Remodeling the kitchen is a huge undertaking. Not only do renovations in this room tend to be some of the most costly, but it also disrupts the home’s flow. The kitchen is the heart of a home— the longer a remodeling project drags on, the bigger the impact. As such, it’s best to have everything planned out in advance.
One of the sticking points for many homeowners is ensuring that tiles— both on the floor and backsplash— match the cabinets. Here are some key considerations when choosing the right balance for your kitchen.
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Should Your Cabinets and Backsplash Match?
When planning a backsplash, you want it to look good as a standalone feature in your kitchen and when presented against your cabinets. Something that looks great on the department store shelves might clash badly with your cabinets when you bring them home.
Generally speaking, your backsplash won’t match your cabinets. However, it should be complementary. For example, if you purchase ivory antique white cabinets from Best Online Cabinets, a modern black and gold tiled backsplash doesn’t fit the tone. However, softer charcoal gray tiles fit the muted tones of ivory but still add a bold contrast.
Should Your Cabinets and Flooring Match?
Another consideration when designing a kitchen is the use of tile floors. Tiles are ideal for this high-traffic and humid area but add complexity to the design process.
Again, a good rule of thumb when choosing tile flooring is to choose something that complements the cabinets. Furthermore, you’ll want to take a closer look at how this tile compares to the backsplash.
People gravitate toward the classic look of subway tile because it goes with nearly anything, even if the tile flooring you use looks quite different. Conversely, the microtile trend that’s currently popular in the interior design space clashes terribly with larger floor tiling.
When matching floor tile to your cabinets, don’t forget to evaluate how the various elements go together.
Considering the Countertops
Another variable to consider when choosing tile to match your cabinets is the countertop. Many home designers recommend starting your kitchen remodeling project by choosing the cabinets then the countertops. From there, ensure that all the other design elements support those two key features.
Most countertops are multifaceted with subtle accent colors. Use these undertones for inspiration when choosing tiles to match your cabinets. This design strategy is an effective way to pull the whole room together.
Choosing Tiles for Cabinet Styles
The type of tiles you choose to match your cabinets should also consider the front panel style. There are various cabinet styles that all invoke a different atmosphere in a kitchen setting.
Shaker
Shaker cabinets are named after the Shaker people, who were masters of carpentry and early design. They were known for creating high-quality pieces with clean lines that withstand the test of time. Shaker cabinets are recognizable by the simple square frame and recessed center panel.
The primary reasons why shaker cabinets are one of the best options today is their timelessness and versatility. These cabinets go with any style, whether that’s country rustic or city chic. The simple square panel means that you can get creative with your tile colors and designs, as these cabinets are meant to fade into the background.
Cathedral
Cathedral cabinets are often viewed as dated, but can still be found in many elegant kitchens today. When choosing tile to match a cathedral panel, opt for neutral tones.
Slab
Slab cabinets are an ultra-modern iteration that has a sleek, flat panel with no design. While these cabinets’ minimalist design will go with anything, they pair best with bold tile colors and designs. If you’re opting for a clean, crisp, ultra-mod kitchen, choose reflective tiles to complement slab-style cabinets.
Glass and Mullion
Glass cabinets tend to be light and reflective in nature. They’re also featured in kitchen designs that are more rustic or elevated. In other words, they pair best with traditional designs and muted natural colors.
Other Considerations
When choosing the right tiles to go with your cabinets, remember to identify your dominant colors. In this case, it will likely be the color of your cabinets and the base color of your countertops. Remember that texture also matters, and colors aren’t the only thing that can clash.
Finally, always choose timeless designs over trendy designs. They’ll add more value to your home, and you won’t tire of the look as quickly.