Natural stone elevates both exterior and interior projects with timeless sophistication. Travertine and Limestone are two premiere choices that deliver exceptional durability, aesthetic appeal, and a wide variation in color and structure. 

Making the correct selection hinges on project requirements and surrounding design elements, and our experts at MATERIAL Bespoke Stone + Tile are here to guide you through the process. This comprehensive guide carefully examines key stone comparisons, highlighting the benefits, drawbacks, and best applications for Travertine stone and Limestone.

The Key Differences Between Travertine and Limestone

In 2025, we can expect an uptrend or resurgence of Travertine and Limestone. The charm and enduring appeal of each remain a top choice for interior designers and design professionals, from earth-toned tile to rustic decorative mosaics. 

Travertine 101

Travertine is an exceptional natural stone for those looking to add sophistication and distinctive visual character. This type of Limestone is distinguished by its unique formation process, where sedimentary deposits are transformed by hot, alkaline water flows to create a stone characterized by intricate veining and nuanced textural variations.

Travertine is beloved for its versatility across architectural and design applications, including hand-carved fireplaces, mosaics, mouldings, columns, and poolscapes. Explore our best-loved classics of this contemporary favorite, from Seville to Maderno, Latte Vein-Cut and Carmel Travertine. Cross-cutting or vein-cutting adds visual depth and enhances the striking patterns of the stone. Additional benefits and characteristics include:

• Moderate Durability (can be treated to increase strength) 
• High Porosity (compared to Limestone)
• Porous/Rough texture without a finish
• Moderate Maintenance 
• Intricate Veining

Travertine Drawbacks

• Due to its high water absorption rate, travertine is susceptible to stains and damage without frequent sealing.

Ideal Applications For Travertine

• Flooring  & Wall Tiles: Add a touch of luxury to your interior with floor or wall tiles. To preserve the integrity of your travertine floor, frequent sealing is essential to prevent cracking, minimize wear and potential damage.
• Kitchen Backsplash & Hoods: Travertine is a divine backsplash or kitchen hood addition. The veins in travertine tile draw the eye, immediately livening up your space.
• Outdoor Architectural Applications: Travertine can be carved or transformed to meet any bespoke specifications, from architectural columns to walkways or a stunning patio for your outdoor oasis.

Limestone 101

Like Travertine, Limestone is a sedimentary rock with a fascinating origin. Formed in warm, shallow waters, this natural stone is derived from organic debris with traces of quartz minerals that contribute to its unique composition. Over time, water currents and chemical processes cement these sediments, resulting in several exquisite stone colors, from beige and charcoal to cream. 

MATERIAL’s exquisite limestone selection—featuring Pierre Noir, Sienna, and French Beige Limestone—offers exceptional quality, making it ideal in diverse architectural applications, including indoor flooring, wall tiles, fireplace surrounds, architectural columns, and custom kitchen hoods. Additional benefits and characteristics include:

• High Durability
• Low Porosity (compared to Travertine)
• Smooth, Fine-Grained texture
• Easy Maintenance
• Uniform Appearance
• Ideal for High Traffic Areas

Limestone Drawbacks

• Though it has a lower water absorption rate than travertine, limestone is still susceptible to stains and erosion without a proper sealant. It is also more expensive and less heat resistant.

Ideal Applications For Limestone

• Flooring & Wall Tiles –Due to its lower porosity, Limestone is great for flooring and wall tiles in indoor applications like the primary bath. If you’re using limestone near water, you should still seal it to protect it for long-term use.
• Outdoor Architectural Applications – Limestone is a beautiful addition to any outdoor architectural applications, such as a building stone for walls, patios, walkways, and fountains.
• Fireplaces – Limestone is an excellent option for gas and electric fireplaces and on the surrounding walls as a decorative element.

Since 1965, MATERIAL Bespoke Stone + Tile has been delivering the very best in world-class stone. For more information on our Travertine and Limestone selections, schedule a virtual appointment online or contact us by phone to learn more about our showroom locations.