Granite countertops can be a beautiful addition to any kitchen. With its natural patterns and durability, granite makes an excellent material for kitchen countertops. However, choosing the right backsplash to go with granite countertops is key to bringing together your kitchen’s aesthetic. The backsplash serves both stylish and practical purposes, protecting the walls from splashes and stains while also providing visual interest. Here is an overview of the most popular kinds of backsplash that pair well with granite countertops.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Granite Backsplash
When selecting a backsplash for granite countertops, here are some key factors to take into account:
- Color – Choose a backsplash color that complements the natural tone and veining of your granite. Backsplashes that contrast with the granite can look too busy. Neutral, earthy tones usually pair best.
- Texture – Consider pairing polished granite with a tiled backsplash that has visual texture and interest. Or, choose a sleek glass backsplash for a smooth, seamless look.
- Style – Make sure your backsplash fits the overall style you want for your kitchen – modern, farmhouse, transitional, etc. The backsplash and countertops should coordinate.
- Durability – Pick a highly durable, water-resistant backsplash material since the area regularly gets wet. Glass, metal, stone, and ceramic tile are great options.
- Budget – Certain backsplash materials like marble, glass mosaics, and metal can be more expensive. Know how much you can spend.
Most Popular Backsplash Options for Granite Countertops
Here is an overview of go-to backsplash materials that look beautiful with granite:
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
Glazed ceramic or porcelain tiles make an excellent backsplash pairing with granite. The sheen of the tiles provides a nice contrast with the matte look of granite. Subway tiles are a popular choice, but consider mosaics, patterns, and decorative tiles for more visual interest. Tiles come in every color and finish imaginable to match your granite.
Glass Tile
For a sleek, contemporary look, glass backsplash tiles lend a reflective, light-catching appearance on the wall above granite. From solid colored glass to mosaic designs, the options are endless. Glass tiles are also very functional for kitchen backsplashes since they are impervious to water and easily wiped clean. Just be careful of chipping.
Metal and Stainless Steel
Metallic backsplashes are great for achieving an industrial vibe with granite countertops. Stainless steel, copper, brass, nickel, and other metals make a bold, modern statement. Metal backsplashes have a very clean, streamlined aesthetic. Keep the rest of the kitchen décor minimal to avoid looking too flashy.
Stone Tile or Slabs
Granite works wonderfully paired with backsplash slabs or tiles of similar stone material, like marble or travertine. The natural veining and textures complement each other beautifully. Stacked stone tiles can create a nice dimensional look. Stone backsplashes coordinate seamlessly with granite’s natural vibes.
Glass Subway Tile
For a blend of sleekness and natural style, glass subway tiles are a fantastic choice with granite. Their rectangular shape gives a subtle structural look, while the glass material pairs the polished sheen of granite. Subway tiles come in every imaginable color and work with any kitchen style.
Natural Wood
Wood not only brings warmth, but also an interesting visual contrast with the speckles of granite. Planks of finished wood or wood mosaic tiles make a rustic, inviting backsplash. Make sure the wood is properly sealed for kitchen use. An accent strip of wood paired with other backsplash materials is another great look.
Design Ideas and Tips for Pairing Granite with Backsplashes
- Echo colors from the granite veins/flecks in the backsplash tile. For example, gray tiles with gray granite.
- Pay attention to the edges and joints between the materials for a streamlined look. Granite and tile should align nicely.
- To highlight granite veins, use a backsplash in a contrasting solid color rather than a busy pattern.
- In small kitchens, minimize the boundary between the backsplash and countertop with similar tones.
- Consider adding an accent strip or geometric shape with the backsplash tiles for extra flair.
- Install under cabinet lighting to illuminate and accentuate the backsplash.
Achieving a Seamless Look with Granite and Backsplash
Proper installation is key to achieving a truly seamless, integrated look between granite countertops and the backsplash. Here are some tips:
- Use the same contractor for installing both the granite and backsplash. They can plan the transition.
- Be mindful of outlet placement so walls are properly prepped for a backsplash.
- When possible, have the backsplash run behind the stove or sink for a hidden, continuous look.
- Use caulk or grout in a coordinating color where the granite and backsplash meet.
- Take extra care aligning any patterns where the materials join for a cohesive aesthetic.
With smart planning and design, your kitchen can feature a beautiful quartz or granite countertop and backsplash combination. Consider the style you want as well as practical factors like durability and maintenance. With the wide range of backsplash materials available today, you can find the perfect match with your granite countertops.
Frequently Asked Questions About Backsplashes for Granite Countertops
What kind of backsplash goes best with black granite countertops?
For black granite countertops, either similarly dark toned backsplashes like black subway tile or slate create a seamless look. Or, go for contrast with lighter backsplash materials like white marble or glass tile. Metallic and stainless steel backsplashes also pair beautifully with black granite.
What tile color goes with Uba Tuba granite?
Uba Tuba granite has an exquisite green and black vein pattern. For backsplashes, consider either rich green glass subway tiles, black porcelain tiles, or multi-colored stone and glass mosaics to complement the granite beautifully.
What backsplash looks best with brown granite countertops?
Warm toned materials like brown ceramic tiles, travertine, and tan or caramel glass tiles coordinate seamlessly with the natural beauty of brown granite countertops. Reflective copper or brass metal backsplashes also pair nicely.
Can you use marble as a backsplash with granite countertops?
Yes, marble makes an elegant backsplash pairing with granite countertops. Make sure the marble tiles or slabs you select match and bring out the tones and veining of the granite. Take care to properly seal the marble to prevent stains.
What kind of backsplash goes with Santa Cecilia granite?
Santa Cecilia is a stunning beige granite with swirls of cream, brown, and black. A neutral toned glass or ceramic subway tile backsplash complements it beautifully. You could also use mosaic marble or travertine tiles in soft natural tones.
Conclusion
Pairing the right backsplash design with granite countertops can elevate your kitchen’s style tremendously. Consider colors and textures that accentuate your specific granite’s natural beauty. Both rustic and modern materials like natural stone, ceramic, glass, or even metals create stylish, practical backsplashes that counterbalance the granite wonderfully. With careful planning and quality installation, you can achieve a showcase kitchen with granite countertops and backsplash.