Selecting the perfect backsplash to pair with light grey quartz countertops can seem daunting, but with some thoughtful planning, you can create a cohesive and stylish kitchen design. Here are some of our top tips for choosing a backsplash that works beautifully with light grey quartz.
Complementary Colors
One easy strategy is to select a backsplash tile in a color that complements the light grey tones of the quartz. Soft blue, green, or taupe glass, ceramic, or natural stone tiles can provide an earthy and soothing contrast to the countertops. For a more vibrant pop of color, consider a backsplash in cadmium yellow, cherry red, or cobalt. The slightly cooler tones of the grey quartz will allow the backsplash color to really stand out. Just be careful not to choose a color that clashes. Stick to the same color family for a harmonious look.
Matching Tones
Another option is to choose backsplash tile in varying shades of grey that pick up on the tones within the quartz. Combining light, medium, and dark grey subway tiles, mosaic tiles, or marbles can create subtle and elegant interest. Adding grey grout in a slightly lighter or darker shade than the tiles themselves can also provide visual depth. This tonal look allows the beautiful grey veining and patterns of the quartz to take center stage, with the backsplash acting as a quiet and refined supporting actor.
Natural Stone
Natural stone tiles in neutral earth tones work seamlessly with light grey quartz. Tiles made from marble, travertine, slate, or limestone tend to have grey veining and whorls that tie in beautifully to the countertops. Carrara marble is a popular choice, with its distinctive white background and thin grey veining. Darker options like black slate can create a bold contrast and rustic vibe. Whatever stone you select, make sure it has some grey tones in its natural patterning and coloring to properly integrate with the look of the quartz.
Metal and Glass
For a sleek contemporary style, metal or glass backsplashes are a perfect pairing with light grey quartz. Stainless steel, brushed nickel, and anodized aluminum tiles have a cool, steely grey color that coordinates effortlessly with the countertops. Glass tile in frosted, opaque, or smoke shades also has a sophisticated modern feel. Adding some clear glass, mirrored, or metallic glass tiles provides illuminating accents. Laying the tiles in an eye-catching herringbone, brick, or penny tile pattern can make this simple combination really stand out.
Wood Look
The natural beauty of wood also works surprisingly well with light grey quartz countertops. Porcelain or ceramic tiles made to mimic weathered barnwood, bleached oak, or whitewashed pine create a rustic yet refined style. For a more modern aesthetic, opt for espresso-colored linear wood-look tiles. The linear pattern pairs nicely with the straight edges of the countertops. Wood-look tile comes in plank formats, making it easy to get creative with directional and geometric designs. Use varying shades and grains for depth and visual interest.
Mosaic Magic
Small glass, ceramic, or natural stone mosaic tiles provide the perfect opportunity to incorporate several complementary colors and textures. Blending the mosaic shades cleverly can allow you to subtly pick up on the lighter and darker areas of the quartz. For variation, combine mosaic sheets of different sizes, laying them vertically, horizontally, or in a staggered formation. Use several shades of grey glass or metallic tiles for sparkle. Accent with some opaque white or black tiles for punctuation. The mosaic pattern acts as an intricate work of art against the quartz backdrop.
Creative Combinations
Don’t be afraid to get creative and mix up materials for added flair. Combine glass and stone mosaic tiles or try a row of slate subway tiles above a stainless steel herringbone pattern. Use marble hexagons as inserts within a field of grey glass brick tiles. Try a few rows of nickel penny tiles to break up linear marble planks. Lay porcelain wood-look tiles on the lower portion and marble on top. Mixing textures and patterns keeps the eye moving and adds robust visual energy. Allow some countertop to peek through for a pulled together look.
Factors to Consider
Here are a few important considerations when selecting backsplash tile for light grey quartz:
- Color – Choose a color that enhances rather than competes with the countertop grey. Soft blue and green work well, but beware of anything too bold or clashing.
- Pattern – Use pattern thoughtfully. Simple patterns compliment the countertops while anything too ornate competes.
- Texture – Pairing sleek countertops with a heavily textured tile can make an appealing contrast. Just ensure the textures coordinate well visually.
- Finishes – Glossy glass or metal tile creates one look, while honed stone or matte finish tile make another. Consider the aesthetic you want.
- Grouting – Don’t forget that the grout color will impact the overall look too. Select a shade that ties everything together.
- Balance – The idea is for the backsplash to work in harmony with the countertops as a whole. Seek overall balance in colors, patterns, and textures.
Our Top Picks
Based on the principles above, here are some of our favorite options for backsplashes to pair beautifully with light grey quartz countertops:
- Subway Tile – Classic white 3×6” or 4×12” subway tiles create a clean and timeless look. Grey grout ties it together.
- Marble Hexagons – Small marble tiles in soft grey and white with thin dark grey veining add subtle pattern and richness.
- Slate Stacked Bond – Slate rectangles stacked in a brick-like pattern in dark charcoal grey provides bold contrast and rustic texture.
- Clear Glass Penny Tile – Rows of small rounded glass tiles in clear and opaque white refract light and sparkle.
- Whitewashed Wood Planks – The soft aged grey color of whitewashed wood porcelain tile warms up the space.
- Frosted Brick Tile– Frosty grey rectangular glass tile laid in a brick formation offers an industrial vibe.
- Mixed Natural Stone Mosaic – A mosaic of marble, travertine, quartzite, and glass in light and dark greys creates movement.
- Metal Herringbone – Sharp herringbone pattern with anodized aluminum tiles amplifies the modern aesthetic.
Bringing it All Together
When selecting backsplash tile for quartz countertops in dreamy light grey, keep the goals of balance, harmony, and a unified aesthetic at the forefront. Seek to complement and enhance the countertops rather than compete with their subtle beauty. With a thoughtful use of color, pattern, texture, and style, you can achieve a personality-filled kitchen that feels cohesive from cabinetry to backsplash to countertops. Be creative, have fun, and choose wisely for a look you’ll love living with for years to come.