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MARBLE TILES Looking to introduce a little luxury to your bathroom? Consider this sought-after stone that adds glamour with ease

Marble has been associated with quality and luxury for thousands of years. Each piece is different, and it’s this that makes it so desirable. The wide variety of tile shapes and sizes means marble is versatile, too.

QIs it expensive? Natural marble is invariably more expensive than man-made tiles, especially if you add in the cost of sealants and maintenance. The larger the slab, the higher the price tag. Marble mosaics, which can be made using offcuts, are often more affordable. One trick is to use marble in a small area to create a striking focal point, with less expensive tiles elsewhere.

QCan marble be used on walls and floors? Generally, floor tiles can be used on walls but not vice versa. Also, weight can be an issue, as wall tiles must be no more than 12mm thick. Check with your tiler/installer before you buy.

QAre there disadvantages? Unprotected, marble is a relatively soft stone that will soak up stains. It’s also easily etched by acidic materials; even a bar of soap can leave a mark. To avoid this, we’d always recommend you

DARK & MOODY

Grey veining adds drama.

CAPPUCCINO GREY PULIDO MARBLE, PORCELANOSA

seal the marble once before installation and again after grouting. Use cleaners designed for natural stone and avoid bleach and chemicals. For safety, use honed marble on floors.

Q

How can I boost its impact?

Use large-format slabs with bookmatched veining to create a statement above a bath or inside a shower. Mosaics can be equally impressive on a vanity splashback or to lift the flooring in a compact space. A heavily striated marble like Striato Olimpico or Calacatta will make more impact than one with subtler, feathery veining such as Carrara or Thassos.

Q

Are marble-look tiles okay?

Marble-look porcelain and ceramic tiles are good alternatives. Many designers recommend man-made marble as a more durable option in showers and on floors. Avoid repeating the vein pattern to ensure a realistic finish.

Marble offers an unrivalled sense of opulence. There’s no better way to bathroom” add a luxe look to your

SPLASH OUT

Luxury marble mosaics.

TACTILE TREAT

A matt marble replica.

CHANNEL A HOTEL BATHROOM VIBE WITH WRAPAROUND MARBLE TILING CLOSE COPY

High- definition printing.

QUALITY STONE All Natural Tiles prides itself on sourcing premium grade marble tiles and slabs. What’s more, you can order free samples online.

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BARGAIN HUNTING Mandarin Stone stocks more than 50 types of marble tiles, making it one of the UK’S largest suppliers.

FINISHING TOUCHES

To add just a little marble, Amara has a beautifully elegant edit of marble accessories, including soap pumps and toothbrush holders.