Nate Berkus just shared his secrets for successfully using marble throughout his home – including the exact type he favors the most

There are very few materials that stand the test of time, both practically and aesthetically but there's one that almost always proves itself to be a classic, sophisticated choice.

Marble has long been loved for its luxurious qualities, while decorating with marble isn't cheap, it's a popular choice among designers and homeowners looking to bring elegance and style into an interior. Nate Berkus is one such designer. Known for blending the contemporary with the eclectic (a pairing that's not easy to get right), he creates spaces that feel liveable yet refined. When he's perfecting the latter, marble is his go-to material choice.

Putting an end to all the marble-related questions he receives, Nate took to Instagram to answer the many queries the internet has asked. From what's his favorite type, to where he thinks is best to use it, here's what he had to say on all things marble.

1. Is marble difficult to care for?

Caring for natural stone isn't always easy but Nate says he prefers the look of old marble and tends not to worry about meticulously looking after it.

He says, 'I like marble that looks aged and lived in, that's why I usually use honed or matte stone. I don't baby our marble, I don't think it needs to be treated like a newborn infant.'

You'll often find marble in bathrooms and kitchens due to its hardwearing and sleek qualities but the age-old question is how to clean marble countertops?

Punteha van Terheyden, Head of Solved, says, 'While cleaning marble isn't tricky, do be mindful that marble is porous, and therefore a specialized cleaning solution is best. Avoid anything with citric acid, or plant-based cleaners with citrus or grapefruit. It's best to avoid vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils too, to avoid any surface damage. I recommend a PH-neutral cleaning spray such as the Therapy Granite Countertop Cleaner from Amazon, which is safe on Marble and comes with a microfiber cleaning cloth to get you started.'

2. What's your favorite marble?

There are many marble varieties but it's always important to consider the core marble classifications. Monocolored marble is usually one shade whereas polychrome marbles are made of more than one color.

Nate says his all-time favorite marble is a classic white and black variety called Breccia. He explains, 'It's a neutral, Italian marble with a white ground and brown, grey, and black within the veining.'

You would've undoubtedly seen Nate use this material in his projects, like the marble bathroom idea (pictured above) that features the signature neutral veining amongst the cream stone.

'I am seeing a lot of colorful marbles around at the moment, and while I love the mix of playfulness and luxury, my concern would be (like with using any dominant colors) it could date,' says Hebe Hatton, our Head of Interiors. 'Choosing a classic marble like Breccia would be my choice too, especially in a room you use every day like a kitchen or bathroom. Save the colorful options for a powder room.'

3. Is marble your number one choice for a kitchen countertop?

Providing us with kitchen countertop ideas, Nate says that his go-to material choice for the cooking area is always marble.

Answering 'Is marble your number one choice for a kitchen countertop? he says, 'Yes. Always yes.' You'll notice on Nate's Instagram that almost all of his kitchen designs feature the material due to its lasting and chic qualities that elevate the (sometimes clinical) space and transform it into a stylish space that's desirable for both cooking and lounging.

Following marble kitchen ideas, Nate makes it clear that he'll always opt for this long-loved countertop choice as it's easy to clean as well as being stylish.

4. What makes marble so timeless in a home?

You may wonder 'is marble still on trend?' and the answer is yes. It's a timeless material that has deeply historic roots. From Renaissance churches to ancient Roman temples, marble is a traditional architectural choice that brings patina and age into the homes of today.

Nate draws upon this tradition saying, 'It references classical architecture. It's been around since the beginning of time, and is arguably one of the most timeless materials out there.'

5. What are your thoughts on Breche de Violette marble in a kitchen?

Known for its distinct purple hue, Breche de Violette marble is an opulent and rich variety that provides a space with the utmost sophistication and decadence.

When asked his thoughts on this type of marble, Nate says, 'I tend to pick stones with less greens and purples in them, but when I take a risk I'm always happy that I did.'

Nate often decorates with neutrals yet his schemes still feel warm and homely due to his ability to mix textures and pull from the warmer end of the neutral color spectrum. Marble pairs beautifully with minimalist kitchen ideas and minimalist living room ideas.

Shop beautiful marble pieces

Nate loves marble and says he'll always favor it over other materials and it's fair to say we've been swayed too. It's a timeless and versatile material that ages beautifully while bringing sophistication and elegance to any style of home.