22 Black Kitchen Backsplash Ideas That Add Depth and Drama

Published: August 20, 2021

Updated: March 8, 2024

Reviewed by Artem Kropovinsky, Interior Designer and Founder of Arsight

There is something about a black kitchen backsplash that is absolutely captivating. I’m not sure if it’s their depth, drama, versatility, or a combo of all above, but I often find myself drawn to these dark and moody backsplashes. Particularly when used in a smaller kitchen.

Black kitchen backsplashes, much like dark paint, are often avoided in smaller kitchens due to a fear of making the space feel cramped. However, in my opinion, black backsplash walls should be considered for rooms of all sizes. The fact is that a black backsplash can add depth to any kitchen—making the backsplash wall recede and the room appear larger.

On top of this neat little trick, black backsplashes come in all sorts of styles that excel at modernizing and glamorizing kitchens. This includes glass, ceramic, marble, and other high-end material installs. As well as budget-friendly DIY backsplashes like black contact paper, paint, or stick-and-peel tiles—all of which are explored below!

With these black kitchen backsplash ideas, you’ll be imagining your kitchen with a new dark and dramatic backsplash in no time. A black backsplash may just be the change your kitchen has been craving!

01
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Modern Black Kitchen Backsplash

Photo: surestik.cc

Go for a bit of modern contrast by juxtaposing a black backsplash with wood and brass accents. Love the look of this dynamic herringbone backsplash? A similar luxurious look can be achieved using gray grout and black subway tile (one of the cheaper backsplash tile options!). It may take a little more time to cut the tiles to size when laying them diagonally, but the results are 100% worth it!

02
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Black Herringbone Backsplash

Photo: paularyan_design

Glass tile is a high shine favorite for kitchens that are looking for some luster. The benefits of glass tiles are: their color never fades, they are easy to clean, and they never need to be sealed.

03
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All in the Way it Lays

Photo: nicolewhitedesignsinteriors

Play with the direction you lay your tile to find a look that you love. Running your tile vertical, like in the example above, can help give the appearance of height. On the other hand, laying the tile horizontally can expand a kitchen length-wise and offer a relaxed vibe. Want to add movement and energy? Try applying the tile diagonally in a herringbone or chevron pattern—like the next kitchen on the list.

04
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Black on Black Kitchen

Photo: jonathanlegate

Brimming with depth and elegance, this black kitchen keeps things from feeling monotonous with its energetic black backsplash and black kitchen island with white countertops.

05
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Scandinavian Kitchen with Black Accent Wall

Photo: phyllisharbinger

When embracing a DIY black kitchen backsplash, larger tiles will help you get the job done quicker. I love how this kitchen uses open shelving instead of upper cabinets, giving extra room for the backsplash to be featured. It feels like a luxurious kitchen accent wall!

06
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Showing Off with Open Shelving

Photo: porcelainplus.ca

This gorgeous black honeycomb backsplash is too stunning to be overshadowed by clunky cabinets, so open shelving was a fantastic choice. Consider replacing upper kitchen cabinets with some open shelving if you want a black backsplash to be a focal point in your kitchen but don’t have a wall that is already open. You will get the best of both worlds with storage space and an eye-catching backsplash.

07
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Minimal Kitchen with Black Backsplash

Photo: minimalisthouse21

One way to make a bold statement while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic in your kitchen is through the use of a minimalistic black backsplash.

Annuska Menoita, a seasoned interior designer with a rich portfolio of diverse projects, shares her unique approach to this design trend. “There are diverse ways to utilize simple rectangular tiles, and lately, I’ve been arranging them in a vertical stack in kitchen designs,” says Menoita. “This creates a pleasing, uniform backdrop, offering an opportunity to introduce intricate details and textures in the foreground through hardware, shelving, and cabinetry.”

By arranging the tiles vertically, Menoita introduces a new perspective to the traditional horizontal placement, adding a sense of height and depth to the space. This technique also draws the eye upwards, enhancing the overall visual interest of the kitchen.

But the innovation doesn’t stop there. Menoita further explains, “This technique enhances the overall visual interest and adds a subtle yet effective layering to the kitchen space.” This layering effect allows for a dynamic interplay between the bold simplicity of the black backsplash and the intricate details of the hardware, shelving, and cabinetry.

08
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Black Hexagon Tile Backsplash

Photo: betterbuilthomes

A small tile backsplash looks busier than larger tiles, so it can often be best to keep decor sitting in front of it intentional and minimal.

09
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Small & Mighty

Photo: maria.decotiis

While going big with your backsplash makes an impact, so can going small. The extra layer that black subway tile adds behind these shelves is gorgeous. For smaller areas, peel-and-stick backsplash tiles are always an affordable option that is easy to install.

10
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Paint It Black

Photo: est_living

In this chic industrial kitchen, a small area is highlighted with a black backsplash. You can mimic its style by painting a recessed nook with black paint. Already have a backsplash installed? You can also paint over ceramic tiles to get the black backsplash you’ve always dreamed of for a fraction of the cost of new tile.

11
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Offsetting Black with Glass

Photo: homielovin

A thin strip of black backsplash can still look dynamic. This kitchen also utilizes glass on the cabinets and light fixtures, which can help keep the setup feeling lighter and more open—a common challenge when playing with black elements.

12
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Glossy Meets Matte

Photo: marbletrend

Kitchens with shiny lacquered cabinets can benefit from switching things up with a matte black backsplash. In this example, a matte black kitchen island is also used. While color is the easiest way to create contrast, varying finishes throughout a space is another way that is often overlooked and underutilized.

13
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Built-In Contrast

Photo: beautifulhabitat

A backsplash with strong contrast tends to have an instant wow factor, but a black and white tile combo can feel a bit retro. Luckily, there is an easy fix! When going for a black and white backsplash, picking one with a bridge tone like gray can soften the contrast and make it feel more contemporary.

14
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Black Brick Backsplash

Photo: networknextgen

Brick is a workhorse when it comes to its longevity, so if you want a backsplash that will last, it is a go-to. Additionally, not only is it a textural delight, but it has an asymmetric and natural appeal that can help a kitchen feel more cozy and lived in.

15
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Black Granite Backsplash & Countertop

Photo: vignettedesign

For a flowy and minimal kitchen design, consider using a black kitchen countertop and carrying it up onto your backsplash. Using lighter accents or metallic colors to break up the darkness can keep the black from overwhelming the design or feeling drabby. Here copper pots and pans do the trick—a great example of functional decor!

16
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Black Marble Backsplash

Photo: jacksonpaigeinteriors

Another option to break up a black kitchen backsplash and the counter duo is to use a backsplash with a pattern. This muted gray kitchen turns up the drama by using a black marble backsplash with swirls of silvery sheen. Love the look of marble, but not the price? You certainly aren’t alone! Get the look on a budget by DIYing a backsplash with marble contact paper.

17
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Just a Little Splash

Photo: rai_marble

Or, you can always pick a smaller spot above the stove to highlight with some black marble. It still adds drama but often results in an airier look.

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Dramatic Black Soapstone Backsplash

Photo: tina_tmsupply

Leaning heavily into black can create a lot of depth. However, be sure that you have adequate lighting to go with it. Since black absorbs light (where white and lighter colors bounce it around), you should consider multiple lighting sources. This may include natural light, overhead light, sconces, etc. The last thing you want is to be cooking in a dark kitchen! Remember, the best kitchens look fab but are still functional.

19
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Warming Up a Black Backsplash

Photo: happy___deco

If you’re using a black kitchen backsplash in an all-black kitchen, consider slipping in some warmer tones so it doesn’t feel sterile. For example, this kitchen goes heavy on the black but uses a brown tiled floor to incorporate warmth. Slipping in a plant, a vase with some greenery, or wooden accents can also have a similar effect if redoing larger finishings isn’t an option.

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Black Kitchen with Wood Accents

Photo: dallasbonds

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Farmhouse Kitchen with Black Backsplash

Photo: jeannotvilarandadesignco

Crisp white cupboards, a wood sign, and barnwood trim pair with a black backsplash to create a farmhouse fresh aesthetic.

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Black Kitchen Backsplash Alternative

Photo: arisebuildingdesign

And finally, if you find black is too dark for your space, gray is also a great option. It still has a lot of depth and goes with almost any color scheme, but it is a little less bold.

Zakhar Ivanisov

Meet Zakhar Ivanisov, a Seattle-based entrepreneur and design enthusiast at the helm of Soul & Lane. With a heart full of passion, Zakhar blends his business acumen and a keen eye for aesthetics to create spaces that are as inviting as they are stylish. His venture into the world of home decor and organization reflects a unique fusion of entrepreneurial spirit and a genuine love for transforming living spaces.

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