They print refinement, timeless time and a touch of nature in the spaces
Natural stones and synthetic materials that replicate them have never been so present in contemporary interiors. In false ceilings, floors, panels or even personalized furniture, they appear as elements that print refinement, timeless time and a touch of nature in the spaces. However, the right choice requires more than one aesthetic decision, it is also a technical choice.
“Before thinking only of appearance, it is important to understand the behavior of each type of material. Resistance, absorption and maintenance are determining the factors to define the best application”, explains the architects Mirella Fochi and Thais Bontemi, Conetarq, an office specialized in residential projects.
Most used natural stones
Among natural materials, marble, granite and quartz follow as the most used. Marble is a stone with surprising veins, appreciated by its charm classicBut it tends to be more porous and sensitive to acids, indicated mainly for dry areas. Granite and quartz offer greater resistance and less absorption and can be used safely in kitchens, bathrooms and external areas.
“Today Brazilian quartz is one of the most sought after, stones such as Taj Mahal, Mont Blanc and Perla Santana are extremely resistant and have a unique beauty, with organic veins that adapt to various styles,” says Mirella Fochi.
Most used synthetic stones
Among the synthetic, industrialized surfaces (such as Silestone) and ultra -cowardly surfaces like Dekton. “These materials offer aesthetic, high duration and low porosity uniformity – are excellent for those who want practicality with an elegant aspect,” says Thais Bontemmi.
In addition to national quartzi, Travertin marble has again occupied space in the interiors contemporaryNow in more natural finishes, such as Levado or Gross. Already black marble, such as Nero Marquina or Gabriel Gabriel, appear in projects that seek refinement with the personality.
Among the industrialists, the trend is to bet on neutral tones and opaque plots, which imitate natural stone without the traditional polished shine. The satin surface brings visual heat and combines well with wooden, linen and opaque metals.

Choose the stone for each environment
When they define the use, the guide of architects: in the kitchens, to give priority to materials with low absorption and high resistance; In toilets or decorative panels, it is possible to dare more. Already at the floors, attention must be in the plot and in the end Non -Slip, especially in external or humid areas.
The stones can also be the focal point of an environment or act as a neutral base, depending on the proposal. When the stone has a lot of personality, such as the green emerald quartzito or a marble with intense veins, it is worth leading it to lead the visual narrative.
Natural stones require specific treatments such as periodic waterproofing and the use of neutral products. The synthetics, on the other hand, are more practical, but also deserve attention: avoiding abrasives and very hot surfaces is essential to preserve their finish.
Pros and cons of natural and synthetic stones
Below, take a look at the pros and against the main use of natural and synthetic stones!
Natural stones
Professionals
- Unique beauty and biological plots;
- Enhance the project with authenticity;
- Excellent for benches e coatings decorative.
Against
- Depending on the model, they can be porous (in particular marble);
- Require regular maintenance;
- Natural variations can make replacement difficult.
Synthetic stones
Professionals
- High resistance and durability;
- Range of colors and uniformity;
- Low absorption, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
Against
- Less organic aspect;
- Resistance to lower heat (in the case of quartz);
- It could have a cost similar to natural, depending on the brand.
The stone brings a symbolism of permanence, ancestors and connection with nature. Incorporate it into projects is to print a solid narrative in space, which crosses fashions and enhances the raw material in its essence. Choosing well goes beyond a question of tastes, but of purpose and style.
By Taís Lopes
Source: Terra

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