Backsplashes have been a staple in kitchen design for decades, providing a protective barrier between the countertops and wall from water splashes and spills. But lately, there has been a growing trend of kitchens without backsplashes, opting instead for a sleek, streamlined look.
Going backsplash-free opens up new and exciting design possibilities for your kitchen. The uninterrupted wall space allows the eye to flow smoothly across the space, creating a soothing minimalist aesthetic. It also gives you more freedom in your choice of countertop materials and wall finishes without having to worry about color-matching the backsplash.
While backsplashes do serve functional purposes, there are ways to achieve the same protective and decorative goals without one. Here are six beautiful backsplash alternatives to consider for your next kitchen remodel.
Seamless countertop material continued up the wall
One of the most popular backsplash alternatives is to use the same material on the countertops and bring it up the wall in one continuous piece. Quartz, granite, marble, or ceramic slabs are commonly used in this application.
The seamless look creates a sleek, contemporary style, especially when using polished stone or concrete. It makes the space appear larger and is easy to keep clean with no grout lines to trap spills and grime.
Pros:
- Achieves a minimalist, streamlined aesthetic
- Fewer seams mean lower maintenance
- Material durability and non-porous qualities protect the wall
Cons:
- Higher installation cost for full slabs on the wall
- Limited material options based on what’s available in larger pieces
- Risk of staining or etching on some materials like marble
How high to extend countertop material on the wall
When using a countertop surface as a backsplash alternative, a minimum of 4-6 inches is recommended. However, extending it further enhances the minimalist look.
Full height applications work best with simpler cabinetry designs. Combine with floating shelves or horizontal cabinets to break up the expanse of stone or concrete visually.
For a lighter touch, limit the material to the prime “splash zone” behind the cooktop and sink. Use another finish like painted drywall above.
Tiled accent strip
Rather than tiling a whole backsplash area, another option is to use only a thin row of tile. Often installed at countertop height or just below, it protects the wall while still leaving most of it backsplash-free.
Glass, ceramic, stone, or metal tiles in sleek shapes work best for this application. Their smooth textures and neutral colors keep the focus on the minimalist style. Accent tiles with pops of color or metallic glimmers provide subtle visual interest.
Pros:
- Leaves most of the wall clear
- Provides targeted protection where needed
- Offers flexibility in tile design and materials
Cons:
- Won’t fully prevent overall wall staining or damage
- Grout lines may require more maintenance
- Less design impact than a full backsplash
Ideal heights and lengths for an accent tile backsplash
The accent tile strip typically installed 6-8 inches high above the counter. Limiting to 10 inches or below keeps it minimal. For a bolder look, extend the double height up to 18-24 inches.
Concentrate the tiling 6-12 inches around cooking areas. Run the strip the full length of the countertop for a unifying effect. Coordinate the accent tile color and style with other finishes in the kitchen.
Integrated sink and countertop
For a completely seamless kitchen wall, consider a sink and countertop carved from one piece of material. These integrated designs are crafted from natural stone like granite, marble, and soapstone or engineered quartz.
Removing the seam between sink and counter gives a beautifully streamlined look, ideal for contemporary or minimalist kitchens. This custom treatment works best for single-bowl sinks. Undermount sinks can also achieve a relatively seamless effect.
Pros:
- Creates an ultra-modern, sculptural look
- Easiest to keep clean with no seams
- Material consistency from sink to counter
Cons:
- More limited sink options
- Needs expert installation
- Repairs or replacement difficult
Sink types for integrated countertop designs
Vessel, bowl, and undermount sink types best suit integrated countertop designs:
- Vessel sinks sit on top, shaped from the same material as the counter.
- Bowl sinks are carved into the counter surface for a flush fit.
- Undermount sinks attach below to create a visual line that doesn’t disturb the counter plane.
Let the sink shape and style complement the kitchen’s overall look. Square, rectangular, and round integrated sinks provide the most minimalist style.
Natural stone or wood
For certain aesthetic styles like rustic and farmhouse, natural materials like stone and wood provide beautiful backsplash alternatives.
Stone options include slate, travertine, limestone, and reclaimed flagstone in earthy hues. Brick veneers with varied textures add charming character.
Wood choices like hemlock, pine, oak, and cedar make warm, welcoming backsplashes. Use reclaimed barnwood for extra rustic appeal. Finish the wood for protection and sheen.
Pros:
− Natural warmth and texture
− Rustic, farmhouse appeal
− Can mimic look of vintage buildings
Cons:
− More organic, less sleek lines
− Needs sealing for durability
− Stone can scratch and stain
Executing a seamless natural wall covering
Cut stone or wood panels to fit snugly from counter to cabinets for a streamlined look. Anchor securely and seal surfaces.
Smaller tiles or planks with tight grout lines and properly sealed wood create a relatively smooth appearance.
Distressed finishes and intentionally uneven shapes like hand-cut flagstone suit the rustic style. Keep grout lines thin.
Painted wall
Nothing could be simpler than continuing the wall color or paint up from the countertops. The freshly painted wall creates a clean, uniform background.
This backsplash alternative suits contemporary to cottage styles and every color palette. Creative techniques like Strie, Venetian plaster or faux finishes add dimension.
Pros:
- Completely seamless, minimalist look
- Affordable and easy to execute
- Unlimited color and finish options
Cons:
- Less durable than other materials
- Needs frequent touch-ups
- Provides no splash protection
Protecting and enhancing painted backsplash walls
Seal the wall and use semi-gloss or gloss paint for added stain resistance and easy wiping.
Install a shallow ledge above the counter line to protect the wall or use an accent tile strip.
Add interest with two alternating colors, hand-painted motifs, metallic or chalk paint, sponging, or distressing.
Install wood trim pieces in contrasting colors to break up the flat paint expanse.
Removable wallpaper
Wallpaper offers a simple update to the traditional painted wall backsplash. The removable, non-permanent types are ideal, avoiding damage when it’s time for a change.
Modern wallpaper provides myriad colors, prints, and textures. From subdued patterns to vivid motifs, choices suit both traditional and contemporary kitchens.
Pros:
- Customizable style
- Affordable and easy to install
- Removable and replaceable
Cons:
- Vulnerable to moisture damage
- Repeated patterns can look busy
- Needs careful installation to avoid seams
Using wallpaper to enhance the backsplash-free look
Focus the wallpaper above the main work area for a streamlined look.
Opt for low-key and moderately-scaled prints so the pattern doesn’t overwhelm.
Use removal wallpaper only behind sinks and cooktops where splashing is minimal.
Coordinating your wallpaper with the backsplash tile design is an option too.
Installing wallpaper takes careful measuring and alignment to prevent obvious seams or gaps. Use a wallpaper smoothing tool during installation to eliminate bubbles or ripples. Take care around electrical outlets and other obstacles for a professional look.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about designing kitchens without traditional backsplashes.
Is it OK to have no backsplash in the kitchen?
It’s absolutely acceptable from a design perspective to omit the backsplash in today’s kitchen. The minimalist look is very on-trend. Just take steps to protect the wall where needed.
What are the alternatives to a kitchen backsplash?
Popular modern backsplash alternatives include extending countertop materials up the wall, accent strips of tile, integrated sink-counter combinations, wood or stone walls, painted drywall, and removable wallpaper.
How high should a backsplash be without upper cabinets?
In a kitchen with no upper cabinets, limit the backsplash material or accent strip to 6-8 inches. This provides needed protection while keeping the sleek, uncluttered look.
Can you put removable wallpaper behind a stove?
It’s not recommended to put wallpaper directly behind or around the stove. The heat and splash potential will quickly deteriorate the paper. Use it in cooking zones that are grease- and heat-free.
What is the best material for a modern backsplash?
Sleek and durable porcelain or ceramic tile, glass tile, polished stone slabs, stainless steel, and muted-tone patterned wallpaper suit the modern style. They create smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces.
Conclusion
The backsplash remains a staple of traditional kitchen design. However, for contemporary spaces, omitting the backsplash in favor of a minimalist wall expanse creates an alluring streamlined look.
From extended counter materials to integrated sinks, accent tiles, and wallpaper, alternatives exist to provide targeted protection where needed without sacrificing style.
Carefully weighing the pros and cons of each backsplash-free option allows you to find the perfect fit for your kitchen’s look and function. Combining materials like a tile strip with painted walls above allows you to get the best of both worlds.
Backsplash or no backsplash, innovative materials and design flexibility make it an exciting time to remodel the heart of your home. Get inspired by the beautiful options and make your dream kitchen a reality.