Water marks don't need to be cleaned off (unless they are permanent). It just means your stone needs to be sealed. You can get a high grade sealer/ impregnator at Granquartz or Regent. Seal your marble twice a year and that problem should go away. Buy one of the half liters or 4 oz bottles (the former should last you two seals at least). This is a good quality for marble: https://www.granquartz.com/Pages/ItemProfile_Detail.aspx?ItemProfileId=1748&ItemClassNo=92 And this one is particularly good for sealing marble, especially in the kitchen: https://www.regentstoneproducts.com/item_detail2.aspx?ItemCode=ZETASEAL

Lighting - pendants over the servery bench should be another feature that complements your chosen kitchen surfaces. So whilst I love the copper pendants in picture 1.. They could work depending on the rest of your decor and would be a highlight in a neutral white/timber kitchen = Good! If you choose copper you would complement it with a couple of copper bench top items. These are beautiful! (I collect copper because I love it, my kitchen pendants are silver, I renovated to sell in the next 3-5 years) You will see a picture starting to form in your mind and there is nothing wrong with making a statement with your lighting. I found that when I wasn't sure I would get a very strong sense of what was right and what was wrong for a space, then common sense or passion would determine the outcome! Here are another couple that might work, look her on Houzz under lighting, search pendants, then have fun looking!Timber tones with black or white to complement your cabinets... or Statement white pendants for a bit of quirky fun! Your personality can be reflected in your lighting and accessories creating that point of difference from the predictable white on timber look. Plus don't forget the power of greenery to punctuate the theme!

There are specialist benchtop repair companies that do this type of work. Ask for a quote. These two have been recommended in various online forums by people who use them, but I have not personal experience with them. http://www.toprepairs.nz/ http://www.benchdoctors.co.nz/

Looking for white laminate options for a kitchen benchtop. I want a contemporary simple look which has a finish that lasts and is easy to clean and maintain. Also looking for benchtop examples in a showroom in Christchurch.