How to Match Countertops and Backsplash

Matching your countertops and backsplash is one of the most important design decisions when renovating your kitchen. The right combination can bring harmony and flow to your space, while the wrong pairing can make the design look disjointed. With some key considerations and expert tips, you can confidently match your countertops and backsplash for a put-together look.

Factors to Consider When Matching Countertops and Backsplash

When determining how to best match your countertops and backsplash, keep the following factors in mind:

Color

Choose a backsplash color that complements your countertop hue. For neutral countertops like white, gray, or black, just about any backsplash color will work. For wood or stone countertops, stick with a matching neutral, natural stone, or subtle pattern. Bold backsplashes can sometimes clash with busy countertops.

Pattern

Simple countertops, like solid surfaces or stained wood, pair best with a tile backsplash that has some pattern or texture. More ornate countertops with veins, speckles or movement look better with a solid, uniform backsplash.

Finish

Consider whether your countertops have a glossy or matte finish. Glass, ceramic, or polished stone counters look best with a shiny, reflective backsplash like glass or polished metal tiles. Matte finishes like concrete, wood, or honed stone pair better with matte backsplash tiles.

Material

Mixing and matching material types can work well. For example, combine stone countertops with glass or ceramic tile backsplash. Or match granite counters with a slate backsplash. Just be sure the textures and colors complement each other.

Lighting

The amount of natural and artificial lighting in your kitchen impacts how colors, patterns and textures interact. View samples in your space at different times of day before finalizing your choices.

Tips for Matching Countertops and Backsplash

Follow these expert tips when selecting backsplashes to match your countertops:

For dark granite countertops, choose a lighter backsplash color to create contrast. Warm neutrals like white, ivory or tan work well.
To make a small kitchen appear larger, match lighter countertops with an even lighter backsplash. Whiter tones recede, creating the illusion of more space.
In large kitchens, a darker backsplash can cozy up the space. Try deep greens or blues with black or wood countertops.
Stick with the same finish on counters and backsplash – either all glossy or all matte. Mixing the two looks disjointed.
Natural stone or wood countertops pair nicely with backsplashes featuring organic shapes, textures and colors.
With neutral countertops like white, beige or black, make a design statement with a bold, colorful patterned backsplash.
For contemporary style kitchens, sleek materials like glass or metal backsplashes complement stone or solid surface countertops.

Popular Countertop and Backsplash Combinations

Here are some of the most popular and timeless countertop and backsplash pairings:

White Carrara Marble Countertops with White Subway Tile Backsplash

This classic pairing exudes elegance. The white on white palette looks light and bright. To give it a modern edge, pair with gray grout.

Black Granite Countertops with Glass Tile Backsplash

The sheen of the glass tiles plays nicely off the polished granite for plenty of visual interest. Keep the glass tile colors light to prevent overpowering the space.

Quartz Countertops with Mosaic Tile Backsplash

Quartz offers a durable, maintenance-friendly alternative to natural stone countertops. Busy mosaic tiles complement the solid counters nicely.

Butcher Block Countertops with Brick Backsplash

The rustic, handcrafted look of butcher block wood countertops works perfectly with an old-world brick backsplash. Add vintage accents for a cozy cottage feel.

Concrete Countertops with Stainless Steel Backsplash

Concrete’s organic look matched with shiny, modern metal creates an appealing industrial vibe. Try a hammered or diamond plate pattern stainless backsplash.

Design Inspiration for Pairing Countertops and Backsplash

Browse these beautiful kitchens showcasing popular countertop and backsplash combinations:

White Kitchen with Marble Countertop and Subway Tile Backsplash

This light and airy kitchen features Carrara marble countertops paired with white subway tile backsplash. The matching white on white palette keeps the look coordinated. Dark grout provides subtle contrast.

Credit: Hunker.com

Modern Farmhouse Kitchen with Butcher Block Countertops and Brick Backsplash

Warm wood butcher block countertops look lovely against the rustic red brick backsplash in this cozy farmhouse kitchen. White cabinetry keeps the space feeling light and bright.

Credit: Lindye Galloway Interiors

Contemporary Kitchen Concrete Countertops Stainless Steel Backsplash

The clean lines of concrete countertops paired with a sleek stainless steel backsplash create an elegant, contemporary look. Notice how the countertop texture plays off the smooth backsplash.

Credit: Villa & Apartment – IDEA

FAQs About Matching Countertops and Backsplash

How do I choose a backsplash color to match my countertops?

For neutral countertops, any backsplash color works. For darker granites or patterned stone, stick with lighter, solid backsplash colors. For white or black countertops, go bold with a colorful patterned backsplash.

What is the most popular backsplash for white countertops?

White subway tile is the most popular backsplash pairing for white countertops. It’s a timeless, classic combo that makes any kitchen look clean and elegant.

What backsplash goes best with quartz countertops?

Quartz countertops pair nicely with just about any style backsplash – subway tiles, mosaics, stone, and even metal. Just be sure to match the finish – glossy quartz looks best with polished backsplash tiles.

Can you mix metals in the kitchen backsplash?

Yes, mixing metal finishes can add an eclectic, customized look. Just be sure the combinations work with the style of your kitchen. For contemporary spaces, stick with one dominant metal hue. Traditional kitchens have more leeway for mixing metals.

Should backsplash match cabinet hardware?

It’s not mandatory, but coordinating backsplash and hardware finishes creates a more cohesive, upscale look. Oil-rubbed bronze, brushed nickel, chrome and matte black hardware suit most backsplash materials.

Final Thoughts on Matching Countertops and Backsplash

Choosing the right backsplash to pair with your countertops can elevate the look of your whole kitchen. Keep color, pattern, texture, finish, lighting and style in mind when making your selections. Pay attention to the size of your space as well – lighter backsplashes help small kitchens appear more open, while darker hues warm up larger rooms.

There are many stylish options for pairing countertops and backsplash, from classic white marble with subway tile to modern concrete with stainless steel. Use the suggestions and inspirational photos above to confidently match your countertops and backsplash for a put-together, polished look.