Recently, new U.S. tariffs targeted more than 180 countries, affecting the homebuilding industry. Among the products now facing higher costs is marble, a classic choice for high-end kitchens and bathrooms. Design professionals warn that the tariff increase on European Union marble will raise costs for homeowners. Interior designer Nick Smith says, This is more than a price rise — it triggers knock-on effects for design decisions and investment return." ### The current price of marble On average, marble surfaces are priced around sixty dollars a foot, according to industry sources.

Italian Carrara, a cloudy white variety, runs about $60 to $100 per square foot. Premium Calacatta, famous for luxurious patterns, is priced from $180 per square foot — meaning a tariff rise could send it up to over $216 per square foot. Alongside price pressures, builders note that customer bills are likely to climb more. ### How tariffs hit home The majority of marble in the U.S. is brought in from Spain. Import duties now add 20% for Italy and Spain, 27% for India, and 34% for Chinese marble.

This can blow costs for remodelling. Smith notes, Marble is now a staple in both kitchens and bathrooms, from waterfall vanity tops to window sills." ### Luxury alternatives without the same price tag If marble’s new price puts you off, there are multiple high-end options: - **Quartzite** – Mined domestically, with elegance similar to modern marble dining table (just click for source), costing $70–$120/sq ft. - **Soapstone** – Matte, veined, and unique, sourced from Virginia, at $70 to $120 per foot.

- **Quartz** – Man-made, mimics marble