stylistically.

Marble doesn’t have to be a whole-house showstopper; don’t forget that you can pamper just yourself with its gorgeousness, too! For example, a marble tile wall makes a stunning headboard in the bedroom. (Bonus: It doubles as wall art, minimizing your need to add stuff to the walls.)