Why Jeremiah Brent Doesn't Want You To Shy Away From Imperfect Countertops

Durability is often a significant factor for people when choosing kitchen materials. Countertops are not cheap, and homeowners want to know theirs will stand the test of time. So, sometimes they end up making the safe choice. While opting for the most durable countertop material options may make sense, it does not always make for the best design. HGTV designer Jeremiah Brent wants people to go bolder with their countertop material choices. In an Instagram video where he discusses his own Calcutta marble countertops, he said, "The most beautiful stones are the ones that show the history of the people that live there."

It's not just the choice of marble over quartz or granite that Brent is advocating for. He wants to see more people make bold choices in their patterns. "The biggest mistake people make with their marble is playing too safe," he said in the video, and he's not the only one clamoring for more bold, personal choices. Designers and homeowners are beginning to pass over the safe options and are going for marble slabs with bold, colorful veining. Yes, statement marble is making a comeback!

"Marble is never too busy," said Brent. Though he acknowledged that is a controversial statement, even in his own household, he thinks the risk is worth it. Even if you really can't bring yourself to make a statement with your countertops and, instead, choose an understated option, he recommends dressing it up with a more complicated edge detail, like a double ogee.

Statement marble may be trending, but it can also be scary. The good news is that there are some benefits that might assuage your fears. If you're worried about durability, there are steps you can take to protect and care for your marble. From choosing a stone with a slower absorption rate to regularly sealing the surface, there are many ways to keep your marble looking great. But you can also adopt Jeremiah Brent's attitude and just embrace the imperfections. "I like the stains and I like the wine spills," he confessed, but it's also hard to spot any of these stains in his video. By going darker or busier with your marble patterns, you may be able to disguise some of the inevitable wear and tear.

If you're not ready to commit to a full slab of statement stone, dip your toes into the water with a few stone accessories in bold patterns and colors. Whether it's a substantial piece like a coffee table or something small like a vase, incorporating bold marble into your space in a smaller way can help you decide whether you're ready to make the bigger leap. When you're ready to head down to the slab warehouse, be sure to avoid these crucial mistakes when choosing your countertops.