Choosing the right backsplash color to pair with dark cabinets and light countertops can be tricky, but with some thoughtful planning, you can create a gorgeous and cohesive kitchen design. Here are some tips on selecting the perfect backsplash color for this popular cabinet and countertop combination.
Complementary Colors for Dark Cabinets and Light Countertops
When working with dark cabinets and light countertops, you’ll want to choose a backsplash color that complements both elements. Some top color options include:
Whites and Off-Whites
Crisp whites and warm off-whites like almond or biscuit backsplashes beautifully accent dark cabinets and light countertops. White backsplashes create a clean, bright look that highlights the contrast between the cabinets and countertops. An off-white backsplash adds a subtle creaminess that ties everything together.
Grays
Shades of gray are an excellent choice for backsplashes with dark cabinets and light countertops. Cool grays work well with countertops like white and light gray marble or quartz. Warm grays pair nicely with cream and beige countertops. Medium grays strike a balance between dark cabinets and light counters.
Blues
From navy to sky blue, bold or pastel blues make a stylish statement against dark cabinets. Blues with green or gray undertones complement beige and cream counters. Vibrant blue tiles or glass mosaics catch the eye. For a more soothing feel, try powder blue or robin’s egg blue subway tiles.
Greens
Deep green shades like emerald and forest green create an elegant, nature-inspired look with dark cabinets and light counters. Mint and seafoam greens inject a sense of freshness. Adding green accents in the backsplash and elsewhere helps connect the dark and light elements.
Metallics
Glitzy metallics like stainless steel, nickel, and bronze give the backsplash and kitchen a contemporary twist. Metal backsplashes in silver, pewter, and copper tones strike the right balance between dark cabinets and light counters.
Backsplash Styles for Dark Cabinets and Light Countertops
In addition to color, consider how the texture and design of the backsplash complements the cabinets and countertops.
Subway Tile
Classic white 3×6 subway tiles always look great with dark cabinets and light counters. Rows of subways create clean horizontal lines against the cabinetry. Subway tiles also come in bold colors and patterns. Stacked subway tile layouts give added visual interest.
Large Format Tile
For a more contemporary vibe, install 12×24 or larger rectangular tiles like marble, travertine, or ceramic. Large format tiles minimize grout lines for a sleek, seamless look. Use tiles with subtle veining or mottling to add depth.
Mosaic Tile
Tiny mosaic tiles composed of glass, porcelain, or natural stone pack a visual punch. Use mosaic tiles in vibrant colors or metallic hues. Combine mosaic sheets with borders in a contrasting color. Keep the rest of the backsplash simple to let the mosaic tile pop.
Marble Tile
Marble tile backsplashes provide timeless elegance. The natural patterning in marble adds visual texture. For light counters, select darker marbles like Emperador or checkered black and white. Softer marbles like Carrara work well for a more monochromatic scheme.
Metal Tile
Metal tiles come in stainless steel, copper, and aluminum finishes, often with interesting textures. Modern metal tiles have a highly reflective surface that plays off the countertop and cabinetry. Use metal tile in a full backsplash or as an accent.
What Color Backsplash with Dark Cabinets and Light Countertops?
When trying to decide on the perfect backsplash color for your dark cabinets and light quartz or marble countertops, keep the following tips in mind:
- Whites and grays are classic and versatile backsplash colors that beautifully highlight the contrast between dark cabinets and light counters.
- Greens and blues in various shades and intensities provide a colorful pop against dark cabinetry.
- Metallic backsplashes in silver, bronze and copper add contemporary edge and sheen.
- Look for colors in the same tone family as your countertops, whether warm creams or cool grays. This creates a cohesive look.
- Don’t be afraid of color! The backsplash is a great spot to try out vibrant accent colors that tie into other parts of your kitchen décor.
- Natural stone backsplashes like marble or travertine connect to stone countertops through common veining and patterns.
Pairing the backsplash with your specific cabinet and counter finishes requires consideration of the color undertones, direction of wood grain, and textures. With some thoughtful color selection and design, you can create a fashionable and functional kitchen with dark cabinets, light countertops, and a gorgeous backsplash that brings the whole look together.
FAQs about Backsplashes for Dark Cabinets and Light Countertops
What color backsplash goes best with dark cabinets and white countertops?
White subway tiles are a classic and elegant backsplash choice for dark cabinets with white countertops. Gray, beige, or navy blue backsplashes also beautifully accent the high contrast look.
What color backsplash goes with espresso cabinets and light granite?
For espresso cabinets with light granite countertops, warm tones like beige, cream, tan, and terracotta work well. Soft blue-grays also complement the brown espresso color. Backsplashes with brown, copper, or bronze detailing tie in nicely.
What backsplash is best with dark cabinets and quartz countertops?
Subway tiles, mosaic sheets, and marble tiles all make excellent backsplashes for dark cabinets paired with white or neutral quartz countertops. Metallic mosaics or stainless steel tiles provide contemporary contrast.
What color backsplash looks good with dark cherry cabinets?
Try an elegant white marble or travertine subway tile backsplash with rich dark cherry cabinets. A slate gray or deep green glass tile backsplash also brings out the reddish-brown tones of the cherry wood.
What backsplash goes with dark cabinets and light hardwood floors?
For dark cabinets and light hardwood floors, use a backsplash color that bridges the two tones. Soft beiges, warm grays and taupes work well. You can also pick up a floor color accent like navy blue for a cohesive look.
Conclusion
The ideal backsplash color for dark cabinets and light countertops depends on the exact shade and style of the cabinets and countertops, as well as your own taste and design vision for the kitchen. By selecting backsplash hues and materials that contrast, complement, or match your existing finishes, you can create a harmonious and visually striking kitchen design. The many available options in tiles, glass, marble, and metal provide limitless possibilities to personalize your backsplash and kitchen. With some thoughtful planning and expert tile work, your backsplash can be a stunning focal point.