Choosing the right backsplash to pair with quartz countertops can make a huge impact on your kitchen’s aesthetic. Quartz is an increasingly popular countertop material that offers the look of natural stone with increased durability. With the wide range of backsplash options available, it’s important to think about factors like color, texture, and style when selecting a backsplash to complement quartz countertops. Here are some tips for choosing a backsplash that works beautifully with quartz.
Consider Color and Pattern
When selecting a backsplash for quartz countertops, you’ll want to consider colors and patterns that either match or complement the tones in your countertop. Quartz comes in a diverse array of colors from crisp whites to bold blues.
- For a monochromatic look, choose a backsplash tile that is the same color as your quartz. This creates a streamlined and seamless appearance. A white subway tile backsplash would pair nicely with a white quartz countertop, for example.
- If your quartz has veins or flecks of multiple colors, pick out one of those accent colors for the backsplash. This ties the two elements together. A backsplash with bold blue tiles would pop against a quartz with blue-gray veining.
- Alternatively, opt for a backsplash in a contrasting color to make the design more dramatic. Stark white quartz could really stand out against a black mosaic tile backsplash.
- In terms of patterns, choose something either uniform like subway tiles or geometric like a herringbone pattern for a bold quartz with distinctive veining.
Complement the Texture
Quartz has a smooth, continuous surface that can be either matte or glossy. Selecting a backsplash with a very different texture can create an eye-catching contrast.
- For modern quartz countertops with a polished finish, consider a backsplash with some natural texture like travertine subway tiles or pebbles.
- For a quartz surface with a more muted, honed finish, try pair it with glass or ceramic backsplash tiles that have a shiny glaze.
- A quartz countertop with distinctive veining can look gorgeous complemented by the layered texture of a marble, granite or stone backsplash.
Match the Style
Your backsplash should fit the overall style you want for your kitchen design whether it’s contemporary, rustic, industrial etc.
- For a sleek modern kitchen, stylish backsplash tile options include geometric mosaics, horizontal subway tiles, or ultra-modern shattered glass tiles.
- In a homey cottage style kitchen, painted ceramic tiles or Weathered and distressed wood planks make an inviting backsplash pairing for quartz.
- Quartz countertops with an industrial vibe can be matched with exposed brick, concrete, or oxidized metal backsplashes.
Consider Practicalities
Don’t just think about appearance when selecting your backsplash. Also consider practical factors like the maintenance and durability required for your lifestyle.
- Glass, ceramic, or porcelain backsplash tiles are very low maintenance and easy to clean.
- Natural stone backsplashes like marble require more regular sealing to prevent stains.
- Metal backsplash materials can dent or scratch more easily compared to tiles.
For high traffic kitchens, smooth non-porous backsplash materials that are resistant to moisture, oils, and scratches are ideal pairings with your quartz.
Backsplash Ideas for Popular Quartz Colors
Here are some recommended backsplash options that look stunning with some of the most popular quartz colors:
White Quartz Countertops
- White subway tiles
- Light grey glass tiles
- Carrara marble mosaic
- Travertine and marble mixes
Black Quartz Countertops
- White penny tiles
- Black mosaic tile
- Stainless steel
- Aged tin tiles
Gray Quartz Countertops
- Gray stone or ceramic brick
- White hexagon tiles
- Blue and gray geometric tiles
- Distressed wood
Blue Quartz Countertops
- Sea glass tiles
- Navy or sky blue subway tiles
- White marble herringbone
- Handmade blue ceramic tiles
Installation Tips
Proper installation is key to getting your backsplash and quartz to fit together perfectly:
- When possible, have your backsplash installed by the same company that fabricated your quartz. This ensures proper coordination.
- The backsplash should be cut to fit precisely along the quartz countertop with no uneven gaps or overlaps.
- Most backsplashes should be installed prior to the quartz countertop for a clean finish.
- Pay attention to the grout lines. Matching the grout color with your quartz helps create a streamlined look.
With the right backsplash choice, you can make your quartz countertops the true focal point of your kitchen. Use color, texture, style and practicality as your guide to achieve a cohesive and eye-catching design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should the backsplash match the quartz exactly?
It’s not absolutely necessary for them to match exactly. Often complementary yet contrasting colors and textures create the most interest. But you can certainly match them perfectly if you desire a seamless look.
What’s the best grout color with quartz?
For a clean uniform appearance, it’s best to match the grout color as closely as possible to your quartz countertops. Some popular options include white, light grey, or black.
Can you use marble as a backsplash with quartz?
Definitely! Marble backsplashes pair beautifully with many quartz countertop colors and styles. Just be aware marble requires more maintenance and sealing than ceramic or glass backsplash tiles.
What about using stainless steel as a backsplash?
Stainless steel is a great low maintenance option. It works especially well with darker quartz colors like black, darker greys and blues. Just be cautious of potential denting over time.
Should the backsplash always go to the bottom of the upper cabinets?
Not necessarily. You have creative freedom when it comes to how high your backsplash is installed. Some choose to do a full height backsplash, while a 4-6 inch backsplash can also look great with quartz.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect backsplash comes down to selecting materials and colors that work in harmony with your quartz countertops. Whether you want to match them seamlessly or create statement contrasts, be sure to think about practical factors as well as overall style. With the right backsplash design, your kitchen can gain a beautiful focal point that emphasizes the elegance of quartz.