Best Stone Options for Remodeling Historic Detroit Homes

Detroit’s historic homes are full of character, from original floors and crown molding to handcrafted built-ins and ornate architectural details. When updating these homes, choosing the right natural stone plays a major role in preserving the home’s personality while bringing modern function to the space. Whether you are renovating a 1920s Tudor, an early-1900s Craftsman, a Victorian or a mid-century ranch, the right stone helps the renovation feel genuine and cohesive.

Understanding the Style of Your Detroit Home

Detroit neighborhoods like Boston-Edison, Indian Village, Palmer Woods, Rosedale Park and University District feature homes with strong architectural identities. The stone you choose should enhance these qualities rather than compete with them.

For example:

• Craftsman homes benefit from warm stones and matte textures.
  
  
• Tudor homes pair beautifully with earthy marbles and granites.
  
  
• Victorian homes look harmonious with marble and soapstone.
  
  
• Mid-century modern homes shine with quartzite and simple-patterned granite.
  
  

Recognizing your home’s original style helps guide your material choices.

Stones That Work Especially Well in Historic Detroit Homes

Marble

Marble has been used for centuries in fireplaces, foyers, baths and kitchens. It fits naturally into older homes because it reflects the materials originally used during construction. Honed marble feels authentic and softens bright spaces.

Best uses: Vanities, islands, fireplace surrounds, built-in buffets.

Soapstone

Soapstone’s matte finish and smooth texture blend effortlessly with older trim, vintage cabinetry and original floors. It feels handcrafted, which supports the period style of the home.

Best uses: Countertops, laundry rooms, hearths, prep areas.

Granite

Granite offers a balance of durability and historic compatibility. It is ideal for homeowners who want the charm of natural stone with the resilience needed for daily cooking.

Best uses: Kitchen perimeters, utility rooms, butler pantries.

Quartzite

While not historically used, quartzite works well in updated historic homes where homeowners want natural stone without frequent maintenance.

Best uses: Large islands, brightening darker kitchens, open-concept renovations.

Matching Stone With Existing Architectural Features

Historic Detroit homes often include:

• Leaded glass
  
  
• Dark wood trim
  
  
• Built-in cabinetry
  
  
• Arched doorways
  
  
• Detailed moldings

When updating a kitchen or bathroom, it is important to choose stone that respects these details.

For example:

• Pair soapstone with stained oak trim for a cohesive early-1900s feel.
  
  
• Use marble with white built-ins for a Victorian-style update.
  
  
• Select warm granite tones to complement Tudor brick and wood.
  
  
• Use quartzite in mid-century homes where clean lines matter.
  
  

Preserving the Period Feel While Adding Modern Function

One of the biggest renovation challenges is maintaining the home’s historical charm while upgrading usability. Natural stone helps bridge this gap.

To keep the renovation grounded in the home’s original style:

• Choose honed surfaces instead of high polish.
  
  
• Avoid engineered patterns that mimic stone.
  
  
• Keep edge profiles simple and classic.
  
  
• Consider subtle colors that match existing materials.
  
  

Addressing Older Home Layouts

Historic Detroit homes often have unique layouts, smaller kitchens or unconventional cabinetry sizes. Stone can be fabricated to fit these spaces without compromising the home’s architecture.

Lighter stone colors also help brighten rooms with smaller windows, which is common in older homes.

Making Modern Work in a Historic Space

The best renovations combine old and new in a balanced way. Natural stone brings timeless beauty while meeting modern performance expectations. Whether you want a kitchen that honors the original woodwork or a bathroom that feels refreshed yet authentic, choosing the right stone will make the remodel feel intentional and respectful of the home’s history.

Visit AP Marble & Granite’s 40,000-square-foot warehouse to see all of these options and more in person; contact us today to schedule your appointment!