Black for a Dramatic Kitchen Backsplash

This is in response to a reader’s inquiry about using the color black on a beadboard backsplash in her kitchen. Specifically, she wanted to know if a black beadboard backsplash with oak kitchen cabinets and a sunset gold granite countertop would work with off-white trim and baseboard molding. My response is a definite yes!

The golden oak of the cabinets would be picked up and repeated in the color of the granite countertop and a black backsplash would be an amazing and dramatic break between the two. I would recommend using a semi-gloss paint finish on the beadboard for a soft sheen - make sure that any surface imperfections are sanded smooth before priming and painting because they will be amplified by the gloss finish.

Installing undercabinet lighting will ensure that there is enough light for working at the counter and will also serve to highlight the backsplash area.

As for the off-white trim, I’d temper the contrast between the black backsplash and the off-white trim by using a mid-tone color on the walls.

For more visual inspiration, here are some kitchen pictures that illustrate wood cabinets with a dark colored backsplash. These backsplashes aren’t beadboard, but I think you’ll get the idea.

Photo from Pacifica Tile Art Studio

Photo from Homescape

Photo from Post-Gazette

Hope this helps, Anita - good luck with your kitchen renovation! I’d love to hear and see how it turns out.