Luxury Materials and Finishes for Your Home - Home & Texture
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The Ultimate Guide to Luxury Materials and Finishes for Your Home

From marble to glass, explore the materials that ooze luxury.

September 16, 2024 at 9:48 PM PST
Decorate Luxury Finishes

The Ultimate Guide to Luxury Materials and Finishes for Your Home

From marble to glass, explore the materials that ooze luxury.

September 16, 2024 at 9:48 PM PST

Transforming your home into a luxurious haven is all about the details. While layout, furniture, and decor set the foundation, the materials, and finishes elevate your space from “just nice” to “absolutely stunning.” Whether you’re renovating or simply dreaming, get acquainted with these luxury materials and finishes to inspire your next upgrade.

marble kitchen countertop
Photo credit: John Keeble

Marble: Timeless Beauty

Marble has been synonymous with luxury for centuries, and it’s easy to see why. Its natural veining, smooth finish, and sheer elegance make it a showstopper, whether used for countertops, flooring, or a statement wall.

Why Marble Works

Marble doesn’t just look good—it ages gracefully. Over time, it develops a patina that adds character and charm. Each slab is unique, ensuring a one-of-a-kind feature in your home.

Considerations

However, marble can be high-maintenance. Its porous nature makes it prone to stains and scratches. If your household is prone to spills, you might want to reconsider—or invest in some serious coasters.

hardwood flooring
Photo credit: Hike Sterson

Hardwood Floors: The Classic Foundation

Nothing says luxury quite like hardwood floors. They’re warm, inviting, and timeless, serving as the perfect foundation for any room and working well with any style, from modern to traditional.

Types of Hardwood

Oak, walnut, and maple are popular options offering unique grains and colors. For something truly luxurious, consider exotic woods like Brazilian cherry or teak, known for their stunning looks and durability.

The Finishing Touch

The finish you choose makes all the difference. A matte finish offers a modern, understated look, while a glossy finish adds a touch of glam. Feeling adventurous? Try a herringbone or chevron pattern for a designer touch.

quartz countertop
Photo credit: John Keeble

Quartz Countertops: Low-Maintenance Luxury

If you love the look of natural stone but not the upkeep, quartz is your new best friend. This engineered stone offers the beauty of marble or granite without the worry. It’s non-porous, stain-resistant, and comes in a wide range of colors and patterns.

Why Choose Quartz

Quartz combines beauty, durability, and ease of maintenance. It’s perfect for busy kitchens where spills are inevitable and practically indestructible—no need to worry about setting down a hot pan.

Design Options

Quartz offers a variety of patterns, from sleek and modern to intricate designs that mimic marble. Whether you want a subtle look or a bold statement, there’s a quartz option to fit your style.

brass fixtures
Photo credit: Andreas von Einsiedel

Brass Fixtures: The Golden Touch

Brass fixtures have made a comeback for a reason—they add warmth, sophistication, and a hint of nostalgia. From faucets to light fixtures, brass introduces luxury to your home without going overboard.

Where to Use Brass

Brass is a versatile material that works well in kitchens, bathrooms, and decorative accents throughout your home. It pairs beautifully with both dark and light colors. Picture a sleek brass faucet against a marble countertop—pure perfection.

Keeping It Polished

Brass requires some upkeep to maintain its shine, but if you appreciate the lived-in look, you’ll love the natural patina that develops over time.

Entrance Of Dining Room With Dining Table, Green Velvet Chairs And Pink Wall In Background
Photo credit: Getty Images

Velvet: Plush Perfection

When it comes to fabrics, nothing says luxury quite like velvet. It’s soft, sumptuous, and oh-so-inviting. Whether adding velvet throw pillows, drapery, or an entire sofa, this fabric instantly elevates the coziness and elegance of any room.

Choosing the Right Velvet

Velvet comes in various styles and finishes, from crushed to smooth. Opt for deep, rich colors like emerald, navy, or burgundy for a truly luxe look. These shades add depth and sophistication to your space.

Velvet Care

Velvet does require some TLC. It can be prone to crushing, so regular fluffing and occasional steaming are a must. But if you’re willing to put in the effort, the result is a plush, luxurious retreat.

stone decor
Photo credit: Asbe

Natural Stone Tiles: Earthy Elegance

Natural stone tiles, like slate, travertine, or limestone, bring a touch of the outdoors inside, creating a grounded and serene atmosphere.

Where to Use Stone Tiles

Stone tiles are perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways. They’re durable, easy to clean, and add a natural, organic feel to your home. Pair them with underfloor heating for an added indulgence.

Mix and Match

Don’t be afraid to mix different types of stone for a unique look. Combine slate and marble for a contrasting yet complementary effect, balancing textures and colors for harmony.

glass table
Photo credit: Roger Brooks

Glass: The Modern Marvel

Glass may not be the first material that comes to mind when you think of luxury, but it’s perfect for creating a sleek, modern aesthetic. This material adds a sense of openness and sophistication from glass tabletops to shower enclosures.

Why Glass Works

Glass is incredibly versatile, making small spaces feel larger and adding elegance without overpowering the room. Its light-reflecting properties make your home feel brighter and more inviting.



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