The Complete Guide To Pairing Brick Backsplashes With White Cabinets
The striking contrast created by pairing crisp white cabinets with rugged brick backsplashes is captivating kitchen designs right now. This stylish look brings visual drama while adding warmth and texture.
With so many options for materials, colors, and layouts, designing the perfect brick and white kitchen requires some thoughtful planning. Use this complete guide to get inspired, understand the key factors, and pull off this trending look flawlessly.
Choosing Your Brick Backsplash
The first step in creating this eye-catching look is selecting the ideal brick material for your backsplash. Consider these key factors:
Brick Color and Style
The most popular choice is traditional red brick, which packs the most dramatic punch against bright white cabinets. But don't shy away from experimenting with gray, brown, or even multicolored blends for a more unique look.
Thinner brick veneer offers a lightweight, budget-friendly option, while faux panels provide the look without the masonry work. Or go bold with textural imperfections of authentic reclaimed brick.
Brick Layout and Pattern
Linear arrangements keep the focus on the bold brick color, while diagonal herringbone patterns add visual interest. Combining large and small bricks also brings appealing contrast.
Leave some negative space between bricks or opt for minimal grout lines for a seamless look. No matter the pattern, make sure your layout enhances the cabinets and countertops instead of competing.
Finishing Touches
Coordinate your grout with the brick color or go for crisp white grout lines with red brick. Adding floating shelves, trimwork, or niches trimmed with the same brick unifies the whole space.
Warm metallic accents like brass shelves or matte black hardware enrich the industrial vibe of brick backsplashes.
Pairing With White Cabinets
To balance the bold brick backsplash, white cabinetry keeps the look light and airy. Keep these tips in mind for choosing cabinets:
Cabinet Door Styles
Slab cabinet doors complement brick's sleek industrial edge, while recessed panels offer contrast. For a homey feel, shaker-style cabinets with visible frame outlines tie in well with brick's inherent textures.
Matte black pulls and knobs pop against the white and integrate into the brick patterns. Or enhance the rustic charm with wire hardware.
Countertop Materials
Quartz or granite countertops pair elegantly with both brick and white cabinets. For a harmonious but not matchy-matchy look, choose light countertops with subtle gray veining.
Butcher block brings warmth and dimension. Edge details like rounded laminate with coordinating tones keep the look cohesive.
Tying It All Together
Beyond your cabinet and backsplash materials, pull everything together with smart, complementary choices. Sage green or navy blue walls allow the textures to take center stage while gray grout ties into white quartz countertops.
A vintage chandlier casts an ambient glow to offset recessed task lighting on the backsplash. And open shelving reveals colorful dinnerware against the neutrals.
Design Inspiration and Examples
Seeing this stylish combo in action illustrates the many possibilities. Here are some inspiring ways to incorporate brick backsplashes with white cabinets:
Modern Contemporary Kitchens
Glossy slab cabinets, sleek hardware, and uninterrupted flows of white quartz paired with linear or mosaic brick backsplashes exude minimalist sophistication.
Farmhouse Kitchens
Shaker-style cabinets and butcher block islands complement traditional red brick backsplashes for timeless rustic charm. Exposed wooden beams enhance the cozy factor.
Rustic and Eclectic Kitchens
Mismatched cabinets and multicolored brick patterns create lively contrast. Mixing in wood countertops and black metal accents completes an artfully curated look.
Sophisticated Mixes of Materials
Gray brick laid in intricate patterns, marble slab backsplashes, and glass-front upper cabinets illustrate the refined way this trend adapts for upscale kitchens.
FAQs
What maintenance is required for a brick backsplash?
Brick backsplashes require occasional resealing of the grout lines, normally once a year or as needed. Use a specialty grout sealer and apply carefully to only the grout. Some bricks may also need periodic sealing.
How do I clean and seal a brick backsplash?
Use a mild detergent and warm water to regularly clean brick. For sealing, apply a specialty brick and grout sealer with a paintbrush. Let it soak in for 5-10 minutes then wipe away excess.
What are cost considerations for a brick backsplash?
Brick tile runs $5-$15 per square foot. Professional installation adds $6-$15 per square foot. Brick veneers are a less expensive alternative to keep costs lower.
Faux brick panels come in interlocking sections and install with construction adhesive. Precut panels make installation simple. Use silicone caulk between panels and where the backsplash meets countertops.