Why natural stone is the perfect material for sustainable design
At a time when sustainability and environmental awareness are fortunately becoming more of a focus again, the choice of materials in interior design plays a central role. Natural stone is not only one of the oldest building materials in the world, but also one of the most environmentally friendly and long-lasting.
In this article we want to look at why natural stone - especially in the production of furniture such as tables - can be considered a model for sustainable design.
1. A natural material with minimal environmental impact
Natural stone is a material that comes directly from nature and requires minimal processing to make it usable for furniture production. In contrast to synthetic materials or heavily processed raw materials such as plastic or metal, natural stone does not require any chemical additives or energy-intensive production processes. Natural stone is obtained through mining in quarries, followed by relatively simple processing processes such as sawing and grinding.
Although the stone for our tables is not always sourced from Germany, at MAGNA Atelier we rely on long-term relationships with selected suppliers - and have done so for decades. Great emphasis is placed on sustainable mining methods in order to keep the environmental impact as low as possible. Sustainability not only plays a role in mining, but also in processing: the energy used for shaping, polishing and cutting natural stone is low.
numbers and facts
Did you know that energy consumption when producing natural stone products is up to 50% lower than when producing materials such as concrete or steel? This is because no energy-intensive melting or casting processes are necessary.
2. Longevity and robustness – a table for generations
Natural stone is extremely durable and long-lasting. While tables made of wood or plastic become susceptible to scratches, wear and tear over the years, a table made of natural stone remains in excellent condition even after decades. Granite, marble or travertine are not only scratch-resistant, but also heat-resistant and easy to clean - ideal properties for furniture that is used every day.
At the MAGNA Atelier we rely on careful processing techniques to ensure that each table can easily withstand the demands of everyday life. A table made from natural stone can last for generations, drastically reducing the need for replacement furniture - meaning less resource consumption and waste.
Numbers & Facts:
The lifespan of a natural stone table is more than 100 years, while the lifespan of a typical wooden table is around 15 to 20 years. This durability saves resources and helps reduce waste.
3. Recyclability and circular economy
Another significant advantage of natural stone is its excellent recyclability. If a table made of natural stone is no longer needed, the material can easily be reused or recycled in other projects. Even smaller fragments can still be used in construction or as a decorative material. These properties make natural stone a perfect material for the circular economy, in which resources are kept in the cycle of use for as long as possible.
At MAGNA Atelier we ensure that the production waste generated is kept as low as possible and recycled. Leftovers and fragments from the production of our tables are often used in other projects or in construction.
numbers and facts
Our natural stone slabs can be reused as often as you like. This contributes significantly to reducing waste and using resources efficiently.
4. Timeless design and natural beauty
In addition to its environmental and practical benefits, natural stone has a unique aesthetic quality. Each stone is unique, characterized by individual veins and grains that make it unmistakable.
This natural beauty adds character to any table and ensures it never goes out of style. Natural stone tables can be integrated into both modern and classic living styles and always appear timelessly elegant.
At the MAGNA Atelier we focus on emphasizing the natural beauty of each stone in our designs. Our models, such as the ‘Ontario’ table with its modern combination of natural stone and wood, show how traditional materials can shine in contemporary design.
5. Healthy living environment through natural materials
Natural stone is a completely natural material and does not release harmful chemicals or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like some synthetic materials. This is particularly important for indoor air quality. A natural stone table therefore contributes to a healthier indoor climate and is a safe choice for people who value a healthy living environment.
numbers and facts
Natural stone does not contain any chemical additives that could affect indoor air quality. Studies show that materials such as plastic or treated wood can release volatile organic compounds that can cause health problems such as headaches or difficulty breathing.
Natural stone is a material that combines sustainability, longevity and aesthetic timelessness. It offers numerous ecological benefits and is a smart choice for environmentally conscious consumers who value long-lasting, high-quality furniture.
At the MAGNA Atelier, we attach great importance to integrating this sustainable material into elegant and functional designs. A natural stone table is an investment in the future - for the home and the environment alike.
