Marble is a notably luxurious material and it will add a level of decadence to any kitchen aesthetic, especially when accentuated by a contrasting colour scheme. It can easily feel right at home in most kitchen designs, whether you prefer modern or traditional, nordic or eclectic - a marble worktop is rarely out of place.
Despite marble being such a popular choice, it's a natural stone material and as such possesses some limitations, however, you no longer have to settle for this compromise. There are several alternatives to this material like porcelain and quartz, that offer the same aesthetic with much better durability and versatility.
- The highlights and challenges of marble
- Alternative materials that allow you to achieve the marble aesthetic
- How to style a marble-effect worktop
The highlights and challenges of marble
Marble is a beautiful material that has been incorporated in both kitchens and building designs for years. This is due to its relative softness which makes it much easier to cut and shape, giving you more design freedom, unlike other materials that run the risk of cracking and breaking during these fabrication stages. Marble is also naturally very cool, temperature-wise, which allows bakers to easily roll dough and create pastries, ideal for those inspiring culinary artists out there. But although marble is a beautiful option for many homes, there are a few impracticalities of the material that may not be brought to light until after installation.
Spillages are inevitable, especially when juggling the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and marble is unfortunately not stain-resistant. It's also porous, meaning you run the risk of those spills causing an unhygienic environment for your food preparation. Marble is prone to scratching and the polish can be etched away over time by pots, pans, cutlery and any other household items. One other disadvantage of marble is its cost. For some, this luxurious material may be out of their price range as marble is a little on the expensive side in comparison to other kitchen surfaces. With this in mind, it's clear that this material is quite high maintenance and would need a lot of daily upkeep to ensure it still looks good, but not all is lost for those who desire a marble worktop for their kitchen...
Alternative materials that allow you to achieve the marble aesthetic
Thankfully, there are alternatives to marble available that embody the beauty of this material whilst remaining durable and resilient. Both porcelain and quartz can be designed to the aesthetic you love. For example, 5151 Empira White is a timeless white base of the purest hue, touched by the movement of soft shadows in an interplay of darkness and light. Unlike marble, quartz is extremely durable and can easily handle the wear and tear a family home endures on a daily basis. Quartz is also scratch and stain-resistant and will stay in a pristine long-lasting condition.
For a timeless and practical solution, porcelain is another beautiful alternative to marble. This material is non-porous, so it is not prone to staining and is UV-resistant so the colour won't fade. 502 Sleet, part of the porcelain Supernatural Collection, is a stunning, minimalist design with a mix of whites interplaying across a mist of grey with brown and golden streaks dominating the surface. You’ll receive peace of mind knowing that the Caesarstone design you choose for your home will stand the test of time.
How to style a marble-effect worktop
A marble-effect worktop is a beautiful addition to any kitchen, providing effortless sophistication and an elegant feel. For those who prefer a bright and airy space, a neutral marble worktop will suit your space perfectly. One of the best qualities of the marble aesthetic is that it pairs well with both traditional and contemporary designs, allowing you to style your kitchen exactly the way you want.
For a beautifully serene atmosphere, opting for neutral colours, such as white cabinetry and light grey accessories will create a lovely haven for cooking, entertaining and relaxing. If you desire this colour scheme, then 504 Lumena, part of the porcelain Supernatural Collection, would be an idyllic addition. It provides a pleasant pearl-white background with striking dark grey veins illuminating the worktop’s surface.
Or perhaps you’d like to bring a little piece of nature to your kitchen and wish to incorporate some wooden elements. 503 Circa, also part of the Supernatural Collection, is dominated by bold light-grey veining in varying volumes, from dramatic strokes outlined by heavier tones to hints of soft greys that are finely etched in the background. Opting for contrasting dark brown oak flooring and wooden accessories against a lighter surface ensures a bold presence throughout your kitchen.
Regardless of whether you’ve chosen a traditional or contemporary style for your kitchen, a marble kitchen design provides unparalleled elegance and ensures an impressive look and feel. So when you’re thinking about redesigning your kitchen, remember that there are always alternatives that might just have the upper hand in helping you create your dream kitchen.
