Industry News

From Manhattan’s skyline to global luxury addresses, the Trump brand has long been synonymous with opulence—and natural stone plays a central role in shaping that image. For contractors, distributors, and stone professionals, understanding the materials used in the Trump Towers portfolio reveals not only market preferences at the high end, but also the performance expectations placed on stone in commercial, residential, and hospitality design.   This article offers an in-depth look at the specific types of marble, granite, limestone, and other materials featured in various Trump Tower projects worldwide. We focus on flagship buildings such as Trump Tower New York, Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago, and Trump Towers Istanbul, examining both interior and exterior applications from a stone industry perspective.     1. Trump Tower New York (Fifth Avenue, Manhattan)   Main Stone: Rosa Portogallo Marble (Lobby Interior)  Origin: Portugal  Color: Soft pink with subtle veining  Application: Floor-to-ceiling cladding in the atrium lobby  Finish: Polished  Supplier Notes: Selected for its warm elegance and ability to reflect natural light in enclosed atrium spaces.   Other Notable Materials:  Brass inlay paired with marble flooring  Black Absolute Granite in elevator surrounds and restrooms  Botticino Classico Marble used in residential bathrooms   Design Insight: The building’s signature pink lobby became iconic in the 1980s, symbolizing bold luxury and marking a break from the neutral color palettes common in corporate skyscrapers of the time.     2. Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago   Main Stone: Impala Black Granite (Facade & Lobby Cladding)  Origin: South Africa  Color: Charcoal-black with fine mineral sparkle  Application: Base of the building, lobby walls  Finish: Honed exterior / Polished interior   Additional Materials:  Calacatta Marble (Italy) – Featured in penthouse bathrooms and spa suites  Travertine Navona (Italy) – Public spaces and reception areas  Silestone and engineered quartz – Used for countertops in hotel kitchens   Technical Notes: The stone facade was engineered to handle the city's extreme freeze-thaw cycles, and the honed granite performed exceptionally well in urban pollution environments.     3. Trump Towers Istanbul   Main Stone: Marmara Equator Marble  Origin: Turkey  Color: White with horizontal gray bands  Application: Lobby flooring, wall cladding  Finish: Polished   Complementary Stones:  Emperador Dark (Spain) – Used in residential and commercial bathrooms  Afyon White Marble (Turkey) – Kitchen countertops and boutique display areas  Basaltina (Italy) – Outdoor hardscape zones   Market Impact: Turkish natural stones in Trump Towers Istanbul reflect local sourcing preferences and cost-performance considerations in overseas luxury development. &n...

Held in Verona, Italy, Marmomac 2024 reaffirmed its role as the world’s premier stone fair for the natural stone industry. With over 50,000 visitors and more than 1,400 exhibitors from 55 countries, the event offered a unique window into the latest trends, innovations, and material inspirations that will shape the global design and construction landscape in the coming year.     French Quatre Saisons Renaissance: Four Seasons Marbles Spark Curiosity   Among the freshest discoveries 2024 was a series of richly colored Four Seasons marbles. While not a household name in the global stone market, Cambodian quarries caught widespread attention for their painterly aesthetic — bold veining, fractured mineral patterns, and a diverse seasonal palette. The so-called "Four Seasons" series, offered by a select group of exporters, emerged as a conversation piece. The materials, ranging from dusty rose and lavender to warm gold and stormy grey, were heavily photographed and circulated across design blogs and social media.   "It felt like every other designer was asking about that pink-veined marble from Cambodia," remarked Luisa Ferranti, an Italian interior designer known for her residential projects in Milan. "You can tell there's something emotionally evocative about it — very contemporary, very expressive."   Design Meets Engineering: Lightweight Stone Panels Take Center Stage   While traditional slabs remained popular, Marmomac 2024 saw a marked rise in interest around engineered lightweight stone panels — particularly those reinforced with aluminum honeycomb or fiberglass backing. These innovations allow for large-format applications without compromising structural feasibility, especially in vertical or mobile installations. Portuguese and Turkish manufacturers led the charge, showcasing ultra-thin facades and modular panel systems that are redefining commercial interiors and luxury retail environments.   "Clients today want scale and drama, but they also want to reduce structural load and carbon footprint," noted Hans Ohlendorf, a German stone consultant. "The shift toward engineered stone assemblies is no longer niche — it's mainstream."   Color Trends: Earthy Greens, Soft Beiges, and Monochrome Contrasts   On the aesthetic front, three color families dominated Marmomac 2024:    Earthy Greens – From deep forest quartzites to olive-toned marbles, greens were everywhere, often paired with organic finishes like leathered or honed textures.  Soft Beiges and Blushes – Warmer neutral palettes saw a resurgence, signaling a move away from stark white minimalism.  High-Contrast Monochromes – Dramatic black-and-white marbles and granites returned in bold bookmatched feature walls and custom furniture pieces.   Artisanal Revival: Hand-Finished Textures & Mosaic Resurgence   Another key highlight was the return of artisanal techniques. Mosaic walls, ha...

Coverings 2025, held in Orlando, Florida, from April 29 to May 2, brought together the global tile and natural stone community to unveil the latest material innovations and design directions. This year's event marked a clear convergence of sustainability, bolder aesthetics, and a renewed appreciation for natural texture. Among the highlights, natural stone took center stage, not just in terms of visual appeal but in its evolving role in modern architecture and interior design.   Dominant Natural Stone Trends in 2025     1. Marble Reigns Supreme: Elegance Reimagined   Marble once again emerged as the leading material at Coverings 2025. However, this year saw a distinct shift toward multi-colored, expressive marbles that break away from the classic white-and-grey palette.   Materials like Four Seasons Green, Calacatta Viola and Lazy Sunday, captivated architects and designers with their vivid veining, dramatic contrast, and dynamic movement. These marbles are no longer confined to countertops and floors, they are now used in statement walls, artistic cladding, and even sculptural furniture pieces.   The appeal lies in their ability to deliver timeless luxury with contemporary personality. With improved sealing technologies, even highly decorative marbles are now suitable for kitchens and bathrooms, expanding their functional value.   2. Quartzite: Performance Meets Beauty   Closely following marble in popularity is quartzite, a material that blends crystalline brilliance with incredible durability. Its natural resistance to scratching and heat makes it a favorite for countertops and outdoor applications.   Exhibitors highlighted exotic varieties like Taj Mahal, Excalibur, and Nacarado, each offering rich textures and color depth. In a market demanding both performance and aesthetics, quartzite continues to shine as a high-end, low-maintenance solution.     3. Travertine & Limestone: Soft Neutrals for Wellness Spaces   In spa-inspired interiors and wellness-oriented environments, travertine and limestone have made a strong comeback. Their soft, neutral tones and honed finishes are ideal for minimalist, calming spaces.   Natural beige, ivory, and light taupe shades dominated booths that focused on biophilic design, emphasizing the tactile softness of these stones. Travertine, in particular, was reimagined in large-format applications and curved architectural forms, showcasing its versatility in contemporary spaces.   Finishes That Redefine Texture   Across all stone categories, textured finishes were emphasized over high polish. Designers are increasingly favoring leathered, brushed, or sandblasted finishes that provide both visual depth and tactile interest. These surfaces soften reflections and contribute to the material's warmth and natural authenticity.   Sustainability and Stone Sourcing   Sustainability was a key theme, with manufacturers and quarries empha...

1. The Spring Festival: A Time of Joy and Tradition   The Chinese Spring Festival, also known as the Lunar New Year, is the most significant traditional holiday in China. It marks the beginning of the new lunar year, a time for family reunions, gratitude, and celebrations. The festival is steeped in customs such as giving red envelopes (红包), setting off fireworks, cleaning and decorating homes, and enjoying lavish feasts. Each tradition reflects wishes for prosperity, happiness, and good fortune in the year ahead.   This year, we celebrate the Year of the Snake according to the Chinese zodiac cycle, which is based on a 12-year rotation of animals. Each animal carries its own symbolic meanings and influences, and those born in the Year of the Snake are often associated with traits such as intelligence, grace, and mystery. The zodiac system is deeply embedded in Chinese culture, influencing various aspects of life, from festivals to personal beliefs.     2. The Timeless Connection Between Stones and Chinese Culture   China’s stone culture is as ancient as its history. Stones have been an integral part of daily life and art, used in everything from architecture and tools to jewelry and sculpture. During different historical periods, stones played critical roles in construction, religious ceremonies, and aesthetic decoration.   Stones, while inherently hard and sturdy, can also embody warmth, festivity, and cultural richness. Their versatility allows them to transcend their physical characteristics and connect with human emotions. This unique quality makes them a surprising yet fitting medium to represent the joyous atmosphere of the Spring Festival.     3. Stone Art Meets the Spring Festival   Incorporating stones into Spring Festival celebrations is a modern twist on traditional practices. For instance, stone painting—an art form where designs are painted onto the surfaces of stones—can be used to create festive decorations. Artists can bring stones to life with colorful images of cartoon snakes for this zodiac year, red lanterns, the Chinese character  (Fu, meaning fortune), or even vibrant scenes of lion dances.   These painted stones are not just decorations; they symbolize a harmonious blend of sturdy tradition and modern creativity. They can be used to adorn homes, serve as unique gifts, or even become treasured keepsakes of the celebration.   Stones, with their natural resilience and beauty, embody the festive spirit in unexpected ways. Their enduring nature aligns with the Chinese desire for longevity and stability, while their transformation into festive art showcases the adaptability and creativity inherent in both stone culture and the Spring Festival.     4. A Perfect Fusion of Cultures   The connection between stones and the Spring Festival is a celebration of two ancient traditions coming together. Just as the Spring Festival reflects renewal a...

When considering materials for construction projects, natural stone is a timeless and reliable choice. Different stones bring their own characteristics, offering durability, beauty, and versatility. Below are the 6 most commonly used types of stone in construction:     1. Granite Granite is an igneous rock that stands out for its strength and durability. It is one of the most popular stones used in building construction, particularly for projects requiring high levels of resistance to wear and tear.    Key properties: Extremely hard, weather-resistant, low porosity.  Common applications: Countertops, flooring, cladding, and structural elements.   Its varied colors and textures make granite suitable for both interior and exterior projects, offering both practicality and aesthetic appeal.     2. Limestone Limestone is a sedimentary rock widely appreciated for its versatility and classic appearance. It is softer than granite, making it easier to work with for decorative and architectural purposes.    Key properties: Smooth texture, available in subtle, natural tones.  Common applications: Wall cladding, flooring, ornamental detailing, and fireplaces.   Limestone is ideal for creating timeless, elegant designs, though proper sealing is essential to protect it from staining.     3. Sandstone Sandstone is another sedimentary rock, valued for its natural, earthy tones and distinct texture. It is a popular choice for outdoor construction due to its resilience and aesthetic appeal.    Key properties: Porous, weather-resistant, and available in warm hues.  Common applications: Paving, wall cladding, flooring, and landscaping.   With the right sealing and maintenance, sandstone can last for decades while retaining its natural beauty.     4. Marble Marble is a metamorphic rock that is prized for its luxurious appearance and timeless elegance. Known for its characteristic veining, it adds sophistication to any space.    Key properties: Smooth surface, visually striking veining, and a softer texture.  Common applications: Countertops, flooring, wall cladding, and decorative accents.   While marble requires more maintenance compared to harder stones, its aesthetic appeal makes it a preferred choice for high-end projects.     5. Travertine Travertine, a type of limestone, is known for its unique, porous texture and natural charm. Its neutral tones make it suitable for a wide range of styles and applications.    Key properties: Rustic texture, versatile color palette, and natural voids.  Common applications: Flooring, wall cladding, pool surrounds, and patios.   Sealing is essential for travertine to enhance its durability and resistance to water and stains.     6. Slate Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock that offers excellent durability and resistance to the elements. It is a practical choice for both traditional and modern designs.  ...

1. Process Flow 1) Surveying and Marking:   Before the stone installation for the scenic wall and retaining wall, survey along the centerline (or boundary) of the wall based on the designed elevation, setting a control point every 5 - 10 meters. Measurements must be carried out according to the design layout or construction drawings, marking the centerline, horizontal level lines, and grid lines.   2) Base Leveling:   According to the measured position and elevation, level the base. If the base has defects, use cement mortar (for walls) or crushed stone concrete (for the top surface) to level and treat the base.   3) Stone Pre-assembly and Selection:   All stones used in the project should be processed in the factory as per the layout drawing and numbered and packed. After the stones arrive on-site and are unpacked, each piece should be checked individually. Stones that are broken or have missing corners should be separated and reprocessed by the factory.   Once the stone selection is complete, pre-assemble on-site. Pre-assembly ensures that the colors, patterns, and textures align, and the seams match tightly. The pre-assembled stones should be numbered in two directions and stored in piles according to categories for future use.     4) Vertical Stone Installation:   (1) Small-sized Stones:   In a damp base, apply one coat of pure cement slurry (with 10% by weight of 108 glue mixed with water) and apply it while it's still wet.   For the base mortar, use a 1:3 cement-sand ratio, about 12mm thick, applied in two layers: the first layer about 5mm thick and the second layer about 7mm. After the base mortar is compacted and smoothed, scratch the surface of the mortar.   Once the base mortar is set, mark the lines for each stone section. Apply a 2-3mm thick cement slurry (with 20% by weight of 108 glue) to the back of the pre-wet stones and install them (alternatively, adhesive powder can be used). Tap with a wooden hammer to ensure alignment and use a level tool to check for flatness and straightness.     (2) Large-sized Stones:   For stones larger than 40mm on any side, or if the installation height exceeds 1m, the following installation method is used:   A. Drilling and Chiseling:   Before installation, use a drilling machine to drill holes according to design requirements. Secure a wooden frame to align the drill bit with the upper edge of the stone. Drill holes at 1/4 of the stone width from each end. For each surface, drill two holes with a diameter of 5mm and a depth of 12mm. The hole's center should be about 8mm from the back of the stone.   If granite is used and the stone width is large, increase the number of holes. After drilling, lightly chisel a 5mm deep groove around the holes to form an "elephant trunk" shape for embedding copper or galvanized wire.   For larger stones, especially prefabricated granite, if it's difficult to tie the galvanize...