SPACES Sept issue 2017

INTERIOR
TRAVERTINE
Travertine is a sedimentary rock and is
one of the softer varieties of stone flooring.
That means over time, travertine will
develop a soft, mellow patina. It comes
in a wide range of shades and hues,
from light cream to dark rust. Polished
travertine resembles marble; tumbled
travertine is characterized by pits, holes,
and rounded edges that give it an antique
look. Travertine flooring is porous and
reacts quickly to acidic substances, so
even spilled orange juice may cause a
stain. Regular application of a stone sealer
helps protect travertine flooring. Here, in
t his image traditional Kitchen Style with
Wooden Cabinets and Neutral wall Colors
with Travertine Flooring is designed.
SLATE
Slate is a metamorphic rock that was
formed in layers, so it easily splits into thin
sheets that are cut into tiles. Slate floor
tiles can be left with their naturally rough
surfaces or honed smooth. The rougher
surfaces offer good traction for entryways,
balconies, sunrooms, compound walls,
bathrooms, patios and kitchens. Color-wise, slate tends
toward blends of dark green, gray and brown. Slate comes
in various densities. The denser the slate, the less likely it
is to chip or flake in a process called “spalling.” A bit of
spalling is common in un-honed slate. Slate is mostly found
in the Western Hemisphere. It is used for both decorative
and utilitarian purposes. Slate comes in a wide range of
colors that are determined by the minerals found within
the stone. The minerals it contains determine the color of
slate. Red slate is caused by hematite, green by chlorite,
blue-gray by sericite, black by carbonaceous materials and
yellowish-brown by limonite. Some types of slate are also
mottled, streaked or spotted because of its mineral content.
The cleavage surface of slate may have either a shiny or dull
luster. Slate is an opaque material that does not transmit
any light. Cross fractures are typically dull. Denser slates
cost more. Here, a wall cladding of black slate is designed
with a uniform, symmetrical and rough look.
LIMESTONE
Limestone is a bit harder and over time will stand up better
to everyday use. It has striking grain patterns that, when
cut into long, narrow tiles, resemble wood planks. It’s a
porous stone and should be protected with a quality stone
sealer to prevent stains. Here, bedroom wall is designed
with limestone.
58 / SPACES SEPTEMBER 2017