Marble is a timeless and luxurious material widely used in both traditional and contemporary designs. Istanbul, with its rich history and vibrant market, offers a variety of marble options for different applications, such as flooring, countertops, walls, and decorative pieces. Here’s a guide to help you find and choose the best marble in Istanbul:
Types of Marble
- Turkish Marble:
- Marmara Marble: Known for its white background with straight grey veins, often used in Turkish baths (hamams).
- Emperador Marble: Brown marble with fine veining, available in light and dark shades.
- Sivas Marble: Creamy white with subtle veins, often used for flooring and cladding.
- Bilecik Beige: A versatile beige marble, commonly used in both interiors and exteriors.
- Imported Marble:
- Carrara Marble: Famous Italian marble with a white or blue-grey background and soft veining.
- Calacatta Marble: Similar to Carrara but with bolder, more dramatic veins.
- Statuario Marble: High-end Italian marble with distinct, bold veining patterns.
Tips for Choosing Marble
- Application: Different types of marble are suited for different applications. For example, harder marbles are better for flooring, while softer ones are more suited for wall cladding and decorative pieces.
- Finish: Choose between polished, honed, or brushed finishes based on your design preference and the marble’s application. Polished marble offers a glossy finish, while honed provides a matte look.
- Veining and Color: Select a marble with veining and color that complement your interior design. Natural variations in marble make each piece unique.
- Durability and Maintenance: Marble is porous and requires regular sealing to prevent stains and etching. Consider the level of maintenance you are willing to commit to.
Where to Buy Marble in Istanbul
- Marble Suppliers and Quarries:
- Istanbul Mermer: Offers a wide range of Turkish and imported marble, providing custom cuts and finishes.
- Efesus Stone: Known for high-quality marble and natural stones, with a variety of options for different applications.
- Building Material Markets:
- İSTOÇ Trade Center: A large commercial area where you can find numerous suppliers of marble and other building materials.
- Showrooms and Retailers:
- Gramer Marble: Offers a wide selection of marble and provides installation services.
- Kuleli Marble: Specializes in high-end marble and offers custom design and cutting services.
- Home Improvement Stores:
- Koçtaş: Offers various types of marble and other natural stones, along with installation materials and tools.
- Bauhaus: Another major home improvement store with a selection of marble tiles and slabs.
Installation and Maintenance
- Professional Installation: Due to the weight and complexity of working with marble, it is advisable to hire professionals for installation. This ensures precision and longevity.
- Sealing and Cleaning: Marble requires regular sealing to protect against stains. Use pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for natural stone to avoid damaging the surface.
- Avoid Abrasives: Use soft cloths and non-abrasive pads when cleaning to prevent scratching the marble surface.
Cost Considerations
- Quality vs. Cost: Higher quality marble with unique veining and fewer imperfections will be more expensive. However, it often offers better durability and a more luxurious look.
- Budget: Determine your budget beforehand and compare prices from different suppliers to find the best deal without compromising on quality.
Visiting Showrooms
- Showroom Visits: Visiting showrooms allows you to see and feel the marble in person, helping you make a more informed decision. You can also discuss your project with sales representatives and get expert advice.
- Sample Testing: Request samples to take home and see how the marble looks in your space under different lighting conditions.
If you need specific recommendations for marble suppliers, installation services, or detailed advice on choosing and maintaining marble, feel free to ask!