Purchase through our partnership, you’ll receive: 10% off your stone selection using code: #Megan10
If you’ve ever walked into a slab yard and felt completely overwhelmed… you’re not alone.
Quartz, marble, quartzite, porcelain, granite, they all look beautiful, but they perform very differently in your home. And choosing the right one isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about how you actually live.
As a designer, I always tell my clients: the best stone is the one that fits your lifestyle and your design vision.
Let’s break it down.
Quartz is one of the most popular choices right now and for good reason.
It’s a man-made surface, which means it has a more consistent, uniform look. If you love a clean, polished aesthetic (especially in kitchens), quartz is a great option.
Why people love it:
• Extremely durable
• Low maintenance (no sealing required)
• Great for busy households
• Consistent color and pattern
What to consider:
• Not as heat resistant as natural stone
• Can look less organic than marble or quartzite
• While durable, quartz is not indestructible, it can scratch, stain, fade, or even scorch under certain conditions
• Some newer “printed” quartz designs are still relatively new to the market, and long-term performance may vary depending on quality
Best for: Families, high-traffic kitchens, and anyone who wants beauty without the upkeep.
Porcelain slabs are having a major moment, especially in modern and European-inspired designs.
They mimic the look of marble beautifully but without the same level of maintenance.
Why people love it:
• Heat and scratch resistant
• Sleek, modern aesthetic
• Low maintenance
• Works beautifully on walls, fireplaces, and countertops
What to consider:
• Higher installation cost
• Edges can be more delicate
Best for: Statement spaces, modern homes, and full slab wall applications.
There’s nothing quite like real marble.
It’s classic, high-end, and instantly elevates any space, but it does come with upkeep.
Why people love it:
• Natural stone with unique veining
• Timeless, luxury aesthetic
• Stays cool (great for baking surfaces)
What to consider:
• Can stain and etch if not properly protected
• Requires maintenance and care
That said, when sealed correctly, staining is far less of a concern than many people think. High-quality sealers can last 5–10 years, and the sealing process itself is relatively simple. There are also specialty products designed to reduce etching, though they typically add a surface film and can be more costly.
Best for: Bathrooms, low-traffic areas, or homeowners who appreciate a lived-in patina.
If marble and granite had a perfect middle ground, this would be it.
Quartzite is a natural stone that gives you the beauty of marble with significantly more durability.
Why people love it:
• Heat and scratch resistant
• More durable than marble
• Natural, high-end look
What to consider:
• Requires sealing
• Higher price point
Best for: Kitchens where you want beauty and performance.
Granite has been around forever, but it’s making a comeback in a more elevated way.
Today’s selections feel more curated and design-forward than what you may remember from years ago.
Why people love it:
• Very durable
• Heat resistant
• Wide range of colors
What to consider:
• Requires sealing
• Some patterns can feel busy
Here’s the truth: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
The right choice depends on:
• How you use your kitchen
• Your tolerance for maintenance
• Your design style
• Your budget
If you cook daily, entertain often, or have a busy household, durability matters.
If you’re designing a showpiece space, aesthetics might lead the decision.
The best spaces strike a balance between both.
We’re so excited to officially partner with Encore Stone Studio, one of our favorite sources for high-quality, design-forward slabs.
They offer an incredible selection of quartz, marble, quartzite, porcelain, and more, all curated with a designer’s eye.
And now, you can save when you shop through us.
When you purchase through our partnership, you’ll receive:
10% off your stone selection using code: #Megan10
This is such a great opportunity if you’re:
• Building a new home
• Renovating your kitchen or bathroom
• Or simply sourcing materials for an upcoming project
Stone is one of the most impactful design decisions you’ll make in your home.
It sets the tone for your space, influences how you use it, and ultimately shapes how it feels day to day.
Take your time, see the slabs in person, and choose something that reflects both your lifestyle and your vision.
And if you need help sourcing, we’ve got you 🤍
