The architectural design space is witnessing a surging interest in natural stones. This is because they offer a timeless and elegant touch to kitchens, living rooms, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces, while their organic shape and texture can add something unique and iconic to upscale design. Here we’ll explore the latest trends in the natural stone industry and see which products can be incorporated into your inventory to capitalize on these exciting trends in 2022.
Table of Contents
An overview of the natural stone market
Most commonly used natural stones
Trends in natural stones
Natural stones will never go out of style
An overview of the natural stone market
The global natural stone market was worth US $33 million in 2020 and is predicted to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4% to US $50 million by 2030. Marble, limestone, slate, granite, and sandstone are the most common natural stones, with many applications in commercial and residential settings. They are used for wall cladding, flooring, and countertops because they are durable and aesthetically pleasing. The primary factor driving natural stone sales is increased investment in the housing sector due to increased disposable income. Read on to learn about the latest trends shaping the natural stone industry.
Most commonly used natural stones
Marble
Marble is a natural stone created by the crystallization of dolomite rock or limestone under high temperatures and pressure. It can be found in several styles, patterns, and colors, including pink, yellow, brown, cream, and white, and it is renowned for its shine and glow. Marble is elegant, timeless, and durable, making it perfect for bathrooms, living rooms, kitchens, and other high foot traffic areas.
Granite
Granite is an igneous rock that forms when magma crystallizes slowly beneath the Earth’s crust. Quartz and feldspar make up most of the rock, with minor amounts of other minerals. Granite has many advantages: it is long-lasting, resistant to color change, and can tolerate extreme conditions. As a result, it’s an excellent choice for outdoor use. Granite is commonly used for counters, floor tiles, and kitchen countertops.
Limestone
Limestone is a sedimentary rock generated in marine waters and predominantly composed of calcium carbonate particles. This stone is appreciated for its unusual texture and color, and it is easy to carve, making it a favorite among sculptors. Travertine and Portland stone are popular variants of limestone.
Slate
Slate is a foliated rock that can be cut into thin slabs for various applications. It is durable, resistant to high temperature and harsh weather, and can be used for interiors and exteriors such as for cladding, roofing, kitchen counters, and for garden features. It has a smooth texture and a unique shine.
Trends in natural stones
Color
The interior design industry has broadened its style to include various colors that elicit a number of moods. The introduction of stronger tones such as green and blue to liven up the interiors is a significant trend in 2022. While soothing tones are also popular, working well with neutrals to create an aesthetically pleasing impression while retaining a sense of calm. The combination of terracottas with gray-colored and traditional stones is another popular trend, and it offers an elegant and classic design touch.
Textured finishes
As printing technology advances, new and more sophisticated methods define what can be done with stone and marble. It’s now relatively easy to mass-produce stones with three-dimensional and textured finishes, and manufacturers use different techniques and tools to create desired touches. As a result, there is increased interest in textured surfaces, which range from dramatic ripples with metallic intonations to subtle wavy patterns that play off the light. These textures stand out as a popular trend, particularly when paired with concrete styles that embrace rough surfaces. And this matches a broader trend in architectural design, which is moving toward a toned-down approach with muted hues that evoke a sense of calm.
High gloss
Despite the earthier trends shaping the stone and tile industry, stones with high gloss remain popular today. This design offers a gleaming, clean, and polished appearance, which many customers seek. The high gloss finish can be applied to any stone regardless of shape or size. Smooth granite and marble are preferred for kitchen countertops, fireplaces, and tabletops as they evoke luxury and elegance. Natural stones with a high gloss finish give spaces a restrained, sober, and sophisticated look. This is why they are a popular choice for bathroom vanities, living rooms, and wash basins.
Stone veining
In recent years, incorporating veins in marble tiles has become popular, as it gives the stone a more natural appearance. The different types of veining add abstract patterns and designs to stones, making them even more intriguing. Although the cause of veining in stones is unknown, the organic designs are nonetheless loved for their dramatic aesthetic. They are regarded as an elegant choice and for this reason are frequently found in luxurious settings. Although white and gray are the most common colors, suede and other neutral tones are becoming popular too.
Stone backsplash
Stone backsplashes have been popular for some time, and customers are replacing traditional tiles with stones. Because of their elegant and sleek design, stones such as marble and limestone are particularly popular options. These natural stones add a layer of depth to a kitchen design, and have the power to transform an ordinary space into something extraordinary. They are also a great choice for kitchens as they are not only easy to clean, but also durable and can withstand wear and tear.
Using natural stones appeals to many people because of their versatility in a range of applications, as well as their unique pattern and design. They offer a one-of-a-kind flair that adds a sense of originality to home design. These stones can also easily complement any interior design project because they can be found in a range of colors, from elegant pink to subtler shades of white, black, and brown.
Outdoor spaces
As people spend more time at home, a growing trend is to improve outdoor spaces by transforming patios into outdoor living oases. Such projects could include a stone fireplace, stone pathways and steps in the garden, or an outdoor stone kitchen. Natural stones are an excellent choice as they are durable, known for their strength, require low maintenance, are resistant to harsh weather, and do not lose color with time. A popular stone choice for these outdoor spaces is sandstone, which comes in earthy tones and complements the outdoors well. Yellow limestones and greystones in various shades are another great option for patios.
Natural stones can be found in both residential and commercial establishments, given that a wide range of construction projects include the development of outdoor spaces. They are commonly used for balconies, gardens, patios, and pathways, and they have a unique ability to make a space feel inviting and comforting.
Natural stones will never go out of style
Natural stones have long been a favorite of the tile and interior design industries, and they are expected to remain popular in the future. Stones such as marble, limestone, granite, and slate are aesthetically pleasing, come in numerous colors, and are easy to style. Also due to new means of working with stone, they now come in different textures, colors, patterns, and designs, allowing for a wider range of exotic and luxurious looks. Given their timeless popularity, it is safe to say that investing in natural stones is a great way to boost your inventory and capitalize on this stylish trend.
