Should backsplash be lighter or darker than cabinets?

Author: Dr. Watson Herzog DDS  |  Last update: Thursday, October 19, 2023

The design should be used to balance out the light and dark shades of the other elements, so if you have light cabinets and countertops, you may want to choose a dark backsplash to bring more depth to the kitchen. If you have very dark cabinets or countertops, a light backsplash will help the kitchen feel fresh.

Should backsplash be same color as cabinets?

Having an identical (or similar) backsplash, countertop, and cabinets is a simple approach. Matching works best with neutral colors, commonly seen in all-white kitchens. It gives everything a clean, consistent look. Another approach is utilizing contrasting colors.

How do you match backsplash to cabinets?

Creating Contrast with the Cabinets

Opposite hues attract and make a high impact. Go with black and white or try beige with red. Choose from straights and curves in the backsplash to create a feeling of design tension without appearing disjointed.

What is the best color for a kitchen backsplash?

Neutral kitchen backsplashes are classic and will work well in modern kitchens. They also blend into the background to let other elements stand out more. For example, if you have a white kitchen countertop like marble or quartz, consider gray kitchen backsplashes to blend well with your kitchen countertop.

Should backsplash match cabinets or countertop?

Complimentary colors alone won't always lead to a perfect match. You must also consider patterns, movement, and sheen to create a matching countertop and backsplash look that you'll truly love. Most experts will advise you to choose your kitchen countertop before your backsplash.

Kitchen Cabinet Colors - Avoid These 7 HUGE Mistakes!

What type of backsplash goes best with quartz?

Mixing materials such as quartz paired alongside marble or glass tile is a great way to add dimension to the space. Blend natural stone – If you've opted for more of a modern-quartz look, add in a natural marble stone backsplash to create a classic sanctuary in your kitchen.

Can backsplash be darker than countertop?

The key when determining whether your backsplash should be lighter or darker than your kitchen counters is to choose the opposite of whatever hue the countertops are. For example, let's say your counters are very dark. If your backsplash were a dark hue as well, all it would do is blend in.

What kind of backsplash makes a kitchen look bigger?

Install a backsplash with strong horizontal lines, like shiplap or subway tile laid in a bond pattern. Those horizontal lines make the kitchen feel wider than it really is.

What is the most popular backsplash color?

White Is the Most Popular Backsplash Color

Porcelain and ceramic tile together are the top choice among homeowners upgrading their kitchen backsplashes as part of their remodel.

What is the most popular kitchen backsplash?

Ceramic tile is the most popular option for a kitchen backsplash. Ceramic tiles are incredibly versatile—they come in many shapes, sizes and colors and can be installed in numerous patterns.

What is the rule of thumb for kitchen backsplash?

Cost-Effective Backsplash Height

So, if you already splurged on countertops, four inched backsplashes would be the way to go. If you have some wiggle room in your budget, go for 15 inches or the mid-length installation of backsplash between the countertop and upper cabinets.

How do I choose a backsplash pattern?

7 designer tips to choosing a backsplash kitchen wall tile
  1. Decide on your focal point.
  2. Timeless over trendy.
  3. Play with shape, tile patterns and texture for a modern twist.
  4. Take home a sample.
  5. Factor in how easy it is to clean.
  6. Extend tile up to ceiling.
  7. Choose a stain-free grout or grout-free look.

How do you match kitchen cabinets with wall color?

Choose paint with the same undertone as your cabinets but a couple of shades darker. Your cabinets will draw the eye, and the room will appear more spacious. If you'd rather make your cabinets blend into the background, you can choose an attention-grabbing wall color.

What color kitchen cabinets are always in style?

Bright white, off-white, soft white and cream will always be a popular choice for kitchen cabinets of every style, from ultra-modern to country cottages. The beauty of these laid-back neutrals is that they can be given a bespoke look with different worktop materials, brassware and wall colors.

What goes first countertop or backsplash?

A countertop needs to be installed before the backsplash is put on the walls above the countertop.

Should backsplash go on side walls in kitchen?

It usually ends up hanging in midspace which makes the kitchen look awkward and unfinished. That is why experts don't recommend having side backsplashes unless they are needed.

What backsplash does not go out of style?

Subway tile is the most enduring choice for a backsplash. Avoid bold, trendy colors, and instead look for white or neutrals. Keep it simple, and bring in color elsewhere in the kitchen, with more easily replaced items, such as dish towels, art, bowls of fruit and rugs.

Should backsplash be shiny or matte?

A glossy kitchen backsplash makes the kitchen looks wider, too. Also, this kitchen backsplash type is very easy to clean. Glossy kitchen backsplashes are the go-on to add shine to the cooking space whereas the matte kitchen backsplash is very popular for those who want to achieve a plain and elegant kitchen look.

What backsplash tile never goes out of style?

Ceramic Subway Tile offers Focal points, accent strips, varying tile sizes and more! Easy to clean, light reflective and stain resistant, Ceramic Subway Tile may just be the hardest working tile in the world.

How do you match a backsplash to a countertop?

7 Tips on Matching Your Backsplash With Your Countertop Surfaces
  1. Countertop Surfaces First, Backsplash Second. ...
  2. Coordinate Colors. ...
  3. Keep It Cohesive. ...
  4. Pull Individual Details from Your Countertop. ...
  5. Create Contrast. ...
  6. Go with Glass. ...
  7. Go with a Classic. ...
  8. Play with Patterns.

What size tile looks best as kitchen backsplash?

If you like classic shapes or fun patterns, go for it. There are a few timeless designs that we can recommend, such as 3 x 6 subway tile or a 4 x 4 square tile in a dazzling colour. It may take a little longer, but if you can achieve a herring bone pattern, you'll create a neat design that will stand the test of time.

How can I make my kitchen look expensive?

10 ways to make your kitchen look more expensive while barely having to spend a cent
  1. Choose stylish functional pieces. ...
  2. Switch up your hardware. ...
  3. Add in some natural elements. ...
  4. Be considerate with color choice. ...
  5. Focus on finishing touches. ...
  6. Add or replace lights. ...
  7. Declutter to instantly make the space feel better. ...
  8. Clear the surfaces.

Do you leave a gap between countertop and backsplash?

A tile backsplash needs a 1/8” expansion gap around the perimeter, where the tile meets cabinets, the sink, or another wall. Mark it. Then, find the center of your focal point, measuring from the line of the 1/8” gap. Lay the tiles on the countertop.

Do you leave a space between countertop and backsplash?

We opted to skip grouting that 1/8″ space and instead, caulk that line between the countertop and the tile. Keeping this space is a must because as your house settles things may move around and you don't want your tile to crack.

Can backsplash match cabinets?

If you plan to keep your cabinets for a long time and want them to match the backsplash, then you can pick a backsplash that fits them. If the kitchen is being redone in the next few years, it's best to choose a material that will work with any future cabinetry choices.

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