Don't Miss These On-Trend Countertop and Backsplash Pairings

With so many options for countertops and backsplashes, it can be tricky to choose combinations that work seamlessly together. The key is finding pairings that complement each other in terms of color, texture, and style. Read on for the hottest countertop and backsplash trends that are sure to make your kitchen shine.

Whether you prefer natural stone, engineered stone, tile, or wood, the right backsplash can enhance your countertops beautifully. Keep reading for insights on pairing today's most popular countertop materials with stunning backsplash designs.

Granite Countertops

Overview of Granite

Known for its elegance and durability, granite is a go-to choice for many kitchen remodels. This natural stone comes in a wide array of colors and patterns, from solid hues to bold speckled designs. Granite offers a timeless, high-end look. It's also heat and scratch resistant.

Downsides of granite include the need for annual sealing and the potential for stains and cracks. Overall, though, granite remains a classic, stylish, and versatile option for kitchen countertops.

Best Backsplashes for Granite

With so much visual interest, granite pairs best with simple, clean-lined backsplash materials and colors. Here are some of the top options:

• Subway tile: Classic white or light grey subway tiles beautifully complement granite's colors and patterns.
• Marble tile: For a coordinated natural stone look, marble backsplash tile works seamlessly with granite countertops.
• Glass mosaic tile: Small glass tiles in white, cream, or grey add shimmer and texture as a backsplash for granite.
• Metal tile: For contemporary contrast, stainless steel or copper mosaic tiles make a striking granite backsplash.

Be cautious of pairing extremely busy backsplash tile designs with granite's natural visual interest. Instead let the granite be the star and choose a simple, neutral backsplash.

Quartz Countertops

Overview of Quartz

As an engineered stone, quartz offers the look of natural stone without some of the downsides. Quartz is non-porous, making it very stain and scratch resistant. Seamless installations are possible with quartz.

Quartz comes in a wide range of patterns, from solid hues to aggregates that mimic natural stone. Colors tend toward lighter neutrals and muted tones. The main cons of quartz are the higher cost and limited exotic patterns.

Best Backsplashes for Quartz

With quartz's neutral hues, natural stone and ceramic backsplashes create simple, clean pairings:

• Subway tile: Classic white subway tiles always complement quartz's colors and patterns.
• Marble tile: With a similar palette, marble backsplashes work beautifully with quartz.
• Glass tile: Frosted or translucent glass tiles add subtle shine behind quartz.
• Ceramic tile: Neutral cream or grey ceramic tiles keep the look light and bright.

Focus on soft neutrals like white, cream, light grey, and pale beiges. Vibrant colors can sometimes overpower quartz's subtle patterns.

Marble Countertops

Overview of Marble

Prized for its elegance and luxe look, marble features ornate grey and white veining patterns. Each slab has a unique appearance. Keep in mind that marble is softer and more porous than granite, making it prone to etching and stains.

Proper sealing and avoiding acidic foods and cleaners can help maintain marble's beauty. Overall, marble provides an upscale, Old World aesthetic but requires a bit more maintenance than granite or quartz.

Best Backsplashes for Marble

To highlight marble's delicate veining without competing, simple backsplash materials work best:

• Subway tile: Classic white or neutral subway tiles make the perfect marble backsplash.
• Glass tile: Frosted glass tiles in soft hues complement marble's palette.
• Mosaic tile: A white, silver, or neutral mosaic backsplash beautifully accents marble's look.

Avoid bold colors and busy patterns that distract from marble's natural beauty. Instead let the marble be the star and choose a minimalist, neutral backsplash.

Wood Countertops

Overview of Wood

Wood countertops infuse warmth and natural texture into kitchens. Popular options like oak, maple, and butcher block offer durability along with organic style. Keep in mind that wood requires careful sealing to prevent water damage and stains.

The natural look of wood pairs perfectly with today's modern farmhouse trends. Wood offers a timeless, handcrafted aesthetic. Just be prepared for extra sealing and maintenance to keep it looking pristine.

Best Backsplashes for Wood

Natural stone or simple tile backsplashes complement wood's rustic vibe:

• Natural stone tile: Marble, travertine, or slate backsplash tiles accent wood's natural beauty.
• Subway with metal: White subway tiles with stainless steel or copper accents create an eye-catching pairing.
• Mosaic tile: A mosaic tile backsplash in neutral tones provides a polished accent.

Steer clear of bold or colorful backsplash tiles that could clash with wood's natural tones. Simple, earthy backsplashes keep the look cohesive and sleek.

Tile Countertops

Overview of Tile

From ceramic to porcelain to stone, tile offers nearly limitless countertop options. Mix and match shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns for a custom look. Tile stands up beautifully against heavy use, but the grout lines require regular sealing.

Pros of tile countertops are the affordable price point and huge variety of styles. Cons include sealing maintenance and potential unevenness. Still, tile delivers on design possibilities, durability, and budget.

Best Backsplashes for Tile

With so many tile countertop options, you can get creative with complementary backsplash styles:

• Contrasting tile: Choose a different tile shape or material to accent your countertop tiles.
• Complementary color: Pull out a subtle color from your countertop tiles for the backsplash.
• Accent stripe: Add a bold tile stripe or geometric mosaic pattern as a unique backsplash accent.

Really anything goes with a tile countertop backsplash. Just keep in mind basic design principles like sticking with a cohesive color scheme.

The key to a seamless kitchen look is choosing countertop and backsplash combinations that work in harmony. Natural stone countertops tend to pair well with simple subway or ceramic tiles. Engineered stone quartz complements marble backsplashes. Wood countertops look stunning with natural stone accents. And vibrant tile countertops give you the freedom to get creative.

Focus on finding the countertop material that best fits your lifestyle and budget. Then design a stunning backsplash that enhances your counters. With these on-trend pairings, you'll love showing off your beautiful new kitchen!