Deciding on the right backsplash to pair with your quartz countertops can be tricky. A popular combination is a black splash with quartz, which can create a stylish, modern look. Here is a detailed guide on whether you should have a black backsplash with quartz countertops.
What is a Black Splash?
A backsplash refers to the section of wall directly behind a kitchen countertop, usually between the counters and cabinets. The purpose of a backsplash is both decorative and functional – protecting the walls from moisture, stains and splashes.
A black splash uses black tiles or panels to create a dramatic, eye-catching look. Black backsplashes have become increasingly popular in contemporary kitchen designs. They create a striking contrast against lighter quartz countertops.
Pros of a Black Backsplash with Quartz
Here are some of the benefits of pairing a black splash with quartz countertops:
Dramatic Visual Impact
The high contrast between the black backsplash tiles and light quartz creates a bold, dramatic aesthetic. This eye-catching combo makes a strong style statement.
Sleek, Modern Look
Together, the black and white scheme has a very sleek, contemporary vibe. It’s a popular choice for modern, minimalist kitchen designs.
Coordinates With Other Finishes
A black splash coordinates seamlessly with other popular finishes like black hardware, fixtures or appliances. This makes decorating the rest of the kitchen simple.
Disguises Water Marks and Smudges
Unlike a lighter backsplash, a black splash won’t readily show water spots, grease splatters or fingerprints. The dark color helps disguise messes between cleanings.
Provides Contrast for Quartz Pattern
If your quartz countertop has a distinctive pattern or veining, the black splash allows this to stand out and take center stage.
Easy to Maintain
Black backsplash tiles are relatively easy to keep clean. Dirt and dust won’t show up as visibly as on lighter surfaces.
Considerations for a Black Backsplash
While beautiful, there are also a few things to keep in mind:
- Can make a small kitchen feel darker and smaller due to the bold, graphic contrast.
- Shows flaws more – any grout/caulking lines or uneven tiles will be more visible.
- Can show dust more than a shiny splash like polished stone or glass.
- Makes the space feel cooler and more cave-like, so plenty of lighting is important.
Pros of a Quartz Countertop
Quartz is one of the most popular countertop materials because of its many benefits:
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant surface.
- Easy to clean and maintain. Resists stains, etching and heat damage.
- Available in a wide array of colors like white, gray, black and patterns.
- Doesn’t require regular sealing like natural stone.
- Non-porous so it won’t harbor bacteria.
- Withstands heavy usage and wear and tear.
Considerations for Quartz Countertops
The drawbacks of quartz countertops include:
- More expensive than laminate. Comparable or lower cost than granite or marble.
- Can be damaged by heavy impacts. Not fully indestructible.
- Requires professional fabrication and installation which adds cost.
- Occasional seams may be visible on longer runs.
- Doesn’t have the prestigious cachet of natural stone like marble.
- Limited number of suppliers compared to other materials.
Should You Have a Black Splash with Quartz?
If you’re considering a contemporary, stylish kitchen design with minimalist sensibilities, then a black splash paired with quartz countertops is an excellent choice.
The bold, graphic combo of black and white makes a real style statement. It also has the benefit of being easy to maintain and coordinate.
However, in a smaller kitchen, the dark backsplash could make the space feel cramped and dim. So factor in the size of your kitchen before deciding.
Make sure to include adequate task lighting if going with a black backsplash, since it can reduce the overall ambient light.
Install the backsplash properly so any grout lines, texture or imperfections don’t stand out. Pay attention to the transition areas between the backsplash and countertops so they align neatly.
Here are some tips for integrating a black backsplash with quartz:
- Select a quartz color/pattern that contrasts well with black like white or light gray. Busy patterns can compete.
- Consider continuing the backsplash onto a wall or as a focal point island behind a cooker. This can expand the effect.
- Incorporate black accents like cabinet hardware, pendant lights or window frames to tie it together.
- Add plenty of lighting such as LED undercabinet lights.
- Use high-quality black grout/caulking to minimize uneven lines.
- Choose matte or lightly textured tiles rather than super glossy.
- Use extra care with prepping the wall surface so tile application is smooth.
Overall, a black backsplash and quartz countertops can create a bold, contemporary look when done right. Just be sure to account for the size and lighting of your kitchen before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you put a black backsplash with white quartz countertops?
Yes, a black backsplash pairs beautifully with white quartz countertops. The high contrast looks extremely modern and stylish. It also disguises marks and smudges well.
Does a black backsplash go with everything?
Generally yes; a black backsplash coordinates with most cabinetry, hardware, lighting and appliances. Black is timeless. However, in some home styles like country cottages, the bold black could conflict.
Is a black backsplash hard to keep clean?
Not generally, as long as you use dark grout. The black color hides dust and splatters well. Matte or lightly textured backsplash tiles are lower maintenance than glossy. Properly seal and occasionally clean it.
What color cabinets go with a black backsplash?
Black backsplash tiles pair well with white, gray, black, navy, espresso or wood tone cabinets. Stick to light, neutral shades rather than busy patterns or competing colors. Walnut, oak or charcoal cabinets would complement it nicely.
What kind of backsplash goes with a black granite countertop?
For black granite, consider a lighter glass, stone or metal backsplash. Or choose black tiles with silver accents. A black-on-black combo can get dark, so aim for lighter grout if doing black tiles. Mirrored or stainless steel is also eye-catching.
Can you use a black backsplash in a small kitchen?
In a very small or narrow kitchen, a black backsplash could make it feel cramped or confined. But for an average small kitchen, it can work nicely as an accent wall. Use light cabinetry, counters and flooring to offset the bold black splash.
Conclusion
A black backsplash is an on-trend choice that pairs beautifully with light quartz countertops. It makes a dramatic style statement, especially in a contemporary kitchen. Be sure to factor in the size and lighting of your kitchen before deciding. When done right, this striking combo is sure to impress. Use high quality materials and skilled installation to ensure your black and white kitchen scheme looks cohesive yet bold.