Backsplash in kitchen with white cabinets, warm granite

last year

We just bought a new house and are looking to update the backsplash since we’re replacing the over-the-range microwave with a range hood. I’ve been going back and forth about what color tile to choose given that the granite pulls very want. My initial thought was to go with a natural stone like marble instead of a glossy ceramic. We bought samples of this 3x6 marble tile at floor and decor, but my concern is that it’s too cool for the room. We want to avoid a full kitchen renovation, so we want to find something that will feel neutral and timeless. My husband doesn’t like the white subway tile and I’m afraid white subway tiles would conflict with the wall color. Any suggestions?

Note: the small warm tiles are what’s currently there.

Featured Answer

chloebud

last year

“Get a tile that is one consistent color and not one that has variations from tile to tile, as you have enough movement/color on the counters.”

Agree 100%! I would not add more pattern with those counters.

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Comments (12)

Lyn Nielson
last year
conflicting with the wall color shouldn't be the issue... paint is relatively inexpensive.

Find a tile you love and repaint the ceiling and walls.
kandrewspa
last year
That being said ^ ^ ^ , the tile you're considering does not go with the countertop. However, I am confused by the picture you're showing with the backsplash tile. The granite on top looks a lot different than what's on the bottom. What do the counters look like? If it looks like what's on the bottom, the counters don't go with the white cabinets either. The previous owners may have painted them. Perhaps they were orginally natural wood. If you haven't already, bring home (or order online) several samples of different backsplash tiles until you find one that works. A white-white isn't going to work, but an off white or taupe might.
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Steph Kohler
Original Author
last year
The counters more closely match the bottom granite, the slab of granite for the bar seating does pull much cooler. I think that’s where I’m having trouble as well, the cabinets and counters are so different, I think it may be best to match the counter and then figure out the cabinets at a later time.
chispa
last year
Definitely not that 3x6 marble tile with that granite.

I would find a light beige subway tile that works with the counter. Get a tile that is one consistent color and not one that has variations from tile to tile, as you have enough movement/color on the counters.

Try local independent tile stores in your area instead of big box stores.
chispa
last year
If you want to keep things simple for now, kitchens don't have to have a backsplash. You can remove that busy tile, repair the walls and just paint them like the rest of the room.
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BeverlyFLADeziner
last year
last modified: last year
To me you're looking for a bronze black tile to work with this granite.
Jenn-z9b-AZ
last year
what a great kitchen! i agree that solid color subway tile in one of the light shades from the granite will look fantastic. the granite is the star. another patterned stone is not way to go.
herbflavor
last year
i like the 1st and 4th proposed by BEVERLY DEZINER big white kitchen... full reno not in the cards......a new stainless hood........love those shades that will coincide w the stainless hood yet to arrive..... pop w the all white cabs and let the granite remain but give a new focus at the splash area. " Bronze Black " ...the winner.
Steph Kohler
Original Author
last year
Thank you all so much for the ideas! I ordered 6 samples of beige/taupe solid subway tiles to see if I can find one that matches a color in the granite. My gut told me something was off with the marble tile so I really appreciate the feedback
Steph Kohler
Original Author
last year
Here are better pictures of the granite countertops throughout the kitchen for reference. Some areas pull really warm, but others pull gray. I’m hoping to match the beige or cream and then see how the cabinets look. Also planning to try black hardware to pull in some of the flecks of black in the granite to make it more modern.
RedRyder
last year
The plain beige tiles should work.

If you need more samples, Tilebar.com sells 5 samples for $5. Their prices are reasonable as well. Wait on the black hardware until the new tile is up. It may look too harsh. Get samples of antique brass. It might be the right finish for your busy granite.