Choosing the perfect backsplash to complement your white kitchen cabinets can be an exciting yet daunting task. The backsplash serves both form and function – protecting your walls while adding visual interest to your space. With so many backsplash tile options to consider, it can be tricky to settle on the right color. Here are some of our top tips for selecting a tile color that will look stunning against your white cabinetry.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Backsplash Color
Before jumping into specific backsplash color recommendations, there are a few factors to keep in mind:
Your Style
What is the overall style you are going for in your kitchen design? Backsplashes can range from traditional to modern and everything in between. Consider elements like hardware finishes, countertops, and flooring and how the backsplash can complement the look.
Lighting
The amount and type of lighting in your kitchen impacts how colors look. Natural light often allows for bolder backsplash colors while soft ambient lighting calls for neutral tones. Factor in lighting during color selection.
Flow
Look at adjoining spaces and consider how you want the kitchen to flow into other rooms. Using complementary backsplash colors can create a cohesive feel.
Best Backsplash Colors for White Cabinets
Here are some of our favorite backsplash tile colors to pair with white kitchen cabinets:
White
A white on white kitchen with matching white cabinets and backsplash is a timeless, classic choice. An all-white palette feels clean and bright. White marble, subway tile, or glass tile are perfect options. Adding tone-on-tone texture or patterns adds interest.
Gray
From light pewter to dark charcoal, gray makes an elegant neutral pairing with white cabinets. Gray offers versatility in style from modern concrete to cozy French country. Matte finishes are tactile while glossy grays reflect light beautifully.
Navy Blue
Few colors pop against white cabinets quite like navy blue. From a bold mosaic to classic subway tile, navy adds drama and sophistication. Keep the rest of the decor simple to let the dark blue make a statement.
Green
Emerald greens or organic sage shades complement white cabinetry for a nature-inspired vibe. Green mosaic tile looks bold and vibrant. Square subway layouts in soft seafoam are a more subtle approach.
Black
For serious drama, pair white cabinets with a black backsplash. High-gloss black tile or subway layouts with black grout lines create crisp contrast. Use sparingly or ground the space with other lighter elements.
Beige
Warm up an all-white kitchen with natural beige and cream backsplash tile. Handsomely veined marble, travertine, or ceramic tile in soft hues bring a subtle hint of color. Keep beige backsplashes looking luxe with polished or textured surfaces.
Design Styles for White and Colorful Backsplashes
In addition to selecting a color, consider how tile size, material, layout, and finish work together to create a cohesive backsplash design that fits your kitchen decor.
Modern
For a contemporary style, opt for solid colored glossy or polished backsplash tile in a large format laid in a stacked or grid pattern. Streamlined choices like white granite or navy blue glass make a sleek statement.
Rustic
Play up the rustic charm with artisan handmade subway tiles, natural stone, or red brick tiles. Create visual interest by including some backsplash tile laid in a herringbone pattern or mix seal brown and cream colors.
Farmhouse
Classic white shaker cabinets pair beautifully with subway tile or hexagon tile patterns. Mix in some colorful zellige tile for a handcrafted accent. Wavy white tile has an artisanal feel.
Traditional
For formal spaces, marble, travertine or ceramic tile in soft neutral beiges and grays help create an elegant traditional kitchen. Lay tile in a basic subway pattern or opt for mosaic sheets for ornate decorative flair.
Eclectic
Make a statement by mixing and matching tile materials, colors, shapes, and sizes. Contrast matte and glossy finishes. Use the backsplash as a space to showcase one-of-kind vintage finds like turquoise ceramic tiles.
Answers to Common Questions About White Kitchen Backsplashes
Still undecided on your white kitchen backsplash? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What is the most popular backsplash for white cabinets?
White subway tile remains the most popular backsplash choice for white kitchens. The versatile rectangular tiles come in affordable glossy ceramic that cleans up easily. Laying white tile in the traditional brick pattern is a timeless combo.
Should I match my countertops and backsplash?
It depends. Matching materials in your countertop and backsplash can help create a streamlined look. However, don’t be afraid to mix complementary materials like white quartz counters with a contrasting blue ceramic tile backsplash.
Can you use dark backsplash with white cabinets?
Dark backsplash colors like navy or black can look amazing with white cabinets. The bold contrast draws the eye. Just be sure to brighten the space with additional lighting and lighter flooring to keep the room from feeling too dark.
What kind of tile should I avoid for kitchen backsplash?
Porous natural stones like limestone require frequent sealing and are prone to staining, so they are not the best backsplash choice for busy kitchens. Shiny metallic backsplashes show water spots and fingerprints. Distressed tiles collect dirt in crevices.
Conclusion
The perfect backsplash brings together color, style, and texture to complement your white kitchen cabinets and fit your aesthetic. While classic whites and grays are popular backsplash choices, don’t shy away from injecting more colorful tile to create your own unique accent wall. With some planning and inspiration, you can pick the ideal backsplash to showcase your personal taste. Whatever you choose, let your stunning backsplash become a conversation piece that you and your guests will admire.