The Ultimate Guide to Pairing Brick Backsplashes with White Cabinets

A brick backsplash can infuse personality and visual interest into popular white kitchen cabinetry. The contrast between the tactile, earthy brick and crisp white cabinets creates a striking look that livens up this classic color combination. From modern to farmhouse, a thoughtful brick and white kitchen blends textures and eras for a timeless, yet fresh design.

Choosing Your Perfect Brick Backsplash

With endless options for color, style, and layout, selecting the ideal brick backsplash requires thoughtful consideration. The color and pattern you choose will dramatically impact the overall look and feel of your white kitchen.

Brick Color Options

The most popular brick backsplash colors with white cabinets are:

• Red - Provides a bold, dramatic contrast
• Brown - Warm and cozy ambiance
• Gray - Subtle and modern aesthetic
• Whitewashed - Bright, casual cottage style

Lighter brick colors like gray and whitewashed allow the white cabinets to stand out, while deeper reds and browns anchor the space. Consider the mood you want to create, from airy and light to cozy and dramatic.

Brick Styles

From authentic clay to faux, there are many brick styles to suit your design:

• Clay - Natural, traditional look
• Faux Brick - Cost-effective, uniform finish
• Stacked Stone - Organic pattern and texture

Clay bricks offer an authentic appeal, while faux versions allow for more affordable customization. Stacked stone backsplashes complement brick's earthy vibe.

Brick Layout Patterns

In addition to color and material, the brick layout pattern makes a significant visual impact. Popular options include:

• Stacked - Clean, linear look
• Herringbone - Visually captivating
• Geometric - Modern statement

A staggered herringbone pattern provides depth, while linear stacked bricks have a more uniform look. For a customized design, consider geometric shapes.

Selecting Complementary White Cabinets

The white cabinets paired with your brick backsplash should enhance the overall look, not compete with it. Here's what to consider when selecting cabinets.

Cabinet Door Styles

Popular white cabinet door styles include:

• Slab - Seamless and contemporary
• Shaker - Versatile and clean-lined
• Inset Panel - Traditional and ornate

Slab cabinetry complements modern backsplashes, while inset panels pair well with old-world brick designs.

White Cabinet Colors

White cabinet finishes range from crisp brights to warm, subtle hues:

• Bright White - Clean, vibrant look
• Antique White - Softer, with yellow undertones
• Cream - Understated and calming

Brighter whites make the brick backsplash pop, while antiques whites and creams have a more subtle contrast.

Countertop Materials

Popular countertops that complement brick and white cabinets include:

• Granite - Matches brick's natural vibe
• Quartz - Has a clean, modern appeal
• Butcher Block - Provides warmth

Rich granites, like black and brown, accent brick's earthiness. Crisp white quartz counters offset both materials. Butcher block offers rustic contrast.

Design Inspiration and Ideas

From textures to accessories, here are ways to make your brick and white kitchen uniquely you.

Mixing Textures and Materials

Adding complementary materials creates depth and interest:

• Wood open shelving - Warm and casual accent
• Marble tile - Elegant contrast
• Stainless vs. copper hoods - Cool and warm metals

Wood shelving softens brick's hard edges, while marble adds glamour. Mix metal finishes for sleek variety.

Lighting and Accessories

Details like lighting and decor personalize the space:

• Pendant lights - Stylish focal points
• Under cabinet lighting - Creates ambiance
• Barstools - Adds seating and texture
• Plants - Brings life and freshness

Task and accent lighting brighten both work and living zones. Add stools, greenery and artwork you love.

Tone and Style

Adjust colors and textures to fit different aesthetics:

• Modern - Cool tones, sleek lines, metal accents
• Farmhouse - Whitewashed brick, wood accents, vintage touches
• Traditional - Deep red brick, intricate patterns, dark granite

Modern styles feature neutral brick and chrome fixtures, while farmhouse looks incorporate weathered bricks and wood. Traditional kitchens highlight ornate brick designs and rich granite.

Executing Your Brick and White Kitchen

Once you've planned your design, it's time to tackle the installation. Here are tips for a smooth execution.

Hiring Contractors

Specialized professionals ensure quality installation:

• Tile installers - Brickwork expertise
• Cabinet makers - Precision cabinet construction

Vet contractors thoroughly and get references to find the best fit for your project.

DIY vs Professional Install

Consider your skills and budget when deciding between DIY or hired help:

• DIY requires tiling experience and specialized tools
• Professionals have expertise for a quality finish

While DIY can save money, complex tile patterns and cabinetry are best left to experts.

Setting a Budget

From materials to labor, costs add up quickly:

• Quality brick, cabinets and counters are an investment
• Factor in timeline and contractor fees

Focus on long-lasting materials and devise a reasonable timeline to finish strong.

The brick and white cabinets offer timeless contrast. From dramatics reds to neutral grays, inviting textures to sleek finishes, this pairing suits any style. By thoughtfully selecting your materials, colors and patterns, you can design a personalized white kitchen that comes to life with a captivating brick backsplash.