Michael Phelps and wife Nicole keep their gray kitchen color scheme interesting using this designer-approved touch

When it comes to adding visual interest to a neutral space, incorporating texture is the golden rule. While adding a few soft furnishings to a living room is easy, incorporating texture in a traditionally colored kitchen is a bit more difficult. It requires building different materials into the countertops, cabinets, and walls. Always up for a challenge, Michael Phelps and his wife Nicole Phelps designed their gray and white kitchen to be perfectly textured for a stylish and unique look.

The couple nailed the textural kitchen decor look with a combination of subway tiles on the walls, a patterned tile as the stove back, white marble countertops with gray veins, and white wooden cabinets.

Interior designers love the way that the varied textures in Michael and Nicole Phelps' gray and white kitchen interact to create a cohesive look and make the color scheme interesting. Pamela Hayes, an interior designer based in Marin County, California, says: 'White marble is a classic countertop material. The use of white subway tile for the backsplash compliments the marble while incorporating a patterned accent tile behind the range is an opportunity to add color and depth to the space.'

Jason Yama, interior designer at Parlun Building adds: 'When these materials come together in one kitchen, they create a richly diverse yet harmoniously unified overall effect. Simple geometric patterned tiles in light colors coordinate well with the cabinets and marble, while neutral subway adds fun to the kitchen. Natural marble with fine and smooth texture maintains an elegant feel without being too ornate.'

Jason Yama

Jason has been working as a professional interior designer at Parlun Building since 2015. He works on residential, commercial, and hospitality projects to meet clients' unique preferences and needs.

The experts also love how the varied textures of Michael Phelps's kitchen walls add visual interest. Pamela says, 'Balancing a white marble slab with a decorative tile behind the range draws the eye to a feature wall and infuses the wall with a rich color and/or pattern. Using a simple white subway tile in the rest of the backsplash keeps the design from appearing overly busy.'

Furthermore, interior designers say that these materials pair perfectly with white kitchen cabinets. Pamela states: 'Painted white cabinets paired with white marble are a classic and timeless design. Incorporating a decorative tile backsplash behind the range adds a touch of unexpected color and pattern that elevates the whole kitchen.' By incorporating these varied textures alongside classic colors and finishes, Michael Phelps and his wife have created a truly special kitchen.

Even if you don't have the budget for a full remodel, incorporating textural details through kitchen appliances, curtains, and tea towels can go a long way to spice up a neutral space. If Nicole and Michael Phelps's kitchen is an inspiration, check out our list of kitchen trends for more ideas.