Natural stone in commercial spaces
References
In commercial spaces, finishing materials have a much more difficult task than in private homes. They must look as good on the first day as they do after a year of intensive use, be resistant to frequent cleaning, moisture, dirt, scratches, impacts and abrasions, and at the same time support the image of the place. This is why natural stone has been a popular choice for hotels, offices, restaurants and shopping centres for years, especially those that want to create a luxurious, prestigious look.
In commercial projects, granite and quartzite are most often used. These are strong materials that withstand intensive use very well, are resistant to abrasion and easy to maintain. They are ideal for floors, stairs, passageways and entrance areas, where large numbers of people pass through every day. Their structure and technical parameters allow them to retain their aesthetic appearance for many years.
Marble in commercial spaces usually appears where a representative, luxurious effect is important. Hotel receptions, lobbies, VIP areas and elegant restaurants are places where marble fulfils its role well. However, it should be remembered that this stone is slightly more demanding in terms of care and impregnation, but as soon as we meet its requirements, we will get in return a class and nobility that cannot be replaced by any other material. To enjoy the intact structure of marble, it is worth using it in more representative areas or combining it with other types of stone (e.g. granite, quartzite), especially in places with higher traffic.
Travertine, on the other hand, brings more softness and visual warmth to commercial spaces. It works well in reception areas, lobbies, relaxation areas and hotel corridors, where atmosphere and a friendly climate are important. The natural colours and delicate pattern of the slabs allow you to create spaces that are welcoming yet still elegant. In the case of travertine, it is crucial to properly protect the surface and carefully plan where it will be used.
It is also worth mentioning onyx, which can serve as a strong visual accent in commercial spaces. Thanks to its partial light transmission, it can be illuminated to create an effect that immediately attracts the attention of visitors. It is most often used on reception desks, decorative walls or in entrance areas – a great first impression on guests is guaranteed!
The range of uses for natural stone in commercial buildings is very wide. Floors, stairs and facades are the most obvious examples, but stone is just as often used on reception desks, countertops, wall cladding or in the form of decorative panels. In some projects, it is the stone detail that can determine whether and how the space will be remembered by customers or guests.
With intensive use, maintenance is very important. Regular cleaning with pH-neutral agents, impregnation tailored to the type of stone and traffic intensity, and quick response to dirt allow the surface to retain its aesthetic appearance for years. Natural stone does not require complicated treatments, but poorly chosen chemicals or lack of maintenance can shorten its life.
If you are planning to use natural stone in a commercial space design, contact us – our experts will help you choose the best solution for your project.