Light vs. Dark Backsplash

Matching

Regardless of the color of backsplash tiles you use, it's important that the backsplash fits in with the colors of your kitchen. If the kitchen is predominantly dark, a dark backsplash will blend in, but can also create too much darkness in the kitchen. Conversely, a light-colored kitchen with a light backsplash may be too bland. Though no hard rule exists, the backsplash should contain some of the colors represented in the kitchen.

Dark Backsplash

Because you can buy a dark backsplash in nearly every color imaginable, it's easy to find one that matches a dark kitchen. A kitchen with black appliances, a dark countertop and charcoal-colored cabinets, for example, pairs well with a dark gray backsplash in either stone or glass. The color of the backsplash itself doesn't need to match exactly with the countertop or cabinets, but some element of the latter two should be represented in the backsplash.

Light Backsplash

A light backsplash is ideal for bringing brightness into a kitchen. Light gray, cream and light tan are suitable with many kitchens that employ an earth-tone color scheme. Ensure that when selecting a backsplash for a light kitchen, the room doesn't take on a washed-out appearance. Some contrast between the kitchen and the backsplash is ideal, even if you want to stick with all light colors.

Multicolor Backsplash

Instead of choosing a backsplash that is made up of one solid color, installing a backsplash with a few different colors will help tie it into the kitchen but still create some eye-catching contrast. If you have reddish-stained cabinets, pick a backsplash with slate that contains some of that reddish hue. If possible, try to match the other colors in the slate to your counter, flooring or wall color in the kitchen.