Contemporary Countertop and Backsplash Combinations for Modern Kitchens
The contemporary kitchen is a popular choice for those looking to create a modern and stylish kitchen. When designing a contemporary kitchen, choosing the right countertop and backsplash combination is crucial for pulling off the look. The countertops and backsplash work together to create a streamlined, integrated appearance. Let's explore some of the most popular options for contemporary kitchen countertops and backsplashes.
Countertop Materials for a Modern Look
Quartz
Quartz has become a go-to choice for contemporary kitchen countertops. Made from crushed quartz and resin, quartz counters have an appearance similar to natural stone but without some of the drawbacks. The material is non-porous, making it stain and scratch-resistant. Seamless quartz countertops with little or no patterning create a smooth, uniform look perfect for a minimalist aesthetic. With a wide variety of colors from crisp white to bold black, quartz offers durability and easy maintenance - ideal for busy kitchens.
Marble
While prone to stains and etching, marble remains popular in contemporary kitchens for its elegance and natural veining patterns, which add depth and visual interest. Honed marble finishes nicely complement the clean lines of modern cabinetry. Marble requires yearly sealing to protect its porous surface. When paired with a striking backsplash, marble countertops can anchor a contemporary kitchen with timeless beauty.
Concrete
For an ultra-modern, industrial chic look, concrete counters are on trend. Concrete offers the unique ability to be custom colored, stained, and stamped with different patterns. The matte, silky finish and cool tones pair well with sleek cabinets and stainless steel appliances. Concrete is durable and heat-resistant. However, it requires sealing to prevent stains. For a contemporary kitchen with an urban edge, concrete countertops are a bold choice.
Backsplash Materials to Complement Contemporary Countertops
Glass Tile
With their gleaming finish and sleek modular design, glass tile backsplashes beautifully complement contemporary countertops like quartz. Glass tiles come in a limitless array of colors, shapes, and sizes to creative a high-end modern backsplash. Glass tile allows for backlighting to add drama and dimension. Its non-porous surface effortlessly wipes clean. Frosted, iridescent and hand-cut glass tiles in metallic hues generate the most contemporary effect.
Metal Tile
For an ultra-modern look, metal backsplashes in stainless steel, copper, and nickel provide an alluring industrial accent. The rich, reflective sheen of metal tile establishes a contemporary mood, while the smooth, wipeable finish makes maintenance easy. Brushed metal finishes offer a softer look. Using metallic mosaic tiles, horizontal strips, or a combination of metal and glass tile allows numerous possibilities for a contemporary metal backsplash design.
Stone Mosaic
Small stone tiles in a mosaic pattern form a stylish contemporary backsplash. Materials like marble, travertine and slate recreate the elegance of natural stone in a patchwork accent wall. A stone mosaic backsplash can establish harmony with countertops made of quartz or concrete. For a current look, combine multicolor stone mosaics with neutral countertops. Or use varied stone shapes like hexagons for added modern geometry. Stone mosaic offers texture without clutter for contemporary style.
Popular Color Combinations
White Countertops + Bold Backsplash
Pairing crisp white countertops with a vibrant backsplash is a timeless and versatile contemporary combination. White quartz or solid surface countertops keep the space feeling light and spacious while the bold backsplash acts as a focal point. Try an energetic checkerboard mosaic or modern geometric design. Vivid blues, greens and citrus colors make a dramatic impact against white. This foolproof combo allows the backsplash to take center stage.
Black Countertops + White Backsplash
For high contrast drama, black countertops alongside a clean white backsplash creates a striking balance perfect for contemporary kitchens. The inky black surface - whether matte finish quartz or granite - establishes the modern mood. The white backsplash lightens up the space and adds dimension. For variety, introduce texture with subway tile or Moroccan fish scale tile patterns. Sleek black and crisp white generates an eye-catching modern look.
Gray Countertops + Multicolor Mosaic
Subway tile backsplashes may come to mind with gray countertops, but for contemporary flair, try pairing with a multicolored mosaic instead. Vivid mosaics in orange, turquoise and lime green provide the perfect contrast against popular gray countertops. The gray acts as a subtle, neutral ground for the mosaic to pop. Try irregular stone mosaics for natural movement or precisely cut glass for a more uniform effect. This blend of colors and textures creates dimension for the contemporary kitchen.
Achieving a Cohesive Modern Look
With an abundance of options, it's key to choose countertop and backsplash materials that work cohesively together. Matching up the finishes is one way to create harmony. For instance, combining a matte quartz countertop with a matte ceramic tile backsplash. Or, pairing a polished concrete countertop with glossy glass backsplash tiles. Consistent finishes appear seamless.
The height and configuration of the backsplash also impact its cohesion with the countertops. A full height backsplash that extends all the way up to the underside of the upper cabinets establishes an integrated look. Floating shelves interrupting the backsplash disrupt the flow. For a contemporary style, use a continuous backsplash across the whole surface.
It's also essential that the countertop and backsplash combination coordinate with the other elements of the contemporary kitchen, like cabinetry, floors, lighting and appliances. Cabinet and countertop colors should complement each other. The modern kitchen flows as a unified space.
Design Inspiration for Contemporary Kitchens
To spark innovative ideas, here are a few stunning contemporary kitchen examples showing inventive pairings of countertops and backsplashes.
This urban chic kitchen combines sleek white lacquer cabinets with caesarstone quartz countertops in rocky white. The minimalist aesthetic is grounded with an accent wall featuring slate rock mosaic tiles in gray, brown and white. Stainless steel finishes bridge the elements together.
Dramatic contrast comes from ink black quartz countertops bordering clean white upper cabinets in this contemporary kitchen. The high-impact checkerboard glass tile backsplash in black, gray and white generates visual excitement. Recessed lighting adds modernist flair.
Soft driftwood cabinets offer warmth to balance the polished concrete countertops in this modern kitchen. The varied glass and stone mosaic backsplash ties in the wood tones while adding subtle color. A waterfall countertop and open shelves enhance the contemporary vibe.
When designing your contemporary kitchen, select countertop and backsplash materials that reflect your personal style. Do you lean towards a minimalist look with neutral solid surfaces? Or do you embrace bold colors and patterns as dramatic accents? Contemporary countertop and backsplash combinations range from sleek and subdued to lively and eye-catching. Whether you prefer an urban modern mood or a more eclectic modern approach, the array of contemporary options allows you to create a stylish, integrated look.
A stunning contemporary kitchen can be formed with smart planning and inventive combinations.