5 Reasons Natural Stone Is Popular Among Millennials

Every generation brings about at least one major change in terms of interior décor. In some cases, the changes are radical. For example, the Space Age futurism of the 1960s was a major overhaul of Art Deco combined with visual effects derived from aerodynamic design. In the 1990s, the American Craftsman and Mediterranean styles enjoyed a major comeback. Since 2010, interior design trends are being dictated by members of the millennial generation, and they have proven to have an impressive sense of aesthetics. In 2016, Michele Lerner of the Washington Post defined millennial home design as an interesting combination of wood, stone, smart home automation, and a certain skill for knowing how to replicate retro styles. At a time when trade agreements make it easy for American homeowners to install natural stone in their homes, here are five reasons millennials are choosing natural stone for their flooring and countertops. 1. Rustic Look Millennials are interested in creating rustic spaces that feature natural surfaces. Wood paneling, exposed roof beams, and natural-stone floors have become very popular not only in homes but also at shared workspaces. An interesting fact about this design trend is that many millennials are very particular about using natural materials. They often eschew laminate materials that resemble hardwood, and they rarely choose engineered stone over granite for their counters. 2. Natural Textures The feel of walking barefoot on hardwood or stone tiles with a smooth finish is something millennials truly appreciate. An interesting trend in 2018 consists of installing travertine or slate bricks in living spaces such as foyers and family rooms. 3. Durability As millennials settle down and grow older, they are more likely than preceding generations to stay in their homesteads. Whereas members of Generation X played the real estate market before the bursting of the housing bubble in 2008, millennials are seeking durable, long-lasting homes where they can raise children and even grandchildren. Natural-stone flooring is one of the top features homebuyers are looking for these days, and durability has a lot to do with this decision. 4. The Contrast of Tradition Against Tech Streaming a Spotify playlist in the shower through waterproof surround sound speakers is a home improvement project millennials may take on, but at the same time they will also choose granite for their bathroom countertops. A similar situation can be observed in the kitchen, where a refrigerator that sends smartphone notifications when milk is running low is likely to be placed next to a quartzite counter. 5. Ease of Maintenance Thanks to the advent of household cleaners and sealants specially formulated for natural-stone surfaces, millennials can manage natural-stone care on their own, thereby protecting their investment. If you have natural stone in your home and want to take care of it properly, one of the most important things you need to do is clean it regularly with a granite countertop cleaner from Granite Gold®. All of our stone care products are safe to use on granite, marble, travertine, slate, and all other types of natural stone. Call 1-800-475-STONE today to learn more.