How to Afford the Kitchen You Want

The average kitchen has roughly 23 linear feet of counter surface. That much marble is a gorgeous extravagance. Fortunately, look-alike synthetic materials can deliver a similar look for less.

Gray-veined Carrara marble. For many, the wonderful character this stone imparts is worth a little extra work: periodic sealing with food-grade mineral oil, a bit more care in using trivets, the need for a fast cleanup to avoid stains. About $75 to $90 per square foot, installed; Cancos Tile & Stone