A marble floor offers an effortless elegance to any room. While typically used in entryways or bathrooms, marble’s high durability coupled with its natural yet luxurious appearance makes it flexible enough to use in nearly any room. A natural stone, marble can withstand heavy use and is easy to clean. And, marble comes in seemingly endless patterns, veining, colors and sizes, which will make each surface look unique.
Stretcher Bond Pattern
A stretcher bond pattern is a traditional, horizontal brick-like layout with rectangular tiles that are staggered. This traditional configuration is clean and classic, and works exceptionally well in a bathroom. It can be carried from the floor to halfway up the wall. Or, it can be applied all the way to the ceiling for a more polished look. While white marble is classic, black marble in a stretcher bond pattern will create a modern and sophisticated look. The stretcher bond pattern can also be rotated into a more unexpected vertical design.
Diagonal Checkerboard Pattern
A diagonal checkerboard configuration is a statement pattern that is stunning in an entryway or foyer. The square tiles are laid at a 45-degree angle, so they become a diamond shape. A traditional checkerboard pattern is black or dark gray alternating with white. For a more understated and equally eye-catching design, you can use two different tones of grays. The variation of tones and veining will also impact the visual impact.
Plank Pattern
Marble tile laid in a plank pattern can give the appearance of a wood look. This configuration works well in a bathroom, entryway, mudroom or laundry room. Marble tiles in a plank pattern are laid as wood planks would be applied. A marble in a soft, warm tone can mimic the look of natural wood, such as white oak.
Herringbone Pattern
Herringbone is another classic pattern that makes an elegant statement in any space. In an entryway, a large herringbone pattern will make a grand entrance. A larger herringbone paired with a smaller pattern on the walls and the shower creates a beautiful and cohesive effect in a bathroom. Since polished marble can be slippery, selecting honed marble on a bathroom floor can help prevent slipping. Also, selecting a smaller pattern in the shower can lessen the risk of slipping since more grout provides extra traction.
Basketweave Pattern
A basketweave pattern is a traditional configuration that is beautiful in any space and works particularly well in a smaller area, such as a powder room. The pattern has classic influences and pairs well with marble tile in a stretcher bond configuration.
Rustic Pattern
Selecting marble tile in varying shapes and colors will create a casual feel if you gravitate towards a more relaxed, rustic look. Alternating honed marble in rectangle and square tiles in earth-toned shades will provide a flooring base that is a striking foundation for a rustic retreat.
Whether you’re adorning your whole home in marble or just several rooms, the tile configurations can be endless. Whether you want an elegant, traditional or rustic look, marble flooring can elevate your space and home style.
