Nate Berkus Is Begging You To Stop Being Afraid Of Marble Countertops

From the great granite debate to the rise in quartz's popularity, marble has been facing a slew of criticism lately for its alleged high-maintenance nature. However, certain designers still swear by the versatility of this natural surface. Nate Berkus, HGTV star and renowned interior designer, is a master at selecting timeless materials and finishes. He has no problem with surfaces that display natural patina and well-loved texture, and that includes marble. In fact, marble is his number one pick for kitchen countertops.

When asked why marble is his go-to countertop material, Berkus wrote on Instagram: "It references classical architecture. It's been around since the beginning of time, and is arguably one of the most timeless materials out there." Some of the typical concerns that come with marble installations include staining, scratching, and maintenance. However, Berkus insists that you don't need to fret over possible flaws. He expanded on his Instagram post: "I like marble that looks aged and lived in, that's why I usually use honed or matte stone. I don't baby our marble. I don't think it needs to be treated like a newborn infant." The imperfections are part of the charm of natural stone, but you still want to ensure you follow Berkus' tips on maintaining marble countertops (you'll also want to avoid these common mistakes if you have marble countertops). 

Marble is one of the home features that never go out of style, according to HGTV's Nate Berkus. Not only can it increase your home's value, but if you're worried about longevity, it can actually last more than 100 years!  However, if you want to take maximum precautions to maintain your marble and ensure that it doesn't show wear and tear, go for a surface with more dramatic veining that will camouflage any imperfections. Berkus also told his Instagram followers about the beauty of Breccia. He wrote: "It's a neutral, Italian marble with a white ground and brown, grey, and black within the veining." Admittedly, Berkus prefers neutral tones in his stone surfaces. However, neutral definitely doesn't mean bland. He has designed several spaces with dramatic veining and thick striations.

Another way to maintain your marble and prevent visible scratches and flaws is to select a honed, textured surface rather than a glazed finish. A matte finish will help hide any nicks or scuffs. In addition, the type of stone can have an effect on the longevity of your countertops. Although Carrara marble is popular, it is softer than hardy alternatives like Emperador or Marquina. If you're on a budget, don't fret! Although marble can be pricey, you can use these insider tips for buying marble or stone remnants secondhand.