Classic

• Pure white marble was the favorite medium for Greek and Roman sculptors, due to its relative resistance to splintering. This association has made white marble a symbol of elegance and taste. White marble gives a bathroom a fresh, clean feel, but can lead to the room looking cold and clinical. Create a classical look in your bathroom by using white marble statutory, but soften the look with cream towels, soft beige blinds or curtains and potted plants.
  
  

Period

• In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, houses began to incorporate a new design feature: the bathroom. This was due to several inventions, including the flush lavatory and the availability of indoor plumbing. Early examples of bathrooms in large houses and stately homes were fitted up as luxuriously as possible to show that their owners could afford such a novelty. Marble tiles were a common building material, as they were luxurious but practical to keep clean. Re-create a period bathroom by using a vintage claw-footed bath and antique accessories such as mahogany cupboards and towel rails.
  
  

Modern

• Pure black and pure white marble give a simple, clean finish that is perfect for an uncluttered modern look. The tiles have a shiny, sparkly texture that complements a simple room theme. Match your marble tiles with chrome accessories such as bath and shower fittings, radiators, door handles and heating rails. Use Roman blinds rather than curtains for an unfussy look, and keep towels and toiletries out of sight in opaque-glass cabinets. Use a wall-mounted basin and toilet to maximize the floor area and leave as much of the floor visible as possible.
  
  

Caring for Marble in a Bathroom

• Marble needs careful attention to preserve its beautiful surface and finish. As the stone is soft and porous, you should never use an abrasive cleaner. Acidic liquids such as lemon juice, vinegar and some household cleaners will erode the surface of the marble and damage it. Any spills of soap or shampoo should be wiped up immediately with warm water. Clean marble tiles with warm water and a tiny quantity of dish soap, and every so often use a commercial cleaner formulated for use with marble. Marble should be resealed regularly to protect it.