Countertops and backsplashes are hardworking elements that cover large areas of the kitchen.

Your choice of materials for these surfaces plays a key role in its overall design.

Wondering what backsplash to pair with a white countertop?

dark green tiled kitchen with larch-wood cabinets with cutout handles

Credit: Kim Cornelison

Want to choose a backsplash tile that will complement dark counter materials like granite or black marble?

Create a stylish combination you’ll love with these ideas for kitchen countertop and backsplash pairings.

Focal-Point Backsplash

The geometric green tileon this kitchen backsplash brings bold pattern to the cooking area.

white kitchen with exposed wood shelves and patterned backsplash

Credit: Peter Molick

Featuring an elongated diamond shape and a reflective pearl finish, turquoise tilesform an eye-catching backsplash.

The countertops are made of concrete and recycled glass, which subtly sparkles in the light.

Here, standard white subway tiles wereinstalled in a stacked patternfor a more contemporary look.

sea tone kitchen backsplash

Credit: Laurie Black

Light-colored butcher-block countertops offer a contrasting texture that stands out in the white kitchen.

Unexpected Countertop and Backsplash Combination

Establish character with an unexpected combination of countertop and backsplash materials.

Typically used on floors, penny tiles introduce vintage charm and texture to this kitchen’s backsplash.

black white kitchen modern minimalist butcher block counter range

Credit: Edmund Barr

Backsplash Ideas for Marble Countertops

Marble makes a timeless, elegant choice for kitchen countertops.

Darksoapstone countertopsground the room and introduce another layer of texture.

Farmhouse Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

For afarmhouse-style kitchen update, consider installing tongue-and-groove paneling on the backsplash.

kitchen counter with tile backsplash

Credit: Annie Schlecther

Curly maple countertops inject warmth that fits the kitchen’s rustic theme.

Matching Countertops and Backsplash

For a streamlined look, repeat materials across the countertop and backsplash.

In this modern kitchen,white quartz with dramatic veiningstretches up the backsplash and over thewaterfall peninsula.

marble counter kitchen sink with blue cabinets and decorative bowls on wood shelves

Credit: Anthony Masterson

Lacquered gray cabinets and brass accents add a touch of shine and glamour.

Dark Countertops with White Subway Tile

A subway tile backsplash giveskitchens a timeless aspect.

Here, dark grout makes the tile look like it has aged in place while disguising dirt or grime.

green painted farmhouse kitchen cabinets copper cookware

Credit: Nathan Schroder

But it also cleverly relates to the dark granite counters, a classic choice.

White cabinets and countertops provide just the right neutral backdrop for this patterned tile backsplash.

The light veining in the stone brings a natural element to the design.

geometric modern kitchen with serving area and chairs

Credit: Edmund Barr

Paired with dark and simple counters, this timeless combo will look good for years to come.

Tile Your Backsplash

Updating the backsplash with new tile is a simple way to transform your kitchen.

With a few skills, this is aDIY project most homeowners can accomplish.

white kitchen with lemon-lime accents

Credit: Robert Brinson

Get tips from the pros and see how simple it is totile your own backsplash.

The horizontal lines of the bamboo-look backsplash tile add an eye-catching texture.

The warm, dark gray tones of the countertops keep the monochromatic scheme from feeling cold.

kitchen with white cabinets and patterned backsplash

Credit: Kim Cornelison

A wood-wrapped range hood adds warmth and natural beauty to the room.

The dark materials alsominimize spills and splattersthat might show on a lighter color.

The dark wood finish will disguise imperfections and wear well over time.

black cabinets with stainless steel appliances

Credit: Michael Partenio

Stone Backsplash Treatment

A rugged, counter-to-ceiling stone backsplash treatment gives this kitchen natural warmth.

The stacked stone contains both brown and gray colors to unite the wood floors and gray cabinets.

Stainless-steel appliances and a black countertop serve as neutrals in the design scheme.

Transitional style kitchen with double oven

Credit: Werner Straube

Cottage-Style Kitchen Materials

Awhite beaded-board backsplashinfuses this kitchen with cottage style.

The textured wall treatment is painted to match the cabinets and trim for a cohesive look.

Gray countertops provide an element of contrast that marries many different neutral finishes.

dark wood cabinets with marble counters

Credit: James Yochum

kitchen with white cabinets and wood hood

Credit: Emily Followill

white kitchen with subway tile

Credit: Beth Singer

farmhouse style kitchen with large sink

Credit: James Carriere

kitchen with white cabinets and rug

Credit: Adam Albright

neutral tones kitchen with large window and wood floors

Credit: Michael Partenio

white kitchen with glass cabinets

Credit: Marshall Johnson