Choosing the Ideal Backsplash for Stone Countertops

While some might argue it's hard to find an unattractive backsplash pairing with neutral natural-stone countertops, this doesn't make your task any easier. There are many ways to choose the right backsplash for stone counters, such as a contrasting color, a material that draws out the fine details in the stone, or something that continues the sleek appearance of the countertops. Here are a few strategies you can use to pick a winning backsplash to go with your stone countertops, brought to you by the Stone Care Experts at Granite Gold®.

Coordinating Colors

One popular option is choosing a single hue from the countertops and continuing it into the backsplash. For example, if your counters are predominantly gray and white but have blue-gray veining, you can draw attention to the beautiful color with complementary subway tiles. If you want the ultimate coordinating backsplash, you can even extend the countertop material up the wall. A 4-inch backsplash of the same stone is standard, but there's nothing stopping you from continuing a slab of granite or marble up the wall.

Contrasting Colors or Materials

You don't need to stick with the same color palette for a cohesive and beautiful result. Contrasting the countertop and backsplash can create a sleek, modern look. While a large slab of white marble may make a room feel cold, you can add brightness and some reflection with stainless steel. Shiny black granite looks great with contrasting white subway tiles or even a brightly colored mosaic. Choosing a contrasting color or material works especially well if your countertops and cabinetry share the same color palette. Cabinets and countertops in grays can make a monochromatic kitchen seem cold, but all it takes is a pop of contrasting color to add interest and warmth.

Matching the Finish

It's also a good idea to consider the finish of your countertops when choosing a backsplash. If you have stone countertops with a glossy polished finish, glass tile makes an excellent backsplash material. For honed granite, you may want to opt for textured or variegated ceramic tile.

Mimicking the Pattern

If you love the unique pattern of your stone, you can design a tile backsplash with a similar pattern. To avoid clashing with a busy stone pattern, make sure your backsplash has harmonizing colors. For example, Giallo Ornamental granite is known for its creamy golden tones with flecks of dark brown minerals that make up around 10 percent of the surface area. To mimic this pattern, you could choose ceramic or tumbled marble tile with slight variations in color that coordinate with the creamy tones. The tile pattern can be punctuated with occasional darker tiles.

Deciding on the Countertop or the Backsplash as the Accent

If you want your stone countertops to be the focal point of your kitchen, choose an understated backsplash like white subway tiles, neutral glass tiles, or even stainless steel. This draws more attention to a bold and beautiful stone countertop. If you prefer the backsplash as the accent while the countertops take a backseat, try adding color. This option works best if you have neutral stone counters without a busy pattern, such as black granite or white marble. You may want something unique like a colorful mosaic or rich wood, or you can draw the eye upward with a full wall of brilliant multicolored glass tiles. If the backsplash you choose is also made of natural stone, you can use the same products to clean it as you would your countertops. If you need a high-quality granite countertop cleaner, get in touch with Granite Gold®. To learn more about our products, which are safe to use on granite, marble, slate, travertine, and all other types of natural stone, give us a call today at 1-800-475-STONE to learn more.