The Most Memorable Spaces Begin With Meaningful Materials 

Great design is shaped by thoughtful decisions, beginning with the materials selected. Every finish, texture, and detail works together with intention. At MATERIAL Bespoke Stone + Tile, we believe natural stone plays a defining role in both interior and exterior spaces. We spoke with leading designers about how considered material choices shape their projects.

Designer Spotlights

Marie Flanigan Interiors

@marieflaniganinteriors

Photography by Julie Soefer

Marie Flanigan Interiors is celebrated for spaces that feel refined, serene, and deeply personal. In this project, the team transformed a hardworking laundry room into a calm, elevated extension of the home.

Principal Designer Marie Flanigan and Interior Designer Melanie Hamel brought their client’s vision to life. “The client wanted a laundry room that could truly keep up with a busy young family. We drew from the natural surroundings, water, and sand, to create a serene backdrop. Then we layered in highly functional elements so the space works just as beautifully as it looks.

Being just steps from the ocean, it felt natural to bring that palette indoors. The soft, slightly blue evokes the depth of the water, grounding the space while still feeling fresh and coastal without being overt.”

Flanigan leaned into layered textures and resilient finishes that could withstand moisture while still maintaining a soft, tailored look. “I always encourage clients to look beyond trends and choose materials they truly love and will appreciate over time. Then you can have more fun with softer elements like textiles, accessories that are easier to refresh seasonally.”

With MATERIAL’s tile offerings, they were able to introduce subtle patterns in a way that felt intentional and refined. “They understand our point of view and consistently help us bring a nuanced vision to life. It’s those thoughtful, bespoke details that elevate a hardworking space into something truly special,” said Flanigan.

“I’m especially excited about some of the new pieces MATERIAL is developing, particularly those that lean into authentic, reclaimed materials. There’s a richness and story there that adds so much depth to a space.”

For those looking to make a refresh this summer, Flanigan recommends lightening the layers. Swap in breezier textiles, simplify surfaces, and bring in natural elements like greenery or woven textures. “Even small shifts can make a space feel fresh and seasonally in tune.”

Bevel Interiors

@bevel.interiors

Photography by Daniel S. Jenkins

Bevel Interiors approached this fireplace design with a vision of “Classic Contemporary.”

Lead designer Andi Fielitz sought to blend details found in historic homes with a clean, modern aesthetic. She wanted to incorporate movement in the surround to complement the surrounding architecture.

“I was inspired by the French Victorian era. I chose limestone to achieve a bright, soft look that felt more appropriate for this project than marble.”

Because much of the home features matte finishes, it was important that the fireplace surround and hearth created a soft atmosphere.

“Smooth, honed limestone was the perfect fit; the color is bright yet creamy. I particularly appreciate that the limestone has minimal variation, which keeps the overall aesthetic clean rather than busy.”

Detailed customization and close collaboration helped ensure every proportion and profile felt precise. With MATERIAL’s bespoke offerings, they customized the surround of their choice. “They provided valuable input on design decisions and guided me through the entire process, providing detailed drawings for approval at every stage.”
Fielitz notes that customization continues to shape today’s strongest interiors.

“During my last visit to the showroom, I noticed the Zellige tile line, which is very on-trend right now. I also saw a great selection of stone for fireplace surrounds. Customization is a major trend, and MATERIAL excels at helping designers create bespoke looks.” For a seasonal refresh, she recommends adding a splash of color.

Sarah Brannon Interiors

@sarahbrannoninteriors

Photography by Dan Piassick

Sarah Brannon Interiors creates homes that feel sophisticated and inviting. For this project, the goal was to transform a dated 1990s Arts & Crafts-style residence into a space that felt brighter, lighter, and more refined.

Based in Texas, Brannon looked to classic materials that could introduce elegance without overwhelming the room. A new fireplace mantel became the focal point.
“We knew we wanted a beautiful classic mantel that could feel transitional as we shifted the home’s style. [Working with MATERIAL] was very easy and helpful. After I introduced the client to the line, they worked directly with the Austin contact.”

Brannon notes growing interest in richer, character-driven surfaces, particularly in formal rooms where statement materials can add depth and personality. “I think people want the busier, old-world stones in their mantels, especially in living, dining, and bedrooms.”

Calacatta, a dynamic white marble, is one material she is especially excited to incorporate into upcoming projects.

French & French Interiors

@frenchandfrenchinteriors

Photography by Jenna Peffley

French & French Interiors approaches design through a lens of history, context, and materiality. For a recent Santa Fe project, the team looked to architecture and landscape to inform every decision. Principal + Creative Director Heather French and her team transformed a ranch south of Santa Fe into the campus for Modern Elder Academy.

“Set on a sprawling property in the high desert of New Mexico, it was important that the space had a clear sense of place from the moment you arrived. We dove deep into historic architecture and design references – pulling from the region's rich visual history to create something that felt truly rooted and authentic, not just aesthetically Southwest.”

New Mexico folk art also played an important role in shaping the material direction. “We wanted the space to feel historical without falling into the expected Southwest aesthetic.”

“The MATERIAL team was exceptional. When we encountered a few unexpected site conditions, they helped us navigate tricky situations with professionalism and creativity–exactly the kind of partner you want on a project like this. The precision really paid off.”

French believes timeless materials continue to define the strongest interiors. “The natural stone and classic designs are what make these spaces feel so timeless. There's an elegance to them that doesn't chase trends; it just endures.

What we love about the styles at MATERIAL is that they always feel relevant. The quality and craftsmanship are just so beautiful. It never goes out of style. Season after season, it speaks for itself, and that's the kind of investment worth making.” 
Looking ahead, French recommends leaning into lighter natural materials.

“They have this incredible ability to make a space feel open, fresh, and effortlessly ready for spring and summer.”

Adoquin is one stone that has been top of mind lately. “It comes in such great colors, and I'm really hoping the right project comes along that has the personality to match. There's something about it that feels unique and fresh, yet still completely grounded.”