Choosing the perfect backsplash to complement your granite countertops can be an exciting yet challenging process. With so many backsplash options to choose from, it’s important to find one that enhances your kitchen’s style while also being practical and durable. Here are some of our top tips for selecting a backsplash that pairs beautifully with granite countertops.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Backsplash
When deciding on a backsplash for granite countertops, here are some key considerations:
Color
- Select a backsplash color that complements your granite’s natural tones and patterns. Neutrals like cream, beige and gray tend to work well, as do shades found in the granite like brown, tan or rust.
- Vibrant backsplash colors can make the granite really pop. Blues, greens and other cool hues contrast nicely with the warmth of granite.
- For a cohesive look, choose a backsplash featuring colors also found in the granite flecks and swirls. This ties the whole space together.
Texture
- Smoother glass, ceramic or metal backsplashes nicely offset the granular texture of granite.
- Mosaic tiles and stone like travertine add visual interest with their natural pitting and grooves.
- Mix textures by combining a glass subway tile backsplash with stone mosaic accents.
Style
- For traditional decor, classic white subway tiles, marble or travertine backsplashes work well.
- Modern designs look great with sleek glass or contemporary stone and metal backsplashes.
- Farmhouse, cottage and rustic kitchens tend to use natural stone backsplashes like slate.
Practicality
- Glass, ceramic and porcelain backsplash tiles are budget-friendly, low-maintenance and water-resistant.
- Natural stone backsplashes like marble or travertine require more sealing to prevent stains.
- Metal backsplashes offer high end style, but can dent and show water spots.
Top Backsplash Ideas for Granite Countertops
Based on the above considerations, here are some of our favorite backsplash pairings for granite countertops:
Subway Tile
Classic white 3×6 subway tiles beautifully complement both light and dark granites. Their clean, timeless look lets the granite take center stage. Subway tiles come in glossy and matte finishes.
Glass Tile
Shimmering glass backsplashes in muted tones reflect light and add a glamorous accent to granite. Popular options include glass subway tiles or mosaics. Glass is easy to clean.
Metal Tile
Metallic backsplashes like copper, bronze or nickel add an elegant, industrial vibe. Metal resists moisture and stains, ideal for kitchens. Great for contemporary spaces.
Travertine Tile
With its earthy, organic texture, travertine tile makes a lovely backsplash for granite countertops. Travertine comes in warm beige and brown shades that work with both light and dark granites. Offers a harmonious, nature-inspired look.
Marble Tile
Similar to granite, marble backsplashes lend an upscale, timeworn appearance. Marble’s veining provides visual depth and pairs nicely with dramatic granites. Remember to properly seal marble.
Mosaic Tile
Tiny mosaic tiles form colorful geometric, floral or nature-inspired patterns when installed. Popular options include glass, ceramic and natural stone mosaics. Provides artistic flair against solid granite slabs.
Design Tips for Pairing Granite and Backsplash
Follow these tips when designing your granite and backsplash combination:
- Select granite and backsplash samples together to preview how well they coordinate side-by-side.
- The backsplash doesn’t need to match the granite exactly. Contrast can be striking.
- In small or dark kitchens, use a light granite and backsplash to keep things bright.
- Include some backsplash trim or accent tiles that pick up colors from the granite flecks.
- Vary backsplash materials – try combining subway tile with a mosaic insert or travertine boarder.
- Install the backsplash so it spans the entire area between countertops and cabinets for a seamless look.
What Backsplash Goes With Black Granite?
Black granite has a bold, sleek elegance. To enhance this sophisticated style, we recommend:
- White subway or carrera marble tile
- Metallic tiles like stainless steel, nickel or copper
- Vibrant glass or ceramic tiles in blue, green, turquoise or purple tones
- Natural stone like travertine in a light cream color
A crisp white or shiny metal backsplash pops against the dark granite. Cool-toned backsplash colors complement black granite’s inherent warmth. Natural stone adds an organic contrast.
What Backsplash Goes With Uba Tuba Granite?
Uba Tuba granite features graceful swirls in creams, browns, blacks and greens resembling natural stone. For Uba Tuba granite backsplash ideas try:
- Glass, ceramic or metal tiles in cream, beige, brown or taupe
- Subway tiles or carrera marble in an off-white color
- Travertine or slate mosaics with tones matching the granite
- Peacock glass tile with hints of blue and green
Neutral backsplash colors in soft tones enhance Uba Tuba granite’s pattern without competing. Natural stone mosaics with brown and green shades mirror elements seen in the granite.
What Backsplash Goes With White Granite?
Crisp white granite offers a clean, bright foundation. To play up its light coloring and luminosity consider:
- Sky blue, aqua, seafoam or mint glass subway tiles
- White carrera marble tiles for an elegant contrast
- Metallic tiles like stainless steel, chrome or nickel
- Mosaic tiles in muted grays, blues, greens or neutrals
Vibrant cool-toned backsplashes give white granite pops of color. Gleaming metal or marble backsplashes complement white granite’s cool, modern look. Soft neutral mosaics blend smoothly.
Conclusion
The ideal backsplash for granite countertops enhances the counters, adds visual interest and reflects your personal style. As a durable, stylish surface for kitchens, granite looks stunning paired with backsplashes in materials ranging from glass and ceramic to natural stone.
When selecting a backsplash to match granite counters, consider complementary colors, mix of textures, and practical factors like moisture resistance and ease of cleaning. And don’t be afraid to make a statement with contrasting hues or materials. With the right backsplash choice, your kitchen can shine as a fashionable, functional space you’ll enjoy for years to come.