Looking for the best kitchen backsplash ideas for dark cabinets? These are our recommendations.
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Best Kitchen Backsplash Ideas For Dark Cabinets
Updated on May 28, 2025
Dark Design
Dark kitchen cabinets might seem like a difficult design choice to execute well, but there are plenty of ways to use your backsplash to highlight the beauty of dark cabinets. You can embrace dark cabinets with a equally dark backsplash to create a moody kitchen, or use a light contrasting backsplash to brighten up the space. We’ve rounded some of our top ideas below.
Industrial-Chic Black Kitchen Backsplash
Industrial-chic is all the rage in home decor — great news for frugal homeowners renovating on a budget. Plywood painted black, as seen here, can be a perfect choice for a kitchen backsplash with dark cabinets. The backsplash blends seamlessly with the cabinets for a monochromatic look. Be sure you understand the different grades of plywood and their applications before tackling this job.
Mosaic Tile Kitchen Backsplash
Tiling a backsplash above the counter is one of the easiest ways to upgrade an old kitchen on a tight budget. You can choose from a vast array of colors and textures. Because there are so many varieties out there, you can go with a dark theme to make your kitchen feel unified, or lighter colors to introduce some contrast.
Chevron Kitchen Backsplash
A light gray chevron pattern like this is a perfect match for dark cabinets. The color variety works especially well with a white countertop like shown here. Chevron is still a popular pattern for tiled kitchen backsplashes, so don’t be afraid to try it out.
Stone Tile Kitchen Backsplash
A gray stone tile backsplash like this one also provides an eye-catching contrast with dark kitchen cabinets. Gray stone tile offers a nice transition from a white countertop to dark cabinets. It lets the cabinet stand out while still feeling cohesive. Decide if it’s the right fit for you from among these best backsplash material options.
Light Backsplash to Contrast with Cherry Kitchen Cabinets
Lightly-colored tile works well in a kitchen with cherry cabinets because it brightens any area with a dark countertop. The contrast of the bright tiles helps ensure dark fixtures don’t overwhelm the space.
White Subway Tile Paired with Dark Brown Cabinets
Classic white subway tile looks great with dark brown cabinets, as in this kitchen. Add a gray quarter countertop and some pendant lighting for a really eye-catching look.
Stone Mosaic With Hints of Brown
This light-colored stone mosaic kitchen backsplash has just enough hints of brown to complement the dark brown wood cabinets. Silver handles fit the color scheme by offering the right amount of contrast to the cabinets while still echoing the lighter colors of the backsplash and countertop.
Match White Tile with White Granite Countertops
The stone mosaic backsplash in this kitchen fits in perfectly with the dark cabinets and white quartz countertops. The tan color of the stone pairs well with the cabinets and helps brighten up the space.
Dark Mosaic Tile
A dark kitchen backsplash is a bold idea that creates a sleek look. Plus, it’s great at hiding messes. This backsplash complements the granite countertop and mimics the dark hue of the cabinets.
FAQ
What are the most popular backsplash materials?
Ceramic and porcelain tile are popular backsplash choices because they’re affordable, easy to install, and can be wiped clean after a messy dinner prep. To achieve a more trendy look with these classic tiles, choose dark, moody colors with a glossy finish.
Should my backsplash match my countertops?
Your backsplash doesn’t necessarily have to match the countertops, but the two elements should complement each other. Dark countertops paired with a dark backsplash will give you a more streamlined and “blank canvas” look, while a different color backsplash will add interest and contrast.
