That backsplash could be lovely in another context (an all white kitchen, for example), but i have to agree that it isn't ideal with your maple cabinetry. If you want to go for a clean minimalist look, you could do a white backsplash--perhaps in glass tiles for a little shimmer? If you want something with more (but not too much) color, I like these kinds of muted green backsplashes (first two photos) with maple cabinetry. Another option is to choose a simple gray (but not blue-gray) backsplash, perhaps in gray and white marble tiles, as in the last photo.

http://houzz.com/photos/130515

The kitchen has a bit of a transitional feel with the moldings. I think the tile might not be as irritating if you painted the ceiling more neutral. The last shot you took with the matching ceiling is a big mistake it takes the focal point away from the cabinets and the neutral tips and put's it on the ceiling. As far as tiling over the glass tile, it might be tricky for the novice since glass surfaces would probably take a special mortar for the new. Consider removing the tile all together and putting in a slate look tile. I have a display in my showroom that has natural maple in a transitional look. The tops are granite and have a lot o movement. I will send a picture of it along with this massage so you can see what I am thinking.

I'm with Berry - painting the ceiling will make a HUGE difference! And before I spent dime one on the backsplash, I would sell all my appliances and upgrade to stainless. I think the white applainces are throwing off the blue for you. Decorate with lots of seagrass and natural elements, keeping it clean and modern, and I think you'll be happy with the blue.

I think you should consider a subway tile for your backsplash. You're right, the blue is a little much. I really think our Pearl subway tile would look great in your kitchen. And, we can install right over you're existing tile. You can see our tile selection here- http://www.granitetransformations.com/southjersey/products/mosaic-tiles/colors/subway/

Hope this helps!

A natural stone backsplash would look great in your kitchen. A natural product seems like it would coordinate better with everything else than the current iridescent tile. The "bones” of your kitchen are very neutral so you really do have endless possibilities. Take a look at our backsplash product, Kitchen Palette. It allows you to swap out a panel in your backsplash so you will never get bored with what you’ve selected. I’ve posted a few photos here. Think of your backsplash as “jewelry for your kitchen.” It’s a great place to add a pop of color, maybe just not this blue!

Thanks for the ideas, everyone! I agree the backsplash tiles could be okay -- pretty even -- in another context. They're just super intense in the kitchen and they cover a lot of area. Maybe we'll see if painting the ceiling tones down the backsplash enough.

I think I'm struggling here because I want a backsplash that contrasts enough with the cabinets and countertop to be somewhat interesting. I don't think a white countertop looks that great with light cabinets, but it's what I have to work with. I've toyed with the idea of just using small white subway tiles, or perhaps neutral stone tiles of some sort, and having a fun color on the walls. And I've though about even pale green or gray glass or ceramic subway tiles, but that might be too much green. Maybe something like this:
http://www.sabjimatablog.com/wp-content/uploads/std361200-37.jpg
http://www.modwalls.com/productimages/clayhaus/modwalls%202x8%20Brine%20ceramic%20subway%20tile%20kitchen%20backsplash.jpg

Do you have lighting underneath your upper cabinets? If so, would it work to have different colored bulbs? Not sure. Maybe if you can't change the back splash...embrase it....put things on your cabinets that either play it up or play it down.....stainless steel, pink or purple vases...greenery....things like that. Maybe painting your ceiling white would tone down the purple...seems like the former owner could have thought the purple ceiling went with the purple backsplash.

architectural graphic glass custom sized and seamless with no grout. And with your choice of colours and design. I would go with something light toned with subtle colour tones ...to compliment the quartz. Cheers

Before you spend any money on replacing the tile, find a paint color in the same tone as your cabinets and paint a good portion of the wall. With the white quartz, white woodwork and a neutral wall, the tile may look a lot better to you. It will take a few minutes to do.

This pix is not exactly what I am suggesting,but it is the best I can find.

I agree. You are going to spend close to a grand replacing the granite unless you do it all yourself.

I would paint the cabinets white or a light color instead of replacing the backsplash.

...and paint the ceiling a light color as well.

Yes...paint the ceiling first!
I have removed tile myself and it is not that hard to do....just be careful to not gouge the walls too much. In areas where there is not any food prep, you might even consider just painting the walls, as a start.
Painting the white walls also sounds like a great idea to minimize the blue!

Post is from 2013.