Calacatta marble has become an increasingly popular choice for kitchen countertops and backsplashes. This luxurious natural stone from Italy features dramatic gray and white veining patterns that can instantly elevate a kitchen. When selecting a backsplash to pair with Calacatta marble counters, you’ll want to choose materials and colors that enhance the marble’s inherent elegance. Here are some of the best backsplash options to consider with Calacatta marble.
Neutral Tones
One of the best approaches with Calacatta marble is to let it stand out as the focal point by keeping the backsplash subtle and neutral. Soft beige, warm grays, and white backsplashes will allow the striking veining in the marble to take center stage. Some excellent neutral backsplash materials to consider include:
White Subway Tile
Classic white 3×6 subway tiles provide a timeless and clean backdrop that allows Calacatta marble’s beauty to shine. Offset the tiles in a brick pattern or line them up in a more modern style. Glossy finishes reflect light and add depth, while matte options give an understated elegance.
Gray Stone or Ceramic Tile
A backsplash in a pale gray or greige (a blend of gray and beige) stone or ceramic tile also complements Calacatta marble beautifully. Large format tiles can give a seamless, sophisticated look. Or use smaller tiles or mosaics to add visual interest. Stay away from cool grays, which can clash with the marble’s warmth.
Glass Tile
Backsplashes in frosted or translucent white or beige glass tile have a soft, ethereal quality that pairs seamlessly with Calacatta. The glass material gives added radiance and sparkle to the space. mingling nicely with the veining in the marble.
Calacatta Lookalikes
Another idea is to carry the Calacatta marble to the backsplash by using an affordable lookalike material. Faux stone ceramic tiles or glazed porcelain slabs offer the appearance of real marble at a fraction of the cost. Using these budget-friendly doppelgangers for the backsplash allows you to get the luxe coordinated look without going over budget.
Carrara Marble Subway Tile
Genuine Carrara marble tile gives an authentic marble backsplash but is less expensive than using more premium Calacatta slabs. The gray veining is more subtle but coordinates well.
Faux Marble Porcelain or Ceramic Tile
Many companies manufacture porcelain or ceramic tile that mimics the look of Calacatta marble, with convincing veining. Large format tiles can give the look of real stone slabs.
Marble Mosaic Tile
Tiny marble mosaic tiles set in sheets make for easy installation and provide a seamless Calacatta look. Using these affordable mosaic sheets allows you to inexpensively cover a large backsplash area.
Contrasting Colors
While neutral backsplashes pair seamlessly with Calacatta marble, you can also take a more bold, contrasting approach. Richly hued tiles in colors like navy blue, emerald green, or even black can make the white and gray veining of the Calacatta really stand out. Just make sure to pull accent colors from elsewhere in the space so the scheme feels cohesive.
Navy Blue Subway Tile
Vivid blue backsplashes are on trend and give a pop of color that makes the white in the Calacatta marble pop. Use glossy tiles and continue blue accents throughout the space for a bold, vibrant look.
Dark Green Glass Tile
Deep green glass backsplashes offer richness and drama contrasted with creamy Calacatta marble. Pair the green with brass fixtures for a glamorous vibe. Frosted or sea glass tiles diffuse the color for a more organic feel.
Black Stone Mosaic
For serious drama, a backsplash in black slate or granite mosaic tile makes the white veining in the Calacatta marble truly stand out. Make sure to brighten up the space in other ways to balance out the dark backsplash.
Complementary Materials
Some other backsplash materials that work well with Calacatta marble counters include natural wood, patterned or colored concrete, and stainless steel.
Wood Planks
The warmth of wood backsplashes complements Calacatta marble’s cool elegance. Use white oak or maple planks to match the marble’s paleness. Or opt for darker walnut or cherry for contrast.
Patterned Concrete
Concrete tiles come in endless colors and patterns – pair Calacatta marble with graphic motifs or subtle neutral concrete designs. Concrete’s matte texture contrasts the polished shine of marble.
Stainless Steel
Modern stainless-steel backsplashes have an industrial vibe that pairs surprisingly well with pretty Calacatta marble counters. Use a mosaic pattern or metal tiles for visual interest.
Design Considerations with Calacatta Marble Backsplashes
- Carefully inspect the exact marble slab used for the countertops and look for colors and patterns to pull into the backsplash design.
- Consistency is key – use large format backsplash tiles to match the veining patterns across surfaces.
- Calacatta has both gray and creamy white background tones. Choose a backsplash hue that relates to one of those colors.
- Black, white, and metallics are great bold choices that let the marble be the star.
- Get creative with shapes, patterns, materials and layouts to add interest.
FAQs about Calacatta Marble Backsplashes
What color grout should I use with Calacatta marble backsplash?
Use white or very pale gray grout to complement Calacatta marble and not detract from its beauty. Stay away from darker grout colors that could clash with the marble’s gray veining.
Should I use polished or honed marble tile for the backsplash?
Polished marble has a shiny elegance that reflects light beautifully. Honed marble is matte and understated. Choose based on the amount of shine you prefer – both work well with Calacatta.
What about using marble slab backsplashes instead of tile?
Large marble slab backsplashes can mimic the look of the countertops for a seamless appearance. Make sure to carefully inspect veining patterns. This option is also one of the most expensive.
Can I use a marble-look porcelain or ceramic for the backsplash to save money?
Definitely – high quality porcelain or ceramic tile gives the look of real marble at a fraction of the cost. Just be sure to closely inspect tile samples to ensure the coloring and veining pattern coordinates with the counters.
Is it okay to use a contrasting material like glass or metal backsplash?
Absolutely! Contrasting backsplash materials in colors like navy, black, or emerald green look beautiful and make the Calacatta marble pop. Just echo the accent colors elsewhere in the space.
Conclusion
The gorgeous patterning of Calacatta marble makes a stunning statement in any kitchen. By selecting a backsplash in harmonious tones or materials, you can create a coordinated, upscale look. Neutral subway tiles or slabs in pale, creamy tones allow the marble to take center stage. Using marble lookalikes is an affordable way to continue the luxe look. Or go bold with contrasting colors and patterns to make that Calacatta really stand out. Just be sure to carefully inspect the marble counters to identify colors and patterns to pull into your backsplash design. With the right backsplash choice, your Calacatta marble kitchen will have a super stylish and elegant look.