Granite is one of the toughest materials in the world. That’s why it’s been used in a wide range of construction projects, including buildings, bridges, paving and monuments. Its matchless durability, versatility, elegance, and ease of maintenance make it the perfect addition to any home, in whatever form it’s used.
No matter how you use granite, it won’t go unnoticed. Here, we discuss some of the most common but extraordinary ways to use granite in your home.
How to Add Granite to Your Home Décor
Granite is a naturally beautiful and durable stone. While mostly found in countertops, flooring, and showers, it can be used in many areas of your home (and garden) to create unique design elements. Here are eight ways to incorporate granite into your home and yard.
1. Kitchen Countertops
Granite is popularly used in kitchen countertops. Since every slab is unique, with its own swirls, specks and colours, you’re sure to find a unique countertop to fit your decor.
One of the biggest reasons why granite countertops are useful in kitchens is their heat-resistant properties. With granite, you never have to worry about your worktop blistering or melting upon exposure to high temperatures. If you’ve just taken a hot pan off the stove, for instance, you can place it directly on a granite countertop without having to worry about damaging it.
Although not resistant to cracks and breakage, granite is hard enough to resist chipping and scratches. This means you won’t have to make repairs or reseal the surface repeatedly.
2. Bathroom Vanity Tops
Granite is a great bathroom vanity material thanks to its durability and beauty. It’s also naturally resistant to mould and water damage. And since granite is so hard, it can withstand the wear and tear inflicted on one of your home’s most used and abused areas.
Granite works in both modern and traditional setups, and since it’s available in a wide range of colours, you’ll surely find a vanity to match your bathroom decor.
3. Kitchen Backsplashes
Another amazing way to use granite in your home is as a backsplash. Because their surface is smooth, without any grout lines, granite backsplashes are easy to clean and maintain. This makes them a preferred choice among many homeowners and interior designers, and perfect for kitchen walls where food and liquid spills are common.
What’s more, areas behind the oven/stove are prone to heat. Natural stones like granite tend to be heat resistant, which reduces the chances of damage to that part of the kitchen wall.
Hint: Creating a backsplash using the same slab of granite as your countertop provides visual continuity that allows the space to be perceived as a whole.
4. Kitchen Sinks
When it comes to their kitchen sink, most homeowners stick to stainless steel. Interestingly, you can find granite under-mount sinks, pedestal sinks, or even angular modern basins.
These sinks are made from granite dust and resins, which are mixed and moulded to stand up to heavy everyday use. These incredibly sturdy sinks are a must-have kitchen fixture. When coordinated with your countertop, granite kitchen sinks can create a beautiful and seamless look.
5. Tabletop Decoration
Have you ever considered using granite for your table decor? Fill a beautiful (transparent) tray, bowl, or vase with small granite chips for a unique tabletop decoration or centrepiece.
Being heat resistant, granite is great for setting off candles in a display. It can also be used as a serving tray or snack platter on your dining table.
If you have a wooden or glass tabletop, make sure you lay felt down underneath your granite tray or bowl so the hard edges don’t scratch the surface below.
6. Fireplace Mantle
A natural stone like granite is a great fireplace option, particularly if you’re rebuilding your mantel. A well-planned and crafted granite mantel makes a perfect centrepiece for any room and can turn even the most common fireplace into a magnificent one. For example, granite tiles or slabs can be installed over your existing mantel for a beautiful facelift. Black granite in particular is a popular choice for fireplace mantels.
7. Outdoor Setups
Aside from your bathroom and kitchen, granite can also be used for outdoor setups.
For example, if you have a covered porch or barbeque area, consider installing a mini kitchenette with a granite counter. This will add a unique appeal to your yard and value to your property.
If you love to cook and eat outdoors, a deluxe granite patio serving and prep station will come in handy.
You can also use granite remnants to edge your garden or driveway, instead of regular stone pavers. Granite’s striking colours and veining adds character to your garden.
8. Granite Medallions
Decorative granite mosaics are patterns or designs on a wall or floor. They can also be fitted into a larger tile that’s installed as one large piece. Consider installing granite medallions in an entryway, on your shower wall or pool floor.
Whether you have a small home or a large mansion, granite is a great way to add both beauty and value to your property. And you have many ways to use it. Take inspiration from these ideas to make granite an integral part of your home decor.