Choosing the right backsplash color for your kitchen can be a daunting task. The backsplash serves both decorative and functional purposes, so you’ll want to select a color that complements your overall kitchen design while also being practical and easy to clean. When deciding on a backsplash color, there are a few key factors to consider:
Page Contents
Coordinate with countertops
One of the most important things is choosing a backsplash color that goes well with your countertops. The backsplash sits right against the countertops, so these two elements really need to work together. If your countertops are a solid, neutral color like white, beige or black, you have a lot of flexibility in choosing a backsplash color. Bold, bright colors often pair nicely with neutral countertops to create a striking contrast. If your countertops have a strong pattern or coloring, it’s best to choose a backsplash in the same color family that complements the look. For example, if you have granite countertops with flecks of gray, blue and brown, pick a backsplash that incorporates some of those same tones.
Match the cabinetry
In addition to the countertops, the backsplash color should coordinate with your cabinetry as well. Look at the color and style of your cabinets to guide your backsplash selection. For contemporary kitchens with sleek, modern cabinetry, graphic tile patterns and bold colors are great backsplash options. In traditional kitchens with stained wood cabinets, stick to backsplash colors and materials that have an old-world, softer look like subway tile or marble.
Consider the floors
Take a look at your kitchen floors too when selecting a backsplash color. In most cases, you’ll want the backsplash to complement the floors rather than match exactly. For example, if you have light hardwood floors, choosing a backsplash color that’s a shade or two darker can provide some nice contrast while still being cohesive. With tile or stone floors, select a backsplash material that either matches the tone of the floors or provides contrast through texture.
Factor in the lighting
The amount and type of natural and artificial lighting in your kitchen should impact your backsplash color choice. Lighter colors show dirt and stains more easily, so they’re best for well-lit kitchens. Dark backsplash colors like navy blue or charcoal gray can make a kitchen with minimal lighting feel too dark and enclosed. The color of the lighting matters too. Yellow incandescent bulbs bring out warmer reddish tones, while LED lights emphasize cooler, bluish hues.
Think about function
Since the backsplash functions as a protectant from splatters and stains, durability and easy cleaning are key considerations. Glossy backsplash materials like ceramic glazed tile or polished stone are very stain-resistant and easy to wipe down. Some darker colors like black, navy or dark red can show cooking mess more visibly, even with a glossy finish. Lighter beige, off-white or gray backsplashes do a better job of camouflaging daily grime and food splashes.
Consider your style
Your own personal design style should play a major role in choosing a backsplash color. If you have a modern, minimalist kitchen, sleek materials like glass or metal in bold hues lend a contemporary vibe. For traditional cottage-style kitchens, pastels, washed wood or penny tile suit the aesthetic. Rustic farmhouse designs look best with handmade artisan tile, stone or brick backsplashes. Your backsplash can be a simple accent, or make it a high-impact focal point with an intricate mosaic or eye-catching 3-D pattern.
Backsplash Color Combinations
Now that you know what factors to consider, here are some of the most popular, aesthetically pleasing backsplash and countertop color combinations:
White Backsplash with White Countertops
| Backsplash Color | White |
| Countertop Color | White or very light tones like quartz, marble, light granite |
A white on white palette gives off a clean, bright look. White marble, groutless white glass and glossy white ceramic are all eye-catching backsplash options. Add visual interest by varying the white tile size, shape or texture.
Beige Backsplash with Beige Countertops
| Backsplash Color | Beige, sand, light brown |
| Countertop Color | Beige granite, quartz or marble |
Beige is a versatile neutral that works with any style. Try natural stone mosaic tiles, travertine or ceramic subway tiles. Beige pairs well with cream cabinets too.
Gray Backsplash with White Countertops
| Backsplash Color | Light gray, dark gray, blue-gray |
| Countertop Color | White or very light granite or quartz |
Gray is a hugely popular backsplash choice right now. Cool grays complement white countertops, while warm grays pair well with cream or beige counters. Gray stained wood, cement tile or metallic glass tiles all look modern.
Blue Backsplash with White Countertops
| Backsplash Color | Any shade of blue from pale sky blue to navy |
| Countertop Color | White or very light countertops |
From soft and soothing to bold and brilliant, blue makes for an eye-catching backsplash. Glossy subway tiles, handpainted Moroccan tiles or multifaceted glass create dazzling displays.
Green Backsplash with White Countertops
| Backsplash Color | Sage, olive, emerald, mint |
| Countertop Color | White or extra-light granite or concrete |
Verdant green in the backsplash brings life to an all-white kitchen. Pair green glass, ceramic or marble tiles with gold accents for a glamorous vibe. Deep green works with black countertops too.
Black Backsplash with White Countertops
| Backsplash Color | Inky black |
| Countertop Color | Bright white or lightly-colored countertops |
The high contrast of black and white is visually striking. Materials like polished black granite, ceramic and glass tiles look modern and elegant against white.
Backsplash Design Ideas
In addition to color, don’t forget to consider backsplash design. The shape, size, texture and installation pattern of the tiles make a big impact. Here are some top backsplash tile design trends to inspire you:
Subway Tile
A subway tile backsplash is a classic choice that suits both traditional and modern kitchens. The rectangular tiles are typically 3 by 6 inches and installed in a straight brick pattern. Luxurious materials like marble, travertine or glass can reinvent the look.
Mosaic Tile
Tiny mosaic tiles form busy patterns and picturesque scenes. Mosaics work beautifully behind a stove or sink. Penny tile mosaics have a vintage vibe, while shattered glass delivers visual drama.
Mixed Textures and Materials
Using a mix of stone, ceramic, glass and metal tiles keeps the backsplash visually intriguing. Vary textures like honed, polished, cracked and pebbled. Combining large and small tile shapes also adds interest.
Geometric Patterns
For a modern, graphic look, opt for geometric tiles or laser cut metal designs. Chevrons, herringbone and tessellated shapes catch the eye. Use just a few statement tiles among plainer ones.
3D Tile
Three-dimensional tile adds amazing depth and architectural detailing. Cube glass mosaics refract light across the backsplash. Overlapping tile layers, curved tiles and handpainted tiles supply visual texture.
Marble Slab
For a seamless, opulent backsplash, a marble slab is just the ticket. Bookmatched marble makes a symmetrical statement. Opt for polished or honed marble in either a solid color or subtly veined pattern.
Moroccan Zellige
Zellige tile is colorful handcrafted Moroccan terra cotta with an intricate mosaic look. The tiles are shaped into stars, diamonds and other geometric forms that fit together like puzzle pieces. They lend incredible artisanal flair.
Conclusion
Choosing the ideal backsplash color involves bringing together all the elements of your kitchen design and style. When the backsplash coordinates beautifully with the countertops, cabinetry, floors and overall color palette, it pulls the whole room together into a harmonious space. Consider how color, texture, sheen, pattern and tile shape all work in tandem for a cohesive finished look. With limitless options for achieving the perfect backsplash, you’re bound to find a combination that matches your personal taste and complements your kitchen beautifully.