Travertine has been a popular backsplash material for decades, prized for its natural beauty, texture, and durability. However, some trends come and go in interior design. So is this classic stone now considered outdated for backsplashes? Let’s explore the pros, cons, and style status of travertine backsplashes.
The Natural Appeal of Travertine
Travertine is a type of limestone formed by natural mineral springs, giving it a porous surface and earthy, organic look. When used for backsplashes, it provides a subtle texture and color variation that brings the beauty of nature indoors.
Some key benefits of travertine backsplashes:
- Timeless appeal – While finishes may evolve, natural stone endures as a classic design choice. The romans used travertine in building, and it still looks stylish thousands of years later.
- Unique personality – No two pieces of travertine have the exact same color and markings. This gives travertine backsplashes a one-of-a-kind, bespoke look.
- Natural warmth – The creamy off-whites, tans, browns, and rust shades of travertine have an organic, cozy feel that complements many design styles.
- Textural interest – The pits and holes in honed travertine backsplash tiles add subtle surface dimension and visual depth.
- Durability – Properly sealed, travertine stands up well to moisture, stains, and wear-and-tear. This makes it ideal for busy kitchen backsplashes.
With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why travertine has traditionally been so popular for backsplashes. The natural stone aesthetic and earthy colors suit many decor tastes.
Is Travertine Trending Out for Backsplashes?
Currently, the hottest backsplash trends are tile materials like subway tiles, geometric patterns, and bold colors or decorative prints. Travertine’s natural, lighter color palette isn’t quite as trendy right now.
Does this mean travertine is dated or on its way out for backsplashes? Not necessarily. While backsplash trends come and go, travertine remains a timeless classic.
Here are signs that travertine isn’t completely out of style yet:
- Still frequently used by designers and homeowners looking for a natural, organic backsplash.
- Often recommended by experts as an option that suits many design aesthetics and color schemes.
- Features prominently in recent backsplash inspiration galleries in magazines and online publications.
- Remains available from major tile companies and suppliers. A enduring and popular material wouldn’t disappear from the market.
Design Ideas to Keep Travertine Backsplashes Fresh
While travertine has stood the test of time, you can update it to feel modern and current with some clever design ideas:
Mix and match tiles: Blend travertine with contemporary geometric, marble, or ceramic tiles. This adds interest while keeping travertine as a focal point.
Go structural: Use travertine in a structural pattern or to accentuate architectural details like a range backsplash or cooktop surround.
Play with finish: Instead of traditional honed travertine, try a polished, tumbled, or chiseled finish for a more modern vibe.
Use creatively: Highlight travertine in unexpected ways, like a statement vertical backsplash strip or bookmatched pattern.
Modern pairings: Combine travertine with sleek stainless steel, black metal accents, or high-gloss cabinetry to offset the traditional stone.
Warm up neutrals: Add travertine to provide an organic touch in an otherwise stark, contemporary space.
With strategic design choices like these, you can easily give travertine backsplashes a fresh, current look. The natural stone retains its timeless appeal while feeling perfectly at home in a modern kitchen.
The Takeaway: Travertine Remains a Versatile Classic
Travertine may not be the trendiest backsplash option right now, but it retains enduring, widespread appeal. Thanks to its natural texture, muted color palette, and organic personality, travertine feels right at home in both traditional and contemporary spaces.
While trends come and go, this handsome natural stone remains a versatile, durable, and beautiful backsplash choice. Travertine still looks exquisite, especially when thoughtfully incorporated using modern materials and creative designs.
So while some very current styles may favor bold subway tiles or colorful patterns, travertine is far from being completely out of style. Don’t overlook the charm, durability, and design potential of this natural stone backsplash option. With a little creativity, travertine can feel fresh, current, and uniquely your own. This classic material still delivers timeless sophistication and beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the pros and cons of travertine backsplash?
Pros: Natural beauty and texture, one-of-a-kind personality, timeless appeal, durability and stain resistance when sealed properly.
Cons: Natural pitting can collect dirt if not sealed, needs resealing over time, porousness makes it prone to etching from acidic foods. Lighter coloring stains more easily without proper sealing.
Does travertine work well in modern kitchens?
Definitely! While often associated with old-world, traditional spaces, travertine can be incorporated in contemporary kitchens to add organic warmth and texture. Creative tile patterns, mixing travertine with modern materials, and strategic placement help modernize its appeal.
What finish options work best for travertine backsplash?
For a more modern look, polished or tumbled travertine add shine and smoothness. Chiseled edge details also feel fresh and contemporary. Honed travertine is ideal if aiming for a natural, organic aesthetic.
What color cabinets go with travertine backsplash?
Travertine’s neutral tones pair beautifully with white, gray, cream, tan, brown, black, or even navy blue cabinets. Just avoid strong hues that would clash with the subtle travertine palette.
Is travertine too porous for kitchen backsplash?
No, with proper sealing travertine resists moisture, spills, and stains. Reapply sealer every 1-2 years. Avoid acidic foods and clean spills quickly to limit etching. Honing makes travertine slightly less porous than polished.
Conclusion
While no longer the hottest trend, travertine endures as a versatile and beautiful backsplash option. Strategic design choices and creative applications make travertine feel fresh and current, retaining its natural elegance for years to come. With proper care and maintenance, travertine backsplashes remain a timeless classic.