Decor Tips - Glass or Marble Tables?

Both glass and marble are really interesting materials to decorate with. Both create a different look and take on a different meaning depending on your decor.

All tables need a strong, durable and hard-wearing top. We often find ourselves wondering which material is best: glass or marble? In terms of decoration and functionality, both are really great options.

So what is the difference between the two? As far as durability goes, they are actually pretty similar; the main difference is the effect that the material will have on your decoration.

Whether it’s for your living room, terrace or bedroom, when it comes to marble, you need to pay attention to the appearance and the color. Obviously, the marble you choose for your tables will have an impact on the surrounding decor and the way your room works as a whole.

Marble, a metamorphic rock

Marble is made up of limestone so compact that it creates crystals. As a result, it is a really strong, solid and hard-wearing material. The color depends on the type of formation and the structure.

From white to rose pink, you can find a huge range of different colors. The color will change the effect your tables have on the decor, so it’s important to choose the right type of marble for your tables.

• White: some are darker than others. It’s an interesting color that will give your room a touch of purity, elegance, and character, especially if you use it on your terrace.
• Grays: these neutral tones are refined and elegant. They generate feelings of peace and tranquillity. They won’t steal the limelight, so they’re are great for combining with other colors. This is the most popular color for kitchen counters and tables.
• Cream: full of warmth and simplicity, but also versatility and gentleness.
• Pink: from dark to light, this color comes in a whole range of shades while losing none of its brightness, elegance or subtlety. It’s a great option for living room tables.
• More intense tones: greens, yellows or browns, these strong colors are full of character. While it’s true that they can create a great contrast with surrounding elements, they go really well with white decor.

Glass, a transparent element

The biggest differences between marble and glass are the color and the opacity. In the case of marble, there are many different colors, and they are always completely opaque. Glass, on the other hand, is a very resilient, transparent or semi-transparent material.

• Monolithic glass: this classic model is the epitome of consistency, strength, and functionality. They can get scratched if you’re not careful, but this is more common with cheap glass tables.
• Laminated glass: made up of multiple sheets of glass, this is a much more resistant type of glass, which reduces the risk of breaks and scratches. In fact, it is even bulletproof.
• Tempered glass: this is the strongest, safest and most solid type of glass. Of course, it will break if you hit it hard enough, but it is still extremely hard-wearing.
• Frosted glass: this type of glass is treated with acid, making it translucent rather than transparent. Light can still pass through, but you can’t see through it. You can even find colored frosted glass.

Matching your tables with your decoration

Both glass and marble can look great with your interior decoration. Whichever you choose, you will have useful and long-lasting tables.

The type of tables you choose will depend on the decoration in each room. It is the overall look that will tell you which furniture and materials will look best in that particular space.

• Living rooms: if you want a more somber, subtle and elegant look, marble is a great choice. It’s best to choose smaller pieces of furniture to keep the decoration in proportion.
• Bedrooms: whether for a nightstand or a chest of drawers, marble can look great with bedroom decor, especially white marble. However, glass can be a really interesting look for bedside tables.
• Terraces: both marble and glass look great on terraces, but we’d suggest glass. When combined with wrought iron, this material will allow you to see right into the inner workings of your table.

Either of these materials is useful if you want to give your home an elegant and understated look. However, you should take a good look at your interior decor before making your final decision.