Granite and marble are both popular options when it comes to kitchen countertops. But what if you like both options and are having difficulty deciding? It may be hard to believe, but you can actually have both. Keep reading to find out how you can tastefully use both granite and marble in your kitchen design.
Niall John Lynchehaun
Niall John Lynchehaun is the owner and director at Midland Stone.
Match the Different Types of Stone
Honestly, mixing granite and marble in the kitchen is easier than mixing granite and granite. Since every quarry is different, granite is hard to match. Even granite from the same quarry often varies in size and color.
If you are a DIYer mixing and matching granite in your kitchen, chances are some of your guests will ask, “Oh, was this an accident?” But kitchens that match different types of stone, such as marble and granite, scream creativity.
Use Similar Undertones
Incorporating two different countertop mediums can add a unique feel to your space. But there are a couple of tips to consider to ensure it’s not only beautiful but functional and practical.
Marble is a more delicate stone, so it is great for a prep area where you’re looking for a non-stick surface, like for baking or rolling out dough. While granite, a more durable stone, is good for areas that will take more of the hard work, like near the sink or cooking areas.
When using two materials together, like marble and granite, make sure they work together harmoniously by looking for them to have the same undertones, whether that’s cool greys or warm creams and brown.
Angela Higgins
Angela Higgins, Mindful Home Designer and Owner of Nourished Home.
Volodymyr Barabakh
Volodymyr Barabakh is the Co-Founder and Project Director of building contractor Structural Beam.
Keep It Contrasting
Granite and marble can be used together within kitchen decor; however, you want to ensure it looks intentional. Play up to these contrasting finishes by keeping the colors contrasted. You don’t want it to look like you attempted to match surfaces but missed the mark.
Mix dark with light and have them on separate countertops. Tie it all together using a consistent material as a base, such as natural wood, to make your kitchen look creative yet sophisticated.
Do It Thoughtfully
Marble and granite can be mixed and matched. But, you need to do it thoughtfully; otherwise, it could ruin the appearance of your kitchen in the long run.
It is best to avoid using marble as your main kitchen countertop because it stains quickly and loses its sheen. Acidic food spills on marble need to be cleaned up quickly. Else, they will damage and dull the surface.
Now, if you plan to keep an island dedicated to baking and as an informal dining area, you could consider using marble for its top as the area is not quite prone to spills.
Granite is comparatively more durable. Hence, it makes an ideal choice as a kitchen countertop.
Parvathy Pothan
Parvathy Pothan is the founder-editor of Everything Better.
Joe Ferguson
Joe Ferguson, Architectural Joiner at SkirtingsRus.
Match The Marbling
Each piece of crystallized granite has its unique pattern, also known as a “marble” or “grain.” If you were to lay two slabs of granite down next to each other, one with a straight “matching” grain pattern and the other with a swirling grain pattern, they wouldn’t match at all.
However, marble is different; it seems to be able to blend perfectly – especially when going from lighter colors to darker colors.
So, if you take one slab of marble and a similar quality slab of granite, but in two different colors (such as light grey and dark grey) and lay them down next to each other on your kitchen island, then chances are it will work out great!
Choose the Right Colors and Patterns
It can be pretty daunting to mix and match these materials, but the right colors and patterns will create an impactful kitchen accent. Naturally, you need to take into consideration the overall kitchen interior design you are going for.
The way to mix and match granite and marble is either by contrasting colors or picking a color palette. The easiest, of course, is choosing neutrals. It’s timeless and looks elegant. If you have a kitchen island, you may opt to use marble on it and go for granite on the rest of the countertops.
Giovanni Scippo
Giovanni Scippo, Director at 3D Lines.