Selecting a backsplash to complement an all-white kitchen can be challenging. With so much white, the backsplash needs to add visual interest while tying the space together. The good news is that there are many stylish backsplash options that pair beautifully with white cabinets and countertops. Here are some of our top picks for stunning backsplashes for an all-white kitchen.
Neutral Backsplash Options
White Subway Tile
Going with white subway tile is a classic and timeless choice for an all-white kitchen. The simple rectangles create a clean, streamlined look. Subway tile comes in glossy or matte finish, so you can add subtle visual texture. Use subway tiles in a brick pattern or offset them. For extra flair, consider subway tiles with thin grey grout lines or decorative subway tile designs.
Carrara Marble
Carrara marble instantly elevates an all-white kitchen with its distinctive veining and upscale aesthetic. The white background complements white cabinetry while the grey veining adds organic visual interest. Carrara marble backsplashes have old-world charm and work beautifully in traditional, transitional, or modern kitchens. Keep the look cohesive by using marble on the countertops too.
White Penny Tiles
For a vintage vibe, go for white penny tiles. Their small round shape and beveled edges create a charming aged effect against white cabinets. Use glossy white penny tiles for a reflective surface or distressed tiles for an antiqued look. Paired with farmhouse sinks and vintage-style hardware, penny tiles are perfect for a cottage kitchen.
White Shiplap
White shiplap brings a rustic charm to an all-white kitchen. The slightly textured and weathered boards add subtle contrast and create a coastal, farmhouse feel. Opt for tightly spaced narrow shiplap boards for a more refined look. Or go for wider boards with visible gaps for a laidback vibe.
Large Format White Tile
For a seamless, contemporary look, consider installing large format white tiles. Their oversized scale and minimal grout lines give the space a sleek, uncluttered aesthetic. Pair them with modern kitchen elements like waterfall edges, handle-less cabinetry, and industrial fixtures. Choose a glossy white tile or one with subtle grey veining for added flair.
Hued Backsplash Options
Light Blue Subway Tile
Soft blue subway tiles can provide the perfect pop of subtle color against an all-white kitchen. They have a crisp, clean feeling, especially when paired with whites and natural wood accents. Use a muted blue-grey or a pale pastel blue. Mix with some white tiles for a more dynamic staggered brick pattern.
Sage Green Tile
For a nature-inspired element, bring in light sage green tiles. Soft green tones complement whites beautifully and pair well with marble and natural materials. Look for tiles with subtle green veining, crackled green glazing, or an antiqued finish. Keep the rest of the kitchen décor minimal for a calming look.
Terracotta Tile
Warm up an all-white kitchen with terracotta backsplash tiles in orangey-red earth tones. The organic colors and handmade look of terra cotta add cozy texture. Use a mix of tiles in varying terracotta shades. Add touches of black or dark metal for an authentic Tuscan-style kitchen. Terracotta works especially well in farmhouse, rustic, Spanish, or Mediterranean kitchens.
Yellow Moroccan Tile
Make a style statement with hand-painted yellow Moroccan tiles. Their intricate zellige patterns and bold geometric shapes create visual impact against white cabinets. Use yellow tiles sparingly on one wall or as an accent. Pair them with dark grout for added definition. For a cohesive look, add matching yellow accents throughout the kitchen.
Teal Glass Tile
Jewel-toned teal glass tiles lend a dramatic splash of color. The glossy finish looks bold and luxurious against white kitchen cabinetry. Use teal glass mosaic tiles or larger tiles in varying shades. Add kitchen hardware and accents in brass, gold, or nickel to let the vibrant tiles pop. Keep the rest of the décor minimalist.
Textured & Patterned Backsplash Ideas
White Beadboard Panels
For a beachy feel, install beadboard backsplash panels painted crisp white. The distinctive grooved shape adds subtle texture and dimension without going overboard. Keep the beadboard tightly spaced for a more uniform look. Use decorative hardware like fishbone drawer pulls to enhance the coastal vibe.
Herringbone Backsplash Tile
Herringbone-patterned tiles in white and grey are an eye-catching option. The zigzag layout has great visual movement. Use herringbone only on the backsplash or extend it to side walls for a enveloping aesthetic. Pair it with marble countertops and modern kitchen elements for stylish contrast.
Geometric Moroccan Tiles
Make a unique style statement with intricate geometric and 8-point star Moroccan tiles. Their complex shapes and patterns create a textural focal point. Look for geometric tiles in white, blue, and seafoam green to complement all-white kitchens. Use them as an accent wall or full backsplash.
White Brick Backsplash
For an urban loft vibe, consider a white brick backsplash. Real or faux white bricks add gritty texture in a refined way that works with sleek cabinets. Stack the bricks in varied patterns for more character. Use extra thick grout lines in black or grey for graphic contrast. Add metal kitchen hardware for an industrial feel.
Whimsical Handpainted Tiles
Incorporate playful handpainted tiles to personalize an all-white kitchen backsplash. Look for tiles adorned with flowers, herbs, fruits, seashells or vines. Keep the rest of the décor minimal to let the tiles make a bold style statement. Use a mix of colors or stick to a color palette that complements your cabinets.
Final Thoughts
With the right backsplash tile, you can give your all-white kitchen a stylish focal point and unique character. Subway tiles, marble, and shiplap offer safe neutral options, while colored, patterned, or handmade tiles let you get more creative. Consider the overall aesthetic you want, as well as your style, textures, and patterns when selecting backsplash materials. Then pair your white cabinets and backsplash with countertops, hardware and décor that complement both elements. The finished look will be a cohesive kitchen space that makes a dazzling design statement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Backsplashes for White Kitchens
What color backsplash goes best with white cabinets?
Some of the most popular and versatile backsplash colors for white kitchen cabinets include white, light grey, Carrara marble, navy blue, black, and pale green. Neutral tones like white, grey, and marble seamlessly complement white cabinetry. Bold hues like navy, black, or green create an eye-catching contrast.
What is the most popular backsplash for a white kitchen?
White subway tile is by far the most popular backsplash for an all-white kitchen. The classic rectangular white tiles pair beautifully with white cabinets for a clean, timeless look. White marble backsplashes are also commonly used to create a high-end feeling.
Should you match backsplash and countertops?
It’s not essential to match your backsplash and countertops, but it can create a streamlined, cohesive look. Many homeowners opt to use the same material, like Carrara marble, on both the backsplash and countertops. Another option is to use different materials that coordinate well, like white quartz countertops and blue glass tile backsplash.
What color countertops go with a white backsplash?
Great countertop options to pair with a white backsplash include white quartz, light grey quartz, butcher block, concrete, black granite, Carrara marble, soapstone, and navy blue quartz. Matching white countertops creates consistency while concrete, wood, and stone add organic contrast.
What backsplash goes with oak cabinets?
Backsplashes that complement oak cabinets well include tan and brown stone tiles, speckled granite, and multi-toned patterned tiles. Warm-toned backsplashes with cream, beige, brown, and terracotta tones match beautifully with golden oak cabinets. Distressed woods like reclaimed barnwood also pair nicely.
Can you use dark grout with white tile?
Yes, dark grout can create visual contrast and dimension against white tiles. Many homeowners opt for grey, black, or navy grout with white subway tiles or hex tiles. Be sure to seal the grout well so it stays clean. White-on-white grout lines can get dingy if unsealed.
Is white backsplash out of style?
White backsplashes are considered a classic look, and never truly go out of style. The versatile color works in kitchens of all aesthetics from farmhouse to modern. Simple white subway tiles remain one of the most popular backsplash choices. White marble and shiplap backsplashes are also timeless options.
Are glass tile backsplashes outdated?
Glass tile backsplashes have been popular for many years, and don’t immediately read as dated or outdated. Modern glass tile styles in large formats or geometric shapes can keep the look current. That said, heavily mosaic-patterned glass tiles in frosted colors can seem a bit outdated in contemporary kitchens.
Should you put a backsplash behind a stove?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to install a backsplash behind the stove. Sturdy and easily cleaned materials like ceramic, stainless steel or stone tiles protect the wall from splatters, splashes and grease. No backsplash can lead to damage. For range backsplashes, avoid flammable materials like wood or vinyl.
Can you use wallpaper as a backsplash?
While not the most durable option, you can absolutely use wallpaper as a kitchen backsplash. Water-resistant vinyl peel-and-stick wallpapers make installation easy. Avoid paper wallpapers near sinks or stoves. Choose wipeable, scrubbable wallpaper if going this route. Remove and replace every few years.
Conclusion
An all-white kitchen offers a clean, fresh canvas to add pops of color, texture, and personality through your backsplash design. From natural stones like marble and travertine to handmade tiles boasting vibrant hues and eclectic patterns, your options for creating a stunning backsplash are endless. Keep the scale, tone and style in harmony with your cabinets for a cohesive look. With creativity and proper installation, your backsplash can become the jewelry that pulls the whole white kitchen together into a space you’re proud to call home.