HGTV's Mina Starsiak Hawk Defends A Controversial Kitchen Trend

Certain trends might stir up debate, but as HGTV's Mina Starsiak Hawk shows, sometimes taking a design risk can lead to a stunning payoff. It's safe to say Mina isn't afraid to stand by controversial choices — whether she's backing the lawn swap she says in a no-brainer, or holding firm on her favorite materials. Recently, she's taken to Instagram to defend one of her most talked-about decisions — Carrara marble kitchen countertops in an all-white kitchen.

This duo of marble and white kitchen designs may be just as timeless as it is divisive. Carrara marble is a choice that some try to avoid due to concerns over its durability, and all-white kitchens spark similar mixed opinions — some find them chic, while others feel they lack warmth. When it comes down to it, nearly every design choice can be controversial if you consider all the pros and cons. But, with years of design experience under her belt, Mina believes that this trend is worth the risk. If she's willing to defend this look, maybe it's something worth exploring for your own kitchen.

Carrara marble has long been a popular yet contentious choice in kitchen design. While it offers an elegant look, some view it as too high-maintenance, prone to stains and scratches, and therefore overrated. Similarly, all-white kitchens often draw mixed opinions for being either stylishly modern or overly simplistic. HGTV's Mina Starsiak Hawk, however, is a firm advocate for both. In an Instagram post, she responded to skeptics with a playful video caption (via Instagram), "The classic, clean look of Carrara Marble and white cabinets are a blank slate. It's a timeless look that can fit into any design style." For Mina, this combination's versatility is worth every penny, allowing people to refresh their kitchen around the classic countertop without a full remodel.

Of all the gorgeous countertop materials your favorite HGTV stars swear by, Mina's pick may be the most disputed. However, she understands that Carrara marble may not fit everyone's lifestyle or budget. Mina loves this expensive marble, but is also a fan of one affordable alternative — quartz. For those who want the elegance of marble without the upkeep, quartz offers a similar look with enhanced durability. Whether you agree with Mina's take and want to bring it into your own home, or prefer to steer clear of this trend, you have to appreciate her honest approach. By championing both Carrara marble and all-white kitchens, Mina shows us how some controversial design choices can actually add lasting value and flexibility to a space.