Backsplashes are used as a decorative feature in a kitchen or bathroom that has functional attributes to protect walls from moisture damage and resist stains from cooking. But, choosing the right color and shade for the backsplash can be tricky, especially if you’re unsure of whether it should be the focal point of the room or an element of the overall design that bleeds into the walls. This begs the question: Should backsplashes be lighter or darker than the walls?
Generally speaking, the color and brightness level of the backsplash will depend on whether you want it to stand out as a focal point of the room or if it merely serves a functional purpose that blends into the wall. The appearance of the backsplash will also depend on the color of the walls. For example, if you want the backsplash to stand out and the walls are light, then dark backsplashes will stand out. If the walls are dark, light backsplashes will stand out.
Be certain about what your goal is with the backsplash before you choose a color.
Someone who is trying to enhance a minimalist, sleek, and cohesive style may want to use a backsplash that matches the walls both in color and intensity.
Their objective is to add some variation with texture rather than color while benefiting from the functionality of a backsplash. It’s not going to stand out or draw much attention but it will still enhance the overall appearance of the room.
Someone who wants to add more depth of character to the aesthetics of the room may lean towards using the backsplash as a feature piece.
In that case, highlighting the backsplash is of paramount importance and that can be done by using a color that is visually striking against the walls.
Be that as it may, let’s take a look at some of the relevant factors for choosing the best backsplash color.
What To Consider Before Choosing A Backsplash Color
Concealing Stains And Dirt
One of the main objectives of the backsplash is to protect walls from damage and discoloration caused by liquid, dirt, debris, and stains.
Unfortunately, lighter backsplashes create an illuminating and contrasting background for stains and dirt to appear more visible.
If you think about it, most stains and dirt cure or dry into darker colors, which is why light backsplashes aren’t the best option for the concealment of blemishes. The opposite is true for darker backsplashes.
They’re more forgiving of stains and dirt. In a home with many occupants or heavy foot traffic, it’s better to use darker backsplashes for this very purpose.
You wouldn’t have to clean them as frequently as you may need to with lighter backsplashes.
Creating A Contrasting Effect
To display and enhance the appearance of specific design elements, creating contrast through different colors or shades of a color is the best way to go.
It draws attention to the difference and creates zones within a room.
If the walls in your kitchen or bathroom are white, you could use a darker backsplash, like black or gray, to create a contrasting effect.
At the same time, the bold and dark nature of black can serve as a highlight for the backsplash and the surrounding area.
Improving Brightness
In a room that appears small or dark, you could use lighter backsplashes to liven up the space.
Lighter colors like white, cream, and other pastel colors have the ability to reflect light and brighten up the surrounding space.
One of the best ways to make a small room appear bigger and more airy is by using lighter backsplashes with walls of a similar color.
Conversely, using colors that contrast with the walls can make a large space appear smaller and more intimate.
Enhancing The Decor
Intentionality is a feature of every attractive room’s decor.
When selecting a color for the backsplash, you should think about whether it helps to solidify and enhance the decor around it.
Having a solid understanding of color schemes can help you with this.
Also, keep in mind that the wall colors can be changed frequently and affordably, whereas it may be more time consuming and expensive to replace the backsplash color.
Be certain that whatever color you choose remains compatible with the furniture and floors as well.
Final Thoughts
Deciding whether backsplashes should be lighter or darker than walls will depend on whether you want them to stand out or not and if you prefer a dynamic room decor with a variety of colors or a minimalistic and sleek room decor with colors that bleed into each other seamlessly.
Ultimately, the choice is yours but you should always prioritize style and functionality.
Choose a color scheme that enhances the appearance of your kitchen or bathroom while complementing the appliances, furniture, and floors to the best of your ability.
With that being said, I hope you found this article to help you select the right color backsplash for your walls. If you’d like to learn more about backsplashes and color schemes, be sure to check out some of the articles that are linked below.
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