A Tale of Two Tiles
Bella Pietra Design helps a local couple choose between natural stone and porcelain tiles for their home renovation.
Q: My husband and I are in the early stages of a home renovation and trying to decide between natural stone and porcelain. What are the biggest differences between the two, and are there specific applications that work best in certain areas of the home? —Homeowner, Aina Haina
A: Great question! Both porcelain and natural stone are excellent choices for flooring and wall applications, offering unique advantages depending on your preferences, aesthetic, and lifestyle needs.
Porcelain has grown increasingly popular over the past few years, thanks to its low- or even zero-maintenance appeal and incredible durability. As a dense, manmade material, porcelain does not require sealing, making it highly resistant to staining. It’s a great option for homeowners who are looking for an effortless material that retains its appearance over time.
When selecting porcelain, it’s essential to prioritize quality. Premium porcelain features minimal pattern repetition, ensuring a more natural, varied look — this is especially important when choosing styles that mimic the appearance of stone or wood. Lower-quality porcelain, on the other hand, may have obvious repeats or reveal a different color beneath the surface if chipped. A box of identical tiles is a telltale sign of counterfeit material.
High-quality porcelain is also fired at higher temperatures for a longer period, resulting in a denser, more durable product that resists chipping or cracking. In addition to its durability, porcelain offers incredible versatility. Available in a variety of finishes — from matte to high gloss — it can suit a wide range of design preferences. Many options also include slip-resistant finishes that work well for bathrooms, kitchens or even outdoor areas. This versatility makes porcelain perfect for Hawaii’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle.
Top Photo: Crafted from tumbled limestone and marble, this exquisite multicolored chevron floor design by Artistic Tile showcases the timeless elegance of natural stone. Here: The Beach House Collection by Artistic Tile offers a stunning porcelain design that resembles the aged look of driftwood with a matte finish and weathered charm.
Natural stone, however, offers timeless beauty and character. It has been used for centuries in historic buildings and on streets across Europe, proving its durability and storied charm. Whether it’s marble, travertine or slate, each piece of stone is truly unique. Although maintenance is a common concern with natural stone, it’s worth the extra care for long-lasting results. Applying a premium, commercial-grade sealer is essential for protecting the surface from stains and moisture. This initial sealing step, typically handled by the installer, is key to the longevity of your stone.
Professional stone restoration services are also great resources for addressing scratches, stains, or wear over time, giving your stone a refreshed appearance. Tumbled and textured stones are particularly popular for their soft, aged aesthetics. These stones are more forgiving when it comes to scratches or blemishes, as their textured surfaces naturally camouflage imperfections.
Ultimately, the decision between porcelain and natural stone depends on your needs and priorities. If you’re seeking a low-maintenance material that retains its appearance for decades, porcelain is an excellent choice. However, if you value individuality and enjoy the natural aging process of materials, natural stone is unmatched. Its one-of-a-kind patterns, rich textures and wide range of colors, finishes and mosaics allow you to create a space that is uniquely yours. That is the beauty of natural stone — each piece is like a fingerprint, and no two are ever exactly alike.
For more tile and stone inspiration, contact Bella Pietra Design at (808) 587-7779, visit bellapietradesign.com, or stop by the Honolulu showroom at 560 N. Nimitz Highway, Suite 107A in Na Lama Kukui.
“That is the beauty of natural stone — each piece is like a fingerprint, and no two are ever exactly alike.”
— Meagan Jensen
Bella Pietra Design co-owners Meagan (left) and LaWanna Jensen. Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino
Editor’s Note: This article has been slightly modified from the original print version for optimal online reading. To view the full print story, pick up your copy of Hawaii Home + Remodeling at one of our partner locations.
