Choosing the perfect backsplash to complement your dark cabinets and white countertops can be tricky. The backsplash serves both aesthetic and functional purposes in a kitchen. Visually, the backsplash ties together the countertops and cabinetry to create a cohesive look. Practically, the backsplash protects the walls from moisture, stains and splashes.
When selecting a backsplash for dark cabinets and white countertops, you want to find a design that enhances both elements. The right backsplash will make the dark cabinets pop while also complementing the crisp look of the white countertops. There are several material options to consider that can achieve this stylish two-tone look.
Factors to Consider for Backsplash with Dark Cabinets and White Countertops
Before selecting a backsplash for your dark and white kitchen design, here are some important factors to consider:
Color
- A lighter colored backsplash works best with the high contrast of dark cabinets and white countertops. Shades of white, off-white, light gray and beige are ideal. This helps maintain the purity of the white counters.
- You can also opt for a backsplash in a darker, bold color. Deep shades of blue, green or charcoal add drama and make the white pop. Just be mindful of overwhelming the space.
Material
- Glazed ceramic, glass and porcelain tiles have a shiny surface that reflect light and add vibrancy. Great for a crisp, clean look.
- Natural stone like marble, travertine and granite offer variation and texture. Better suited for traditional or rustic designs. Avoid dark granites.
- Metal and stainless steel backsplashes have an edgy, modern vibe. Best for contemporary kitchens.
Pattern
- Solid backsplash colors keep the focus on the counters and cabinetry. Ideal if you want a seamless look.
- Subway tiles, mosaics and decorative tiles add visual interest. Work well if your goal is a backsplash focal point.
- Mixing patterns or mosaic inserts with solid tiles balances variety and cohesion. Provides a happy medium.
Gloss Level
- Matte or honed finishes minimize glare for a soft, understated look.
- Polished, reflective surfaces brighten the space and accentuate the cabinets and counters.
- Combine glossy and matte tiles for contrast and to highlight specific areas.
Top Backsplash Ideas for Dark Cabinets and White Countertops
Taking all these factors into account, here are some of the best backsplash ideas to pair with dark cabinets and white countertops:
White Subway Tile
The quintessential and timeless white subway tile backsplash works perfectly with dark and white kitchens. The classic rectangular tiles have clean lines that highlight the counter edges while allowing the cabinetry to take center stage. White subway tiles also have just enough surface sheen to provide light reflection. Combine with dark grout for subtle contrast.
White subway tile backsplash against dark cabinets and white countertops. Photo by Designed by June
Gray Glass Tile
For a look that’s slightly more modern than subway tile, consider large-format gray glass tiles. They have a soft, muted tone that blends with dark cabinets while complementing white counters. The glass material also provides gorgeous surface shine to brighten the kitchen. Choose a lighter gray to keep the look subtle.
Gray glass tile backsplash with dark cabinets and white countertops. Photo by Highland Woodworking
White Hexagon Tile
White hexagon-shaped tiles offer an appealing geometric pattern option. The unique shape fits together to create visual impact while the white color keeps the look light and airy. Offset the hexagon tiles with rows of smaller white tiles for even more dimension. This patterned backsplash option injects interest while also pairing nicely with dark and white.
White hexagon tile backsplash with dark cabinets and white countertops. Photo by MSquared Metals.
Mixed Metal
If your kitchen leans more modern or industrial, bring in a multi-metal backsplash. Combining stainless steel, copper, bronze and more adds standout style. Mixing polished, brushed and textured metal finishes provides depth. Keep the cabinetry and counters straightforward to allow the metallic backsplash to steal the focus.
Mixed metal backsplash with dark cabinets and white counters. Photo by Gisele Doyle.
White Shiplap Planks
For a relaxed cottage style kitchen, white shiplap planks make a charming backsplash pairing with dark and white. The wide, horizontal wooden boards have subtly rustic texture. Gaps between the shiplap boards add character while preventing the look from appearing too busy. Keep the rest of the kitchen design clean lined for balance.
White shiplap backsplash with dark cabinets and white counters. Photo by Sweeten.
Gray Herringbone Tile
Herringbone patterned tiles in soft gray bring dimension and visual movement. The zigzag layout looks bold yet subtle against dark cabinets. Gray is a versatile neutral that contributes a lighter color without overpowering bright white surfaces. Give this graphic tile pattern space to make a statement by keeping the countertops and cabinetry simple.
Gray herringbone tile backsplash with dark cabinets and white counters. Photo by Chango & Co..
White Marble Slab
For an elegant, timeless look, a slab backsplash in white marble is just right with dark and white kitchen elements. The soft veining in the marble adds depth and dimension. Opt for a polished finish to allow the white marble to catch and reflect light. Keep the rest of the design clean and modern to let the marble backsplash shine.
White marble slab backsplash with dark cabinets and white counters. Photo by Alno, Inc.
Bold Blue Tile
Go for high visual impact by bringing in a bold colored backsplash tile, like navy blue. Pairing deep blue tiles with crisp white counters and moody cabinets makes for a dramatic combo. For balance, use blue tile only in a contained backsplash area or as an accent strip against a neutral background.
Navy blue tile backsplash with dark cabinets and white counters. Photo by Best Choice Remodeling.
Tips for Installing Backsplash with Dark Cabinets and White Countertops
Once you’ve selected the perfect backsplash tiles for your two-tone kitchen, follow these best practices for installation:
- Allow tiles to run from countertop to upper cabinets for a streamlined look.
- Use decorative trim pieces like bullnose tiles to finish edges nicely.
- Consider special details like an accent border or decorative tile inserts.
- Match the grout color to the backsplash tile tone or go slightly darker.
- Apply a quality sealant to natural stone tiles to prevent staining.
- For heavy tile, follow manufacturer instructions and use backerboard for support.
- If installing a slab backsplash, ensure walls are properly prepared and level.
- Take time to properly space tiles and use tile spacers for consistency.
FAQs
What color backsplash looks best with espresso cabinets and white quartz countertops?
For espresso colored cabinets paired with bright white quartz counters, medium to lighter toned backsplashes work best. White subway tiles, light gray glass tiles, beige stone tiles and off-white ceramic tiles will beautifully complement the espresso and white color scheme. Darker bold backsplashes can be overpowering.
What kind of backsplash can make a small kitchen look bigger?
Using large-format tiles with minimal grout lines can help make a small kitchen look more expansive. 12″ by 24″ subway tiles or continuous horizontal planks are great backsplash options for small kitchens. Stay away from mosaics or small tiles with busy grout lines. solid colored backsplashes also open up the space.
Should you seal natural stone backsplash?
It’s highly recommended to apply a natural stone sealer to backsplash tiles made of marble, travertine, limestone or granite. Sealing fills the porous textures and prevents staining from splashes. Re-apply sealer every 1-2 years. For man-made porcelain or ceramic tiles, a sealer is not necessary.
Is white backsplash still in style?
The white backsplash remains a popular and timeless choice because it pairs well with any cabinetry color and style. White subway tiles, shiplap planks, marble slabs and more never go out of style. A white backsplash keeps things fresh, bright and clean looking. Feel free to incorporate white into patterns or mix with other colors too.
Can you use wallpaper as a backsplash?
Yes, wallpaper makes for an unconventional yet stylish backsplash option, especially for rental kitchens. Use peel-and-stick wallpaper or install permanent wallpaper above the backsplash area. Choose vinyl or paper options that are moisture-resistant. Keep the wallpaper backsplash protected by applying a sealant.
Conclusion
The ideal backsplash for dark cabinets and white countertops enhances both elements to create a pulled-together look. Lighter colored backsplashes like white subway tile, gray glass and marble allow the counters to pop while adding dimension. Bolder hues like navy blue make for an eye-catching contrast. Creative patterns like herringbone and hexagon add visual appeal. Mixing metal finishes gives an edgy vibe. Whatever you choose, select backsplash materials that tie your two-tone kitchen together in a stylish, functional way that suits your personal taste. With proper installation your new backsplash will serve as a stunning focal feature.
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