Recently, import duties were applied to more than 180+ nations, impacting the homebuilding industry. Among the materials now facing higher costs is marble, a beloved choice for luxury kitchens and bathrooms. Design professionals warn that the duty hike on European marble will push prices higher for homeowners. Interior designer Nick Smith says, This is more than a price rise — it changes project planning for material selection and investment return." ### What marble countertops cost today Right now, marble countertops are priced around $60/sq ft, according to suppliers.

Italian-sourced Carrara, a subtle grey-veined variety, runs about $60 to $100 per square foot. Calacatta marble, known for dramatic veining, starts at $180 per square foot — meaning a 20% tariff could push it to over $216 per square foot. Combined with general cost rises, fabricators note that final quotes could go even higher. ### The bigger impact The Marble Furniture Store majority of marble in the U.S. is sourced from Italy.

Import duties now add 20% for European sources, 27% for India, and 34% for Chinese marble. Such increases can blow costs for renovations. Smith notes, Bathrooms today use as much marble as kitchens, from waterfall vanity tops to flooring." ### Luxury alternatives that bypass tariffs If marble feels out of reach, there are multiple premium options: - **Quartzite** – Found in states like Texas and Arizona, with elegance similar to marble, costing around $70 to $120 a foot. - **Soapstone** – Matte, veined, and unique, sourced from Vermont, at $70–$120/sq ft.

- **Quartz** – Non-porous, imitates natural