Marble Countertop Trends in 2026: What's In and What's Out?

As the heart of the home continues to evolve, kitchen design trends for 2026 are leaning towards a blend of timeless elegance and practical durability. While marble has long been a symbol of luxury, its role in kitchen design is shifting. Industry professionals are predicting a move towards materials that offer both aesthetic appeal and resilience, with specific finishes and applications gaining prominence.

Key Takeaways

• Quartz and quartzite are leading countertop choices, surpassing granite and marble.
• Matte or honed finishes are preferred over high-gloss surfaces.
• Granite is seeing a resurgence as a durable and timeless alternative to marble.
• Marble sinks are falling out of favor due to maintenance concerns.
• Darker, moodier tones and natural stone variations are trending.

The Shifting Landscape of Countertop Materials

According to a recent report by the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA), quartz remains the top choice for countertops, favored by 78% of industry professionals. Quartzite follows closely, offering the look of natural stone with enhanced durability. Granite, once overshadowed by marble, is making a comeback, appreciated for its resilience and unique beauty. Marble, despite its classic appeal, is ranking lower (26%) due to its high-maintenance nature, particularly in high-use areas like kitchens.

Embracing Durability and Subtle Finishes

Designers are increasingly opting for materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. Granite is being highlighted as a practical and timeless option, marrying beauty with resilience. Unlike marble, granite doesn't etch or stain as easily, making it ideal for active kitchens. The trend is also moving away from high-gloss finishes, which tend to show scratches and smudges. Instead, matte or honed finishes are gaining popularity, offering a more forgiving and sophisticated look. This preference extends to sinks and faucets, with shiny finishes being replaced by matte alternatives.

Marble's Evolving Role

While marble countertops are still considered a luxurious option, marble sinks are becoming less desirable due to their susceptibility to staining and the intensive maintenance required. Designers suggest that for sinks, a balance of aesthetics and functionality is key, with materials like stainless steel being a practical pairing for marble countertops. For those who love marble's aesthetic, opting for a honed or leathered finish can make it more forgiving. Darker marble tones, such as burgundy or deep grays, are also emerging as a trend, adding depth and sophistication.

What's Out: Dated Styles and High Maintenance

Certain countertop styles are being phased out. Pixelated quartz that doesn't mimic natural stone, high-gloss finishes, and speckled black-and-white granite reminiscent of the mid-2000s are falling out of favor. Overly engineered or faux stone countertops that lack authenticity are also being avoided. Similarly, brown granite, once a ubiquitous choice, is now seen as dated. The emphasis is shifting towards natural materials with unique movement and character, offering a timeless appeal that transcends fleeting trends.

Sources

• Say Goodbye to Granite and Marble—This Countertop Material Will Be Everywhere Next Year, New Kitchen Report
  Says, Real Simple.
• Marble Is The Stone That's On Trend For 2026 - Except When It Comes To This Popular Kitchen Fixture, Yahoo Life UK.
• The 1 Material Designers Are Choosing Over Marble This Year, Homes and Gardens.
• 6 Countertop Trends Designers Are Ready To Say Goodbye To In 2026, Southern Living.
• 5 Countertop Trends That Will Take Over Kitchens in 2026, The Spruce.