Transforming your kitchen is exciting and creative, but selecting the suitable materials is overwhelming. Among various options, marble is a popular choice for its timeless appeal. In this article, we explore the latest trends in kitchen marble designs, from sleek countertops to elegant backsplashes, and share essential tips for preserving the beauty of marble in your culinary space:
Types of marble for kitchens
Marble, a natural stone known for its exceptional resilience, has been used for centuries for kitchen countertops, flooring, and backsplashes. Let us explore different types of marble widely used for kitchens:
Carrara marble
Carrara marble is a popular choice for kitchens. It is known for its classic white colour and delicate grey veining. The white marble complements the dark colour schemes of the kitchen, creating a striking contrast.
Statuario marble
Statuario marble is another popular option known for its striking contrast of pure white with dramatic grey veining. It is often used for countertops and backsplashes and is well-suited for modern kitchen designs.
Calacatta marble
Calacatta marble is a luxurious and elegant stone known for its striking white background and delicate gold or grey veins. The subtle interplay of colours and patterns creates a timeless aesthetic, making it perfect for countertops and flooring.
Crema marfil marble
This versatile marble option features a creamy beige with subtle veining, creating a warm and inviting aesthetic. It can be used for countertops, flooring, and backsplashes, making it a timeless choice for modern kitchens.
How to choose a suitable marble?
Choosing the suitable marble for your kitchen can be daunting. With so many options available, it is essential to consider the following factors before finalising a design:
- As some marbles are more durable and easier to maintain than others, consider your lifestyle and usage when making your choice
- Marble prices can vary significantly, so it is vital to set a budget before you start shopping
- Older marble, with its more pronounced veining and unique surface, often offers a vintage or antique aesthetic
- Choose a marble with high hardness to ensure it can resist scratches and withstand regular wear and tear
- A well-chosen edge profile enhances the aesthetic appeal of a marble countertop, making it a crucial factor to consider before purchasing
- Analyse the marble for any cracks or major veins that could weaken the material
- Marble has three variants: polished, honed, and tumbled options. Choose the marble finish that suits your aesthetic needs
Pros and cons of using marble in the kitchen
Marble, a timeless and luxurious natural stone, has long been popular in kitchens. However, like any material, marble has its pros and cons, which are discussed below:
Pros and cons of using marble in kitchen | |
---|---|
Pros of marble in kitchen | Cons of marble in kitchen |
Marble's unique patterns and colours add a touch of luxury and sophistication to any kitchen. | Marble is a porous material that can be easily scratched or stained and thus requires regular sealing. |
Marble is a durable material that lasts for many years with proper care and maintenance. | Marble is slippery when wet, so it is important to use non-slip mats or rugs in areas where water is frequently used. |
Marble can be polished, honed, or flamed for different looks and textures. | Installing marble flooring or countertops can be complex and requires professional help that increases overall cost. |
Kitchen marble design for flooring
With its natural beauty and durability, marble is a popular choice for flooring. Here are some high-end designs that work best for Indian kitchens:
White carrara marble for flooring
Source: Pinterest/designidea.com
White carrara marble flooring is a classic choice for its elegance and timeless appeal. The soft white colour with subtle grey veining creates a cheerful and bright ambience in the kitchen.
Flooring with black emperador marble
Source: Pinterest/Clearhalo
The deep black colour with gold veins makes this marble a royal choice for Indian kitchens. The dark backdrop lends a dramatic ambiance, while the gold veins create a stunning and visually striking effect.
Calacatta gold marble flooring
Source: Pinterest/italianmarble
Calacatta gold marble flooring is a luxurious and visually striking choice with its white base and delicate gold veins. The gold veins create a shimmering effect that adds a touch of richness to the kitchen.
Flooring using statuario marble
Source: Pinterest/royalstones.co.uk
Statuario marble flooring is a pristine choice due to its pure white colour and subtle grey veining. The white colour makes the space appear larger and more open, suitable for small kitchens.
Marble herringbone pattern flooring
Source: Pinterest/marblesystem
Marble herringbone flooring is a stylish and unique option that adds a geometric pattern to the kitchen. The herringbone pattern creates a visually attractive and dynamic look, making your kitchen the home's focal point.
Flooring with tumbled marble
Source: Pinterest/marblesystem
Tumbled marble flooring is distressed and rustic, adding texture to the culinary space. Its imperfections and scratches make it ideal for a kitchen of this style.
Dark grey marble with a subtle pattern in flooring
Source: Pinterest/tiles247uk
The dark grey colour of the marble creates a cosy and inviting ambience in contemporary kitchens. The subtle patterns, on the other hand, add visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Bianco lasa marble for flooring
Source: Pinterest/walmart
Bianco lasa marble is a popular choice. It is a soft white colour and has subtle grey veining. The delicate grey veins complement the soft white hue, making it ideal for a small minimalist kitchen.
White marble with irregular veins in flooring
Source: Pinterest/designideas.com
White marble with irregular veins offers a visually striking and unique aesthetic that can add a touch of personality to your kitchen. This design is perfect for those who prefer a more eclectic and unconventional style.
Kitchen marble design for backsplashes
Here are some trendy designs for backsplashes that you can choose from:
Classic white and grey veins for backsplashes
Source: Pinterest/clearhalo
This timeless design features a white marble base with subtle grey veins, making it an elegant addition to different kitchen styles. The neutral tones make it versatile, pairing well with other colours and materials.
Backsplashes with bold black and white marble
Source: Pinterest/mandicasa
Bold black and white marble is a dramatic option that adds a bold statement to the kitchen. The striking contrast of black and white marble works best in a contemporary kitchen.
Calacatta gold marble for backsplashes
Source: Pinterest/villohome
Known for its luxe appearance, calacatta gold marble adds a touch of elegance to the kitchen. Its versatility allows it to pair well with neutral colours and high-end finishes.
Backsplashes with carrara white marble
Source: Pinterest/backsplash
Carrara white marble is a classic choice for a kitchen backsplash due to its soft white base and subtle grey veins. The white colour brightens the space, while subtle grey veins add depth, making it suitable for kitchens.
Mosaic design for backsplashes
Source: Pinterest/Clearhalo
Marble mosaic backsplashes add a vibrant pop of colour to kitchens with neutral colour schemes. Their intricate patterns and diverse colours can create a unique and personalised touch in your culinary space.
Chevron pattern in backsplashes
Source: Pinterest/backsplash.com
A chevron-patterned backsplash adds a geometric and visually striking element to the kitchen. For a stunning effect, consider using white Carrara or black emperador marble.
Gold or brass accent for backsplashes
Source: Pinterest/wayfair.ca
Adding gold or brass accents to a marble backsplash can instantly elevate a plain kitchen's style. Metallic tiles, grout, or decorative elements can create this effect.
Backsplashes with decorative border
Source: Pinterest/Etsy CA
The decorative border on the marble backsplash serves as a finishing touch, framing the area and drawing attention to it. This creates a cohesive and visually appealing kitchen design.
Common issues with marble in kitchens and how to prevent them
Marble is a beautiful natural stone that is a luxurious addition to any kitchen. Understanding and addressing these common issues associated with marble will ensure its long-lasting beauty in your home:
- Sealing marble involves applying a protective coating to its surface, preventing stains and scratches and prolonging its life
- Always use cutting boards when chopping vegetables on marble countertops to protect the surface from scratches and knife marks
- Do not allow acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar or wine to settle on the marble countertop, as they can corrode the surface
- Clean your marble countertops with a mild cleaner to avoid damaging the surface
- Marble is porous and can absorb liquids, so wipe down any spills to prevent staining quickly
- Use pot holders to protect your marble countertops from hot pots and pans as they lead to cracks, fissures, or discolouration
Eco-friendly alternatives to marble
Here are the other options to achieve similar aesthetics without compromising on quality:
Granite
Granite is a versatile natural stone known for its exceptional durability. It is ideal for kitchen countertops and flooring. Its affordability and high resistance to scratches and stains make it a suitable alternative to marble.
Terrazzo
Terrazzo is a composite material made from recycled marble chips and cement. It is a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to marble. The only downside of terrazzo is it is difficult to repair if damaged.
Porcelain tile
Porcelain tile is a versatile and durable alternative to marble. Its resemblance to natural stone and availability in various colours and textures make it a popular choice for the kitchen.
In conclusion, using marble in kitchen design offers various options to elevate the aesthetic appeal of your culinary space. From classic choices like carrara to luxurious options such as calacatta gold, a marble design suits every kitchen style. However, consider factors such as durability, maintenance, and budget to make an informed decision.