Choosing the right backsplash color to complement your white cabinets and grey countertop can be a fun yet challenging process. The backsplash serves both aesthetic and functional purposes in a kitchen. It protects the walls from splashes and stains while adding visual interest. With so many backsplash color options to consider, it can be difficult deciding which route to take. Here are some of our top recommendations for picking the perfect backsplash colors for white cabinets and a grey countertop.
Warm Metal Tones
Metallic backsplashes in warm, earthy tones work beautifully with white cabinets and a grey countertop. Copper, bronze and brass backsplashes impart a touch of glamour while complementing the white and grey color scheme. The metallic sheen adds subtle depth and dimension to the space. These colors also pick up the warm undertones in the grey countertop, tying the whole look together. A cobblestone mosaic tile backsplash in antique copper or oil-rubbed bronze pops against the cabinetry. Or consider a solid metal backsplash in a warm patina for a striking yet simple look.
Cool Metal Tones
While warm metals complement the grey countertop, cool metal tones contrast it for added drama. Stainless steel, nickel and chrome backsplashes in sleek metal or shiny mosaic tile give the kitchen an elegant, modern feel. These neutrals work especially well for contemporary kitchens with a monochrome color palette. Mix metal finishes, like pairing brushed nickel subway tile with stainless steel inserts, for stylish visual texture. The reflective surface also brightens the space.
Earthy Neutrals
Natural earth tones are always a safe choice for backsplashes with white cabinets and grey countertops. Simple beige or greige (a blend of grey and beige) tile keeps the look understated. Textured stone mosaic in neutral taupe or mushroom adds natural variation. For a bit more interest, consider a stacked stone backsplash in soft tones like ivory, tan and cream. These earthy neutrals blend seamlessly with the existing white and grey color scheme for a soothing, grounded look.
Soft Pastels
Light pastel hues like powder blue, pale yellow and lavender create a cheerful, vintage vibe against white cabinets and a grey countertop. Use pastels in glossy subway tile, handpainted ceramic tile or porcelain mosaic for an upbeat cottage kitchen. Keep the rest of the palette simple and let the pastel backsplash shine as the focal point. For a more muted effect, opt for an ombre blend of soft pastels fading from dark to light. This gives a pleasant weathered appearance.
Bold and Vibrant Colors
Make a lively statement with a vivid backsplash color like emerald, sapphire or coral. These daring hues pop against the neutral cabinetry and countertop. Keep the rest of the kitchen décor minimal to let the jeweled backsplash steal the show. For a cohesive look, select a color that coordinates with accent shades used elsewhere in the home’s decor. Or choose a backsplash hue that contrasts but complements the grey countertop, like orange which is opposite grey on the color wheel.
Black and White
A classic black and white backsplash instantly elevates a kitchen with white cabinets and grey countertop. Streamlined options like checkerboard tile or bold zebra stripes have high-contrast appeal. For more flair, try a graphic Zellige-style mosaic tile backsplash. The irregular handmade tiles form kaleidoscopic patterns. White marble subway tile with thin black grout lines produces clean lines and subtle contrast. Take it up a notch with a marble mosaic that incorporates black tiles.
Wood Texture and Color
Wood-look backsplashes lend beautiful warmth and texture next to the sleek cabinetry and countertop. Natural wood colors like oak, walnut and teak complement the scheme. Distressed wood in grey-brown tones blends right in with the countertop material. For a lighter feel, try a whitewashed or weathered wood backsplash with white cabinets and grey countertop. Wood-look porcelain or ceramic tile offers realism with less maintenance than actual wood.
Creative Shape and Pattern
Make a geometric statement with artful shape and pattern. Honeycomb tiles, Moroccan fish scale tiles, and puzzle-piece mosaics all inject visual intrigue. Look for tiles mixing greys and whites for an eye-catching pixilated effect. Intricate motifs like floral lace, medallions and damask patterns add flair in any color palette. Handpainted tile turns the backsplash into a stunning focal feature. With an artful backsplash, thesimple white cabinets and greycountertop fade into a subtle background.
Complementing the Grey Countertop
When choosing a backsplash for whitecabinets and grey countertop, consider undertones in the grey to help guide your selection. Cool greys with blue or green undertones pair beautifully with backsplashes in steel grey, blue, green, and bold patterns. Warm greys skewing towards tan or brown complement backsplashes in natural wood tones, beige, taupe, cream, and black & white. Greys mixing undertones work well with nearly any color palette.
Ultimately, the backsplash should complement your personal style while working in harmony with the existing white cabinets and grey countertop. Bring in metal, wood, or color accents from elsewhere in the home. And don’t overlook the power of neutral backsplash hues to let your beautiful cabinetry and countertop design shine through. Use your backsplash to create the perfect finishing touch for a cohesive dream kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions About Backsplashes for White Cabinets and Grey Countertops
What color backsplash goes best with white cabinets and grey countertop?
Some top backsplash color options for white cabinets and grey countertops include warm metallics like copper and bronze, cool metallics like nickel and chrome, natural stone in neutral hues, soft pastels, vibrant bold colors, black & white patterns, and wood tones.
What color backsplash will make kitchen cabinets brighter?
White or light-colored backsplashes will reflect light and make kitchen cabinets appear brighter. Soft pastels, beige, cream, light wood tones and any light reflective surface will brighten up cabinets.
What backsplash colors make a small kitchen look bigger?
Using backsplash colors lighter than your cabinet color can give the illusion of a larger, brighter kitchen. Soft neutral, pastel or white backsplashes open up the space. Glossy or reflective surfaces also reflect light to make a small kitchen appear bigger.
Should you match backsplash to countertop or cabinets?
It’s generally best to match the backsplash to the countertop rather than cabinets for a streamlined look. However, contrasting yet complementary backsplash colors can make cabinets stand out beautifully.
What backsplash goes with quartz grey countertop?
With a quartz grey countertop, try a backsplash in warm copper or bronze, cool stainless steel or nickel, natural stone like marble, or simple white tile. Wood-look porcelain in light grey also complements a quartz grey countertop attractively.
What color backsplash goes with charcoal grey countertops?
For charcoal grey countertops pair an elegant white, soft grey or silver-travertine backsplash. Wood-look planks in walnut or oak add warmth. Black and white patterns like chevron make a bold counterpoint. Emerald or sapphire glass tile pops against charcoal grey countertops.
Conclusion
The ideal backsplash brings together your dream kitchen elements into a cohesive whole. With white cabinets and grey countertop, you have a stylish, neutral foundation. The possibilities for the perfect coordinating backsplash design are endless. Warm metals, cool stones, natural wood grains, simple subway tile, or colorful mosaics can all look beautiful against this streamlined base. Consider complementing or contrasting tones, durable materials and easy-care surfaces based on your lifestyle needs. Most importantly, choosebacksplash colors and textures thatreflect your personal vision to create a spaceyou’ll love coming home to.