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Grey Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

By: Katie Barton |

Grey is a popular kitchen color, but it’s not only for counters and cabinets. If you want a more subtle way to add grey do it through your backsplash.

Grey backsplashes coordinate with cool colored countertops, including grey, black, white, and marble.

There are many variations of grey backsplashes ranging from safe and traditional to bold and unique. If you need some ideas, use these 15 examples as inspo for your kitchen.

Use a Grey and White Marble Subway Tile for a Traditional Look

 Use a Grey and White Marbled Subway Tile for a Traditional Look scaled

Consider a grey marble subway tile if you want a traditional look. By using a subway tile shape, you don’t have to worry about your backsplash going out of style. 

The tile is soft and will complement most counter colors. You can use this with white or charcoal-colored grout.

Create a Fun Pattern with Printed Concrete Tile

 Create a Fun Pattern with a Printed Concrete Tile scaled

Concrete tiles have exploded in popularity over the past few years. They’re loved for their matte look and often bold print.

If you’re looking for a unique grey backsplash, tiles like this are a solid option. You can stick with one pattern or mix and match as this homeowner did.

Consider Grey Stacked Stone for Dimension

 Consider Grey Stacked Stone for Dimension

Need to add dimension to your kitchen? The varying thickness of stacked stone is the way to go.

This grey stone works well with many decor styles. The different shades add interest, while the stone adds texture. Using a tile like this is a good choice for a kitchen with otherwise basic fixtures.

Mix Grey with a Bolder Accent Color

 Mix Gray with a Bolder Accent Color scaled

Your backsplash doesn’t have to be one solid color. Instead, you can use grey as the base and add an accent.

The homeowner chose a basic flat grey tile with a blue glass mosaic accent. The blue brightens up the kitchen without overpowering.

Add Texture with a Slate-Like Tile

 Add Texture with a Slate Like Tile scaled

Choose a slate-look tile to incorporate grey in a rustic or masculine way. 

The kitchen featured in this photo has modern cabinets and fixtures. The rough grey tile is an unexpected touch that adds texture and pops against the white cabinets.

For a Versatile Look, Use Grey Hexatiles

 For a Versatile Look Use Grey Hexatiles scaled

Hexatiles work with most decor styles, making them one of the most versatile backsplash choices. They’re a top pick if you want something that will grow with you as your style changes.

The hexatiles in this kitchen feature shades of grey and white. They coordinate beautifully with the wood accents and will match any countertop color.

Keep it Simple with a Grey Glass Subway Tile

 Keep it Simple with a Grey Glass Subway Tile scaled

If you love a simple, clean look, go with a grey glass subway tile. Subway tiles are timeless. But if you’re not a fan of the standard white variety, you can spice up the look with a light grey color.

For an added bit of interest, you can do like this homeowner – incorporate a more intricate design behind the stove.

Use a Backsplash with a Unique Pattern

 Use a Backsplash with a Unique Pattern

Who says grey has to be boring? If you want your backsplash to be a key design detail, find a tile with a pattern.

This floral patterned tile pairs with the quartz counters and white cabinets for a modern yet casual look. The variation of black, grey, and white draws the eye, making it a focal point.

Install Charcoal Grey Subway Tiles

 Install Charcoal Grey Subway Tiles

Most people immediately turn to light grey options for a backsplash. But charcoal grey looks just as good.

A charcoal backsplash will add visual contrast if you have a light grey or white cabinet. The simple subway tile design is a safe choice that won’t go out of style soon.

Cover the Wall in Extra Large Grey Tile

 Cover the Wall in Extra Large Grey Tile

Want an easy-to-install backsplash? Try an extra-large tile.

While it might take a little more mortar to get extra-large tiles to adhere to properly, they’re easier to install and cover a lot of space. If you like this idea, consider a dark grey like this for a masculine touch or use a lighter grey to soften the room.

Try Glass Mosaic if You Have a Traditional Kitchen

 Try Glass Mosaic if You Have a Traditional Kitchen scaled

A decade ago, everyone was covering their kitchen in glass mosaic tiles. While this trend has died down a bit, it’s still a suitable choice for traditional styles.

Grey glass mosaic tiles typically feature a variety of monochromatic colors. As a result, they coordinate well with white, light grey, black, or grey-speckled counters.

Pair a Light Grey Subway Tile with a grey Granite Counter

 Pair a Light Grey Subway Tile with a Grey Granite Counter scaled

Subway tile is popular for a reason – it’s timeless. This kitchen shows another excellent example of how grey subway tiles can look.

The grey glass tiles add a modern touch to this country kitchen. They’re also easy to clean and look good with many types of decor.

Create a Contemporary Feel with a Dark Square Tile

 Create a Contemporary Feel with a Dark Square Tile scaled

If you’re going for a sleek contemporary look, go with a dark grey square tile—the simple look ties into the modern cabinetry and counters.

The dark grey also provides contrast against the wood cabinets. If you like this style, pick a grout the same color as the tiles.

Use Your Countertop Material as a Backsplash

 Use Your Countertop Material as a Backsplash scaled

If you have grey countertops, using the same material as your backsplash is a foolproof look. Doing this creates a uniform, polished style.

The dark grey is contemporary in this kitchen, while the gold and velvet on the barstools add a glam touch. Of course, your kitchen doesn’t have to be the same style for this to work.

Get a Masculine Look with Long Skinny Glass Tile

 Get a Masculine Look with Long Skinny Glass Tile

Looking for a spin on the standard glass mosaic tile? Search for long, skinny options. And if you like the masculine look, go for a dark grey.

For a softer color, use a light grey or a multi-colored mosaic. These tiles work for modern and traditionally styled kitchens.

Final Thoughts

Grey backsplashes come in many shapes, sizes, colors, and designs. If you’re looking for a timeless and versatile option, go for a subway or hexatile. If you want to make a statement, choose something with a pattern.

You can use a grey backsplash with many different countertop colors. They pair beautifully with quartz, marble, granite, and more.