Choosing the right backsplash to pair with busy granite countertops can seem tricky. With so much going on visually in the granite, it’s important to find a backsplash that complements rather than competes. Here are some tips on how to choose a backsplash that works with busy granite patterns.
Consider Neutral Tones
One of the best ways to create a cohesive look is to use backsplash tiles in neutral tones. Cream, white, gray and beige are soft backsplash colors that won’t fight with the granite’s color variations. Going neutral allows the granite to take center stage while the backsplash plays a subtle supporting role.
White Subway Tile
A popular choice is basic white 3×6 subway tile. The clean white color lets the granite be the star and provides a seamless transition. The simple rectangular shape doesn’t add visual competition.
Carrara Marble
For an elegant neutral option, Carrara marble tile has soft gray veining on a white background. It has subtle interest without overwhelming the granite. The marble veining matches granites that incorporate grays.
Cream or Beige Ceramic
Glazed ceramic tiles in creamy off-whites or light beiges blend beautifully with busy granites. The soft tones complement without competing. A brick laid pattern or simple rectangular shape keeps the focus on the granite’s pattern.
Use Sparingly Patterned Tile
If you want to incorporate some pattern in the backsplash without going overboard, use it sparingly. Limiting patterned tile to a single accent row or as an inlay border blends it with the granite rather than fights against it.
Single Accent Row
Add a row of mosaic tile or decorative tile trim to tie in other elements like cabinet hardware without overpowering the space. Place the accent row near the top or bottom of the backsplash.
Decorative Inlay Border
Framing a neutral backsplash with a 4-6 inch wide mosaic tile border adds interest while letting the granite remain the focal point. Use a simple, classic mosaic pattern like penny tiles or triangles.
Match the Granite’s Undertones
Picking up on the subtle undertones in the granite is another way to achieve a coordinated look. If your granite has hints of blues or greens, bring in backsplash tile that incorporates similar cool tones.
Blue and Green Glass
Glass tile offers tons of color options, including hues with blue and green undertones. Use a mosaic or mix of glass tile sizes to subtly complement the granite’s colors.
Multicolored Natural Stone
Natural stone like travertine may include blue, green, tan and gold, depending on where it was sourced. This picks up on the color variations common in busy granites. A chiseled or tumbled finish adds texture.
Use Rustic Touches
For a casual, organic look, rustic-style backsplash materials pair well with busy granites that have a visual randomness. Natural textures add warmth and balance the pattern.
Stacked Stone
Irregularly shaped pieces of real or faux stone create a relaxed stacked stone backsplash. The earthy colors and uneven textures soften the granite’s busyness. Use warmed-toned stones like sandstone or limestone.
Wood Planks
Variegated wood planks offer casual contrast to granite. Use plank tiles or reclaimed wood for organic texture. Warm wood tones like cedar naturally complement the colors found in most granites.
Match the Finish
Pay attention to the granite’s finish and match it in the backsplash material. Polished granite works best with polished or high-gloss backsplash tiles rather than matte finishes which can look disjointed against the shiny countertop.
Glossy Glass or Ceramic
Polished granites pair wonderfully with glass or ceramic tile backsplashes that have a glossy finish. The sheen reflects light similarly to enhance the seamless visual flow.
Honed Stone
Honed granite with a matte, soft finish benefits from backsplash materials like marble, travertine or limestone tiles with an honed finish. The subtle surface avoids competing with the granite.
Complement the Edge
Your choice of backsplash can emphasize or downplay the granite’s edge. Busy granites often have striking edges that become part of the overall look.
Continuous Clean Line
To highlight a decorative granite edge, use square tiles for a clean uninterrupted line. The sharp edge of subway tiles or basic squares complements the countertop’s striking border.
Overlapping Organic Edge
Mosaic sheets or natural stone with uneven edges camouflage a busy granite edge, making it blend seamlessly into the backsplash. Overlapping tiles create a softer transition between surfaces.
Questions and Answers
Q: What type of backsplash goes best with black granite that has lots of gray veining?
A: For granite with dramatic dark and light contrast like black with gray veining, a neutral white or off-white backsplash is the safest bet. White subway tile, creamy ceramic, or white Carrara marble tiles allow the granite to take center stage. Using a tone from the lighter end of the granite color range prevents the backsplash from receding.
Q: Should you match the granite color exactly or pick a different shade?
A: It’s generally best to complement rather than match the granite color exactly. Matching the exact busy color palette tends to look too busy and creates competition. Instead, pick backsplash materials in colors found sparingly in the mix or a shade slightly lighter or darker than the main granite color. A contrasting tone allows each element to stand out individually.
Q: Can you use stainless steel tile if the kitchen has stainless steel appliances?
A: While it’s fine to repeat stainless steel from appliances in the backsplash, it’s not an ideal choice with busy granite. Stainless steel backsplashes tend to look modern, sleek and eye-catching, which competes with the granite instead of complementing it. If you want to incorporate some stainless steel, use it minimally as a thin accent border or trim.
Q: What tile shapes work best for busy granites?
A: Simple tile shapes tend to work best with granite that has a varied visual pattern. Subway tile, basic square ceramic tiles, rectangular slate – these all provide clean lines that let the granite stand out. Avoid intricate tile shapes like hexagons or penny tile that add more pattern. If using mosaic sheets, opt for simple patterns.
Q: Is there a recommended backsplash height for pairing with busy granite?
A: Standard backsplash height is 4 inches tall, but extending this higher can make for a more seamless look with dramatic granite. Backsplashes measuring 12-18 inches tall or all the way to the undersides of wall cabinets create a polished, built-in appearance. The added backsplash coverage minimizes the transition line between surfaces.
Conclusion
Choosing a backsplash for a busy granite countertop revolves around using materials that complement rather than compete with the dramatic stone. Keeping backsplash tile neutrally toned, simply shaped and sized, minimally patterned or matching the granite finish allows the gorgeous countertop to shine. Skillfully incorporating materials like marble, ceramic, glass or natural wood results in a polished, coordinated kitchen look. With a thoughtful backsplash selection, your busy granite countertop can be the stunning centerpiece it’s meant to be.