Resplendent Marble
I recently went on vacation to Newport, Rhode Island. Specifically, to visit the Gilded Age Mansions. The popular HBO series “The Gilded Age” inspired my visit. The Gilded Age refers to a specific period in our nation’s history that encompassed the period of the late 1800’s to the first several years of the 20th century.
The expansion of railroads and industry created a wealthy class that rivaled European aristocracy. You may recognize some of the names Rockefeller, Vanderbilt, Carnegie and Morgan to name a few. These titans of industry built homes inspired by the famous palaces of Europe.
My work at Progressive Dimensions has fostered an appreciation of natural stone. The mansions I toured were resplendent with Marble and Granite in every hue for every surface.Marble floors, fountains, staircases and fireplaces adorned every room in every mansion.
The Breakers, The Marble House and Rose Cliff Manor were among the breathtaking homes I toured.
The biggest take away for me was the timeless beauty of natural stone. Built over 125 years ago and the natural stone continues to exude high end luxury that stands the test of time.
Kitchen design can be as trendy as fashion. Many clients express the desire to create a timeless kitchen. A design that won’t date the home. Think of the orange and avocado colors of the sixties and seventies. The mauve of the eighties and the oak cabinets of the early two thousands to name a few. Recently, engineered stone, Quartz has been the go to surface for countertops, replacing granite countertops that had gained so much popularity that formica countertops became all but obsolete.
After viewing the splendor of the Newport Mansions, a newfound appreciation for the durability and longevity of Marble. Whether it was imported from Italy or quarried from the Danby Marble mines in Vermont. Marble continues to be the world’s preferred countertop material.
Marble comes in a variety of color variations and hues, with white being the most popular.
Today’s consumers are educated and have a wealth of knowledge at their fingertips.
Because marble is natural it is naturally porous. Marble will etch when it comes in contact with acidity. Many of the substances we cook with such as citrus, vinegars, tomatoes etc.. will cause marble countertops to etch. The definition of etch is to cut into a surface with acid.
This has always been the way marble reacts to acid. Yet it is still the most requested surface worldwide because of its beauty. Accepting that is the way marble reacts. Discerning clients want the real macoy and they understand that over time the marble they have invested in will morph and patina and hold the memories of over 100 years.
The luxury of marble has proven that its beauty and durability are as valued today as it was a century ago.
