Matching your backsplash with your countertops is one of the most important design decisions when remodeling a kitchen. The right backsplash and countertop pairing can pull your whole kitchen together and create a cohesive, stylish look. With so many different countertop and backsplash options to choose from, it can be tricky to know which combinations work best together. This article will provide tips, ideas, and guidance on pairing backsplashes with popular countertop materials like granite, quartz, marble, and more.
Factors to Consider When Matching Backsplash with Countertops
Before diving into specific backsplash and countertop pairings, here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Color
- Choose a backsplash color that complements your countertop color. Contrasting shades can look bold and striking, while similar hues create a more seamless blend.
- With patterned countertops like granite, pick out one of the colors in the stone and match the backsplash to that shade. This ties the two elements together.
- For dark countertops like black granite or navy blue quartz, opt for a lighter backsplash color to keep the space from feeling too heavy.
Texture
- Match the visual weight of textures between the countertop and backsplash. For example, combine smooth quartz with glossy ceramic tile instead of pairing it with rough stone tile.
- Too many competing textures can make a kitchen feel busy. Try to limit yourself to no more than two dominant textures between the counters and backsplash.
Style
- The backsplash and countertop should coordinate in terms of style. For traditional spaces, choose classic subway tile or marble backsplashes. In modern kitchens, opt for sleek glass or metal backsplashes.
- To play it safe, keep countertops and backsplashes within the same general color family and avoid overly dramatic contrasts between the two surfaces.
Backsplash Ideas for Granite Countertops
Granite countertops bring beautiful speckled patterns and natural richness to a kitchen. Here are some of the best backsplash pairings for granite:
Subway Tile
Classic white 3×6 subway tiles always look gorgeous against the varied colors and textures of granite countertops. Subway tile backsplashes evoke traditional kitchen style. Glossy tiles with dark grout lines emphasize the grid-like geometry, while white grout blends the tiles together seamlessly.
Glass Tile
For a bit more color, glass subway tiles or mosaic sheets add a modern twist. Match the glass tiles to one of the lighter mineral tones in your granite slabs. Blue, green, and metallic glass tiles contrast beautifully with the flecks in granite.
Stone Tile
Tile made of natural stone like marble, travertine, or slate complement the earthiness of granite counters. Stacked stone tiles or mosaic marble tiles work well. Keep the backsplash relatively simple since granite is already so bold.
Metal or Stainless Steel
For an ultra modern, industrial vibe, install a stainless steel or aluminum metal backsplash behind granite countertops. The hardness and sleekness of metal pairs nicely with the ruggedness of stone.
Tile Shape and Pattern
Outside of material, the shape and pattern chosen for backsplash tiles also impacts the overall look:
- Long rectangular subway tiles create clean horizontal lines
- Small mosaic tiles make a granite backsplash busier
- Geometric motifs complement granite’s natural texture
- Contrasting grout lines can frame the backsplash grid
Backsplash Ideas for Quartz Countertops
With its gleaming smooth appearance, quartz makes a stylish countertop choice. Here are go-to backsplash pairings for popular quartz colors:
White Quartz
- White marble, glass, or ceramic subway tiles
- Gray or beige stone mosaic
- Metallic tiles like stainless steel or silver
- Boldly patterned or geometric tile designs
Gray Quartz
- White subway tile with gray grout lines
- Blue, green, or turquoise glass mosaic tiles
- Natural stone travertine or limestone
- Gray ceramic brick-pattern tiles
Black Quartz
- Bright white subway tiles
- Warm natural stone like marble or travertine
- Contrasting glass tiles in orange, yellow, or blue
Patterned or Veined Quartz
- For patterned quartz, match the backsplash to the most dominant color
- Solid tiles with minimal veining/pattern avoid clashing with the countertop
- Mosaics can mimic and accentuate the quartz patterning
Backsplash Ideas for Marble Countertops
Marble counters add timeless elegance but can stain easily. Use the backsplash to protect the walls without detracting from the marble beauty:
Subway Tile
Subway tiles create separation between the backsplash and marble countertop. The plain tiles also allow the marble to stand out. Use glossy white tiles to reflect light and make the surface feel bright and open.
Glass Tile
Glass mosaic sheets help protect the walls while letting the marble counters gleam. For white or gray marble, experiment with bold colored glass tiles in the backsplash. Or choose metallic mosaic tiles like copper that tie into marble’s veining.
Stone Tile
Honed stone tiles like travertine pair nicely with marble counters. Keep the backsplash stone tiles relatively smooth and solid. Avoid busy patterns that compete too much with marble’s dramatic veining.
Metal
For open, contemporary kitchens, install a sleek metal backsplash behind marble counters. Stainless steel, copper, or nickel silver help protect the walls, while polished metal and marble create an eye-catching combo.
Backsplash Ideas for Butcher Block Countertops
Butcher block counters made from wood provide a warm, natural look popular in many kitchens. Backsplash ideas include:
Subway Tile
The classic subway tile backsplash pairs perfectly with eco-friendly wooden butcher block countertops. White tiles keep things light and bright to balance out the rich wood tones.
Stone Tile
Natural stone tiles like slate, travertine, or marble complement butcher block’s raw wood texture. Stacked stone tiles can mimic the layered plank look on a vertical surface. Keep the tile relatively matte to avoid clashing with the countertop finish.
Brick
For an industrial edge, install a brick backsplash against butcher block counters. Red brick contrasts nicely with natural wood tones. You can also do faux brick with tile for a cleaner look.
Wood Planks
If you want to continue the wood motif, use wood plank tiles or reclaimed barnwood for the backsplash. This creates a seamless, coordinated look and provides continuity across the wood counters and backsplash.
Matching Backsplash with Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops provide an affordable kitchen option. Here are some stylish backsplash ideas for laminate:
Patterned Tile
Laminate counters come in solid colors and faux patterns like marble or granite. Patterned tiles with minimal texture like geometric motifs or graphic prints complement the countertop design.
Colored Glass Tile
For solid color laminate counters, pick out a shade from the countertop and find colored glass tiles, mosaic sheets, or glass subway tiles in that same hue for the backsplash. This ties the two elements together.
Metallic Tiles
Glossy metallic backsplash tiles like stainless steel, copper, or aluminum give laminate counters a more elevated, high-end look. Metallic backsplashes pair well with neutral grays, beiges, or whites.
Subway Tile
For an easy match with patterned or solid laminate counters, opt for basic white 3×6 subway tiles with minimal grout lines. This classic backsplash style complements most laminate countertops.
Backsplash Design Tips for Matching Countertops
Beyond the specific backsplash and countertop pairings above, keep these general design principles in mind:
Contrast vs. Blend
- Matching shades between the backsplash and countertop creates a flowing, blended look. Contrasting colors make the surfaces pop against each other. Decide which aesthetic you prefer.
Limit Patterns
- Too many competing colors, textures, and designs between the backsplash and countertop can feel visually overwhelming. Try to limit yourself to one or two statement patterns/textures.
Creative Shape and Layout
- Backsplash tiles can be installed in interesting layouts beyond basic grids. Get creative with angled diamonds, herringbone designs, decorative inlays, and artistic tile shapes.
Extend Backsplash to Range Hood
- For a seamless look, use the same backsplash tile to cover the area around your range hood or vent. This helps tie the entire back wall together.
Cohesive Kitchen Palette
- Make sure your backsplash and countertop combination coordinates with the overall kitchen design, including cabinet colors, hardware finishes, and accent decor.
Popular Backsplash and Countertop Combos
Here are some of the most commonly seen pairings in kitchen designs:
- White subway tile backsplash with gray/white quartz countertops
- Marble backsplash with marble countertops (matching looks)
- Glass mosaic backsplash with black granite countertops
- Travertine tile backsplash with butcher block counters
- Stainless steel backsplash with black quartz countertops
- Blue glass subway tile with white quartz countertops
By keeping these best practice backsplash ideas in mind, you’re sure to end up with a countertop and backsplash combination that makes your kitchen look pulled-together and stylish. Always remember to evaluate the overall look for color coordination, texture, and style. With the right backsplash pairing, your countertops will really shine!
Frequently Asked Questions
What backsplash goes with white quartz countertops?
Some of the best backsplash pairings for white quartz countertops include:
- White subway tiles with light gray grout lines
- Calacatta marble tiles or marble mosaics
- Blue, green, or metallic glass tiles/mosaics
- Geometric patterned ceramic or porcelain tiles
Avoid excessively dark or busy backsplashes, which may clash with pristine white quartz. Simple, light-colored backsplash materials allow the countertops to take center stage.
How do I match my existing backsplash with new countertops?
If installing new countertops, choose a material that coordinates with your existing backsplash in terms of color, texture, and style. For example, replace laminate counters with quartz in a similar solid white or beige tone. Or swap dated solid surface countertops for granite or marble that matches the backsplash.
If needed, replace portions of the backsplash itself (around the range, for example) to create a more cohesive look with the new countertops.
Should backsplash match cabinet color or countertop?
It’s generally best to match the backsplash color with the countertops rather than the cabinets. Cabinets are plentiful vertically throughout the kitchen, while the countertops are a dominant horizontal surface directly above the backsplash.
However, also aim for some coordination in the palette across cabinets, countertops, and backsplash. Contrast is good; clashing colors and styles are not.
Is it bad to have too much of the same tile?
Having tile on both the backsplash and countertops can be perceived as “too much of a good thing” if the materials are identical. To avoid monotony, either choose contrasting backsplash and countertop tiles or use some decorative mosaic inlays, borders, or medallions to break up continuous tile.
What tile can be used on both backsplash and countertop?
Durable porcelain tiles are one good option for covering both the backsplash and countertops seamlessly. Materials like marble, travertine, or slate can also tile both surfaces elegantly. Make sure the tiles are honed or finished for low-maintenance use on countertops.
Can you put tile straight on laminate countertops?
It is not recommended to install tile directly on top of laminate countertops. Laminate is not strong enough to support the weight of heavy tile without warping or flexing over time. Instead, replace old laminate counters with new solid surface materials or waterproof substrate to support tiled countertops.
Conclusion
Matching your backsplash with your countertops in a way that pulls the whole kitchen together takes careful consideration of colors, patterns, textures, and materials. The good news is that there are endless stylish combinations to suit any kitchen. From sleek subway tiles with quartz counters to intricate stone and glass mosaics behind marble, your dream backsplash and countertop pairing is out there waiting to be installed. Use the ideas in this guide to gain inspiration and confidence in designing the perfect coordinated look. With smart planning and design, you can easily blend your backsplash and countertops into a space that both looks amazing and functions flawlessly for years to come.