Matching Your Kitchen Countertop and Backsplash

For anyone planning a kitchen remodel project, one of the first big decisions is whether to choose countertops or a backsplash first. Both elements can serve as focal points in a well-designed kitchen, but they can be even more impressive when they coordinate with one another. But with so many different kitchen countertop and backsplash choices, matching them together effectively can seem overwhelming. Before you visit a kitchen remodeling showroom to plan your new kitchen, keep these tips in mind to match your countertop and backsplash.

Select the Countertop First

The first approach is to focus on the countertop selection first. This is typically the route most people go considering how much more design “real estate” countertops take up in a kitchen and that they are among the biggest chunks of a kitchen remodel budget. Once you have selected a kitchen countertop, decide whether you want to the backsplash to take a backseat to the countertop or work in harmony to create a bold statement.

Select the Backsplash First

On the other hand, there’s no rule that says you can’t first select your backsplash and then pick a countertop around it. Going with a statement-making backsplash will narrow down the options you have for the kitchen countertop, especially if you devote a large portion of your remodel budget to the backsplash. If your backsplash is destined to be the star of your kitchen, go with a countertop that is a bit more conservative and will play a supporting role instead of competing with the backsplash.

Use the Same Material for Both Elements

In either case, you can always choose to use the same material for both the countertop and backsplash. This might also be a good money-saving option if you purchase a large slab granite or quartz countertop and have enough material left over to use as the backsplash.