Deciding whether your backsplash needs to match your countertop is one of the key design choices when remodeling a kitchen. With so many options for materials, colors, and patterns, it can be overwhelming to pick combinations that work well together. Here is a detailed guide on harmonizing your backsplash and countertop to create a cohesive look.
Factors to Consider When Matching Backsplash and Countertop
Several key factors go into making the right backsplash and countertop pairing:
Aesthetics
The main consideration is simply what pleases your eye. Do you prefer a monochromatic, tone-on-tone look? Or something with more contrast? Backsplashes can provide an opportunity to bring in a fun pop of color, pattern or texture.
Functionality
Think about durability and maintenance. Some materials like natural stone require more sealing than ceramic or glass tile. Glossy surfaces show water spots and smears more readily. Consider which materials will hold up best to your cooking style and cleaning regimen.
Cohesion
While you don’t necessarily have to match, your backsplash and countertop should coordinate. Similar colors, tones, and visual weight create unity. To keep the look cohesive, consistent colors and finishes in the backsplash tile work best.
Lighting
The amount and type of lighting in your kitchen impacts how colors appear. View tile and stone samples in both natural and artificial light to get the truest sense of the hue.
Personal Style
There’s no “right” way to combine backsplash and countertop. Whether you prefer traditional, modern, cottage, eclectic or other style, choose materials and colors that bring your personal vision to life.
Guidelines for Pairing Backsplashes with Popular Countertop Materials
Below are some general guidelines on harmonizing backsplashes with some of the most common countertop materials:
Granite Countertops
With its speckled, marbled look, granite pairs well with many styles. Match the dominant color in the stone for a smooth look. Contrasting tones can also work nicely, like deep blue or green glass tile with tan granite.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz mimics the look of natural stone but doesn’t have as much variation. A backsplash that picks up one of the subtle tones already present in the countertop keeps the look balanced. Metallic mosaic brings interest without competing.
Marble Countertops
Marble’s soft veining provides a built-in pattern. Stick with a backsplash in the same color family, like a carrara marble subway tile with countertop. For more contrast, pair with a glass or ceramic tile that has grayish-white tones.
Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone’s rich, darker greys provide flexibility. Go for dramatic contrast with a backsplash in creamy marble or white ceramic tile. Complementary colors like sage green glass tiles also pop nicely against the velvety soapstone backdrop.
Laminate Countertops
For a seamless look, select a backsplash tile in the same solid color as the laminate countertop. Wood-look laminates pair well with real or faux wood plank backsplash tiles. Otherwise, use the backsplash as a chance to introduce color, sheen or texture.
Stainless Steel Countertops
Often chosen for utility, stainless steel takes well to a fun backsplash. Bright solid colors, geometric designs, or metallic finishes create lively contrast. Keep it looking luxe with marble, stone or glass tile.
Concrete Countertops
Concrete’s mottled, neutral tones are easy to decorate with. Match the undertones like warm grays or beiges. Natural materials like stone, wood or cork work especially well. Tile with subtle patterns is also harmonious.
Butcher Block Countertops
Wood backsplashes effortlessly match butcher block countertops. Or pick a crisp, contrasting color like navy blue or emerald for retro contrast. For a lighter look, creamy subway tiles complement the rich wood tones.
Creative Ways to Use Your Backsplash
Beyond just protecting the walls behind a kitchen counter, creative backsplash design can really enhance your space:
- Extend your backsplash to cover an entire wall for a feature accent. Use intricate mosaic tile designs.
- Wrap backsplash tile around to a nearby breakfast nook or bar area to visually connect the spaces.
- Use a contrasting shape or layout like horizontal planks or penny tiles to add interest.
- Install a focal point backsplash behind the stove with an ornate or artistic tile design.
- Add height and drama by tiling from counter to ceiling. Create an unbroken line of pattern.
Tips for Achieving a Cohesive Look
Follow these pointers for a beautifully coordinated backsplash and countertop combination:
- Select tiles for the backsplash in the same finish (matte, polished, gloss, etc.) as the countertop for harmony.
- Balance lighter countertops with darker backsplash tile colors and vice versa.
- Pick up secondary colors from patterned countertops as an accent hue in the backsplash.
- For quartz and solid surface countertops, continue the backsplash material onto the lip of the counter for an integrated look.
- If using stone on both surfaces, book match or vein match the two materials.
- Natural materials together exude an organic, earthy feel.
- Don’t overthink it! Oftentimes a simple white subway tile backsplash pleasingly matches most countertops.
FAQs About Matching Backsplash and Countertop
Should backsplash and countertop be the same material?
It’s not essential for them to be the same material. Different materials can look quite attractive together. However, using the same material often achieves the most seamless look.
Should I match backsplash color to countertop or cabinets?
Experts recommend first matching the backsplash color to the countertop since they are right next to each other. Then coordinate with cabinet color as well for a unified room palette.
Can I use a bold backsplash with a patterned countertop?
Yes, busy countertops like granite provide the perfect opportunity to use a vividly colored, heavily patterned, or artisan style backsplash tile. Just ensure that the scale and contrast work proportionally.
Should I continue backsplash tile onto a textured countertop?
For highly textured surfaces like concrete, honed stone, or butcher block, skipping the backsplash and simply applying a clear sealant is often the best approach. The countertop itself becomes a focal feature.
What if my countertop has integrals like a stovetop or sink?
If your countertop incorporates additional materials like a laminate stovetop backsplash or porcelain sink, you can either utilize trim pieces to match those areas separately or try to find a backsplash material that complements everything.
Conclusion
With so many backsplash and countertop combinations possible, think about your overall style, functionality needs, and how the textures, colors and patterns interact. While matching provides a clean, uniform look, contrasting finishes can be quite stunning too. Ultimately, choose materials you find beautiful that work within your budget. And don’t overanalyze small details! Minor veining or tone differences add natural interest. With smart planning, your backsplash and countertop can come together into a harmonious, elevated kitchen design.