Choosing the right backsplash for a kitchen with busy granite countertops can seem like a daunting task. The key is finding a backsplash that complements, rather than competes with, your granite’s bold pattern. With some planning and clever design tricks, you can select a backsplash that makes your kitchen look pulled-together.
Matching the Color Palette
The first step is choosing a backsplash that coordinates with the dominant colors in your granite pattern. Look at the various hues in your granite and select a backsplash material that incorporates at least one or two of those shades. For example, if your granite has flecks of grey, blue and white, consider a backsplash in midnight blue subway tile or white marble. Matching the backsplash to the colors already present in the granite helps unify the two elements.
Complementary Neutrals
Another approach is selecting a neutral backsplash that doesn’t compete with the granite. Soft white, warm grey or taupe backsplash tile can provide a subtle background that lets the granite take center stage. Be sure to steer clear of stark whites or blacks, which will look too harsh against ornate granite. Understated natural stone mosaic in neutral shades can also be a sophisticated complement.
Repeating Accent Colors
You can also pick out an accent color from your busy granite pattern and use that shade liberally in your backsplash. For instance, if your granite has veins of rich gold running through it, bring in more of that tone with an art glass or metallic tile backsplash in the same golden hue. Repeating accent colors in this way makes the palette feel harmonious.
Large Tile or Stone
Opting for large tiles or slabs for the backsplash is another great option with busy granite. Oversized subway tile, 12×24 stone mosaic sheets or marble slabs help minimize the clashing of patterns. The granite remains the star while the backsplash recedes to the background. Extra large tile also has clean lines that pair well with the movement and visual interest of the granite.
Contrasting Tones
Sometimes opting for a contrasting backsplash is the way to go over trying to match colors directly. For instance, if your granite has a very cool toned grey/blue pattern, you could choose a backsplash in warm natural stone like travertine. The interplay between the differing tones creates visual tension and interest. Just be sure one color doesn’t overwhelm the other.
Natural Materials
Sticking with backsplash materials found in nature is a foolproof way to create cohesion with granite counters. Natural stone slate tiles, textured glass tiles, or marble mosaics are all safe bets that will complement granite’s inherent beauty. Man-made ceramic or porcelain can work too, so long as the colors are harmonious with the granite stone.
Incorporate Granite
Why not carry your granite into the backsplash area to tie the whole space together? Many homeowners do a 4-6 inch granite backsplash or use granite on the lower portion and transition to a different material higher up. Granite backsplashes eliminate worries about clashing patterns and instantly create flow.
Boldly Contrast
For contemporary kitchens, sometimes the best solution is to boldly contrast with the granite instead of trying to complement it. Think jet black glass tile against swirling white granite or vibrant teal ceramic tile against rich brown stone. The dramatic color difference can heighten the impact of both your backsplash and your granite countertops.
Creative Shape Backsplash
Backsplashes aren’t just rectangular tiles – having an artsy shape like subway octagons, fishscale tiles or penny rounds can add intrigue. The organic shapes may play well against busier granite patterns, blending together more seamlessly. Shape backsplashes in polished or frosted glass are especially complementary choices.
Minimalist Style
Picking a simple, minimalist backsplash can help calm down ornate granite. Try a basic white subway tile backsplash with thin grout lines and no decorative accents. Or opt for a continuous slab backsplash in marble, soapstone or stainless steel. The unfussy design allows the granite to take center stage.
Mosaic Backsplash
Small mosaic tiles can pair beautifully with granite counters, scaling down pattern on pattern. Just be mindful of color – neutral stone or glass mosaic will complement without competing. If your granite has heavy veining, a mosaic backsplash with thin grout lines can mimic that look cohesively.
Q: What type of backsplash goes best with very busy brown granite that has lots of movement?
A: For brown granite with a very active pattern, neutral colored backsplashes often work best to provide a calm, complementary background. Soft beige or warm grey subway tiles, marble mosaics, or creamy travertine slabs will allow the granite to stand out. Stay away from bold, saturated colors or heavily veined stone, which could clash and feel visually jarring. Large-format tiles will also minimize busyness. Creamy marble or limestone tiles in a 12×24 size can give just enough subtle pattern without competing.
Q: What backsplash can make a small kitchen with busy granite feel bigger?
A: In a small kitchen with lots of ornate granite, a glossy mirrored or polished metal backsplash can help open up the space by reflecting light. Glass tile or marble with a polished finish can also achieve this effect. Stay away from dark, matte materials that will make the room feel more closed in. Large tiles, like 12×24 subway tile, will also make a kitchen with busy granite appear more open and airy. Minimalist backsplash designs without too much embellishment are best for maximizing the feeling of spaciousness.
Q: What type of backsplash should be avoided with swirled brown and cream granite?
A: With brown and cream swirled granite that already has a good amount of movement, busy patterned backsplashes should be avoided, as this combination would feel too overwhelming. Steer clear of heavily textured or multicolored mosaic tiles, decorative ceramic tiles, or glass tiles with a lot of variation. Too many competing patterns in the backsplash and granite can make a kitchen feel cluttered. Clean-lined, neutral backsplashes will allow the granite to take the lead. Subway tiles, large marble tiles, or slabs of travertine are calm backsplash options that complement without overpowering the granite.
Q: What is an economical backsplash option for granite countertops that fits a small budget?
A: For granite countertops on a budget, stick-on vinyl backsplash tiles can provide an affordable and customizable option. Vinyl tiles come in a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns to coordinate with any granite. They are easy for DIY installation and won’t break the bank. Another budget choice is ceramic subway or brick tiles. For rustic charm at low cost, faux tin backsplash panels can complement granite nicely. Salvaged materials like old barn wood also make an inexpensive backsplash that pairs well with granite’s natural vibe.
Q: How can you make a quartzite marble backsplash and granite countertop combination look cohesive?
A: To blend a marble quartzite backsplash with busy granite counters, use marble in a honed or matte finish rather than polished, which helps tone down the veining and reduce pattern competition. Keeping the marble backsplash slab in a neutral white or grey colorway will also complement granite nicely. Another option is doing a marble mosaic backsplash. The small scale mosaic tiles against the large granite slab background creates visual harmony. Echoing even small bits of color from the granite into the marble backsplash helps tie the whole look together seamlessly.
Conclusion
With so many options for materials, textures, colors and patterns, selecting the perfect backsplash for busy granite may seem tricky. But keeping some basic design principles in mind will help you choose a backsplash that complements your granite counters in just the right way. Focus on colors and styles that emphasize the granite rather than fight it. Often, less is more when dealing with an already bold granite pattern. With the right backsplash approach, you can let your beautiful granite shine while pulling the whole kitchen together stylishly.