There is a rainbow of colors available including blues, reds, oranges, slates and many others. Marble is available in a variety of colors and shades, as is granite, Collath said. The sunroom in Pat and Stuart Levin's Wauwatosa home was renovated with a tumbled marble to give an ancient look. Adding to that look are custom made metal tile by Stuart Levin. I've seen granite used in a master bathroom whirlpool area at the foot of the shower and even going up the shower wall.
Polished limestone can also see action in the bathroom on the floor and on the walls.
Not only are there new materials on the market, but there are new twists on some of the older favorites that are making a comeback. When it comes to certain kinds of stone, what's old is new. This newer form of slate is aggressively honed and polished rather than having that rough look to it like the slate from 30 or 40 years ago. The green, grey and black slate is an old material, but its new look is winning over many homeowners who appreciate a classic. It is typically found in foyers and entryways where there could be heavy traffic.