Natural stone can be chiseled, brushed, or tumbled for added texture or to help define a more Provincial décor. Natural stone is also available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Natural stone flooring is available in sizes from 12” square to over 36”. To make application easier, tiny mosaic pieces are available in 12”-by-12” sheets. Stone tiles can also be smaller in size for niche or wall applications.
“I like to use the smaller rectangular shaped stones in a running bond pattern on tub surrounds or kitchen backsplash areas,” Sisler Johnston said.
Sisler Johnston likes to work with smaller, custom shops that import their own materials and recommends using a variety of shapes and sizes, as she did with Brylen Homes’ Phoenix model at Port St. John. She used an 18” square tile from the entry area into the powder room, and then added a wainscot of smaller tiles up the walls to the sink backsplash height, capping it off with stone mosaics held within listello mouldings.
“The variation created a dramatic impact for the home,” Sisler Johnston said.
Many people associate natural stone flooring with classic interiors, yet it can be used in modern or rustic settings, depending on the sheen, texture, size, and pattern. Polished marble adds elegance in any application. It is reminiscent of fine European hotels and especially relevant in classic applications, according to Sisler Johnston.
Natural stone flooring also works well in a corporate setting. For LandMar Group’s corporate lobby, Sisler Johnston selected a 36” travertine tile then bordered each square with a contrasting tumbled marble band of mosaics to create a unique pattern detail. She also created a spectacular image for ICI Homes’ corporate lobby by using a 24”-by-36”, rare, highly textured stone tile with a clear epoxy fill, making it look like it is embedded with jewels and fossils.
Although it is easy to clean, natural stone is not a maintenance-free product. The flooring should be properly sealed at installation and maintained to keep its best appearance. Sisler Johnston recommends consulting with a licensed interior designer, since designers have the best resources for natural stone and can assist in the selection of materials that will add value and lasting beauty to a home or office.
Sisler Johnston Interior Design of Jacksonville creates award-winning interior designs for the real estate industry, hospitality industry, and commercial and residential clients. The company celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2004.
The Sisler Johnston team of licensed, highly trained, and gifted designers successfully creates living spaces from concept through realization throughout the United States. Judith Sisler Johnston combines experience, knowledge, and professionalism to help clients develop their visions while analyzing their design requirements. The company has been recognized with more than 70 industry awards, including Aurora, Laurel, and Excel awards.
For more information about Sisler Johnston Interior Design, call (904) 288-0908 or visit the website at www.sislerjohnston.com.
