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chris_beach58

help with counter/backsplash decision

2 years ago

Hello, looking for some advice on backsplash options. Our cabinets are going to be shiitake color from Sherwin-Williams (top of picture) and we were planning to do a white quartz countertop with a white picket backsplash. However, we fell in love with this quartzite counter, which is much more subtle and blends a bit with the cabinets.

Is our original backsplash choice still OK or do we need to change course? Thanks!

Comments (13)

  • 2 years ago

    We are planning to run the backsplash up the ceiling around the sink and range areas.

  • 2 years ago

    What floor and wall colors are you working with? What style are your cabinets? How large is your space? What color are you appliances? This all impacts how these three elements work together in the space.


    I presume these three can work together, but I suspect it is likely a matter of taste/preference. The shiitake and quartzite are beautiful and subtle. Score on finding that countertop. I find the white picket jarring, like it ruins the incredible thing you've got going with the counter and cabinets. But, I'm a fan of subtly and low contrast. It is just my preference. I presume there is nothing wrong with your choices. But do give us the rest of the info about your kitchen to be sure.

  • 2 years ago

    The kitchen is large, with a lot of natural light. Built in (paneled) refrigerator and Fischer and Paykel induction range. The floors will be stained a medium brown color to be determined. Thanks!

  • 2 years ago

    Honestly? I don't like the quartzite with the cabinet color -- it's all too similar, there is no contrast. Contrast doesn't have to be striking, it can be subtle, but there just isn't any at all here, that pairing is going to be a mass of blah-ness. I'd pass on it.

  • 2 years ago

    Some other options

  • 2 years ago

    There is also white oak hutches on either side of the range which I’ll contrast with the counter, and the island is also white oak.

  • 2 years ago

    Funny, I had in mind a variged but subtle matching subway tile just like the top picture of the three you posted. That tile with your counters and cabinet color is sublime to me. Again, might not be enough contrast for you. Personal choice.


    Agreed, you just need to decide on cabinets, counters, and floors. Wait until those are in to choose your tile.

  • 2 years ago
    last modified: 2 years ago

    I agree, it’s best to have the cabinets and counters installed before you choose your backsplash tile, if possible, so you can see everything in your own space in your own light. And stone samples do not always give a great rendering of the slab, which can have much more variation in color over its length. Is that Taj Mahal quartzite?

    Looking for other color options is a great idea. Looking for tile that will brighten the space, given your darker cabinet and counter choices is a great idea. I would go for something a little more beige. This is Fireclay Tile in Gardenia.







  • 2 years ago

    Thanks everyone! I appreciate the suggestions!

  • 2 years ago

    The counter is Nerona waves

  • 2 years ago

    ^^ Your sample piece in your original post looks nothing like the Nerona Waves slab color-wise. Which proves my point that you need to get the counters and cabinets in place before making a backsplash choice.

  • 2 years ago

    Your sample looked like a variation of Taj Mahal quartzite.


    I was surprised to see the slab for your countertops - it appears to have more gray than I was expecting (at least it does on my iPad). I like the slab - while I like a nice kitchen with taj mahal countertops, there have been SO MANY of them lately that it’s nice to see a different type of quartzite. I think your slab is pretty!


    I agree with the above comment - the sample does not appear to be a good representation of your slab.


    Personally, I’m not a huge fan of Shitake - but if your kitchen receives a lot of light + is large, it will look lighter (and not depressing) compared to the kitchen where I’ve seen it in person (this kitchen was fairly large - but did not have a lot of natural light + the lighting plan was not great).

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