A kitchen backsplash serves both form and function – it protects the walls from splatters and spills while also providing an opportunity to add visual interest to your kitchen design. With so many backsplash options to choose from, it can be tricky to settle on a style that is both beautiful and practical. This article will explore some of the hottest trends in backsplashes to inspire you to create a standout look for your kitchen.
Textured and Multidimensional Backsplashes
Textured backsplashes are a popular trend that adds depth and dimension to your kitchen walls. Handmade tile, 3D tile, and mosaic tile all provide an intricate, tactile appeal that smooth tiles cannot replicate.
Subway Tile
The classic subway tile backsplash will never go out of style. White 3×6 inch glazed ceramic tiles arranged in a brick pattern provide a clean, structured look. For extra visual interest, consider subway tiles with beveled edges or mix up your pattern with herringbone designs. Subway tile backsplashes have a timeless, versatile appeal.
Moroccan Tile
Intricate patterns and brilliant colors define the Moroccan tile trend. These handmade encaustic cement tiles reflect traditional Moroccan architecture with elaborate geometric and floral motifs. No two tiles are exactly alike, creating a textured patchwork effect. While intricate designs are the hallmark of Moroccan tile, don’t be afraid to also use solids to create contrast.
Large Format Tile
Oversized tiles, 12 inches or larger, deliver a modern, seamless look. Porcelain and ceramic tiles in stone and marble looks are popular options. Large format tiles minimize grout lines for a sleek appearance. However, take care when installing them to ensure a flat, even surface.
3D Tile
Three-dimensional tile adds undeniable depth and texture to backsplashes. From concave and convex shapes to ridged textures, 3D tiles make a statement. Stick to one shape or combine several for more visual impact. Use large format 3D tiles or mosaic sheets to create a cohesive look.
Mosaic Tile
Tiny mosaic tiles assembed in mesh sheets provide loads of pattern and texture. Opt for stone, glass, or ceramic mosaics with grid, brick, hexagon, or penny tile designs. Combine shades and shapes for one-of-a-kind style. Mosaics perfectly suit both modern and vintage kitchen aesthetics.
Metal Tile
Metallic backsplashes are having a moment, bringing glitz and glam to the kitchen. Metal tiles come in an array of finishes like stainless steel, copper, brass, and nickel. Use metal tile alone or combine with glass tile for sheen and sparkle. Get creative with penny tile mosaics, abstract patterns, or modern textures.
Natural Stone Backsplashes
Natural stone tiles remain a popular backsplash choice, available in an array of stone types and finishes. Slate, travertine, granite, and marble backsplashes provide timeless beauty and luxury.
Marble Tile
Marble backsplashes deliver classic elegance with a polished, refined look. Marble tile comes in an array of colors like white Carrara, gray, black, and green. Stick to solids or incorporate patterns like herringbone and chevron for added interest. Marble’s soft veining provides a distinctly luxe feel.
Travertine Tile
For a laidback vibe, travertine’s rustic, earthy aesthetic is ideal. Beige and ivory travertine have a porous, textured finish that feels quintessentially Mediterranean. Honed travertine offers a smooth finish. Install a seamless large format travertine backsplash or incorporate mosaic sheets.
Slate Tile
With its subtle cleft texture and cool gray tones, slate projects an understated sophistication perfect for transitional kitchens. Stick to natural cleft slate or opt for a honed or tumbled finish. Combine slate tile with crisp white cabinets and natural wood accents.
Quartzite
Quartzite combines the durability of quartz with the aesthetic of natural stone. With earthy tones and gentle marbling, quartzite offers a sophisticated look. It’s more scratch resistant than marble or granite, making it ideal for busy kitchens prone to wear and tear.
Statement Backsplash Materials
Beyond classic tiles, there are endless innovative materials to create a standout backsplash. From gleaming glass to eco-friendly cork, think outside the box for your design.
Glass Tile
Available in a rainbow of colors, glass tile injects a contemporary vibe. Mix and match glass hues and textures for chic style. Use large format glass tiles or glass mosaic sheets to make a vibrant splash. Reflective glass tile paired with proper lighting creates magical effects.
Stainless Steel
A full stainless steel backsplash makes a fabulously bold statement. It offers an unparalleled modern, industrial edge – especially when paired with sleek appliances and minimalist cabinetry. But stainless can also soften traditional kitchens by breaking up all the wood tones.
Penny Tile
Also called coin tile, penny tiles are tiny porcelain or glass tiles, usually 1 inch or less. Available in every color and finish imaginable, they have a charming vintage appeal. Use penny tiles alone or blend them with other sizes. Try fun patterns like diagonal layouts or contrasts between glossy and matte tiles.
Cork
Eco-conscious designs are utilizing cork for backsplashes and feature walls. Made from recycled natural cork, these tiles are sustainable, antimicrobial, and sound-absorbing. With rich earthy hues and organically textured finishes, cork brings warmth and simplicity.
Wood
Incorporating reclaimed wood planks is an on-trend rustic-chic backsplash idea. Mix-and-match wood pieces in varied sizes, textures (think: shiplap, bamboo, cedar), and stains for eclectic appeal. Use white grout between planks to accentuate each piece.
Fabric
For a personalized look, customize your backsplash with fabric tiles. Digitized photos or graphics printed on fabric create a photo collage effect. Washable vinyl fabric resists stains and splatters while adding softness against hard surfaces.
Faux Subway Tile
Peel-and-stick backsplash panels offer a quick, affordable alternative to tile. Many mimic classic white subway tiles. Self-adhesive and easy to cut, these DIY-friendly backsplash sheets can upgrade your kitchen in a day. Use in rentals or temporaily until you install the real thing.
Pretty Painted Backsplashes
Don’t overlook painted backsplashes for affordable color. With limitless paint options, you can match any color scheme. Modern matte and high-gloss finishes offer sleek texture. Paint allows you easily change up your backsplash color when you redesign.
Colorblocking
Painting your backsplash? Have fun with colorblocking. Use painter’s tape to create graphic black-and-white or contrasting color designs. Make bold geometric patterns, checkerboards, or vertical stripes. The possibilities are endless.
Ombre
The soft ombre color trend lets you graduate your backsplash from light to dark shades of one color. Blend the bottom and top with overlapping brushstrokes. Try ombre with soft pastels or bold brights – it works with any color combo.
Handpainted Tile
Add a handpainted touch to ceramic or glass backsplash tiles before installation. Using ceramic paint, freehand designs like florals, vines, leaves, and abstract shapes. This transforms simple solid tiles into one-of-a-kind works of art.
Terrazzo
Painted backsplashes can mimic polished terrazzo. Use painter’s tape to divide your backsplash into sections. Fill each section with tinted acrylic paints, then drag a putty knife through wet paint to reveal the layers beneath. Remove tape before drying for a faux terrazzo look.
Moroccan Designs
Reflecting traditional Moroccan architecture, painted backsplashes can incorporate those iconic geometrics, arches, and floral motifs. Use painter’s tape to create patterns if your freehand skills are iffy. Paint in brilliant jewel tones for maximum pop.
Backsplash Ideas by Kitchen Style
Now that we’ve covered the most popular backsplash materials, let’s look at how to select the perfect backsplash to match popular kitchen design aesthetics.
Farmhouse Kitchen Backsplashes
The hallmarks of farmhouse style are simplicity, practicality, and vintage charm. Backsplashes in natural materials and muted colors enhance that old-fashioned appeal.
- White subway tile
- Butcher block
- Tin backsplashes
- Beadboard
- Washed wood plank
- Brick or faux brick
- Distressed tiles
Finish it off with charming accents like exposed brass hardware, ceramic chicken decor, or rustic open shelving.
Modern Kitchen Backsplashes
Modern kitchens prioritize sleek, contemporary designs. For your backsplash, think smooth, shiny, and geometric.
- Glossy subway tile
- Large format porcelain
- Glass mosaic
- Metallic tile
- Stainless steel
- Graphic tile patterns
- Colorblocked paint
Pair with factory-style pendant lighting, glossy cabinets, and integrated appliances to complete the modern look.
Rustic Kitchen Backsplashes
Rustic backsplashes embrace nature and weathered imperfections. Mix materials for eclectic charm.
- Reclaimed wood
- River rock
- Distressed metals
- Antique tin ceiling tiles
- Exposed brick
- Terracotta
- Stenciled tiles
Add a reclaimed wood mantle, stone or brick surround behind the range, and wrought iron accents for harmonious rustic style.
Traditional Kitchen Backsplashes
Traditional kitchens feature classic, timeless backsplash materials installed in traditional layouts.
- White subway tile
- Classic hexagon tile
- Marble tile
- Honed travertine
- Beaded inset tile
- Wainscotting
Finish the look with vintage hardware like porcelain knobs, decorative range hoods, and wood cutting boards.
Transitional Kitchen Backsplashes
Transitional style blends traditional and contemporary elements for a versatile look. Backsplashes tend to feature classic materials installed in modern ways.
- Marble tile in herringbone layout
- Clerestory subway tile
- Bold grout colors
- Mix of metal and stone tile
- Honed large format porcelain
- Patterned ceramic tile
Mix traditional crown molding and cabinetry with sleek stainless appliances and pendant lighting.
Victorian Kitchen Backsplashes
Make your modern kitchen revel in vintage Victorian flair. Backsplashes should be ornate and opulent.
- Elaborate ceramic relief tile
- Intricate mosaic murals
- Stenciled tiles with floral designs
- Marble and metal mixed patterns
- Distressed tin tiles
- Fused glass tile
Finish with ornate metal hardware, ruffled curtains, pendant lighting, and vintage collectibles.
Mediterranean Kitchen Backsplashes
Bring breezy Mediterranean style to your kitchen with backsplashes in natural terra cotta tones.
- Handmade Spanish tile
- Terracotta tile
- Colorful Talavera tile
- Moroccan tile
- Sunny yellow tile
- Painted Spanish floral tiles
Wrought iron accents, arched doorways, and an abundance of plants complete the Mediterranean look.
Industrial Kitchen Backsplashes
The industrial trend combines utilitarian materials and minimalist style. Backsplashes tend to be sleek and dramatic.
- Exposed brick
- Stainless steel
- Concrete
- Black subway tile
- Dark grout lines
-Galvanized metal
Mix with metal stools, factory pendants, stainless appliances, and reclaimed wood accents.
Eclectic Kitchen Backsplashes
If one style doesn’t suit you, embrace them all. The eclectic kitchen mixes materials, colors, and textures for uniqueness.
- Handmade art tile
- Mosaic collage
- Multiple materials like metal, stone, and tile
- Distressed materials
- Mismatched colors
- Global patterns
Have fun and let your creativity run wild. Anything goes with an eclectic backsplash!
Design Considerations for Backsplashes
Now that you’re inspired by the hottest backsplash trends, here are some key factors to consider when designing your kitchen backsplash:
Selecting Tile Size
Smaller tiles like mosaics and subway tile create busier patterns with more grout lines. Larger tiles minimize grout for a sleeker look. Mix tile sizes for visual interest. Just take care when installing large format tiles to keep surfaces flat.
Choosing Grout Color
Lighter grout keeps the focus on the tile color, while darker grout highlights the tile pattern. Match grout to tile for a monochromatic look or contrast it for impact. Colored grout offers a bold, modern option.
Establishing Focal Points
Use statement tiles behind the range or sink to create a focal backsplash that anchors the design. This could include handmade tiles, geometric patterns, or contrasting materials.
Blending Function and Style
Ensure your backsplash tiles can withstand heat and moisture where needed. Use heat-resistant stone or ceramic near cooking surfaces. Glass and metal shouldn’t be used directly behind the range.
Continuing Backsplash Visuals
Carry backsplash patterns onto adjacent walls or room features for cohesion. Use listello border tiles, matching paint colors, or remnant pieces to tie the look together.
Mixing Materials
Don’t be afraid to mix backsplash materials like combining metal and stone mosaics. Transition between materials using listello borders or careful grout selection.
Considering DIY vs. Pro Installation
Large format tiles, intricate patterns, and fragile natural stone are best left to the professionals. But DIY-friendly backsplash options include subway tile, mosaics, and peel-and-stick panels.
Incorporating Backsplash Lighting
Proper lighting can make a backsplash shine. Use LED tape lighting, sconces, or undercabinet lighting to illuminate and accentuate your new backsplash.
FAQs About Kitchen Backsplashes
Still have questions about selecting, designing, and installing a kitchen backsplash? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How much does a kitchen backsplash cost?
Backsplash cost depends on the materials used. Budget-friendly options are ceramic tile ($3-$20 per sq. ft. installed), painted backsplashes, and peel-and-stick panels ($15-$30 per sq. ft.). Stone tiles cost $15-$50 per sq. ft. installed. Specialty tiles like handmade or metal run $50-$100 per sq. ft. installed.
What is the most popular backsplash?
White subway tile is the quintessential and most popular backsplash option. It suits any kitchen style from farmhouse to modern. White subway tiles are easy to clean, match any color scheme, and have timeless appeal.
Should backsplash match countertops?
It’s not essential, but matching backsplash and countertops creates a seamless, integrated look. Contrasting your backsplash and countertops can also be striking. Just ensure your cabinetry provides a visual bridge between the two.
How high should a backsplash be?
Standard backsplash height is 4 inches above the countertop. Full-height backsplashes extending to the bottom cabinets are also popular. Limit high-risk zones like behind the range to 4-6 inches.
Can backsplash tile be installed over existing tile?
Installing over existing tiles is possible but can create uneven surfaces if old tile is damaged. It’s best to remove old backsplash tile for proper thinset adhesion.
How do I clean and maintain my backsplash?
Ceramic and porcelain tile require mild soap and water. Grout can be scrubbed with a brush. Minimize staining by sealing grout and stone tile annually. Glass, metal and marble are sensitive – never use abrasive cleaners.
Discover Your Dream Backsplash
The backsplash is one of the most visible and dramatic areas of your kitchen. Take advantage of this blank canvas to showcase your personal style. Hopefully this overview of the hottest backsplash trends leaves you feeling inspired to design a stunning, standout backsplash perfect for your space. Keep functionality and durability in mind, but don’t be afraid to get creative. Then sit back and admire your new focal feature every time you cook or entertain!
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