Try posting your question in Home Decorating for a lot more response.

I agree, but am worried about how the stoneware will hold up, i.e., knife marks etc.

I also think the Marin is nice. Did you check reviews on CB's site? I found this link...scroll way down for over 2000 reviews. I only checked the first few, but there are comments about chips and staining.

https://www.crateandbarrel.com/marin-white-dinnerware/f40522

Side note...most of my everyday dinnerware and serving pieces are white. Food just looks better on white IMO. I've found that occasional markings from flatware are easily wiped away using Bar Keepers Friend...FWIW.

Marin!

HI -- I always judge by the cup , which is what gets used the most -- the conran cups look like they could tip over . The crate and Barrel set has two cup choices that stand more solid .

Agree with lefty47. Also like the look of the Marin mug more...if you're even including them.

I have had sophie conran portmeirion as my everyday dishes since 2008. In the last year, some of the most often used plates look a little beat up from fork and knife wear. I still love they how it looks. They are real China and meant to hold up, and they did. Marin is stoneware, which is not as resilient.