Quartz has long been the go-to surface for those seeking beauty, durability and practicality in equal measure. But for those looking to make a real design statement, backlighting quartz can take this versatile material to a whole new level.
At CRL Quartz, we’re seeing growing interest in this striking technique, particularly in commercial environments and bespoke furniture design. By carefully reducing the thickness of certain quartz surfaces and combining them with specialist lighting, it’s possible to create a dramatic, illuminated effect that showcases the natural depth and veining of the stone in a whole new light, quite literally.
What is backlighting?
Backlighting is the process of installing LED lighting behind a semi-translucent material to create a glowing effect. While most commonly associated with onyx and some natural stones, certain engineered quartz surfaces also offer the right level of translucency to be beautifully backlit – particularly when thinned down to around 10-12mm.
It’s a technique that works especially well in feature areas, from illuminated bar fronts and reception desks in commercial settings, to eye-catching bathroom vanities and bespoke furniture pieces in the home.
Venetian Grande: A standout example
One of our most striking examples to date is a bespoke furniture installation using CRL Quartz Venetian Grande. When backlit and reduced to a 10-12mm thickness, this marble-inspired surface takes on a whole new character. The soft veining and subtle warmth of Venetian Grande glow from within, bringing an atmospheric quality to the space that’s both elegant and unique.
This kind of application highlights just how creative you can be with quartz outside of the traditional kitchen setting. While the majority of quartz surfaces we supply are destined for use as worktops, backlighting opens up new design possibilities in retail, hospitality and high-end residential environments.
The type and placement of lighting used will also significantly affect the final result. Diffused LED panels are often the best choice, offering even illumination and avoiding hotspots. Fabricators working with backlit surfaces will need to carefully consider both the structure and the lighting to achieve the best visual impact.
In the right setting, this design technique can become a focal point. Bars, hotel lobbies, retail displays and luxury washrooms are all perfect places to embrace backlit quartz. Whether used as a feature wall, bar front or countertop, it adds a sophisticated glow that instantly elevates the overall design.
Backlighting can also be achieved with other CRL Quartz surfaces, including Cristallo Perla, Cristallo Verde and Cristallo Azure.
Looking ahead
As awareness of the creative potential of engineered quartz continues to grow, backlighting is emerging as an exciting way to elevate a space with impact and elegance. While still a niche application, it’s one that’s capturing the imagination of designers and specifiers alike. Our Venetian Grande installation is just the beginning, and we look forward to sharing more inspiring examples as this trend gains momentum.
If you’re working on a project that could benefit from the brilliance of backlit quartz, get in touch with our team to discuss the possibilities.