With the ever-increasing options available to homeowners when it comes to decor, keeping a track often becomes difficult. It is due to this very reason that proper research and awareness is extremely important while making decor choices; and the first step is to have knowledge about the materials to be employed. Basalt is a common material that often finds utility in various home decor and architectural applications. In this article, we will explore the applications of basalt and unravel its potential in home decor.
Basalt stone: What is it?
The geological definition of basalt states that it is a black or dark grey-coloured rock that is formed as a result of rapid cooling of lava that is rich in iron and magnesium and has low silica content. But why is this igneous rock significant to home decor? Well, here are some features of basalt that make it a good fit for decor applications:
Natural aesthetic
The dark, rich colour of basalt, typically ranging from deep grey to black, is much sought-after as a result of the current trend of sleekness and minimalism. Moreover, the refined, natural surface offers an understated yet elegant texture that can benefit a range of styles, from contemporary to rustic.
Durability
High resistance to wear and tear makes it excellent for application in high-traffic areas like floors, kitchens and bathrooms. It is also resistant to heat and scratches, thereby expanding its utility to countertops and fireplace surrounds.
Versatility
The applications of basalt are not just limited to indoor use. From flooring, wall cladding and countertops to garden, paths and patios, it is at your disposal for a wide range of indoor and outdoor applications. Its availability in different textures, like polished, hones, flamed and brush-hammered, is the cherry on the top.
Thermal properties
Good heat retention ability makes it ideal for radiant floor heating systems. It is also safe for use around fireplaces or outdoor fire pits, thanks to its excellent fire-resistant properties.
Eco-friendly
Basalt is a naturally occurring substance that is widely available, thereby also reducing the need for external sourcing. It also has a long-lifespan, making it a good investment and a sustainable choice.
Non-slip surface options
The textured finishes offer superior grip to the material, making it suitable for wet areas like bathrooms and pool surrounds.
Applications of basalt in home decor
Now that we have a fair idea about the virtues of basalt, let’s see how and where it can be employed in home decor:
Flooring
Known for their smooth, matte finish and cool, dark tones, basalt tiles are perfect for minimalist or industrial interiors. Lay them in large-format slabs for a seamless modern look or go for the smaller variants for a patterned layout. Being dense and hard-wearing, high-traffic areas can benefit from these.
For outdoor paving, brush-hammered or flamed basalt offers enhanced slip resistance, making it safe for walkways, patios, pool decks and garden paths. Again, superior resistance to weathering and fading makes it a good investment choice for exterior areas.
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Wall cladding
Transform a plain wall into a bold design feature using thin-cut basalt panels. This works especially well in living rooms, dining areas and home entryways, admirably adding depth, contrast and a natural feel without overwhelming the space. Pair it with soft lighting to highlight the texture further.
You can even use it for exterior applications as cladding an exterior wall in basalt lends a clean, high-end architectural appearance. Its durability implies that it can withstand heat, cold and moisture without cracking or fading.
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Countertops and backsplashes
Being resistant to heat, scratches and stains when sealed, basalt is ideal for kitchen countertops. It is also less porous than other natural stones, thereby adding to its virtues. The dark, consistent colouring gives a sleek, contemporary look to the space, especially when paired with white or wood cabinetry.
If you have open shelving or under-cabinet lighting, a basalt backsplash can act as a dramatic backdrop. If you want some more visual interest and break up glossy kitchen finishes, you can opt for split-face basalt or similar textured finishes.
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Bathroom elements
Basins carved from solid basalt rocks, often in irregular or oval shapes, offer a natural, organic elegance. The perfect blend of sculptural and practical, these can be a durable, heat-resistant and a striking addition to any bathroom.
Superior slip resistance offered by basalt tiles are highly beneficial for wet environments. This unique texture provides safety without sacrificing style, to say nothing of its low maintenance requirements, thanks to its natural resistance to water and mildew. If you fancy a spa-like bathroom design, this is the one for you.
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Furniture accents
Add visual weight and sophistication to your coffee tables, console tables and dining sets with basalt tabletops. It is best paired with metal or wood bases to bring out an industrial-chic or modern organic vibe. Basalt is also known for its strong sculptural presence, making it ideal for indoor and outdoor benches. The raw, unfinished surface adds just the right amount of character to entryways, gardens or minimalist seating areas.
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Garden and landscaping
You can create winding paths or structured walkways through gardens by cutting basalt pavers or naturally shaped stones. It is also a good choice for planters due to their elegant and grounded appearance that looks great in clean geometric shapes. Moreover, the natural insulation properties of the material protects the roots from extreme temperatures. If you are considering incorporating a water feature, basalt columns or boulders with drilled centres can be a good choice. The colour and texture of the material will only enhance the overall natural appeal of the garden.
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Decorative objects
Evoke subtle luxury and texture in your indoor space with vases, bowls, candle holders and lamps with basalt bases. In lighter rooms or rooms with more neutral tones, such pieces can act as the perfect visual anchor without overwhelming the space. Additionally, the density of basalt lends itself beautifully to carving applications, thereby finding utility in statues and architectural fragments like columns. Such pieces are used to serve as focal points or Zen-like touches in modern homes.
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Basalt stone price: Factors to consider
Here is a guide you can consult to gauge an idea about the the price of basalt stone used for decorative purposes:
| Type of basalt | Approx. price (INR per sqft) |
| Raw/bush-hammered basalt tiles | 60 – 90 |
| Honed finish (matte) | 80 – 120 |
| Polished basalt tiles/slabs | 100 – 180 |
| Thick slabs | 150 – 300 |
| Carved basalt (basins/statues) | 5000 – 25,000+ per piece |
| Outdoor pavers/cobblestones | 40 – 100 |
If you are considering incorporating basalt in your home decor, there are several factors you need to consider apart from the price of basalt to evaluate the total cost. Here is a checklist you can refer to for the same:
Stone type and finish
If opting for polished or custom-textured basalt, it is important to remember that they require more processing, leading to higher material and installation costs. Additionally, thicker or denser slabs are more expensive to handle and install.
Size and quantity
While larger slabs reduce jointing, they might cost more per piece and demand more precise and tedious installation. Similarly, small tiles and mosaics cost lower per unit but require increased labour time.
Labour costs
Depending on the region of your residence, the cost for skilled labour for natural stone installation can vary. While the installation can cost anything between 30 – 100 INR per sqft, the cost might increase depending on the degree of specialisation wanted.
Site preparation
Preparing the area might involve steps like old surface removal, levelling and waterproofing to ensure efficient cladding. This automatically adds to the labour and material costs.
Transport and handling
Being a bulky material, the transportation of basalt from the quarry or warehouse and on-site handling significantly contributes to the logistical cost.
Sealing and finishing
Proper sealing is key in protecting the material from stains and moisture and the secret behind its longevity and durability. If not opting for pre-finished variants, sealants and polishing might cost up to 10 – 30 INR per sqft.
Wastage and cutting losses
It is always advisable to budget an extra 10 – 15% for breakage, cutting loss or layout adjustments. This becomes especially important while dealing with custom shapes or patterned flooring.
Basalt for home decor: How does it compare?
When it comes to home decor, there are several options of stone you can consider. So why choose basalt? To help you make a more informed decision, here is an analysis of how basalt compares to its competitors in the case of home decor:
| Feature | Granite | Basalt | Marble | Limestone | Slate |
| Appearance | Speckled, varied tones & grains | Dark grey to black, uniform look | Light tones, elegant veining | Earthy colors (beige, tan) | Layered, rustic, natural tones |
| Finishes | Polished, honed, flamed | Polished, honed, bush-hammered | Polished, honed | Honed, brushed | Natural cleft, honed, polished |
| Durability | Very hard, scratch-resistant | Dense, durable, crack-resistant | Softer, scratches more easily | Softer, may wear over time | Durable, may flake at edges |
| Porosity | Low–moderate (seal recommended) | Moderate (sealing needed) | High (frequent sealing needed) | High (absorbs stains) | Low–moderate (occasional sealing) |
| Maintenance | Low (if sealed) | Low (if sealed) | High (etches, stains easily) | Moderate–high | Moderate |
| Heat Resistance | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Moderate | Good |
| Slip Resistance | High (with flamed finish) | High (with textured finish) | Low (if polished) | Moderate | Naturally slip-resistant |
| Best Uses | Countertops, floors, walls | Walls, floors, outdoor cladding | Bathrooms, vanities, accents | Walls, fireplaces, low-traffic use | Bathrooms, patios, rustic areas |
| Cost (₹/sq. ft.) | ₹80 – ₹300+ | ₹60 – ₹250+ | ₹100 – ₹400+ | ₹50 – ₹150 | ₹50 – ₹120 |
| Aesthetic Style | Bold, luxurious, long-lasting | Minimalist, modern, architectural | Elegant, timeless, classical | Rustic, warm, traditional | Earthy, rugged, organic |
Should you use basalt in home decor?
Finally, let’s compare the pros and cons of basalt to see if it is the right choice for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Extremely dense and strong, resistant to cracking, chipping and mechanical wear; can handle high temperatures without damage. | Needs sealing to prevent staining due to a certain degree of porosity; periodic resealing also a requirement. |
| Available in deep grey to black tones offering sleekness, and several finishes like polished, honed, flamed and bush-hammered, making it a versatile choice for various decor styles. | The limited colour palette might feel too heavy or moody, not ideal for bright or warm interiors. |
| Easy to clean and maintain and naturally resistant to mildew and bacteria when properly sealed. | Expensive purchase and installation, especially with fabrication or finishing; professional stonework required. |
| Suited for a range of applications like flooring, walls, countertops, sinks, cladding, furniture, landscaping and decor. | Heaviness and density might be limiting for use in upper floors or furniture without proper support; transporting and handling adds to overall project costs. |
| Naturally occurring, locally sourced substance with a long lifespan, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly choice. | Polished basalt might show scratches or etch marks over time if not treated carefully. |
Housing.com POV
The deep tones and polished textures of basalt lend themselves admirably well to contemporary decor designs for both indoor and outdoor applications. It is also preferred for its durability and heat resistance, making it immune to wear. However, its bulkiness and expensive purchase and installation might be a hindrance for some people. You should definitely consider basalt for a sleek and stylish look.
FAQs
Where is basalt stone best used inside the home?
You can consider basalt for flooring, kitchen countertops and backsplashes, bathroom walls, floors and sinks, and accent walls.
Is basalt safe for use in kitchen and food preparation areas?
When properly sealed, basalt is heat-resistant, non-toxic and fairly non-porous, making it safe for use in the kitchen.
Does basalt require a lot of maintenance?
While generally routine cleaning with mild soap and water is sufficient, it is recommended to seal it and periodically reseal depending on use.
Is basalt suitable for small rooms?
Since basalt’s dark colour can make small rooms feel darker and more enclosed, pairing it with light walls, natural light and bright furnishings generally helps.
What are the finishing options available for basalt?
Polished finish gives a shiny, reflective surface, honed finish offers a smooth matte effect, and flamed or brush-hammered finish is textured and slip-resistant.
Is basalt stone more expensive than other natural stones?
Generally falling in the mid- to high-range, it is usually cheaper than marble but more expensive than granite or limestone.
Can basalt be used outdoors as well as indoors?
The weather resistance and durability of basalt makes it an excellent choice for outdoor applications like driveways, patios, pool surrounds, outdoor kitchens and garden features.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
