Expert: Darlene Farmer - 1/17/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi, we recently installed Sued Brown Granite in our kitchen and now are looking to replace our backsplash.  We are unsure on the style and color of backsplash we should install and would like some advice.  I  have placed some pictures of the kitchen and flooring on Flickr:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/31356454@N02/?saved=1  

Thanks in advance!

ANSWER: Hi!

I think a tumbled marble backsplash would look great with your new Sued Brown Granite. I don't really know what look you are going for...like if you want a subtle backsplash or something flashy? You can really have fun with the backsplash as there are so many options out there! Here is just one website I found that had some backsplashes to look at: http://theshowroomtx.com/Countertops.php?aa=1&si0=0&si1=24
I suggest that you just google "kitchen backsplashes" and look at alot of photos to pinpoint what you want. If you are wanting to sale your home in the near future I personally would go with something subtle like the tumbled marble...that is what I'm doing in my own kitchen.

Hope that helps!
Darlene



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thansk for the quick response... I'd like something flashy but am not sure if it would compete too much with the flashy granite and appliances?  we plan on being in the house for a long time... whats your thoughts on glass tile? too flashy? what about just re-doing the tin look we have?

Answer
In choosing your backsplash I would say to take in consideration the look/style your wanting. If you want a cottage antique style kitchen I would say your tin style backsplash works great, however if you are going for a more contemporary modern kitchen glass tiles would be lovely on your backsplash. You can definitly have granite counters & use glass tiles as your backsplash. Since your granite is fairly dark I would go with a lighter colored glass tile for the contrast. I don't know what other colors are in your home, but I think an aqua blue would be stunning!! Attached is a photo showing a light granite & a dark glass tile backsplash...this shows how great it can look when you work with contrasting colors.