Tile is everywhere these days, and its applications are more intricate than ever. The humble white kitchen isn’t so humble anymore, with bold colors, creative shapes and handmade details coalescing from floor to ceiling to form entire mosaics of interest and artistry. But where some see a backsplash, we see a backdrop. An elevated canvas for our most sophisticated fixtures to sparkle and shine, whether installed directly against them or hanging overhead, painted in a matching shade, or contrasting in a classic metal finish.

Here are some of our favorite pairings.