Make it work for you
A beautiful, statement-making worksurface in Carrara or Calacatta will add a touch of luxury to your kitchen project
Marble is one of the most popular choices for worktops right now, with gleaming white and veined surfaces trending in every style of kitchen.
QWhat’s the story? Marble has a luminosity and smoothness to the touch that sets it apart from other natural stones. It stays cool to the touch, which is why pastry chefs love it as it’s great for working dough.
QAre there disadvantages? Its porosity is one of the downsides, as it is susceptible to staining. Red wine or oil will seep in and are difficult to get out. It’s also easily damaged by acidic liquids, like lemon juice, and is prone to scratches.
QWhat about finishes? When it comes to worktops, there are two main types: honed, created by sanding the surface to give a matt finish, which won’t show any scratches so easily; or polished, which has a highly reflective, glossy surface that shows off the vibrancy of the stone and is less likely to stain.
QIs it expensive? Carrara marble is less expensive due to its slightly grey tone and feathery veins. You’ll pay more for luxury varieties such as Calacatta or Statuario, which have brighter white colourings and more pronounced veining.
QHow do I look after it? Marble worktops should be sealed professionally when first installed, then every six months or so. This doesn’t guarantee complete protection, so spills should be wiped up straight away, especially anything acidic. Clean marble using hot soapy water and a soft cloth, buffing dry to avoid water marks. Avoid lemon-scented detergents which can be acidic – go for a ph neutral cleaner like Lakeland’s Daily Granite & Marble Surface Cleaner Spray, £9.99 for 946ml.
“A beautiful natural material, marble comes in an infinite range of colours, markings and veinings. No piece is the same as the next” GARY WALTERS, MANAGING DIRECTOR, STONE AGE