How to Match Countertops and Backsplash
Whether you’re designing your kitchen from scratch or updating a couple of finishes, countertops and backsplashes are two crucial elements that shouldn’t be overlooked. Countertops make a significant visual impression while providing a practical space for food prep and serving, whereas backsplashes add a decorative touch and protect your walls from cooking splatter.
If you’re uncertain about which colors or styles to choose, you’ve come to the right place. The experts at our Portland flooring company are here to offer insights, guidance, and tips for selecting the ideal kitchen countertops and backsplash.
Should Your Countertop and Backsplash Match?
Your countertop and backsplash can match, but it’s not your only option. Here’s what you need to know about matching, complementing, and contrasting finishes.
Matching vs. Complementing vs. Contrasting Kitchen Finishes
- Matching: Using the same color for both your countertop and backsplash can look cohesive and elegant without appearing dull or monochrome. It’s a good fallback option if you prefer not to risk a clash.
- Complementing: Complementing colors enhance each other, creating a visually pleasing effect. For instance, green and gold work well together, evoking a natural, forest-like palette. Multiple shades of the same color, like charcoal and dove gray, can also be striking.
- Contrasting: Contrasting colors are essentially opposites, such as black and white. This classic color scheme is non-clashing and adds plenty of dimension and interest.
What to Consider When Choosing Your Countertop and Backsplash
Selecting the right countertop and backsplash is an opportunity to make a statement, ensuring the design holds up aesthetically for years to come. Consider the following aspects when browsing options:
Material
Glazed porcelain tile backsplash is a top choice among homeowners due to its variety of styles and colors, and its ease of cleaning. Stone and ceramic tile can also work, but be mindful of unglazed finishes, as they can be harder to clean.
Popular countertop materials include solid surface quartz and acrylic, with options like real stone, granite, laminate, and concrete also available. At Floor Factors, we offer a wide range of countertop and backsplash materials, including ceramic, porcelain, stone, acrylic, and quartz.
How Do You Match Kitchen Flooring with Countertops? Read our blog to find out.
Color and Sheen
Matching stone or porcelain tile counters and backsplash can create a seamless look, but selecting different materials in
matching or complementing colors is a more common choice. Traditionally, backsplashes are lighter than countertops, similar to how walls are often light-colored. However, there are no hard rules—dark backsplashes with light countertops can be stunning, and monochrome schemes can be timeless.
All-white kitchens, for example, can be anything but boring with the right finishes and decor. White marbled quartz counters paired with shiny white subway-tile backsplash, small plants, and contrasting cabinet knobs can add a pop of color and interest.
Style
Consider the style of the materials, including texture, tile size and shape, and pattern. To add character without going overboard, try a simple countertop with a statement picket-shaped backsplash tile.
Other Finishes and Fixtures
Think about how your countertop and backsplash will tie in with other materials, finishes, and fixtures in your kitchen. For example, if your kitchen features gray natural stone tile flooring, stainless steel appliances, and matte black knobs on dove gray cabinets, you might want to add subtle contrast with white counters and backsplash. Alternatively, white counters and an off-black backsplash can highlight the cabinet knobs.
Read our blog to learn How to Coordinate Kitchen Flooring, Cabinets, and Countertops.
Floor Factors: Your Resource for Flooring in Portland
We carry many kitchen-friendly flooring options from top-rated manufacturers, including natural stone, prefinished hardwood, luxury vinyl tile, and waterproof laminate. Check out our blog for more insights on coordinating kitchen flooring, cabinets, and countertops.
Can’t decide what to get for your kitchen? A design consultant at Floor Factors is here to help. We can assist with matching colors, combining finishes, and ordering custom materials. If you buy from our locally-owned Portland flooring company, we can handle demolition and installation too.
Request a free estimate to get started