Layers of stone – natural and man-made
The use of natural and man-made stone in our domestic environment continues to evolve, with a strong preference emerging towards the ‘layering’ of stone finishes. This is simply the use of different types of stone or stone finishes on both vertical and horizontal planes within the same area. This look works equally well in interiors – kitchens, bathrooms, living areas – as outdoors in courtyards, gardens, entranceways and terraces.
Different stone finishes can be used on adjoining floors, say where an interior floor meets an exterior area, with a stone cladding used on the walls as a feature wall and even decorative elements such as pots and urns selected in stone.
The courtyard pictured shows an interior floor in Travertine adjoining a courtyard paved in man-made stone pavers of New Earth – and then more stone finishes in the form of pebbles, rendered walls in a faux stone painted finish and a stone urn used as a water fountain. The very fact that the finishes and textures all vary slightly tonally is the key to the success of the look.
The Travertine tiles, New Earth pavers and pebbles are all from Amber who specialises in natural and man-made stone tiles and pavers.
Travertine, available in filled and unfilled, honed and polished finishes, features beautiful neutral colourings that work with any colours and all textures and is suitable for interior and exterior use.
A type of limestone marble formed from calcareous deposits from spring water or hot springs, Travertine is denser than many limestones and therefore more durable.
Meanwhile the New Earth man-made pavers in the courtyard are available in a range of soft, natural non-reflective hues, are 40mm thick and suitable for use in gardens, courtyards and on driveways and around pools.
The subtle shot-blast finish of New Earth complements any style of landscaping while the range of accessories includes bull noses of various configurations, all with a natural ground edge.
There is also a Double Shot finish available which features a far coarser surface texture – both finishes offer excellent slip resistance.
One of New Earth’s key advantages for those with a pool is its resistance to staining from either chlorine or salt water.
28-Jun-2006