Nate Berkus Champions Breccia Marble for Timeless Kitchen Elegance

Renowned interior designer Nate Berkus has once again voiced his strong endorsement for marble as the ultimate kitchen countertop material. In a recent Q&A session, Berkus highlighted Breccia marble as his personal favorite, praising its unique veining and versatility. He also shared his philosophy on embracing the natural aging process of marble, advocating for a relaxed approach to maintenance that allows the stone to develop a beautiful patina over time.

Key Takeaways

• Nate Berkus consistently recommends marble for kitchen countertops.
• Breccia marble is his all-time favorite due to its neutral tones and striking veining.
• He prefers honed or matte finishes to disguise wear and tear.
• Berkus advises against over-maintaining marble, encouraging homeowners to embrace its natural evolution.

The Enduring Appeal of Marble

Marble continues to be a material that evokes strong reactions, with some appreciating its classic beauty and others wary of its susceptibility to stains and etching. However, Nate Berkus remains a staunch advocate, declaring it his "number-one choice" for kitchen counters. He emphasizes that his preference for marble is unwavering, stating, "Yes. Always yes."

Breccia: A Versatile Choice

While Berkus often leans towards neutral marbles, he isn't afraid to experiment with bolder options. He specifically calls out Breccia as his "all-time favorite." Describing it as a "neutral, Italian marble with a white ground and brown, grey, and black within the veining," he notes its ability to add character to any kitchen. Breccia offers various iterations, such as Oniciata Breccia with earthy brown tones or Breccia Bianco with classic white and gray hues, ensuring a fit for diverse design aesthetics.

Embracing Imperfection

Addressing the common concerns about marble maintenance, Berkus advocates for a more laid-back approach. He prefers "marble that looks aged and lived in," which is why he often opts for honed or matte finishes. Unlike polished surfaces that can magnify every scratch or stain, these finishes are more forgiving and help conceal the signs of daily use. Berkus's philosophy is clear: "I don't baby our marble, I don't think it needs to be treated like a newborn infant." Instead, he encourages homeowners to appreciate the natural patina that develops, viewing it as a testament to a well-loved and actively used kitchen.

Berkus's advice for those considering marble is to select a stone they genuinely love, choose a finish that aligns with their lifestyle, and embrace the beauty that comes with age and use. His simple mantra is to "just say yes" to the marble that speaks to you.

Sources

• The Marble That Nate Berkus Always Recommends for Kitchen Counters, domino.
• Nate Berkus' Favorite Marble Is Bound To Take Over 2025 Design Trends, House Digest.