4 Luxury Kitchen Materials That Experts Would Never Recommend You Use If You're Worried About Maintenance (and What to Go for Instead)
It's time to look beyond the surface level, these luxurious materials aren't always as good as they may seem — these are the ones to avoid


They say that beauty is more than skin deep, but have you ever considered that the same could be said for your favorite luxury kitchen materials?
Of course, I won't deny the importance of a beautiful, modern kitchen. But should this come at the cost of functionality, or, more importantly, your sanity? After all, kitchens are designed to be lived in, to be used, and enjoyed, not to be constantly preened and scrubbed at.
But we get it, it can be hard to turn away from the alluring beauty of a shiny steel worktop, or an enchanting slab of marble, and we'd be lying if we said we've never made a decision based more on lust than logic. But your kitchen design is not the time nor the place to make these impulsive, looks-first, functionality-second decisions.
While these luxury materials may look great, our experts suspect that you'd quickly come to regret including them in your kitchen design. So, to help steer you in the right direction, the experts have shared the luxury kitchen materials that they would never recommend you use, plus some helpful alternatives.
1. Polished Marble
"Quartzite offers a similar aesthetic with far more durability — it’s elegant, natural, and far better suited for the wear and tear of everyday kitchen use," says Nina.
Starting with the most glaringly obvious answer, marble is a material that is as loved for its beauty as it is hated for its sensitivity. Opting for a marble kitchen is a textbook example of placing form over function. Sure, it may look stunning, but is all the upkeep worth it?
Interior designer Nina Takesh certainly doesn't think so, as she explains, "One luxury material I typically steer clients away from in the kitchen is polished marble. While it’s undeniably beautiful and timeless, it's also incredibly porous and prone to staining, etching, and scratching, especially in high-traffic areas like countertops or islands. I’ve seen clients fall in love with the look, only to be disappointed when a glass of wine or squeeze of lemon juice leaves a permanent mark."
The porous nature of the material leaves it highly vulnerable to any staining, meaning one accidental spill could leave marks that last a lifetime. But with the right treatment, you can mitigate the chances of disaster.
"The likelihood of experiencing issues with your marble is all down to day-to-day maintenance," explains Urvashi Agarwal, creative director at Stone World London. "Marble is usually sealed at the time of installation by a fabricator, and then we recommend wiping up any spills when they happen (to avoid acidic substances from sitting and reacting with the surface) and to use very simple cleaning products."
She continues, explaining, "The key things to avoid are anything that will strip the marble, such as a bleach-based cleaner or any cleaning products containing citrus. A great day-to-day cleaning product is Fairy Liquid and a sponge or Cif."
Microfiber cloths work a charm with gentle dish soap to tackle stains on your marble countertop, and we love these MR.SIGA Microfiber Cleaning Cloths from Amazon.
Opting for a softer finisher, like a honed or leathered marble countertop, will also help minimize the risk of stains and scratches. Though if you're looking for something more risk-free, it may be best to consider a marble alternative.
"For those that are still apprehensive on the use of marble, natural quartzite is an excellent alternative with some beautiful choices with varied veining and color options. Colors like Taj Mahal, Fusion, Bianco Eclipse, and Macaubas have been very popular in recent years," shares Urvashi.
Stone World was founded in 1990, by urvashi's parents, Shekhar & Bina, sparked by the fortuitous sale of Verde Guatemala marble tiles. Despite venturing into an unknown territory, their passion for stone was instant and long-lasting. The founding ethos of the business has always been to deliver quality material & service to clients. They can proudly say that they have the largest selection of stone in London.
2. Unlacquered Brass
"Brushed brass, satin gold, and French gold finishes give you that warm, golden tone people crave, but they're sealed, consistent, and far easier to live with," says Judi.
"Unlacquered brass has become the darling of luxury kitchens. It's got that soulful, heritage look — warm, understated, evocative of a well-loved European home," says Judi Cooper, from Kitchens Inside Out.
This antique-style brass kitchen idea has become increasingly popular over recent years, offering a romantic touch to any kitchen design.
"You'll see it in all the right places: high-end showrooms, glossy magazine spreads, the kitchens of people who seem to live in a constant state of golden hour," Judi continues, "But here's the quiet truth you don't hear enough: it's a high-maintenance relationship, and most people aren't ready for the commitment."
While there's an undeniable appeal to this kind of luxury finish, unless you're prepared for plenty of upkeep, it may be best to avoid these accents.
"Unlacquered brass is what's called a 'living finish.' That means it changes. It darkens. It spots. It collects fingerprints, water stains, and general evidence of life within days. Not weeks — days," Judi highlights.
The speed with which this material gathers signs of wear is an off-putting factor for most — you have to really commit to embracing it. However, some may enjoy the way the surface gradually changes, reflecting your use of the space.
"If you're the type who finds beauty in that kind of natural aging, that organic patina that tells a story, then it might be a love match. But most come to regret it. They imagine elegance, and they get something that, frankly, can look a little unkempt," Judi advises.
3. Stainless Steel Countertops
If you still want the look offered by stainless steel, try using the material for your cabinets instead of your counters.
When it comes to deciding which kitchen countertop material is best for your luxurious kitchen space, understanding the maintenance required of each material is of utmost importance. While we love the industrial-chic look of a stainless steel kitchen countertop, the upkeep is... less appealing.
"Metal countertops are a popular choice for an industrial, yet elegant look, but they are not the best material for countertops," states Diana Viere from ITALKRAFT.
"While metals like stainless steel are durable, they are not scratch-proof, and over time, scratches and dents may form from daily cooking," she explains.
Over time, these small scratches and dents will accumulate, creating a finish that feels miles away from the shiny counters you had originally imagined, making it a luxury kitchen countertop material to avoid.
"They are also very difficult to keep clean as fingerprints, smudges, and water spots are highly visible on the surface,” Diana continues.
If you're prepared for the upkeep, or already have a stainless steel countertop, frequent, mild scrubs and gentle cleaning solutions will be your best friend in maintaining a smooth, streak-free surface; and if you want some extra shine, try finishing with a steel surface polish, like this GLEAN Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish Spray at Amazon.
4. Exotic Woods
A light oak is a durable, sustainable, and beautiful option for a wooden kitchen design.
"As a designer, I always avoid using exotic woods in kitchens," says interior designer Lexie Saine.
Beyond issues of maintenance and durability, another key aspect to consider when looking at luxurious kitchen materials is the sustainability of the material in question. With many high-end, luxury materials, part of their appeal may come from their exclusivity, and the potentially dubious means with which they were sourced. Plus, with so many innovative sustainable materials to choose from, there's really no need to opt for a material that is to the detriment of the environment.
"While materials like zebrawood or wenge can look stunning, they’re simply too sensitive to humidity and heat, and they come with major sustainability concerns," explains Lexie.
"These woods can warp, crack, or discolor over time — not ideal for a hardworking kitchen environment. I much prefer to reserve them for more controlled spaces, like a luxury closet or a custom dresser, where their dramatic grain can really shine without the risk of damage," she explains.
However, this is not to say wood is not an acceptable material for kitchen designs; in fact, we've come to love the retro wood-drenched kitchens of late, so long as they are constructed of a durable, sustainable option.
"In kitchens, I lean toward beautiful, durable alternatives like FSC-certified domestic hardwoods or engineered veneers that offer both style and stability," says Lexie.
As Judi says, "Luxury shouldn't feel like work. Especially in the kitchen, where you're already doing enough."
By avoiding these tricky materials, you're already well on your way to designing a truly luxurious kitchen, and one that you won't be afraid to live in. If you're still on the hunt for inspiration, we love these unique kitchen color ideas.
Be The First To Know
The Livingetc newsletters are your inside source for what’s shaping interiors now - and what’s next. Discover trend forecasts, smart style ideas, and curated shopping inspiration that brings design to life. Subscribe today and stay ahead of the curve.

Maya Glantz is a Design Writer at Livingetc, covering all things bathrooms and kitchens. Her background in Art History informed her love of the aesthetic world, and she believes in the importance of finding beauty in the everyday. She recently graduated from City University with a Masters Degree in Magazine Journalism, during which she gained experience writing for various publications, including the Evening Standard. A lover of mid-century style, she can be found endlessly adding to her dream home Pinterest board.
-
I'd Have Never Thought Mid-Century Modern Style Would Work So Well for a Bathroom — But These 10 Examples Prove They're a Match Made in Heaven
The mid-century look gets a modern makeover in these stunning bathroom projects, all handpicked by the experts
-
Off to 3daysofdesign? These Are the Coolest Things to Do and See in Copenhagen This Week
We've broken down everything you should know ahead of the festival, from interactive installations to culinary pop-ups and more
-
10 Outdated Kitchen Island Trends to Avoid in 2025 Remodels — And What Designers Are Doing Instead
Planning a kitchen renovation? Here are a few outdated styles of island that the experts are giving a miss in their schemes right now
-
I’m an Architect, and This Is How I’ve Made Budget Kitchens Look Expensive in My Projects
Starting with a budget kitchen frame, I've transformed my fair share of spaces into luxurious-looking, elevated design schemes
-
Should You Include a Wine Fridge in Your Kitchen? Experts Are Divided on Whether This 'Valuable' Feature Is Really Worth It
A suave and sophisticated kitchen feature, or peripheral and passé? We explore whether or not a wine fridge deserves a place in your kitchen plans
-
The 20mm or 30mm Debate — Which of These Worktop Thicknesses Looks Better in a Modern Kitchen?
It's incredible to think how one centimeter can change the entire feel of your space — but these design experts say it absolutely can
-
I Thought I'd Seen Every Kind of Marble Island as a Kitchens Editor, But Number 9 on This List Is a New (and New Favorite) Idea
Cool, classic, and dripping in drama — marble is still the ultimate way to give your kitchen island a Roman Empire–grade glow-up
-
10 Genius Ways to Include Sockets in Your Kitchen Island — From Good Placement to the Cleverest Hidden Designs to Disguise Eyesores
From hidden pop-ups to discreet side panels, discover sleek socket ideas that blend function and design seamlessly into your kitchen island
-
How Much Extra Will a Kitchen Island Cost Your Remodel? Starting Prices, and the Factors That Stretch the Budget
Budget for the centerpiece of your kitchen with advice from kitchen design experts on size, style, materials, and appliances
-
Are Islands Ruining Kitchens? We Asked Designers If This Once-Favorable Feature Has Lost Its Appeal
Islands have been a mainstay of kitchen design for decades, but have we moved on from this traditional layout? Here's what the experts have to say