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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
In this chic industrial kitchen, a small area is highlighted with a back 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Crisp white cupboards, a wood sign, and barnwood trim pair with a black backsplash to create a farmhouse fresh aesthetic.
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.
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