Concrete and marble have long been associated with statues in museums and a ‘look-but-don’t-touch’ luxury status. But with the current call for a pale palette, affordable everyday luxe, and durable home wares these two materials are making solid inroads into home decor.

Cool marble is going mainstream – just check out Marble Basics. With a mantra of contemporary marble for every style situation, sisters Bliss and Bonnie Adams are putting a witty and practical spin on bringing alabaster objects to the table, the garden and even the bedroom. The range includes bowls, platters, chopping boards, pots, trays, table centrepieces, and jewellery holders. We love this serving bowl.

Concrete has been on form for construction since the modern version (Portland cement) was developed in 1824. Recently, the muted tone of this material has been noticed by crews not wearing hard hats – namely interiors stylists and on-trend home brands. Everything from lights to platters to clocks are popping up in concrete. The hexagonal clock from online retailer Papaya is fab.