Kitchen counters & backsplash...regretting choices?

12 years ago

last modified: 12 years ago

So my husband and I just had granite countertops (white delicatus) & a marble backsplash (polished venatino) installed...and I'm having serious buyers remorse. The granite was a no-brainer as I needed a light color to complement the very dark kitchen cabinets. The backsplash, however, is where I think I might have tripped up. I narrowed it down between polished venatino and a taupe limestone. I chose the venatino marble over the taupe because I thought it was a more elegant, classic look whereas the limestone was more urban and "hip". (Where I got this notion I'm not quite sure.) What I'm seeing now is that the granite is coming across as more taupe (warm) and the venatino marble is more grey (cool). Thoughts? I'm wondering if it really looks as awkward as I'm making it out to be.

Featured Answer

sally78

12 years ago

I see there is a bit of a difference in the shininess-factor between the backsplash and the granite--that might be what is bothering you.

Really, it is okay. Both look very good with the black cabinets AND the stainless.

Test out some objects on the counter to see what will bridge the slightly different "looks" and create a unified whole.

Not a lot of stuff--a few large items--maybe that are a bit shiny themselves or have some stainless on them…

I think white objects, or partially white, might look good… a white porcelain cookie jar could work (depending on its style).

I don't recommend objects that are too busy or too colorful---just try stuff and see what you like.

You have created is a very classy look. Just add a couple "classy objects" and you will be done---and satisfied.

You probably have been over-analyzing. Easy to do when you work so hard over decisions.

Also, it takes a while to be able to drink in something new. To someone not emotionally involved in all the decision-making, it really does look good. Beautiful materials. The cabinets are stunning.

Attached (I hope I am doing it correctly) is West Elm cookie jar I love. Might work on your counter.

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Comments (15)

Brandi Nash Hicks
12 years ago
I think your ok because you have stainless appliance,once you get your kitchen stuff out and room decorated everything will blend ,I,like it .
Courtney M thanked Brandi Nash Hicks
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Barbara Ventura
12 years ago
I see what you are saying but I think it looks very nice. You have to look at the "entire picture". I think once it's grouted and accessorized it will look great.
Courtney M thanked Barbara Ventura
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SVEA KITCHENS
12 years ago
Courtney, your kitchen counters & backsplash look fine. Good job!
Courtney M thanked SVEA KITCHENS
joancuneo
12 years ago
I think it looks very nice too. sometimes when you look at something for a period of time, you start seeing everything. It really looks nice,
Courtney M thanked joancuneo
Patricia
12 years ago
It's lovely, and very classy!
Courtney M thanked Patricia
Giuseppina Kilgallon
12 years ago
Just take the splash back off and retile the long term effect will be more pleasing for you to look at, a little messy but worth it in the long run.
Courtney M thanked Giuseppina Kilgallon
mica04
12 years ago
Looks beautiful! You can change the whole look of the backsplash with grout... Make sure you test different colors before deciding on grout color. White grout will obviously make the tiles more white, but an off white may tone down it down and achieve the look you are going after.
Courtney M thanked mica04
januarisun
12 years ago
last modified: 12 years ago
I see what you're saying, and although I think both look nice on their own, there is a disconnect, when you put them together. I have to admit, it would probably bug me, and I have learned, it's easier to re-do it, while you're in the middle of it, than to rip it out, two years later. :)
Courtney M thanked januarisun
Shirley
12 years ago
I really like your choice, as one other person mentioned you are over analyzing after making tough choices. Again, living with it a bit to allow it to grow on you. I bet if you put a pot of greenery or a couple of objects you "love" you'll find your choice is well done.
Courtney M thanked Shirley
Jennis
12 years ago
I think it looks very elegant! Also you'll probably feel different once your kitchen is decorated.
Courtney M thanked Jennis
km kane
12 years ago
I don't like them together at all. They are working against each other. Both are very nice, but together is a fight. I's go for a single color backsplash and highlight the granite.
Courtney M thanked km kane
lmr0103
11 years ago
I'm having the same remorse.... does anyone know if the tile can be removed and used elsewhere? Is the wall behind likely to take a beating and need repair as well?
hlb31071
10 years ago
I think it looks beautiful!
Courtney M thanked hlb31071
rocketjcat
10 years ago
Old post from 2014.