A kitchen backsplash serves both form and function – it protects the walls from splashes and stains while also providing an opportunity to add visual interest to your kitchen. With so many backsplash design ideas to choose from, it can be tricky to settle on the right one for your home. This article covers the newest and most popular backsplash trends to inspire your next kitchen remodel.
Timeless Subway Tile
Subway tile backsplashes have been popular for generations, and for good reason. The rectangular tiles are versatile, easy to install, and affordable. While white subway tiles are a classic, gray and blue-toned tiles are on-trend. Consider mixing subway tile colors or laying them in a herringbone pattern for extra visual appeal.
- Pros: timeless, versatile, affordable, easy to clean
- Cons: can be prone to grout discoloration
White subway tile is a timeless backsplash option. Image Source
Subway tile backsplash ideas:
- Mix subway tile colors for contrast
- Use subway tiles vertically instead of horizontally
- Pair white subway tile with gray grout for a modern look
- Incorporate subway tile as an accent within another backsplash material
Natural Stone Tile
Backsplashes with natural stone tiles like marble, travertine, and granite are stunning. The veining in the stone makes each tile unique for one-of-a-kind designs. While natural stone is on the pricier side, it offers unmatched durability and an elegant, spa-like appearance.
- Pros: one-of-a-kind veining, extremely durable, luxurious appearance
- Cons: porous and requires sealing, expensive, heavyweight requires professional installation
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Marble tile backsplashes create a timeless, elegant look. Image Source
Natural stone backsplash ideas:
- Marble: elegant white, gray, or colored veining
- Travertine: rustic tan and brown tones
- Slate: layers of earthy metamorphic rock
- Granite: colorful speckled appearance
- Quartzite: harder and less porous than marble
Bold and Vibrant Glass Tile
Glass tile backsplashes make a dazzling design statement with light-catching, brilliant colors. These tiles come in every hue imaginable – blue, green, purple, red, and more. Blend multiple colors together or use an entire wall of one color for bold contrast. Glass tiles have high shine and are easy to wipe clean.
- Pros: reflective, intense colors, easy maintenance, moisture-resistant
- Cons: prone to chipping if hit hard, professionally installed for best results
Vibrant glass tile backsplashes make a dramatic style statement. Image Source
Glass tile backsplash ideas:
- Contrasting color combinations
- Shape designs – circles, waves, squares
- Metallic glass tiles
- Recycled glass tiles
- Mixing glass with ceramic tiles
Trendy Large-Format Tile
Large-format backsplash tiles measuring 12″ x 24″ or even larger are on-trend, spreading seamlessly across walls with minimal grout lines. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are most common, often made to mimic natural stone. The large tile size creates a clean, contemporary look. Just take care that the wall surface is perfectly even for proper installation.
- Pros: modern and sleek, mimic stone at a lower cost, fewer grout lines
- Cons: professional installation advised, underlying wall must be in excellent condition
Large-format porcelain tiles create a sleek, seamless backsplash appearance. Image Source
Large tile backsplash ideas:
- Stick to solid tile colors for a streamlined look
- Use large tiles as an accent within small tile or mosaic backsplash
- Pair with under cabinet lighting to illuminate and define tile edges
Natural Wood Backsplash
Backsplashes don’t have to be tile – wood is a warm, natural-looking option. Use real reclaimed barnwood planks for rustic cottage charm or sleek laminate boards for a more modern style. Unfinished wood will need routine sealing, while composite boards are low-maintenance. Wood instantly livens up a kitchen with beautiful grains and textures.
- Pros: natural, warm look; eco-friendly; easy installation
- Cons: susceptibility to water damage, sealing required for real wood
A real wood backsplash adds rustic warmth to a kitchen. Image Source
Wood backsplash ideas:
- Wood accent strip behind cooktop
- Full wood plank backsplash
- Geometric wood tile backsplash
- Rustic barnwood reclaimed boards
- Modern gray-stained boards
Handmade Ceramic Tile
For the DIYers and crafty types, making your own ceramic tile backsplash is rewarding. You can form clay tiles into any shape imaginable and decorate with glazes, paints, and glass beads. The handmade charm exudes cottagecore character. Or mimic the look with premade artisanal ceramic tiles, saving the hassle of at-home firing and glazing.
- Pros: one-of-a-kind, artistic, DIY project
- Cons: time-consuming, tiles may warp and crack if DIY firing goes wrong
Handmade ceramic tiles make for artsy, eclectic backsplashes. Image Source
Handmade ceramic tile ideas:
- Nature imprint designs
- Metallic glazes and lusters
- Hand-painted patterns
- Mix handmade with manufactured tile
- Premade artisanal ceramic tiles
Wrapping Up
From classic white subway tile to eye-catching glass mosaics, backsplash design options are plentiful. Consider your kitchen’s style, budget, and the ease of cleaning when making your backsplash decision. With so many gorgeous styles to pick from, your backsplash is guaranteed to be a focal point that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
FAQs
What are the most popular kitchen backsplash trends right now?
Some of today’s most popular backsplash trends include large-format ceramic and porcelain tile, marble and natural stone, glass mosaics, wood planks, and handmade ceramic tile. Vibrant colors and geometric designs are also in style.
How do I pick the right backsplash for my kitchen?
Consider the overall style of your kitchen, whether traditional, modern, or farmhouse. Look at the cabinetry finish and counters when selecting a complementary backsplash color and aesthetic. Also factor in your budget and how easy the material is to maintain.
What backsplash goes best with white cabinets?
White cabinets pair beautifully with both light and dark backsplashes. Try a classic white subway tile or gray stone for a lighter look. For contrast, go bold with navy or black glass tile or slate.
Can you do a backsplash yourself?
Ambitious DIYers can absolutely tackle their own simple backsplash installation. Subway tile, wood planks, and peel-and-stick backsplash panels are beginner-friendly. Be sure to thoroughly research proper installation techniques beforehand.
How much does a kitchen backsplash cost?
Backsplash cost depends heavily on the material, but averages $800-$1500 installed. Tile choices like ceramic, porcelain, or vinyl run $5-$25 per square foot. More high-end options like natural stone, glass tile, or metal raise the cost to $25-$100 per square foot.
Conclusion
The backsplash is center stage in the kitchen, so take time to find the perfect one in your preferred color, material, and style. From rustic wood to luxe marble, the latest backsplash trends open up limitless design possibilities that will bring your dream kitchen to life. Be adventurous with a colorful glass mosaic or keep it classic with white subway tile. Whichever design you choose, a stylish backsplash crowns your kitchen with visual flair while also protecting the walls. Let your kitchen backsplash shine as the jewel of the room.