Would you like to know more about a marble kitchen countertop? Then this is the blog item for you! In this blog we will give you several tips and inspiration. Among other things, we will tell you about the different types of marble, whether marble is suitable as a kitchen countertop and how best to clean and maintain a kitchen with a marble countertop so you can enjoy it for a long time. But let's start at the beginning: what is marble?
What is marble?
Did you know that the word marble comes from the Greek word marmaros? And this means shiny stone. Thousands of years ago, marble was affected by differences in temperature. Also, sand and clay caused the stains in the limestone. And today, marble is mined in quarries and then cut into sections.
Because of its luxurious appearance, marble is often used in interiors to make furniture or marble kitchen countertops, for example. Marble is also often used for floors or as tiles in the bathroom.
There are many different types of marble, which we would like to tell you more about. The choice is enormous when it comes to marble. You can choose from shades of white to shades of black, but you can also get marble in different colors like red, blue and yellow.
What types of marble are there?
Did you know that no two types of marble are the same? Even if you choose a specific kind of marble you will never have exactly the same kind of pattern. Marble is a natural product and Mother Nature does not make one and the same kind of stone. So you will always have a unique kitchen countertop. But what types are there? There are more than 100 different types of marble. We have listed the most common types of marble for you.
Beige & cream shades
Did you know that you have to have a crystal structure to call a stone marble? So some different types of natural stones are not actually marble, but these are called limestones. Of course, we understand very well that not everyone knows that. Limestones are also of good quality, so if you choose them you will also have a good quality kitchen countertop.
Beige and cream types come in different shades. From a solid to a clouded pattern. Also, the directions of the patterns are different and you can pick a beige or cream natural stone completely to your liking.
Blue-gray shades
Did you know that you don't have a blue shade of marble? You do, fortunately, have shades of gray-blue. As with other types of marble, each marble slab is unique. And therefore perfect for a countertop. Don't you think? So you are actually guaranteed a unique kitchen when you choose a marble countertop.
Shades of brown
Did you know that brown shades of marble are actually nut-colored? So brown marble are actually nut-colored shades. To make it easier we call it brown shades. You can combine this kind of marble well with other colors because brown is a good color that fits industrial, classic and country styles.
Yellow shades
There are several limestone types that consist of shades of yellow. They are found in beautiful Italy and sunny Turkey. Really a whole yellow shade is hard to find in marble. You do see the yellow tones obviously well reflected in this type of marble. Do you like yellow? Then you can surely find a beautiful yellow shade to suit your needs and requirements. From light shades to dark shades and all shades in between.
Shades of gray
Did you know that gray is considered the color of hard stone? You have several different shades of gray to choose from. Which do you like better? Light gray, dark gray or still a cream gray shade?
Green shades
Did you know that you don't actually have green shades of marble? You do have other types of stone that have green shades. So green shades are not about marble, but they are about another beautiful type of limestone. So there are still different types of limestones that have shades of green. From Alpi Verde to Verde Viana.
Purple shades
Pretty purple is not ugly after all : -). Mother Nature thought so too. Only unfortunately, you will never find solid purple marble. With purple shades you always have composite shades of marble. And those are also very beautiful!
Red shades
As with other color tones, you don't actually have red marble. You do have red natural stone types. From minimalist to busy lines. Red natural stone types come in different hues and something for everyone. They are often used for kitchen countertops or bathroom tiles.
Pink shades
You have few marble you can buy in a deep color. Pink is an exception to that. Do you love pink? Then there is a marble that perfectly matches the pink shade you like.
White shades
Marble is often bought in a white shade because it is minimalistic and it goes well with different types of styles. You often see it in country, classic and scandinavian kitchens. Looking for a marble kitchen countertop in a white shade? Then you have many choices. White tones you often see with shades of gray, green, blue, and red through the marble.
Black shades
I think this is the most familiar type of marble we know. Marble with black tones. You then often have light tones running through the black marble. Black you see more and more. And we don't think that's crazy either. This is one of our favorites for a reason.
Is marble suitable as a kitchen countertop?
A marble kitchen countertop is not only beautiful, but they can also take a beating. And that's why marble is very suitable as a kitchen countertop. We regularly make custom kitchens with a marble countertop and know what's important when you want a countertop made of marble. Besides being heat resistant, it's also wear resistant. But it is important that you maintain it properly or have it maintained. We'll cover maintaining and cleaning a marble countertop later in this article.
So do you want a luxurious and exclusive kitchen? Then a kitchen with a marble countertop is just what you're looking for! Because you can buy or have a kitchen countertop made in different color tones. Ideal right?
What is the difference between a marble look and a real marble kitchen countertop?
The big difference between a marble look or marble kitchen countertop is quality. Of course a marble look kitchen countertop is cheaper, but the quality that you get is much lower and it doesn't last as long. The advantage of a marble look, however, is that it requires less maintenance. But if you want a real marble countertop, you do get more quality and a truly unique kitchen in return.
Would you like a timeless, warm and luxurious looking kitchen? Then definitely choose a kitchen worktop made of real marble.
Does a marble worktop match all styles of kitchens?
There are different types of kitchen styles that a marble countertop fits. Do you like a country, modern, design, industrial or scandinavian kitchen? Then you can combine it perfectly with a marble countertop. There are so many different types of marble that there is always a countertop that will perfectly match the kitchen of your dreams.
The following kitchen styles can be combined well with a marble kitchen top:
- modern;
- nationwide;
- design;
- industrial;
- scandinavian.
Is your style not listed here? Or would you like expert advice? Then please contact us! We will answer your questions and provide you with advice without obligation.
Does a marble kitchen countertop require maintenance?
Yes, a marble countertop needs maintenance. To best protect your marble, you can impregnate it. This gives the marble a protective layer that prevents dirt from soaking into the marble and makes it easier to clean. We do advise you to always be careful with vinegar, fruit juices and acids. Marble is and remains a natural stone.
Can you clean the marble properly?
Marble can be cleaned very well. You can clean it with green soap or a special marble cleaner. If you use soap, it is important not to use too much soap. Otherwise you can get a greasy layer on the marble. The greasy layer will attract more dirt and grime, which is something you want to avoid.
We give you a 5-step plan to clean a marble countertop. But before you start, you need a bucket of lukewarm water, a soft cloth, soap or marble cleaner, clean water and a chamois.
5-step plan to regularly clean your marble kitchen countertop:
Step 1: Fill a bucket with lukewarm water with soap or marble cleaner. Be careful not to use too much or you may get a greasy film on your marble.
Step 2: First try to clean an area that you don't see well. If you use the wrong cleaner or a scouring pad, you don't want it to stain the middle of your kitchen countertop. So always look carefully for a soft cloth or sponge and a cleaner you can clean marble with.
Step 3: Carefully clean the marble. Keep in mind not to rub too hard, otherwise you risk getting scratches.
Step 4: Wipe the marble with clean water. It is important that no soap residue remains on the marble.
Step 5: Dry the marble well with a chamois and/or dry cloth.
The marble is now nice and clean again. Have you cleaned the marble many times? If so, you may want to re-impregnate it. Just be aware that the marble often takes on a slightly different look.
Can you buy marble kitchen countertops of all types?
You can buy a marble kitchen countertop in different shapes and sizes. From pearl white to deep black. And all possible colors in between. As you have read under the heading "all types of marble," you have many different types of colors in different shades. So there is something for everyone. No matter how unique your taste.
Finding it difficult to choose what kind of kitchen, kitchen style and/or marble kitchen top to go for? Then ask for a free consultation to. We will be happy to advise you on material selection, kitchen styles and marble types.
What does a marble countertop cost?
A marble kitchen top often starts from €350 per m1 (linear meter), but can go up to €700 per m1. We are assuming a kitchen worktop with a depth of 60 cm. Of course, you can always choose how wide, deep and thick you want your marble kitchen worktop to be.
A "cheap" marble countertop is often thin and therefore delicate. This type of marble kitchen countertop have a thickness of 20 mm. We advise you to choose at least a thickness of 40 mm. The marble is then more solid and stronger. You just have to make sure that you maintain it neatly. But with the tips in this article, that should surely work out well!
How much does a kitchen with a marble kitchen top cost?
A standard kitchen often costs between €7,500 and €15,000. A kitchen with a marble kitchen top will easily cost €25,000. You will have a luxury kitchen. If you have a kitchen made by a large kitchen company, you have a limited choice. We can make you a custom kitchen for almost the same money. With us, you can put together the kitchen of your dreams and have it made with the appliances and materials you want.
Want a heat plate, wine post, 2 ovens or 6-burner stove? We can make it happen!
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a marble kitchen countertop?
As you have read, marble has several advantages and disadvantages. We would like to list them for you in an orderly fashion.
The benefits of marble:
- Marble is an exclusive type of stone because no two kitchen countertops made of marble are the same.
- You can buy marble in different kinds of colors and hues;
- marble can take a beating;
- marble can be well maintained and cleaned;
- Marble has a luxurious appearance;
- Marble is a durable product that can be enjoyed for many years.
The disadvantages of marble:
- marble can have minor imperfections because it is a natural stone;
- Marble is not stain resistant, so cleaning marble is important;
- marble is reasonably heat-resistant, but a hot pan on the kitchen countertop for an extended period of time can cause a burn;
- marble is not scratch resistant, so always be careful when using sharp materials on the kitchen countertop;
- marble needs maintenance.
Still don't think marble is the right choice? Then you can follow us on Instagram for kitchen and interior design inspiration. We regularly share photos of kitchens we've made. So plenty of inspiration!
Buy a kitchen with marble kitchen worktop ready-made or have it custom-made?
If you buy a kitchen with a marble kitchen worktop ready-made from a kitchen company, you often have only a limited choice of marble, material and appliances. Putting together your dream kitchen is then virtually impossible.
Would you like to have a custom kitchen made? Then we can help you from start to finish. You can choose all the materials, appliances and a marble worktop yourself. Would you like to know what we can do for you?
Then request a consultation using the form below. Together we will discuss the kitchen of your dreams over a cup of coffee or tea.