Choosing the right backsplash to go with white cabinets and black granite countertops can be tricky. The backsplash serves both aesthetic and functional purposes in a kitchen. You want something that will look cohesive with your cabinetry and countertops while also being durable, easy to clean and resisting stains.
With so many backsplash tile options to choose from – ceramic, porcelain, glass, metal, stone – it can be overwhelming deciding what route to take. You want to find the perfect balance between practicality and visual appeal. Here we will explore what color backsplash goes best with white cabinets and black granite countertops.
Complementary Neutrals
One approach with a white and black palette is to opt for backsplash tile in a neutral tone that complements both elements. This creates a cohesive look that allows the white cabinets and black granite to stand out while the backsplash plays a subtler supporting role.
White
An all-white backsplash is a safe yet stylish choice. The crisp, clean look allows the veining and movement in the black granite to take center stage. An expansive white backsplash will make a small kitchen appear larger and brighter.
White marble or ceramic subway tiles are classic and timeless options. For a unique texture, consider hammered white tiles or shimmering glass. Just be aware an all-white backsplash will require frequent cleaning to maintain its pristine appeal.
Gray
In a moody kitchen, medium to dark gray backsplash tiles can beautifully bridge your white cabinets and black granite. Stay away from cold grays and opt for a shade with subtle blue, green or brown undertones for a hint of color.
Gray slate or ceramic tiles lend an organic, earthy feel. Combine different sizes and orientations for visual interest. For a contemporary look, install large format gray porcelain tiles in interesting geometric shapes.
Beige and Greige
Lighter warm beiges and greiges (a mix of gray and beige) pair wonderfully with the contrast of white cabinets and black granite. Natural stone tiles like travertine and limestone in these hues add subtle pattern and texture.
Mosaic tiles in soft greige tones can create a lively but neutral backsplash. Crema marfil or ottoman marble are upscale options with delicate veining that complements the movement in the granite.
Black
While it may seem counterintuitive, a black backsplash can actually enhance and elevate a white and black kitchen. High-gloss black ceramic or porcelain tiles reflect light and add a glamorous vibe. For a more muted look, choose a black stone like soapstone or slate.
Installing black tile in the full backsplash area can be visually heavy, so use it strategically. Try framing the backsplash with black tiles on the perimeter or create a geometric focal point. Black is ideal for a backsplash accent wall.
Pops of Color
Using color in the backsplash is an excellent way to personalize and add visual interest to an otherwise monochromatic kitchen. Contrasting or complementary hues to the white cabinets and black granite make for lively backsplash tile designs.
Blue
From pastel to cobalt, blue backsplashes pair beautifully with white cabinetry. Dark midnight blue glass or metallic tiles add shimmer and drama against the black granite. For softer contrast, look to pale aqua or turquoise ceramic tiles.
Beyond tiles, blue glass sheets or mosaics create a watery backdrop. Consider a Moroccan-style zigzag tile pattern in white and blue for a playful pop. Just steer clear of matching the blue exactly to your granite’s coloring.
Green
Verdant green is another charming backsplash color choice. Pair grassy green tiles with white cabinets and black granite for an earthy yet modern kitchen. Deep emerald green glass tiles or mosaics energize the space.
For a more organic look, use handmade artisan green tiles. Mix different shapes and patterns for eclectic charm. Green tumbled marble backsplash tiles can provide subtle contrast while coordinating with the black granite’s veining.
Yellow and Orange
Warm secondary colors like yellow and orange bring cheerful brightness to a white and black palette. Handpainted orange ceramic tiles in a Moroccan print or Talavera style make a bold style statement.
A sunflower yellow glass subway tile backsplash enlivens the space. For a subtler but vibrant touch, install a strip of orange or yellow mosaic tiles as an accent within the backsplash area. Just take care not to overdo it with brights.
Purple
Regal purple infuses a touch of drama into any kitchen. Deep purple glass or ceramic tiles pairing with white cabinets and black granite create a bold, sophisticated look. Vibrant purple complements both the white and black elements.
For a lighter effect, use pastel lilac or lavender tiles. Install them in a herringbone pattern or checkerboard design for visual dynamism. A strip of petite purple mosaic tiles makes a striking yet simple backsplash focal point.
Red
Fiery red is a daring backsplash choice that energizes a white and black kitchen. Glossy red ceramic or porcelain tiles have high visual impact. Pair red brick-shaped tiles with white cabinets and black granite for retro-chic style.
Burgundy glass tiles offer rich contrast that allows the cabinetry and countertops to stand out. For a more subtle look, opt for a pink or rusty terra cotta tile. Use restraint when incorporating red backsplash tiles. A little goes a long way!
Natural Stone Backsplashes
Backsplash tiles made from natural stone beautifully complement white cabinets and black granite countertops. From pebbles to slabs, stones in neutral, earthy hues or bold patterns marry the aesthetic.
Marble
Both white Carrara and grey marbles offer soft veining that coordinates beautifully with black granite countertops. White marble pops against the cabinets while grey feels more soothing. Installing marble subway tiles results in subtle pattern and texture.
Marbles with bolder veining like Calacatta and Statuario pair elegantly with white cabinets and black granite. For impact, utilize marble mosaic tiles or a marble stone slab backsplash. Just take care to properly seal and maintain marble, which can stain.
Travertine
With its sandy beige hues and pits, tumbled travertine tile provides natural contrast to both white cabinets and black granite. The organic texture pairs well with a variety of kitchen styles from modern to traditional. Travertine comes in tile, slab, and mosaic forms.
Fill the pits in with grout or opt to highlight them for more texture. Lay travertine in a straight or staggered brick pattern. Use care when cleaning travertine, as harsh chemicals can damage its porous surface. Proper sealing is a must for food prep areas.
Slate
Slate backsplash tiles come in shades of grey, black, green, purple and red. The layered, foliated appearance naturally coordinates with granite. Slate’s texture also complements smooth white cabinets. Plus, it is highly durable and water-resistant.
For a truly unique backsplash, use an array of multicolored slate tiles. Or create visual impact with oversized slate tiles laid horizontally or in a herringbone pattern interspersed with thin grout lines. Make sure to properly seal slate tiles during installation.
Quartzite
With striking veining like marble and the durability of granite, quartzite is an on-trend premium stone choice for backsplashes. Neutral tans and grays with white veining pair gorgeously with your cabinets and countertops.
Snap-together quartzite mosaic sheets offer ease of installation. Use large quartzite tiles minimally for a clean look. Since quartzite is porous, sealing and resealing yearly is essential. This maintenance will keep the stone resistant to stains and etching.
Limestone
Understated yet chic, limestone backsplash tiles in soft whites, beiges, and cream hues blend beautifully with the contrast of white cabinets and black granite. Limestone offers subtle swirls and fossilized patterns. Opt for tumbled tiles or mosaics for more visual texture.
Steer clear of the heavily pitted French limestone and choose varieties such as White Jerusalem Limestone that are more resilient and suitable for kitchen backsplashes. Proper sealing is key to prevent acidic foods from etching into the porous surface.
Creative Touches
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your backsplash design! Using different materials, clever layouts and unexpected touches can enhance any kitchen’s style. Here are some backsplash design ideas that complement white cabinets and black granite counters:
Mix Materials
Pairing stone, ceramic and glass tiles together in a backsplash creates eye-catching contrast. Try framing a marble subway tile section with black ceramic tiles or vice versa. Intersperse metal penny tiles between stones. Combining materials and textures makes for a custom look.
Special Shape Tiles
Unique shaped tiles like hexagons, fish scales, diamonds or curved offer a change from traditional subway and square types. Get creative mixing complementary hues and designs. Geometric shapes and mosaics make for artistic impact and visual depth.
Horizontal Orientation
Running rectangular ceramic or porcelain tiles horizontally instead vertically builds interest. Extending tiles across the whole backsplash space can enhance the feeling of width in a small kitchen. Combine varied tile sizes for architectural appeal.
Graphic Patterns and Textures
Bold patterns like graphic tile prints, 3D tiles and ornate moldings add striking flair. Integrate metal or leather tiles for intriguing texture. Lay tile in chevron, herringbone or basketweave designs for pattern and movement.
Backsplash Accent Wall
Transform one backsplash wall into a focal point by framing it with wood molding or trim. Use this wall to showcase a special material like metal tiles, mirrored glass or marble slab. An accent wall prevents the space from feeling busy.
Mix Finishes
Combine glass and matte tiles or smooth and textured stone for dimensional appeal. Contrasting tile finish builds depth and visual interest. Try pairing honed marble subway tiles with polished marble accents for subtle flair.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Backsplash for White Cabinets and Black Granite
- What color backsplash goes best with black granite countertops?
- Neutral colors like white, gray and beige pair wonderfully with black granite countertops. Creative pops of color in blues, greens, yellows and purples also beautifully complement the black granite.
- What kind of backsplash is best with white cabinets?
- Subway tile, ceramic, porcelain, glass, marble, granite and travertine all make excellent backsplash choices with white cabinets. Pick materials and colors that coordinate with your countertops.
- What backsplash color makes kitchen cabinets pop?
- Contrasting hues in the backsplash make cabinetry stand out. Colors like blue, green, black and red create visual impact against white cabinets. Soft neutrals like beige and gray also subtly enhance white cabinets.
- What backsplash looks best with black granite white cabinets?
- White and gray marble, travertine and quartzite complement black granite with white cabinets. Creative pops of color like blue, green or yellow backsplashes also pair nicely.
- What color backsplash goes with Baltic Brown granite?
- Soft beiges, creams and grays balance the brown, black and copper tones of Baltic Brown granite. White backsplashes pop while medium tone greens and blues complement the granite.
Conclusion
The ideal backsplash brings together the elements of your white cabinets and black granite countertops into one cohesive look. Ultimately the choice comes down to your style sensibility, kitchen needs and mixing of textures.
Neutrals like white, beige, gray and black are always classic, safe choices. Don’t be afraid to give your kitchen personality with colors like blue, green, yellow or red. Natural stones in marble, travertine and limestone marry beautifully with the granite.
Get creative with special shape and mosaic tiles, graphic patterns, combining materials and laying tile in artistic orientations. And be sure to properly seal and maintain your backsplash materials for optimal durability.
With some thoughtful planning upfront and care given to installation and maintenance, your dream backsplash can beautifully match your white cabinetry and black granite for years to come.