Selecting a Stone Backsplash: What’s the Best Option for Your Kitchen?
At Black Forest Design & Build, we love incorporating natural materials into our kitchen remodels. Whether it's reclaimed wood, marble, or stone, these elements add texture and character to sleek, modern kitchens.
One material we've gravitated toward lately is stone—and that’s about as natural as it gets! The unique look of stone makes it an excellent choice for many kitchen backsplashes, but like all materials, it comes with its own set of pros and cons.
We’re covering the most common backsplash materials—tile, quartz, marble, and stone—to help you determine which option will work best for your kitchen renovation.
Weighing Common Backsplash Options
Tile
Tile is often the most practical choice for a backsplash, especially in mid-century or traditional kitchens where the clean lines of cabinetry need a subtle but complementary backdrop. Small-scale tile also suits kitchens with lower ceilings; whereas large-scale materials like stone can overwhelm smaller spaces, tile tends to feel more proportionate in homes with low or standard 8-foot ceilings. It's also typically the most cost-effective option. So, although tile may not offer the grandeur of other materials, its affordability and versatility make it a strong contender in many projects.
Quartz
Quartz offers a good balance between aesthetics and practicality. It’s easy to clean, heat-resistant, and available at various price points, making it a popular mid-range option. However, be mindful of heat exposure, as excessive temperatures may damage quartz. These surfaces may also show unsightly seams if installed in larger areas.
Marble
Renovating a kitchen requires a well-thought-out plan for how you’ll handle everyday tasks such as cooking and washing dishes during the construction period. If you have access to alternative spaces like a basement or a bar with water access, consider setting up a temporary kitchen in one of these locations. This setup might include a mini-fridge, a portable microwave, and a hotplate, which can all help maintain some normalcy in your daily routine.
Stone
If you’re looking for something truly custom and one-of-a-kind, a stone backsplash is unmatched. Each stone’s natural texture ensures no two pieces (or kitchens!) are alike. Plus, this charming material adds the perfect dose of warmth and character to newly renovated kitchens. Stone is ideal for spaces with tall ceilings because it draws the eye upward, making your kitchen feel even more spacious. However, stone is not for every project. If you’re seeking a modern, minimal look, it may not give you the clean aesthetic you're after. Stone also requires more maintenance, as it must be sealed regularly to prevent stains, and it may need professional cleaning if kitchen messes are left for too long.
Should You Choose a Stone Backsplash?
While stone is beautiful, it's not the right choice for every kitchen. Here are a few considerations to help you decide.
Technical Considerations
Stone backsplashes are rarely flat. Their texture and natural imperfections can make installation tricky, especially in corners where stone meets cabinetry or appliances. Ensuring everything fits perfectly is where a design & build team like Black Forest comes in. We handle all the technical details, from ensuring outlets meet code to working with trusted masons who create samples in advance to show you exactly how it will look.
Aesthetic Preferences
What’s your design style? If you love a clean, minimal kitchen with little movement in the materials, quartz or marble may be a better fit. However, if you're drawn to a more dynamic, old-world charm, stone could be the perfect choice. We work closely with clients to select the material that aligns with their vision, often combining elements like quartz and stone for a balanced, multi-layered look.
Storage Needs
Stone backsplashes work best when they’re the kitchen's focal point, meaning you might need to sacrifice some upper cabinetry. Homeowners often have to find alternate storage solutions for small appliances to maintain a clean, uncluttered aesthetic. Consider investing in smart storage solutions to keep countertops clear and allow the stone to shine.
Not Sure About Stone?
f you love stone as much as we do, but you’ve read this far and think a stone backsplash might not be for you, there are other ways to incorporate stone into your kitchen. At Project Lindsay Circle, we installed a beautiful, natural travertine floor. Natural flooring like travertine and limestone are making a stylish comeback, offering a modern twist on the warm, creamy tones you may remember. Think high-style shades of gray and warm beige—far from outdated!
Ready to explore the best materials for your kitchen renovation? Contact us at Black Forest Design & Build to get started on designing a space that feels uniquely yours.
Photography by Rebecca McAlpin
Black Forest Design & Build is here to make your Lancaster PA home remodeling dreams a reality. With expertise and dedication, we ensure your space is both beautiful and functional. Contact us today to begin your journey to the space you’ve always envisioned!