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Marble Countertop: 10 Reasons Why It Is The Best Design Choice For Your Kitchen

marble countertop

Marble Countertop: 10 Reasons Why It Is The Best Design Choice For Your Kitchen

Anybody who knows timeless elegance would tell you that marble is a great choice for both aesthetic and practical reasons in a kitchen.

Be it Michelangelo’s David or sophisticated buildings in the contemporary era — the use of marble is ubiquitous in the architectural world. Although it requires sealing and maintenance, it is still revered as one of the most pristine natural stones in the world as all the concerns about its maintenance can be easily minimized by opting for a harder variety and a good quality sealant. So why not bring it home and install a marble countertop in your kitchen?

We can agree that despite the availability of engineered stones that mimic its graciousness, marble is irreplaceable in a lot of ways. The unique patina that it develops over time adds a lot of character to the whole house and there is simply no alternative for something like that. Read on to find out how it can be a game-changer for your kitchen.

1. Each Slab is One of a Kind

We all have dreamed of owning exclusive artwork or basically anything that nobody else owns, right? What if we told you marble is nature’s exclusive work of art?

The beautiful veining patterns that one finds on a marble slab are unique to that slab only. Nobody else in the world can have a kitchen countertop that looks quite like yours. How amazing is that? Now, you can have a completely unique fingerprint and a kitchen countertop!

2. Marble is Heat-Resistant

Unlike a lot of other kitchen stones, marble is wonderful to cook on as it can sustain heat very well. It is only logical that one installs a stone that doesn’t get damaged by hot pans as those are unavoidable in the cooking space. It doesn’t burn or melt with heat either– so it’s one of the safest options out there to prevent heat damage. In fact, it is so heat resistant that it is frequently used as a fireplace surround too. Now, cook away without the worries of setting your countertop on fire!

3. It Increases the Resale Value of Your House

Any realtor will tell you that new homeowners are often fascinated by natural stone in the kitchen. A natural stone suggests that you took great care of the house. They might be keen especially if you have a white countertop as it goes with every single thing a new owner can possibly add in their kitchen.

A white marble countertop like Carrara or Vanilla Sky is perfect for long-term planning as it allows the new homeowner to play around with new crockery and cabinet options without having to call a fabricator to install a new kitchen countertop.

4. It Is Wonderful for Baking

Marble stays cool naturally and is perfect for working with substances that melt easily like chocolate, ice cream, etc. Professional chefs and bakers swear by it! As it always remains below room temperature, it is great for those baking experiments on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

5. It Helps You Save Costs on Even the Most Premium Cuts

Ever wondered by Michelangelo specifically chose a white marble to sculpt one of the most renowned artworks in the world?

It is because marble is one of the easiest stones to shape, cut and chisel away. A lot of great countertop profiles can be made at a fraction of the cost of other natural stones with marble. This includes premium cuts like the Waterfall edge, Bullnose and many more.

6. It Is Very Durable

Marble is an incredibly strong stone, despite being soft. This is why buildings and architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal, made of marble have survived the test of time. This centuries-old wonder is a testament to the strength of marble. Its durability makes it a great choice for heavy kitchen usage too.

7. It Is Forever in Style

We can’t stress this enough — marble continues to be used very frequently in kitchens despite emerging new trends. It, in fact, grapples with changing architectural trends every year and still continues to be the talk among interior decorators. As it is available in many beautiful colors like beige, white, gray, black and many more, it offers a lot of variety. A lot of homeowners love how it ages like a wise soul over the years — developing a character with its patina. The muted, worn-out look in contrast with bright cabinetry is coveted in all contemporary homes.

8. It Adds Natural Light to Your Kitchen

Marble reflects light very well and can be great to add some natural light to the kitchen. This works best for small spaces where natural light is almost absent as it can also create an illusion of a larger space. We recommend opting for something like a Swiss Blanco or a Milano Beige Marble as lighter shades work best for the desired effect.

9. It is Easy to Clean

Contrary to the popular notion that a marble countertop is only for compulsive cleaners, marble is actually very easy to maintain. Even wiping the slab with warm water and soap can do the trick. However, it is not advisable to leave the cleaning for later as marble slabs can develop stains.

It is important to remember that it doesn’t stain immediately but takes a few hours to absorb the color of say, spilled red wine. So unless you are going to leave the countertop uncleaned for a whole night, you should be okay with just a little care. If you do happen to have a clumsy night, a paste of baking soda and water would work out simple stains if left overnight.

Also Read: Cleaning Hacks for Your Kitchen

10. It Can Be Used Anywhere in the Kitchen

Because of its beauty and versatility, it can be used everywhere in the kitchen. A matching countertop and kitchen island can be a great choice for a new kitchen. If you are feeling particularly creative, you can experiment with contrasting colors too. For a layered effect, you should pick a gray or beige marble flooring and pair it with a stunning white or black countertop.

Making Up Your Mind About Marble

It is important to remember that all marbles are not the same. As there are marble quarries around the globe, there are marbles available in different colors, cuts, finishes, and even density. Depending on those factors, the quality and pricing can be very varied too.

While all marbles look beautiful, for choosing the right one for your abode, you should ask yourself questions about your lifestyle. Can you commit to cleaning it up immediately after having spilled something or would you be able to go to bed while your countertop is a mess?

If you do have a very hectic or on-the-go lifestyle, you will always be better off choosing a darker color. Even lighter shades can be a choice if you go for the honed finish and ditch the polished one. As a honed ‘matte’ finish is less susceptible to scratches and etching, it can make for a wonderful addition to your home.

Ultimately, however, it all boils down to personal preference as a high-quality sealant can minimize many concerns associated with all varieties of marble. An experienced supplier of natural stones can help you understand the characteristics of your chosen marble slab and help you make the right decision.

Conclusion

Marble countertops stand out as not just a piece of your kitchen, but a centerpiece that brings timeless elegance and unmatched uniqueness to your space. Its ability to withstand heat, add value to your home, and its versatility in use makes it an exceptional choice for anyone looking to blend functionality with style. While it may require a bit of care and maintenance, the beauty and character it adds to your kitchen are well worth the effort.

Remember, choosing the right marble for your kitchen is about matching it with your lifestyle and personal taste. Whether you lean towards the classic polish or a more subdued honed finish, marble promises to elevate your kitchen’s design.

For more tips, tricks, and inspiration on using marble in your kitchen and beyond, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram. Join our community to see how others are incorporating this beautiful stone into their homes, and share your own marble marvels with us. Let’s continue the conversation and explore the endless possibilities of home design together.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should marble countertops be sealed?

Marble countertops should typically be sealed once a year to maintain their resistance to stains and etches. However, depending on the usage and the marble’s porosity, some might need resealing more frequently.

Can marble countertops withstand knife cuts and chopping?

While marble is durable, it’s not as hard as some other countertop materials. Cutting directly on marble can scratch and damage its surface. It’s recommended to use a cutting board to protect your countertops.

Are there any specific cleaning products to avoid using on marble?

Yes, acidic cleaners, including vinegar, lemon juice, and bleach, should be avoided as they can etch the marble’s surface. Mild, pH-neutral soap and water are best for cleaning marble countertops.

Can marble be repaired if it gets chipped or cracked?

Yes, minor chips and cracks in marble can often be repaired with a special marble repair kit or by a professional. However, the repair might be visible, depending on the marble’s pattern and color.

Is marble suitable for outdoor kitchens?

While marble can be used in outdoor kitchens, it requires more maintenance due to exposure to the elements. Choosing a marble with a honed finish and ensuring it’s sealed properly can help maintain its durability outdoors.