If you were asked to imagine a luxury kitchen, there's probably one material that would immediately spring to mind: marble. This feature always impresses ultra-luxury designers due to its beautiful appearance, but nothing is more beautiful than veined marble. So it's perhaps not surprising that this feature is the basis for Giada De Laurentiis' kitchen.
In her show Giada at home, Italian-born chef De Laurentiis has built his career in his own kitchen, so of course the space is one of the most beautiful in the country. Decked out in gray veined marble (including the backsplash and countertops), the room is a masterclass in how to incorporate luxurious materials into a domestic environment. But as the designer explains, this feature is about more than just aesthetics.
While decorating with marble is always beautiful (especially when used in large quantities, like in De Laurentiis' space), Cullifords director Oliver Webb explains that the veined option is perfect for hiding minor discolourations that may develop on the surface over time.
“We recommend marble to homeowners looking for something timeless, elegant and that radiates wow factor. With its intricate veining, marble can enhance the look and feel of a home, and with regular care, there's no reason why a marble surface shouldn't last for years to come,” says Webb.
Like most things, there are some concerns with this luxury kitchen fixture, one of which is that it may stain or discolour over time, but if you choose a striped option like De Laurentiis, you'll enjoy a cleaner look for longer.
“Choosing a marble with intricate veining and pops of color will help hide any minor discolorations that may develop over time,” says Webb.
“Marble is a soft stone and can scratch easily, so we recommend using a cutting board. Don't cut directly on the surface and be careful what you put directly on the stone. Opting for a polished or textured finish rather than a polished finish will make scratches less noticeable, especially if it's in direct sunlight.”
What's more, whether you choose striped or solid-colored marble, Webb assures us there are some precautions you can take to keep the material looking pristine.
“A common concern is the potential for staining, and due to its corrosive nature, you should always take great care to wipe up any acid-based liquids that are spilled on it as soon as possible. We recommend using coasters or mats to avoid direct contact with the stone surface,” he recommends.
Buy a marble kitchen
Investing in marble countertops, backsplash or island will make a lasting impression for years to come, but these more affordable accessories are sure to stand the test of time too.
White Marble Candle Holder
Starting at $59.95 at CB2
Enhance the appeal of your candles with these stunning alabaster marble holders.
