A backsplash is that splash of color (or not) between your countertop and the wall. It can be made of stone, tile, glass, or even stainless steel.
Today’s modern kitchens are turning the backsplash into an important design feature, as homeowners realize it’s an opportunity to add a personal touch and make their kitchen truly their own.
But Does a Backsplash Always Need to Match the Countertop?
As a general rule, yes. While there are, of course, some exceptions, most of the time, a kitchen backsplash should follow the same material and color scheme as your countertops.
Even if the space above your countertop (and back of your cabinets) is very exposed, you can still add a backsplash.
A stone, glass, or tile backsplash will help brighten up a dark area and add a focal point to your kitchen.
Consider creating a backsplash using stainless steel or metallic tiles if you want to add an out-of-the-box detail.
How to Match Backsplash to Countertop?
As a general rule, stone and tiles provide the best match to countertops. There are two reasons for this:
- they come in the same colors as your countertops;
- their textures and finishes complement each other.
For matching backsplash and countertops, it’s important not to downplay the importance of tile size. If your countertop is rectangular, select a rectangular backsplash; if your countertop is square, choose a square backsplash.
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Avoid using too many colors in the backsplash. The best options for matching countertops and backsplash are white, beige (but not yellow), and light-colored stone.
It’s also a good idea to choose neutral colors for the rest of your kitchen.
If you’re using stone or tiles, you’ll want to make sure your countertops are of the same material and color.
Try using the same stainless steel finish or similar metallic tile finish for stainless steel and metallic tiles.
Types of Backsplash Material
Here are some of the different types of materials you can use for a backsplash:
Wooden Backsplash – Oak, cherry, maple, pallet wood
Wooden backsplash can make your kitchen look more rustic and inviting.
There are many types of wooden backsplash you can use, including oak, cherry, maple, and pine.
The use of wood on your backsplash is widespread but can be tricky.
Depending on the type of wood and how it is finished, you may need to choose a darker wood to keep it in harmony with your countertops.
Metal Backsplash – Stainless steel or any metal like copper, zinc, etc
A metal backsplash can add a touch of style to your kitchen while at the same time complementing your other kitchen materials.
It is great for those who like to cook and bake a lot, as it’s easy to clean and won’t get stained easily.
Tile Backsplash – Ceramic, porcelain, or glass tiles
Tile is a popular choice for kitchens with modern and contemporary designs.
You can use ceramic tile, porcelain tile, or glass tiles to create unique backsplashes in any kitchen. The tiles are also easy to clean and will not stain easily.
Stone Backsplash – Granite, marble, travertine, sandstone
A stone backsplash can add a sense of warmth and sophistication to your kitchen.
It is best to use granite for your backsplash. But just like metal, it doesn’t have to be the same color as your countertops.
It offers a very contemporary look and can add a warm feeling to your kitchen. You can also use marble, travertine, sandstone, and other types of stone.
Stone slab backsplash, in general, is a trendy choice among homeowners, and this is because it maintains its character the longest.
Glass Backsplash – Fibreglass or any glass
Usually, in the form of tiles, glass backsplashes can add a modern touch to your kitchen.
A glass backsplash is often used to brighten up dark areas like above or under the upper cabinets. The glass tends to make a room feel bigger and more open.
Countertops and Backsplash Combination Ideas
Since most backsplashes are usually relatively small, you’ll need to find a way to make them fit with your countertop.
When making a backsplash match your countertop, you’ll need to use the same material used for the countertop. Here are backsplash ideas for different kitchen styles:
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Traditional Style
If you like traditional or country styles, you can try using a wooden backsplash. Wooden backsplashes are usually made of wood like oak, pine, or chestnut. You can use all types of wood for a backsplash.
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Contemporary
A backsplash in contemporary or modern style is usually made of glass, tile, stainless steel, or metal. Some homeowners like to use variations of the same material on their backsplash to match different kitchen parts.
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High-Tech
A modern-style backsplash usually consists of stainless steel and glass. For example, you can choose glass tiles with a stainless steel backsplash. A travertine backsplash is a viable option as well.
