Project updates + Stone 101
Renovation Projects Update
Our Relaxed + Elegance and Texas Hill Country projects are in full swing, and we’ve arrived at one of the most exciting milestones—selecting the stone countertops. This is the moment where function meets beauty, and the right stone can completely transform the feel of a kitchen.
Relaxed Elegance Stone Option—Quartzite Honed
Designer Tips for Choosing Quartz, Marble, or Quartzite in the Kitchen
General Considerations
The first step in choosing a countertop material is to think about how your kitchen will be used.
Quartz is an engineered stone, making it extremely durable and resistant to scratches and stains—perfect for busy kitchens, especially with kids or frequent entertaining.
Marble is a natural stone prized for its timeless, luxurious appearance, but it does require more upkeep to protect against staining and etching.
Quartzite is also a natural stone, formed from sandstone under intense heat and pressure. It combines the durability of granite with the beauty of marble, offering natural veining and unique patterns while being harder and less porous than marble.
Maintenance
Quartz: Virtually maintenance-free—no sealing required, and resists most stains and etching from acidic foods.
Marble: More porous, needs periodic sealing, and will naturally develop patina over time from etching and stains.
Quartzite: Requires sealing (generally once a year) but is more resistant to scratching and etching than marble, making it a great middle ground for those who want a natural stone with more durability.
Aesthetics
Marble: Unique, organic veining—no two slabs are alike—ideal for homeowners who appreciate one-of-a-kind beauty.
Quartz: Consistent color and pattern, available in a wide range of styles (including marble-look designs), though veining can sometimes look manufactured.
Quartzite: Offers the elegance of marble-like veining with subtle color variations, often in soft whites, grays, and earth tones. Some varieties, like Taj Mahal or Sea Pearl, provide a warm, versatile look that works in many design styles.
Price
Marble often carries a higher price tag due to the rarity of the stone and ongoing upkeep. Quartz can be equally expensive upfront depending on brand and style, but is more cost-effective long term. Quartzite varies widely in cost—rarer varieties can exceed marble prices, while more common types are comparable to mid- to high-range granite.
How I Decide
Lifestyle is always my first filter.
For families who cook daily or entertain often, quartz offers durability and low maintenance.
For clients who love the elegance of natural stone and are comfortable with patina, marble is a beautiful choice.
For those who want natural stone beauty but with more durability than marble, quartzite is a perfect compromise.
Favorite Picks
Quartz: Caesarstone, Silestone, and Cambria for quality, range, and finishes.
Marble: Calacatta Gold for a classic neutral and Nero Marquina in a honed finish for bold drama.
Quartzite: Taj Mahal for its soft, warm tones and understated veining; Sea Pearl and Le Blanc for their serene, gray-green or gray-blue elegance.
Le Blanc Quartzite Polished
Matching Stone to Style
The style of the home doesn’t dictate which stone will work, but finish and veining do influence the look. Honed or leathered finishes lean transitional to modern, while polished surfaces suit traditional to transitional. Mixing finishes or pairing them with custom edge profiles adds an intentional, designer touch—whether the stone is quartz, marble, or quartzite.
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Your interior designer gal pal,
Paula
