Elegant Marble Medallions to Enhance Any Floor's Design

The Beauty of Marble Medallions for Floors

Marble medallions add an elegant accent to any floor. Often made of natural stone like marble or travertine, these circular inlays come in stunning patterns and colors that can complement a variety of design schemes. Installing marble medallions for floors is an easy way to create a focal point in an entryway, kitchen, or other high-traffic area.

The History of Medallions

Medallions have a long history, dating back thousands of years. In ancient times, medallions carved from stone were often used as decorative architectural elements in temples, palaces, and other important buildings. The tradition continued in ancient Rome, where intricate marble medallions were embedded into floors and walls to create beautiful mosaic designs.

Later on in the Renaissance, medallions experienced a resurgence in popularity. Wealthy families would commission metal and stone medallions to proudly display their family crests and coat of arms. By the 19th century, ceramic and marble medallions became a hallmark of grand entryways in the most fashionable homes of the era.

The Allure of Natural Stone

Today, natural stone remains the top choice for luxury marble medallions. There are several factors that make natural stone so appealing:

• Timeless aesthetic. Natural marble, travertine, and limestone have an enduring, classical look.
• Unique patterning. No two natural stone medallions are exactly the same.
• Durability. Natural stone stands up well to heavy foot traffic.
• Design versatility. Stone medallions work with modern, traditional, or Old World decors.

And unlike factory-produced ceramic tiles, stone medallions give spaces a sense of prestige, quality, and sophistication.

Choosing the Right Stone

Marble is a common choice for natural stone floor medallions, thanks to its stunning good looks and variety of color options. Here are some top marble varieties to consider:

• Carrara marble - Classic white background with subtle gray veining
• Emperador marble - Light brown tone with darker brown/gray veining
• Crema Marfil marble - Soft, creamy background with varying vein colors
• Calacatta marble - White background with dramatic gray veins

Beyond marble, other natural stones like travertine, limestone, and granite also make excellent medallion options, depending on your flooring type and desired aesthetic.

Designing with Medallions

Strategically placing a marble medallion or two can completely transform an ordinary floor. Here are some clever ways to incorporate medallions into floor designs:

Welcome Visitors in Style

Position a large, eye-catching medallion in a foyer or entryway. As the first thing guests see when entering your home, a marble medallion makes a wonderful first impression.

Accentuate Stair Landings

On a staircase landing or transition point between rooms, a marble medallion helps define the space and direct foot traffic.

Kitchen Centerpiece

For kitchens, place a marble medallion smack in the center or underneath the kitchen or prep table to embellish this high-traffic work area.

Bedroom Retreat

In a master suite or bedroom, a marble medallion can serve as a decorative rug inset when placed underneath the bed or seating area.

Highlight Other Architectural Features

Use marble medallions to complement other special details like fireplaces, columns, and indoor fountains, creating an overall cohesive look.

Installing Medallions

Installing natural stone medallions takes precision and care to properly incorporate them into the flooring. Here is an overview of the installation process:

Selecting the Right Size

Medallions range tremendously in size from just 8 inches across to 4 feet or larger in diameter. Choose a size proportional to your floor dimensions and surrounding architectural elements.

Prepping the Floor

The floor underneath must be completely clean and smooth before installing the medallion. Use leveling compounds or grinding as needed to achieve an even surface.

Dry Fitting the Medallion

Do a dry run first by temporarily placing the marble medallion in the desired floor location before permanently adhering it. Check the orientation and ensure it lays flat.

Installing the Medallion

With the floor prepped and dry fit complete, spread thinset mortar and carefully lower the marble medallion in place. Use shims as needed until the mortar cures to keep it level.

Grouting the Medallion

Finally, mix grout and work it into the joints using a rubber grout float for a smooth finish. Allow the grout to fully cure before sealing it and applying final protective finishes.

Caring for Stone Medallions

With periodic sealing and cleaning, natural stone medallions can maintain their beauty for many years. Here are some tips for keeping marble floors looking like new:

• Sweep and mop floors regularly using pH-neutral cleaners.
• Reapply sealers every 1-2 years to protect from stains.
• Place mats in high-traffic areas to prevent excessive wear and scratches.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive pads/brushes which can etch stone surfaces.

By taking proper precautions, your investment in marble or other stone medallions will pay off for decades to come!

FAQs

What size marble medallion should I choose for my floor?

Choose a medallion size proportional to the dimensions of your floor. Smaller spaces may only need an 8 or 12 inch diameter, while larger rooms can accommodate medallions up to 4 feet across. Position it appropriately based on your floor plan and overall design.

How much do marble medallions cost compared to ceramic medallions?

Due to the premium quality natural stone, a marble medallion generally costs more than a ceramic or porcelain medallion. However, stone offers a richness and elegance that factory-produced materials simply cannot replicate.

Which stone material is least likely to stain or etch?

Travertine and dark marbles tend to be more protective against visible stains and etching. However, sealing regularly and promptly cleaning spills protects even lighter stone varieties like Carrara marble.

Can I install a marble medallion myself or do I need to hire a pro?

For best long-term results, consider hiring an experienced tile professional to properly install stone medallions. However, DIYers with some tiling experience can complete the job with the right tools, prep work, and care when positioning the medallion.