Kitchen backsplashes are a great way to add visual interest and style to your kitchen. With so many design options available, it can be tricky to pinpoint exactly what the latest trends are. Here is an overview of some of the most popular kitchen backsplash styles for 2023.
Subway Tile
Classic subway tile has been a popular backsplash choice for decades, and it’s not going anywhere. The rectangular tiles laid in a bricklike pattern provide a clean, streamlined look. While white subway tiles are a staple, don’t be afraid to liven things up with bold colors or varied patterns. Subway tile backsplashes work with almost any kitchen decor from traditional to modern.
Why It’s Trending
- Timeless and versatile design that suits many kitchen aesthetics
- Relatively affordable and easy to install
- Clean, streamlined look provides balance in busy kitchens
- Can be customized with creative laying patterns and grout colors
Marble & Stone
Natural stone like marble, travertine, and granite make an elegant statement and are always on-trend. Stone backsplashes create texture and withstand daily wear and tear. Go for dramatic veins and swirls or pick a stone with subtle character. While polished stone is popular, many designers are opting for honed, flamed, or tumbled finishes for more organic appeal.
Why It’s Trending
- Natural material adds organic texture and warmth
- Durable and scratch-resistant
- Available in range of stone types and colors like white Carrara, green serpentine, black granite
- Makes a bold focal point
Bold Colors & Patterns
Painting your backsplash or using colorful patterned tile is an easy way to inject personality into your kitchen. Unexpected colors and prints create visual impact and complement kitchens of all styles. Try vibrant shades like emerald green, burnt orange, or cobalt blue. Patterns run the gamut from geometric prints to floral designs.
Why It’s Trending
- Makes a bold artistic statement
- Livens up neutral kitchens
- Many color and pattern options like encaustic tile, handpainted tile
- Adds an energetic, fun vibe to the space
Mix and Match
The eclectic look is in, and many homeowners are abandoning kitchen backsplash uniformity in favor of a mix-and-match style. Combining subway tile with stone accents, mosaics, ceramic tile, or even recycled materials makes for an eye-catching blend. Using multiple tiles and colors creates texture and depth. Start with a coordinating color palette to pull the look together.
Why It’s Trending
- Provides visual interest with an artistic feel
- Allows you to incorporate several materials you love
- Adds dimension and depth
- Makes a unique creative statement
Brick & Wood Accents
Natural elements like exposed brick and reclaimed wood panels are hot in home decor, and they make their mark on backsplashes too. Weathered barnwood applied in a creative herringbone pattern or stacked bricks offer rustic warmth. Use brick or wood only partially on the backsplash as an accent or focal point.
Why It’s Trending
- Warm, organic texture
- Natural weathered appearance
- Distinctly rustic vibe
- Provides striking contrast to sleek surfaces
Statement Backsplashes
Kitchen backsplashes are being treated as standout focal points with statement designs. Homeowners are getting creative with shapely tiles, 3D elements like waves and cubes,rammed earth, and laser-cut metal backsplashes. Concentrating the drama on the backsplash prevents sensory overload. Bold backsplash options work best against a simple backdrop of cabinetry.
Why It’s Trending
- Makes the backsplash the spotlight of the kitchen
- Sculptural shapes and textures
- Offers a contemporary edge
- High visual impact in a concentrated area
FAQs About the Latest Kitchen Backsplash Styles
What are the most popular kitchen backsplash trends right now?
Some of today’s hottest backsplash trends include bold colors like navy blue and emerald green, natural stone like marble, geometric and floral patterned tile, brick accents, reclaimed wood, mix-and-match designs, and 3D statement backsplashes.
What backsplash tiles are timeless?
Classic white subway tile, natural stone like marble, and stainless steel backsplashes are all timeless choices. They suit both contemporary and traditional kitchen designs.
Should I avoid busy backsplash patterns in a small kitchen?
In a smaller kitchen, it’s best to stick with a simple backsplash design, as busy patterns can overwhelm the space. Opt for sleek subway tile or muted stone. Use decorative tile sparingly as an accent.
What backsplash color makes a kitchen look bigger?
Lighter colored backsplashes like white, beige, or light grey will reflect light and make a small kitchen appear more open. Avoid dark hues like navy or black that can close off the space.
How do I choose a backsplash that coordinates with my counters and cabinets?
Select a backsplash tile that ties into one or more colors in your cabinetry or countertops. Look for a complementary hue or pattern. Consistent finishes also help blend the elements together.
What’s the best backsplash for a kitchen with stainless steel appliances?
Stainless appliances pair nicely with glass, metal, or ceramic tile backsplashes. Subway tile, penny tile, stone, and hammered metal offer an appealing contemporary vibe alongside stainless.
Conclusion
Kitchen backsplash design continues to move in creative directions with bold colors, natural and recycled materials, attention-grabbing patterns, and artistic statement tiles. While the classic look of white subway tile backsplashes will never go out of favor, there are lots of fresh ways to make your backsplash the focal point of your kitchen. The latest trends allow you to reflect your personal taste and style. Consider mixing materials, colors, and shapes for a one-of-a-kind backsplash that becomes a work of art.