Wood counters can add warmth and natural beauty to any kitchen. However, the choice of backsplash plays an important role in ensuring your wood counter achieves the look you’re going for. The right backsplash can complement and accentuate the wood counter instead of clashing with it. Here are some of the best backsplash options to pair with wood counters.
Neutral Tones Allow the Wood to Shine
Since wood counters make such a statement, you’ll want your backsplash to complement rather than compete with them. For that reason, backsplashes in neutral tones work beautifully with wood counters. They allow the natural patterns and grains of the wood to take center stage. Some great neutral options include:
- White subway tile – This classic backsplash option pairs well with any style. The clean white color allows the wood counter to stand out.
- Stone or tile in beige, gray, or taupe – Whether polished or matte finish, stone and tile in soft neutral hues accent the wood without overwhelming it.
- Stainless steel – Modern and sleek, a stainless steel backsplash gives an industrial edge and allows the wood counter’s warmth to come through.
Go for uniform grout lines and minimal veining or patterns when choosing neutral backsplash materials to pair with wood counters. This creates a cohesive, seamless look.
Warm Metallics Echo the Wood Tones
While cool metals like stainless steel work with wood, warm metallics can echo the inherent beauty in the wood grain and knots. Backsplashes in materials like:
- Copper – The shiny, reddish-orange tones of copper complement most wood types without matching too closely.
- Brushed bronze or brass – With an antique patina, brushed metals in golden browns add vintage flair.
- Natural stone with metallic flecks or veining – Metal elements woven through materials like travertine can pick up on wood grains in an organic way.
Metallics in these warm, earthy hues bring out the richness of wood counters. They tie the two elements together for a more fluid, harmonious look.
Wood Backsplashes Match Perfectly
For some wood counters, extending the same material onto the backsplash creates a seamless, continuous look. Using wood on both surfaces blends them together into one statement piece.
Some wood backsplash options to match a counter include:
- Wood planks in the same stain/finish as the counter
- Reclaimed wood panels with dimensional interest
- Wood mosaic tiles with small, repeated wood patterns
Match the direction of wood grains on the counter and backsplash for the most coherent, synchronized effect. The uniform palette highlights the beauty of the wood.
Be sure to properly seal and protect a wood backsplash near sources of moisture like a sink. Advance planning ensures it withstands the demands of a kitchen backsplash.
Mix Materials With Caution
While some backsplash materials pair effortlessly with wood counters, use caution mixing multiple materials. Too many competing textures, colors, and patterns can look disjointed. If mixing materials, consider:
- Limiting yourself to two complementary materials for counters and backsplash
- Tying the two materials together with a unifying color scheme or finish
- Creating visual breaks between materials with trim or small Design features
Avoid stark contrasts in tone or texture that make the counter and backsplash feel disconnected. Instead, transition smoothly from one material to the next.
Prioritize Practicality With an Eye on Style
The backsplash plays a practical role as well as an aesthetic one. As you choose a backsplash for wood counters, ensure it fits your functional needs:
- Durability to withstand splashes, spills, and daily wear and tear.
- Easy to clean and keep hygienic. Avoid porous surfaces that absorb moisture and odors.
- Resistant to heat, moisture, and potential damage from cooking.
- Stylish additions like decorative tile accents should be balanced with durability.
With wood counters, aim for a backsplash that complements their look while meeting the demands of a busy kitchen. Don’t let style overtake functionality.
FAQs About Backsplashes for Wood Counters
What color backsplash goes best with wood countertops?
Neutral colors like white, gray, beige, or black tend to work universally well with any wood counter. Warm metallics in copper, bronze and brass also complement wood counters beautifully.
Should you have a wood backsplash with wood countertop?
Using wood for both the counters and backsplash can look very cohesive and stylish. Make sure to get them in matching stains and seal/finish them properly. Also consider functionality, as wood requires a bit more maintenance near sinks and stoves.
What tile is best with wood cabinets?
For a classic look, white subway tile pairs wonderfully with wood cabinets. Earth tones like brown, beige and taupe tiles also look elegant. Natural stone and marble tiles complement the organic feel of wood cabinets too.
Can you put tile directly on wood?
It is not recommended to install tile directly onto wood surfaces. The wood can warp or flex over time, causing the tile to crack or fall off. Use a suitable waterproof backer board as an intermediary surface before tiling onto wood.
What backsplash goes with oak cabinets?
White subway tile, marble mosaic, and natural stone look elegant and bright against golden oak cabinets. Brushed bronze or copper metal tiles can also pick up on the warm wood tones beautifully. Avoid bold, highly patterned tiles that clash with oak.
Conclusion
Choosing the right backsplash is key to creating a cohesive, stylish kitchen with wood counters. Focus on materials and colors that complement the natural beauty of the wood without competing too much. Neutrals or warm metallics are almost guaranteed to look timeless and elegant. Equally consider practical factors like durability, ease of cleaning, and moisture resistance. With the right backsplash choice, you can showcase your stunning wood counters to full effect.
