In flooring and paving circles, travertine is the buzz word of late. Homeowners, especially those with luxury homes, are specifically requesting travertine for their pool decks, driveways and indoor flooring. 

But what exactly is travertine, anyway? 

Technically speaking, travertine is a stone found near warm or hot springs. Often called travertine marble or travertine limestone, travertine is actually not a marble at all, but a type of limestone. Its natural color ranges from white to dark beige to pink and coral and the stone has an abundance of tiny holes and troughs, which are sometimes filled with grout. Travertine is also sometimes polished for a smooth and shiny finish. 

Most of the world’s travertine has traditionally come from Italy, although with its recent rise in popularity, it is now being mined in Turkey, Peru, Mexico and even the United States. Exceptionally strong and durable, travertine is widely used in building facades and large structures. The most famous travertine structure is probably the Coliseum in Rome. Others include the Getty Center in Los Angeles and the Willis Tower in Chicago. 

As a paving material, travertine is ideal for pool areas and outdoor patios, and is especially popular right now in Florida and other warm states. Travertine is not only a hard natural material, it also resists weather damage and discoloring. And best of all, unlike brick or cement, travertine stays cool to the touch, so little feet never get burned from the sun.