Choosing the right stone for your bespoke furniture
Protecting your bespoke stone furniture
When it comes to furnishing your home, nothing says luxury and longevity quite like bespoke stone furniture.
But with so many stunning materials available, it’s natural to ask, ‘Which stone is best for long-lasting investment?’
Whether you’re looking for a sleek coffee table or a statement dining piece, the right material can ensure your furniture stays in perfect condition for many years. How do you decide which one is best suited to your needs?
Let’s take a deeper look into three of the most popular materials we work with - granite, quartz and porcelain. Keep reading for our guide on how to choose the right stone for your bespoke furniture.
What is granite furniture?
Granite is a natural stone formed over millions of years from the slow crystallisation of magma beneath the Earth’s surface. This igneous rock is renowned for its durability and stunning variety of patterns and colours. Because it’s a natural material, each slab of granite is unique, offering one-of-a-kind designs that can’t easily be replicated.
The benefits of granite furniture
Exceptional durability
Granite is one of the hardest stones available, making it resistant to scratches and everyday wear. It’s particularly well-suited for areas of the home with lots of coming-and-going, such as kitchen countertops or dining tables.
Heat resistance
If you’re someone who enjoys cooking, granite is an excellent choice. It can withstand high temperatures, meaning you can place hot pans directly on the surface without worrying about damage.
Unique aesthetics
The natural veining, flecks and swirls in granite give each piece its distinct character, making it the ideal option for those looking to create something truly bespoke.
Value
Granite is often associated with luxury and can increase the overall value of your home. It is a timeless material that never goes out of style.
How to maintain your granite furniture
While granite is incredibly durable, it does require some basic care to keep it looking its best:
Sealing. Granite is a porous stone, which means it needs to be sealed to prevent staining from liquids like wine or oil. Most granite surfaces are sealed upon installation, but it’s important to reseal them every 1-2 years.
Cleaning. Use mild, pH-balanced cleaners or simply warm water and soap. Avoid abrasive scrubs or acidic cleaners, which can break down the sealant over time.
Avoid impact. While granite is extremely strong, it can chip if heavy objects are dropped on it, so take care around the edges.
What is quartz furniture?
Unlike granite, quartz is not a natural stone but rather an engineered product. It’s composed of roughly 90-95% ground quartz minerals, combined with resin, pigments and polymers. This process creates a non-porous surface that mimics the look of natural stone but offers durability and easy maintenance.
The benefits of quartz furniture
Low maintenance
One of the biggest advantages of quartz furniture is its non-porous nature, which means it doesn’t require sealing. It’s resistant to stains, making it a practical choice for households with children (or clumsy adults!) where spills are likely.
Wide range of designs
Since quartz is engineered, it can be produced in a variety of colours and patterns, giving you more control over the appearance of your furniture. While natural stones like granite and marble come with unpredictable patterns, quartz offers a more uniform look. This makes it ideal if you’re aiming for a sleek, polished design.
Durability
Although not as heat-resistant as granite, quartz is still very durable and resistant to scratches and stains. It’s perfect for bathroom countertops or vanity units where you want a flawless finish with minimal upkeep.
Quartz aftercare and maintenance
Maintaining quartz furniture is easy due to its non-porous surface:
Daily cleaning. A simple wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap is usually all you need to keep quartz looking pristine.
Avoid harsh chemicals. While quartz is resistant to stains, harsh chemicals like bleach or heavy-duty cleaners can damage the resin, so it’s best to stick to gentle cleaning solutions.
Heat protection. Quartz can handle some heat. However, we’d always recommend using a trivet for extra protection!
Porcelain stone furniture
Porcelain is a type of ceramic made by heating refined clay at very high temperatures. This process creates an incredibly dense and durable material that’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor furniture.
The benefits of porcelain furniture
Scratch and stain-resistant
Because porcelain is fired at such high temperatures, it becomes extremely hard and resistant to both scratches and stains. This makes it perfect for busy households and even commercial spaces.
Wide range of finishes
Whether you want a high-gloss polish or a more textured, matte finish, porcelain offers plenty of options. It’s also available in designs that mimic natural stone or wood.
Eco-friendly
Porcelain is made from natural materials and can often be recycled, making it a sustainable choice for those looking to minimise their environmental footprint.
Maintaining porcelain furniture
Porcelain is one of the easiest materials to maintain:
Cleaning. A damp cloth and mild detergent are all you need for day-to-day cleaning. Its non-porous surface means it resists spills, so you don’t have to worry about staining.
Durability. Porcelain is resistant to extreme weather conditions, scratches and heat, meaning there’s very little upkeep involved. It’s a set-and-forget material, making it a great option for those with busy lifestyles.
Choosing the right stone for your bespoke furniture
Choosing between granite, quartz and porcelain largely depends on your lifestyle and how you intend to use your furniture.
If you’re someone who loves cooking and needs a surface that can handle high heat and daily use, granite might be the best choice. It’s incredibly durable and heat resistant, although it does require periodic sealing.
On the other hand, if you want a low-maintenance option with a sleek, modern look, quartz could be ideal. Its non-porous nature makes it resistant to stains and it comes in a wide range of designs to match any aesthetic.
For those needing something more versatile, porcelain is hard to beat. It’s weather-resistant and easy to clean, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor furniture.
Why work with All in Stone?
With years of experience in crafting bespoke stone furniture, we pride ourselves on our expertise and commitment to quality. We understand that choosing the right material is important for both the longevity and appearance of your furniture - and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to invest in a stunning piece of bespoke stone furniture that will last for years to come? Let us help you create something truly special. For guidance on how to choose the right stone for your bespoke furniture, call our talented team on 0161 480 4676 today. Let us help you create something truly special.