This Kitchen Feature Is on the Rise — Here’s How to Nail This Luxe Look
If you’re wondering what it takes to strike that careful balance of form and function in a kitchen, let me surface one possible solution for you (literally). Lately, interior designers have been designing kitchens with matching countertops and backsplashes. Given the stunning visual impact these sleek twin features have, it’s no surprise that they’re becoming increasingly popular.
The latest kitchen trends champion moody color palettes and mixed-material cabinets. And nothing offers these styles a cleaner foundation to shine on than a matching countertop-backsplash combo that can equally hold its own as a design choice. “Although it’s the pricier route compared to a traditional tiled backsplash, [a matching countertop and backsplash] elevates the look of the kitchen and creates one seamless finish,” says designer Beth Diana Smith. The kitchen she designed just below showcases exactly how this design statement can subtly shine when paired with beautiful colorful cabinets.
A matching countertop and backsplash might strike you as ultramodern, but BAS Stone’s creative director, Katibelle Sharkey, sees it as an adaptive design element for any space. “It’s a myth that [matching countertops and backsplashes] are only used in modern interiors,” she says. “I have seen it used in everything from traditional and coastal interiors to those that are industrial and minimalistic.”
What makes this kitchen feature so versatile? You can get the look with natural and engineered stones alike (think: granite, marble, travertine, quartz, and beyond). These all come in a variety of colors, veining styles, and finishes. Whether you’re opting for neutral or thinking about going bigger and bolder, the right material exists.
Why You Should Choose a Seamless Countertop and Backsplash
Functionality-wise, it’s important to know different stones have varying levels of durability, but all can withstand typical kitchen wear and tear so long as you’re maintaining and sealing your material. With this in mind, especially for the backsplash, this design moment is a “powerhouse of practicality” as Montana Labelle, founder and creative director of Montana Labelle Design & Lifestyle, likes to say.
“No more scrubbing between [backsplash] tiles,” she notes. “A smooth surface means easy [backsplash] cleaning with zero hassle. Plus, since it’s crafted from the same durable material as the countertop, it’s built to withstand heat, moisture, and everyday chaos like a pro.”
Remodeling your kitchen? Considering a countertop-backsplash renovation? Or just want some thought starters on budget-friendly routes to explore? Keep reading to learn about the expert-approved tips that’ll help you achieve this look.
Choose a Seamless Countertop and Backsplash Material for You
Whether your kitchen is primarily used for entertaining, cooking, or just hanging out, don’t forget to make it a space for you right now. “Design for yourself — not just for resale value,” Sharkey emphasizes. “’I’ve seen countless homeowners play it safe for the sake of resale, only to end up remodeling a kitchen that felt too generic.” If a lighter hue with deep veining feels right to you, or a darker tone with less veining is what you’re truly after, go for it either way!
Backsplashes and countertops can also be particularly active areas, so keep material choice in mind for both. After growing up with a granite countertop (which took quite a beating during my baking era), I can confidently say this is one material that’ll hold its ground against accidental spills, scratches, and hot cupcake pans. Quartz, an engineered stone, also makes a great option design- and resistance-wise as does dark soapstone. Marble can be a bit more finicky, but it sure is striking.
Go Thinner with Your Backsplash
Nailing the seamless countertop and backsplash look doesn’t require slabs with the same thickness. “There’s no need to match the [backsplash’s] thickness of your countertop,” says Smith, adding that you’ll want to opt for a thinner 3/4-inch slab. This ensures you’ll slash not only the weight of the stone but the cost of the slab, too.
Understand the Investment of Seamless Kitchen Countertops
Whether this is a feature you’re planning to add to your home — or one you’re simply dreaming about — matching countertops and backsplashes don’t come without mention of the “i” word: investment. “This design requires extra slabs, so budget ahead to avoid sticker shock,” Labelle advises. Stone slabs will make for a gorgeous look, though it’s important to be aware of associated costs on not just the slabs themselves but the assistance that may be needed for cutting and installation. Just like Labelle says, overestimating for this cost could pay off in the long run.
Be Budget-Friendly
When it comes to budget-friendlier options, there are a couple to keep on your radar as long as you’re okay with sacrificing the stone factor. Laminate countertops and backsplashes are much more cost-effective and can still present a sleek look that’ll enhance your kitchen. Look out for ones like IKEA’s EKBACKEN Countertop, which comes in a few different colors and is suitable to use as a backsplash as well.
EKBACKEN Countertop
IKEA
$89
Buy Now
If demo work doesn’t sound appealing, and a DIY is in the cards, going all-out with a waterproof plaster like concretta is another alternative.
Concretta can cover materials like tiles, marble, and granite while leaving you with a smooth and seamless appearance. I loved following TikToker @midlaughlove’s journey of putting this into action, and maybe it’ll inspire you, too.
Further Reading
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