Marble - Queen of Stone

More refined than granite, more delicate than quartzite, marble commands the highest respect of architects, artists and designers around the world. It’s fresh translucence, pure whites and organic movement provide maximum luxury to create a sublime finish for any project.

Marble has been the most revered building material for over 30 centuries, and continues to adapt to all of today’s traditional and contemporary architecture.

Technically Speaking

Marble is a metamorphic stone made of calcium carbonate. It forms in volcanic areas where sedimentary limestones (coral, shells and fossils from the sea bottom) are ‘cooked’ via rising bubbles of molten granite. The extreme heat melts the limestone, while intense pressure prevents it from decomposing. As it cools, it recrystallizes into marble. Organic materials in rain and flood water penetrate through marble to create unique veins and markings.

More Than Skin Deep

Even though marble is a beautiful finish option, there are other reasons why marble is selected over other stones. Marble is one of the longest-lasting, and highest value-retaining finishes in the world.

Though, it can be expensive, marble countertops and decorative finishes essentially pay for themselves. If well maintained and properly cared for, marble countertops, fireplaces and art walls provide real luxury in residences, offices and public buildings. Marble comes in a variety of natural colors that complement almost any design.

Marble is high maintenance. Although this can be off-putting, one should want to maintain its beauty. There are methods you can use to protect your marble to keep it looking great. However, If you find your marble is not looking its best, and need assistance, you can always have it professionally refinished to achieve its original look. The beauty of the stone is always there, not just on the surface, 100% through and through. It can always be restored.

Do the right thing.

The first step to protect and maintain marble is to properly seal it, and seal it often. You’ll also want to choose your cleaning products carefully. It’s best to clean your marble countertops with gentle dish detergent or stone cleaner, and a warm damp soft cloth . Avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach or vinegar, that will roughen the surface finish. There is no need to scrub hard. Use coasters for drinks, and cutting boards for acidic foods. Use trivets to prevent spillage from hot cookware and spillage.

If you have any questions, talk with us at Blue Pearl Stone. We have stock and access to an extensive selection of marble from around the world. Utilize the assistance of our team members to select and enjoy the right marble for your project. Enjoy the supreme beauty of marble in your home today!

The Pantheon - 1415 years old

Universal Design in River North

Katy and Brad are recent empty nesters who traded in their house in the suburbs for a new life in the River North neighborhood of Chicago. Downsizing and choosing a new home is tricky, but this couple had the additional obstacle of finding a place suitable for Brad’s unique needs. At the age of 40, Brad became unexpectedly disabled, losing his hands and feet. At home, he uses an electric wheelchair and needs accessible showers. However, Katy and Brad did not want to settle for everyday metal grab bars and plastic shower seats in their search. Instead they envisioned a contemporary, urban loft that did not feel like an institution.

Blue Pearl Stone collaborated with John Kelly Architects and Designer, Page Redding to develop such a design for this challenging and rewarding project. 

The newly renovated unit is located on the fourth floor of a converted factory building, complete with floor-to-ceiling views of the historic Merchandise Mart. The Mart’s façade provides a backdrop of weathered limestone and terracotta that serve as inspiration for matte-finished Artisan Grey quartz and honed Calacatta Apuano marble in the kitchen and living areas.

Merging industrial concrete elements with elegant waves of milky white, grey, and taupe veined marble, the condo pays homage to its landmark surroundings, while distinguishing itself as a contemporary, yet warm and comfortable home. The table height bar and eating area, ADA compliant cabinets and stainless sink all allow easy access, while integrating a gracious corner marble bookmatched backsplash, shelves and lighting. In other words, the home is Universal, yet sacrifices nothing in its aesthetic.

“Our condo does not look like it was made for someone who uses a wheelchair,” said Katy. “It flows, and there’s room to move. This is the heart of Universal Design. It works for everybody.”

Take for example, the Master Bath. The walk-in shower, mitered sculptural bench, and floating vanities make it feel like a luxurious spa. But all these elements serve as important functions for Brad’s freedom of movement. The minimalist design of the low-maintenance Royal Blanc quartz shelving and ledges provide storage and accessibility and provide contrast to the high-durability Nero Erte porcelain floor tile. Each element complements another and works hard in both design and universality. 

Universal Design inspires new inclusiveness in design and architecture to address individualized needs for comfort, style and harmony for all.

Kitchen Interior with quartz counters and marble full high splashes.

Bi-level Kitchen Bars in marble and quartz

Shower Area with Sculptural Quartz Bench, elongated Powder Subway Brick, Hexagon Penny Rounds and Nero Erte Floor Tile.

Master Bath Overview with Royal Blanc Quartz Counters, Columns, and Accessories, with Nero Erte Matte Porcelain Tile

Marble, Quartz and Tile by Blue Pearl Stone Photography by Tony Soluri