White marble countertops can make a gorgeous statement in any kitchen. However, choosing the right backsplash to pair with white marble countertops can be tricky. The wrong backsplash can make the space feel cold and uninviting. The right backsplash can beautifully complement marble countertops and make the whole kitchen feel cohesive. Here are some of the best backsplash ideas to consider when you have white marble countertops.
Matching White Marble Backsplash
One classic and elegant option is to use a matching white marble backsplash. This creates a seamless and upscale look. The same veining and patterns found in the marble countertops will be echoed in the marble backsplash. An all-white kitchen with marble countertops and backsplash can look absolutely stunning.
Benefits of a matching marble backsplash:
- Creates a cohesive, upscale look
- Allows you to extend marble from countertops to backsplash
- Provides a clean, crisp aesthetic
- Option to choose marble with similar veining as countertops
Things to consider:
- Can feel cold without warmth from other materials
- Needs thoughtful incorporation of other kitchen elements
- Marble backsplash can show stains if not properly sealed
Honed White Subway Tile Backsplash
White subway tile is a popular backsplash choice with marble countertops. The simple, clean lines provide a beautiful contrast to the veining in the marble. Choose a honed or matte finish subway tile to complement marble’s characteristic softness and avoid clashing with the polished look.
Benefits of white subway tile backsplash:
- Classic, timeless look
- Affordable option
- Honed finish provides pleasing contrast to marble’s sheen
- Sleek and understated
Things to consider:
- Can read as too starkly white if lighting is too cool
- Tile grout lines may look messy over time without proper maintenance
- Lacks depth and character that marble or other backsplashes provide
Gray and White Backsplash
Incorporating shades of gray into the backsplash is an elegant pairing with white marble countertops. Try a light gray subway tile or geometric mosaic backsplash. Gray nicely bridges the gap between white marble and stained cabinetry.
Benefits of a gray and white backsplash:
- Provides subtle contrast while coordinating with white marble
- Warms up the space and creates an inviting atmosphere
- Beautifully complements stained or gray cabinets
- Endless options for mixes of gray and white tiles
Things to consider:
- Color matching the grays can get tricky
- Too much gray can feel drab if poorly executed
- Grout lines may show dirt readily
Natural Stone Backsplash
Various natural stones make an outstanding backsplash choice with white marble countertops. Look at sedimentary stones like travertine, limestone, or slate in soft ivory, tan, and gray hues. Or choose a polished stone like quartzite for a glamorous look.
Benefits of a natural stone backsplash:
- Provides texture and depth paired with white marble
- Warm, organic connection to countertops
- Can incorporate range of on-trend colors
- Durable, low maintenance option
Things to consider:
- Stone can provide too much visual competition with marble pattern
- Budget-friendly stones like travertine require sealing
- Polished stones increase overall shine of space
Glass Tile Backsplash
Using a glass tile backsplash is a brilliant way to add some subtle shine while pairing beautifully with white marble countertops. Glass tile comes in an array of colors from neutrals like white and cream to bold teal, navy, and more.
Benefits of a glass tile backsplash:
- Provides gorgeous sheen and reflection
- Available in many colors and finishes
- Creates a contemporary vibe
- Easy to clean and maintain
Things to consider:
- Glass tile can feel too modern or trendy for some spaces
- Installing glass tile can be tricky for DIYers
- Glass is prone to showing water marks, soap scum, and smudges
Metal Tile Backsplash
For an ultra-modern, avant-garde look, try a metal tile backsplash with white marble countertops. Stainless steel, copper, brass, and other metals create amazing shine and dimension. Metallic backsplashes range from solid sheets of metal to mixed metal mosaic tiles.
Benefits of a metal tile backsplash:
- Makes a glamorous, eye-catching statement
- Has an edgy, contemporary vibe
- Materials like copper and brass add warmth
- Endless customization options
Things to consider:
- Can overwhelm a space if not thoughtfully designed
- Fingerprints and smudges can detract from appearance
- Not as timeless as some other backsplash options
Wood Backsplash
Wooden backsplashes pair beautifully with white marble countertops in both rustic cottage and contemporary modern spaces. Use reclaimed barnwood planks for a distressed look or sleek ebony-stained maple for high contrast.
Benefits of a wood backsplash:
- Provides natural warmth and texture
- Range of wood tones to complement marble
- Rustic or modern options available
- Durable and easy to clean
Things to consider:
- Not waterproof like tile or stone
- Staining and sealing required
- Visible seams in uneven planks or panels
Green Backsplash
Don’t be afraid to get creative with accent colors like green in your marble backsplash. Sage green glass subway tile looks fantastic with white marble. Or use emerald green penny tile in a geometric pattern. Green is an unexpected but elegant pairing.
Benefits of a green backsplash:
- Provides refreshing pop of color
- Endless shade options from pale to vibrant green
- Coordinates beautifully with plants, herbs, and decor
- Adds personality and charm
Things to consider:
- Color could feel too bold or trendy for some
- Wrong shade of green can clash with marble veining
- Extra care needed keeping grout clean on green tile
Key Tips for Pairing a Backsplash with White Marble Countertops
- Select backsplash materials that complement marble’s beauty rather than compete with it. Simple, clean styles often work best.
- Incorporate warmth through natural textures like wood and stone. Avoid pairings that are too stark or clinical.
- Mind the finish and sheen of the backsplash in relation to the polished marble countertops. Honed tiles help marble pop.
- Be thoughtful about green, gray, and white undertones so that colors harmonize rather than clash.
- Consider implementing the marble backsplash in a focal area like behind a stove instead of on entire back wall.
- Properly seal porous backsplash materials like travertine, slate, and even subway tile grout to prevent staining.
- Don’t be afraid to have some fun with unconventional colors and patterns when appropriate. The right backsplash can really make marble shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What color backsplash looks best with white marble?
Some of the most popular and complementary backsplash colors with white marble countertops are various shades of gray, cream, beige, and taupe. Green and blue backsplashes can also pair beautifully if done thoughtfully.
Does marble backsplash need to match countertops?
No, the marble backsplash does not need to perfectly match the marble countertops. In fact, contrasting veining and patterns can provide visual interest. However, be mindful of clashing undertones.
What are the disadvantages of a marble backsplash?
Potential disadvantages of marble backsplashes include a more delicate nature requiring sealing, concerns about staining, and a colder feeling if not balanced with other elements. Marble backsplashes also come at a higher price point than materials like subway tile.
Can you put subway tile with marble countertops?
Yes, white subway tile makes an excellent, affordable backsplash pairing with marble countertops. The sleek tile provides an understated, classic contrast to marble’s elegance. Be sure to use a honed or matte subway tile to best complement the marble.
Does marble get along with wood cabinets?
Wood cabinets can look amazing paired with marble countertops. The key is choosing wood finishes and tones that have similar warm undertones to the marble veining to create cohesion. Dark walnut or chestnut cabinets tend to complement white marble especially well.
Conclusion
There are endless options when considering what backsplash pairs best with white marble countertops. From a matching white marble backsplash for a seamless look to vintage pennies tiles for rustic contrast, the choices are amazingly varied. Just be sure to thoughtfully balance out the coveted elegance of marble with materials and colors that provide depth and warmth. With the right backsplash design, your white marble countertops can become the stunning focal point of your kitchen.