- June 23, 2025
- Debby Katz
When I renovated my kitchen in 2012, marble was the only material I considered for the countertops. I’ve always loved natural stone, and when I found the perfect slab, waves of soft gray and green running through creamy white, it was a no-brainer.
At the time, as a mom of three (then ages 12, 10, and 7), I was the primary user of the kitchen. My husband worked 50+ hours a week, and the kids weren’t interested in cooking yet. I had near-total control over how the counters were used, making managing stains and etching pretty easy.
Fast forward to 2020. Suddenly, all five of us were living, working, cooking, and eating at home—all day, every day. I could no longer supervise who was cutting lemons or opening pickle jars (both culprits when it comes to etching marble). The kitchen became a high-traffic zone with lots of hands and no monitoring.
Now that the kids are grown and out of the house, my husband still works from home and uses the kitchen far more than he ever did. I’ve given up micro-managing the countertops and have instead embraced the reality of a well-loved kitchen. It’s been good for my mental health and great for our marriage.
Our shared COVID experience taught me a lot about living with marble. It forced me to accept both its limitations and its incredible beauty. Would I choose it again? Absolutely.
Thinking of Marble for Your Kitchen? Here’s What to Know:
- Marble etches when it meets acid.
Lemon juice, vinegar, wine—anything acidic will cause etching. The etching doesn’t stain the surface but alters the finish, leaving dull spots often visible in certain light. - Unlike man-made materials, marble can be repaired.
If etching bothers you, a stone fabricator can re-hone the surface to restore its original finish. - There’s no such thing as a perfect surface.
Every countertop material has its pros and cons. Marble has been used for centuries in hotels, museums, and homes because it’s both beautiful and durable. Expect patina and personality. - Know your tolerance for imperfection.
If you need a pristine surface, marble may not be the right choice. Many of our clients opt for Quartz (a man-made product) or Quartzite (a natural stone that’s harder and more resistant to etching) if they want a lower-maintenance alternative.
Living with marble and a house full of people taught me to let go of perfection and embrace beauty in everyday wear. If you can do the same, marble might be the perfect choice for you, too.
As you consider your kitchen renovation or countertop choices, remember that the right materials can elevate your space’s beauty and functionality.
If you’re ready to create a kitchen that reflects your style and stands up to your lifestyle, I’d love to help.
Contact me today to discuss how we can choose the perfect materials and design your dream kitchen.
