The combination of white cabinets and a blue backsplash can create a gorgeous, serene kitchen reminiscent of peaceful beach vibes. This fresh, breezy look is the perfect way to bring a relaxing oasis into the heart of your home. In this article, we’ll explore how to design and execute this on-trend look that feels simultaneously timeless and modern.
Selecting White Cabinets for a Light and Airy Look
Crisp white cabinetry immediately evokes thoughts of sunny beach cottages and tranquil spa-like spaces. The color white reflects light beautifully, making the space feel more open and airy. White cabinets can make a small kitchen appear larger and brighter.
When selecting white cabinets, consider the undertones you want to feature. Options like bright white, antique white, and even soft grey-whites will create slightly different moods:
- Bright white has a clean, contemporary feel. It pairs well with cool tones like gray and blue. This is a great option for modern and transitional spaces.
- Antique white has subtle yellow undertones that feel slightly vintage. This white can feel warmer and richer when combined with light wood flooring. It’s ideal for traditional or cottage aesthetics.
- Soft greige whites add a hint of grey for a more sophisticated look. This adaptable neutral works well for any style.
Once you select the shade of white, consider cabinet door styles. Shaker-style cabinetry feels both timeless and fresh. For a coastal vibe, try open shelving, glass cabinet doors, or a painted finish.
No matter what style you select, white cabinets will form an airy, beach-inspired base for your kitchen.
Adding a Blue Backsplash for a Coastal Pop of Color
A blue backsplash is the perfect way to transform an all-white kitchen into a breezy, beachy space. From pale blue to deep ocean tones, a blue backsplash injects color, texture, and personality.
When selecting a blue hue for your backsplash, consider the mood you want to cultivate:
- Soft powder blues are peaceful and ethereal. This is a great backdrop color that won’t overpower.
- Icy blues feel crisp, clean, and modern. Pair them with bright white cabinets for a contemporary beach house.
- Navy blues make a dramatic statement. Deep blue evokes thoughts of the boundless sea and starry nights.
- Robin’s egg blue has retro, playful flair. This cheerful pastel blue is ideal for creating a relaxed, cottage feel.
The shade you choose can shift the whole aura of the space. Lighter blues feel more airy and tranquil, while bold navy blues convey strength. Select a tone that complements both your style and the mood you want to achieve.
In addition to color, the material finish impacts the vibe. Matte tiles or glass add texture while smooth subway tiles have that iconic beach house look. Natural stone mosaic backsplashes in aquatic hues can create a spa-like environment.
Beyond just aesthetics, a blue backsplash has many functional benefits:
- Provides an eye-catching focal point
- Lively color energizes the space
- Natural material is easy to clean
- Waterproof surface beautifully withstands cooking splashes
- Tile pattern adds visual interest and dimension
With so many advantages, it’s easy to see why a blue backsplash is a timeless choice for coastal, contemporary kitchens.
Design Elements that Reinforce the Serene Beach Vibe
Once you’ve selected soothing white cabinets and a peaceful blue backsplash, there are many additional design choices that can strengthen the breezy, coastal aesthetic. Consider incorporating these elements:
Light and Airy Visual Spaciousness
Expand the tranquil vibe with design illusions that make the kitchen feel more open and airy. Some ideas:
- White, light blue or sea glass green walls
- Windows, skylights or solatubes to let in natural light
- Glass cabinet doors and open shelving
- Reflective surfaces like quartz countertops or stainless steel appliances
- Few upper cabinets so sightlines feel more open
- Light wood flooring or white washed wood
Natural Textures and Materials
Incorporate organic textures that feel connected to the seaside. Natural options like:
- Wood backsplashes, cabinets or open shelving
- Shells, starfish, or sea glass as backsplash accents
- Weathered finishes like whitewashed or driftwood stained wood
- Woven baskets, rattan or seagrass for storage
- Quartz or concrete countertops
- Ceramic fish scale tile or terrazzo
Relaxed Furnishings for Casual Comfort
The furniture and decor selections can enhance the laidback vibe. Consider:
- Woven sea grass stools
- Driftwood dining tables
- Galvanized metal and wire baskets for storage
- Vintage accents like washed wood cutting boards or glass floats
- Macrame, cotton and linen textures in curtains, rugs and upholstery
Soothing Accent Colors
While white and blue anchor the scheme, special accent colors can provide the perfect pop. Try these beachy hues:
- Sand beiges and seashell tans
- Salty ocean greens or aquas
- Sun-bleached navy and denim blues
- Weathered greys with cool undertones
- Pure whites in various material finishes
Breezy Patterns and Coastal Motifs
Patterns and imagery that recall the rhythm of the tides help establish this beach house look. Options include:
- Ocean-inspired prints like shells, fish, coral and seaweed
- Geometric tile patterns reminiscent of sailcloth or rope knitting
- Weathered stripes or waves in blues, tans and whites
- Whimsical sailor motifs like anchors, ships wheels and starfish
With thoughtful incorporation of these elements, your white and blue kitchen will transport you straight to the peaceful shores whenever you need a bit of tranquility.
Perfect Paint Colors to Pair with White Cabinets and Blue Backsplash
Choosing complementary hues for your walls, trim and ceiling can take your breezy white and blue kitchen to the next level. Here are some of the most attractive options:
Soothing Neutrals
Crisp whites, sandy beiges, and weathered greys create a relaxed yet contemporary look alongside the blue backsplash and bright white cabinets. Try:
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace or Classic Gray
- Sherwin Williams Sea Salt or Repose Gray
- Behr Silver Drop or Cozy Gray
Ethereal Aquas and Greens
Soft shades of green and blue make the space feel ethereal and connected to the sea. Lovely choices include:
- Benjamin Moore Palladian Blue or Reef Green
- Sherwin Williams Oceanside or Surf Green
- Behr Aquamarine or Spa
Driftwood and Sand Tones
Warm neutrals evoke sun-bleached driftwood and serene sandy shores. For coastal flavor try:
- Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist or Manchester Tan
- Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige or Dorian Gray
- Behr Beach House or Fossil
Crisp Naval Hues
For more contrast, bold maritime navy blues and cadet greys pop against the lighter blue backsplash. Options like:
- Benjamin Moore Hale Navy or Covington Gray
- Sherwin Williams Naval or Rainmaster
- Behr Dark Night or Armor Gray
Retro Beach Pastels
If you want a playful 50s beach house vibe, try sweet pastel paint colors like:
- Benjamin Moore First Light or Feather Gray
- Sherwin Williams Tradewind or Bayberry
- Behr Blue Danube or Lilac Fields
Whatever direction you choose, select two or three coordinated hues for your walls, cabinets, and ceiling. This thoughtful color palette will let your gorgeous white and blue kitchen shine.
Choosing Countertops to Coordinate with White Cabinets and Blue Backsplash
Your countertop is a major surface within your kitchen. Selecting a material and color that complements your white cabinets and blue backsplash is key to creating a cohesive look. Here are some options that work beautifully:
Crisp White Quartz
A bright white quartz countertop provides clean contrast next to the blue backsplash while matching the white cabinets. The sparkling surface amplifies light to make the kitchen feel even more spacious and airy.
Try a crisp white quartz like Vicostone Kenya.
Weathered White Marble
For an ethereal, coastal look, try white marble with gray veining. The surface mimics stormy ocean waves and sand swirls.
Good options include Calacatta Nuvo or Carrara Marble.
Light Oak or Walnut Stained Wood
Warm light wood countertops also pair attractively with the blue backsplash tiles. The natural grain provides texture and ties in any wood flooring.
Consider white oak or walnut stained to a coastal gray driftwood hue.
Concrete in Coastal Hues
For an edgy industrial vibe, go for sleek concrete counters tinted in soft beachy hues. This amplifies the urban warehouse aesthetic.
Try a company like Fuqua Concrete in serene pastel blues, greens or greys.
Recycled Glass in Sea Glass Colors
Upcycled crushed glass makes a sustainable choice. Opt for soft sea glass colors like aqua blue, seafoam or oyster white.
Check companies like IceStone, EnviroGLAS or GlassEco.
Neutral Quartzes and Soapstones
More neutral hues like soft grey, cream or black quartzes and soapstones can allow the blue backsplash to take center stage while grounding the space.
Great options include Cambria Ellesmere, Caesarstone Symphony Grey or Mason Quartz Soapstone.
Whatever material you select, be sure the countertop color has cool undertones and a subdued finish that fits the relaxed mood. Then you can continue crafting your perfect coastal kitchen oasis.
Flooring Options for Seamless Design Harmony
An impactful way to reinforce the breezy palette is selecting flooring in analogous cool toned neutrals. Here are some flooring ideas that will blend beautifully with crisp white cabinets and a blue backsplash:
Light and Mid-Tone Wood
Naturally Beautiful choices like weathered oak, ash, birch or pine with a soft grey wash feels both beachy and modern. Wide plank floors would complement the relaxed vibe.
Ethereal Grey Wood-Look Tile
If you prefer tile, go for an extra-long plank format in serene greys that resemble driftwood or pebbles washed up on the shoreline. Try porcelain or ceramic tiles with subtle texture.
Hazy Blue-Grey Stone
Natural stone flooring in understated palettes creates an organic coastal Look. Hazy blues, greys, and grays that recall the sea are ideal. Opt for smaller tiles to contrast with the backsplash.
Woven Seagrass or Sisal
For a super casual and textural cottage aesthetic try woven natural fiber rugs in cream, tan and grey. Use durable seagrass or sisal and layer them over wood or tile floors.
Sandy Neutral Vinyl Plank
If you need a budget flooring that can withstand wet areas, waterproof vinyl plank tiles are a great option. Select a sand colored wood look or subdued stone aesthetic for tranquility.
Painted Wood Planks
Another beach cottage option is simply painting your existing floors white or a very pale grey-blue. The matte, monochromatic look evokes weathered verandas.
Whatever flooring you choose, select lighter toned cool greys, blues and tans that feel connected to the coastal backsplash and pristine white cabinetry. Take time to view large floor samples and visualize the full space before finalizing your perfect floor.
Best Lighting to Brighten a White and Blue Kitchen
Proper lighting is crucial for making your white and blue kitchen look as beautiful and airy as possible. Combining multiple lighting sources creates depth, dimension and an overall ambiance that reinforces the serene beachy design.
Statement Light Fixtures
Don’t overlook the power of your central light fixtures. Choose an eye-catching chandelier, pendant or sconce pairing in on-trend coastal hues:
- Woven rattan, wicker or sea grass
- Beachy shapes like shells, droplets or waves
- White and tan braided rope, jute or burlap
- Weathered wood in soft grey or white washed oak
- Nautically inspired with oars, life preservers or captain’s wheels
Flattering Layered Ambient Lighting
Supplement statement lights by amply blanketing all work areas with soft ambient options:
- Recessed can lighting surrounding main work stations
- Under cabinet lighting to illuminate counters and backsplash
- Swing arm sconces for precise task lighting
- Lantern-style wall sconces for dining nooks
- Toe kick lighting to create an airy floating effect
Natural Illumination from Multiple Sources
Take advantage of any opportunities for plentiful natural light:
- Large window installations to draw in sunlight
- Skylights and light tubes to amplify overhead light
- Glass cabinet doors and open display shelving
By thoughtfully combining all three layers – statement, ambient and natural light your white and blue kitchen will glow with character and purpose.
Storage Solutions for Clutter-Free Coastal Style
One potential challenge of the breezy white on white coastal look is keeping visual clutter hidden away. Luckily, there are many attractive storage solutions perfect for maintaining your serene atmosphere.
Extra Cabinet Organization Solutions
Maximize existing cabinet storage with handy accessories:
- Slide out drawer inserts and cabinets maximize vertical room
- Pull out spice racks keep staples visible yet tidy
- Tiered inserts allow you to better utilize tall pantry space
- Lazy susans create easy access to corner cabinet items
Stylish Open Shelving for Display
Open shelving instantly lightens up the look. Keep items organized with:
- Coordinating ceramic, glass or metal canisters for loose dry goods
- Hanging utensil racks or rails to store cooking tools
- Decorative hooks for aprons, towels and potholders
- Baskets or bins for fruit, cookbooks and ancillary items
On Trend Ladders, Racks and Rails
Install vertically oriented storage options to capitalize on empty wall space:
- Galvanized pipe towel racks and hanging bars for pots and pans.
- Wooden ladders leaned against the wall for draping linens and potholders
- Wall mounted knife racks and cutting boards for essentials
Custom Built-In Cabinets and Storage Nooks
For a fully tailored look, add custom millwork like:
- Desk area built into the end of a run of cabinets
- Drink station built around the refrigerator
- Boxed open shelving flanking the range
- Mudroom bench with storage cubbies near entryway
Getting creative with storage lets you hide clutter without sacrificing your light and open aesthetic. Start brainstorming ways to tuck items out of sight.
Incorporating Beachy Accessories for Relaxed Style
The right decorative accessories can make all the difference in cultivating casual coastal vibes in your breezy white and blue kitchen. Avoid clutter and thoughtfully include special pieces that reinforce the mood you wish to create. Consider displaying:
Organic and Weathered Elements
Natural found items evoke serene shores:
- Sea glass collected from the beach in aquas and blues
- Sun-bleached unique shells and starfish
- Pieces of smooth sea-tumbled glass
- Sand dollars, sea urchins and coral pieces
- Weathered twisted driftwood
- Ocean-polished stones
Nautical Inspired Decor
Subtle nautical motifs subtly align with the coastal color scheme:
- Ceramic anchors or ships wheels
- Rope knot wall hangings
- Navy striped dish towels
- Vintage models of sailboats
- Galvanized buckets, watering cans and lanterns
Beach Landscape Accents
Representational items that depict scenes from seaside towns:
- Black and white photos of lifeguard stands or lighthouses
- Beach signage and maps of coastal towns
- Paintings or prints of crashing waves or seashells
- Canvas photos of family beach trips
Relaxed Textile Touches
Soothing natural fiber additions:
- Woven baskets for fruit or bread
- Natural jute or seagrass rugs
- Macrame wall hangings or planter holders
- Ceramic pieces in sand and sea glass hues
Sprinkle in meaningful decorative touches without going overboard. Let accessories accentuate (not distract from) your fabulous white and blue kitchen design.
5 Beautiful Backsplash Tile Patterns to Try
An artful backsplash tile pattern can bring your kitchen to life. With so many options, it can be tough to choose the perfect design. Here are 5 beautiful and versatile backsplash tile patterns that complement white cabinets and different shades of blue tile:
Classic White Subway Tile
The iconic rectangular white subway tile arranged in a basic brick pattern never goes out of style. Use white grout to play up the crisp, clean look. Intersperse rows of blue tile at intervals to add pops of color.
Herringbone
Asymmetrical herringbone patterns add visual interest with dimension. Layer differing shades of aqua blue tiles in a timeless herringbone layout. Add some white tiles throughout for contrast.
Geometric Moroccan Fish Scale Tile
For a graphic punch, try a mosaic tile laid in a geometric fish scale pattern. Use varying shapes and shades of blue tile for interest. Keep walls and cabinets white to prevent overwhelming.
Ogee Sea Wave Pattern
Mimic the rhythmic flow of ocean waves with an ogee tile pattern. Lay L-shaped tiles in rows, rotating ends to make a