Want the Marble Look Without the Maintenance? Try These Alternatives:
- Michael Browning
- May 20
- 3 min read
Marble countertops are timeless, elegant, and undeniably beautiful. For centuries, marble has been a symbol of luxury and craftsmanship—from the towering columns of ancient Greece to Michelangelo’s sculptures carved from Carrara marble. Today, it still holds a place of honor in many homes, especially in kitchens where style meets function.
A Brief History of Marble in Design
Marble has been used in design and architecture for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations prized it for its natural beauty and strength, using it in everything from temples to bathhouses. During the Renaissance, artists chose it for masterpieces that still inspire today.
In kitchens, marble gained traction in the early 1900s, particularly in bakeries where its naturally cool surface made it ideal for pastry prep. Over time, it evolved from a tool for professionals into a design choice for homeowners seeking luxury and sophistication.
Why Homeowners Love Marble
Natural Beauty: Each slab is unique, with distinct veining and color tones.
Cool to the Touch: Perfect for baking and confectionery tasks.
Design Versatility: Works with modern, traditional, farmhouse, and transitional styles.
Classic Appeal: Marble never goes out of style.
When Marble Might Not Be the Best Fit
Marble is beautiful—but it’s not always practical. Here’s why:
Staining & Etching: It's a porous stone and absorbs liquids easily. Acidic foods can cause dull marks, even on sealed surfaces.
Maintenance: Requires regular sealing and careful cleaning.
Scratching: Softer than other stones, it can be scratched or chipped with heavy use.
Because of this, marble is often better suited for:
Secondary countertops like kitchen islands
Low-traffic bathrooms
Butler’s pantries or coffee stations
Accent pieces such as backsplashes or fireplace surrounds
Want the Marble Look Without the Maintenance? Try These Alternatives:
If you love the look of marble but need something more durable or cost-effective, there are several excellent options to consider.
1. Quartz
Quartz countertops are engineered from natural quartz and resin, offering the look of marble with added durability.
Why It Works:
Non-porous and resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria
Available in many marble-inspired designs
No sealing required
Ideal for busy kitchens and families
Marble Lookalikes:
Calacatta Nuvo
Carrara Marmi
Statuario Maximus
Best for: High-traffic kitchens, families, people who want beauty without the upkeep
2. Porcelain Slabs
Porcelain slabs are a rising star in kitchen design. These large-format tiles are printed with high-resolution images to mimic natural stone—including marble.
Why It Works:
Heat, stain, and UV resistant
Extremely low maintenance
Can be used for counters, walls, and even outdoor kitchens
Lightweight, making installation easier in some cases
Best for: Sleek, modern kitchens, low-maintenance lifestyles, indoor/outdoor use
3. Marble-Look Granite
While granite doesn’t replicate marble as precisely as quartz or porcelain, certain light-colored granites offer a similar aesthetic with the added toughness granite is known for.
Why It Works:
Extremely durable and heat-resistant
Less porous than marble (but still requires sealing)
Naturally occurring veining and color variations
Lookalike Options:
White Ice Granite
Bianco Romano
Alaska White
Best for: Homeowners who want natural stone with better resistance to wear
4. Solid Surface (Corian)
Solid surface countertops offer a seamless appearance and can replicate the soft, clean look of marble without the maintenance challenges.
Why It Works:
Non-porous and easy to clean
Seamless installation (no visible joints)
Gentle veining available in some patterns
Best for: Contemporary spaces, smaller kitchens, budget-conscious projects
Start Your Design Journey at Benchmark
Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of real marble or prefer a low-maintenance alternative, Benchmark Kitchen & Bath in Salem, NH is the perfect place to start. Our showroom features a wide selection of countertop materials—each with expert guidance from our design team to help you find the right match for your lifestyle.
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