We don’t know who needs to hear this, but you don’t have to put a sledgehammer through the wall to give your kitchen a new look. Sometimes, all you need is a backsplash change, and voila!
Few things make a kitchen stand out like a good backsplash. Think patterned inlays, unexpected metallic backdrops, vintage ceramics, or the classic white subway tiles. The right kitchen backsplash can be the delightful final detail that ties your entire design concept together.
But backsplashes come in endless shapes and forms, which can seem pretty overwhelming to the amateurs. To make things easier, we have compiled a list of 25+ designer-approved kitchen backsplash ideas that are sure to inspire you.
What Makes a Great Kitchen Backsplash?
A great kitchen backsplash will combine these key elements.
Aesthetic Appeal: It should complement your kitchen, add visual interest, and reflect your personal style.
Functionality and Practicality: A backsplash needs to be practical and easy to clean to protect your walls from spills and stains.
Durability and Maintenance: You must choose backsplash materials that are long-lasting and easy to maintain.
Budgetary Considerations: It’s also important to find a balance between cost and quality, with options available for various budgets.
What is the Best Type of Backsplash for a Kitchen?
The best type of backsplash for a kitchen depends on your personal style, functionality needs, and budget. Some popular types include:
1. Glass Tile
Not a fan of cleaning dirty grout lines? Choose a sleek glass tile backsplash instead. Glass tiles reflect light to create an illusion of more space. They’re also incredibly easy to clean, which makes them a great choice for busy kitchens. However, they’re a little higher on the price spectrum and not ideal for budget kitchen remodels.
2. Stainless Steel Backsplash
If you’re going for a contemporary vibe, consider a stainless-steel backsplash. It’s heat-resistant, durable, and incredibly chic. Keep in mind, though, you’ll need to wipe it down often as it tends to show fingerprints and smudges. It’s a small price to pay for the stylish, clean lines it adds to your space.
3. Mosaic Backsplash
A mosaic backsplash can personalize your kitchen. You can choose from a vast array of colors and designs to make a statement that reflects your taste. It’s a fantastic way to inject character and vibrancy into your cooking area. Just remember, the grout between the mosaic tiles will need regular cleaning to stay fresh.
4. Brick Backsplash
Picture a 1950s-style kitchen with an exposed brick backsplash. It’s vintage-core at its best. Brick backsplashes can bring a warm, rustic feel to your kitchen. But remember, real brick can absorb moisture and might need more care.
For a practical alternative, use brick veneers. They give you that same homey vibe but are easier to look after.
5. Basketweave Backsplash
In case you’re eyeing something special, think about a basketweave backsplash. The unique woven design can add beautiful texture to your cooking area. It’s commonly made with marble, so it can be a bit pricey. But it’s a great way to bring luxury and a distinct look to your kitchen’s backdrop.
6. Marble Backsplash
You’ve probably seen marble tiles on social media. Homeowners often go for this material, even though it’s a little hard to maintain. Marble is chosen for its heat resistance, and with regular sealing, it can also resist water. We recommend cleaning spills and splashes quickly to prevent stains.
7. Stone Backsplash
Natural stone, like travertine and quartz, adds luxury and elegance to kitchens. Its hard, smooth texture makes it great for countertops and backsplashes. Plus, stone is durable and creates a seamless indoor-outdoor feel, enriching your space with natural textures and colors.
8. Artistic Backsplash
An artistic backsplash is a fantastic way to show off your style in the kitchen. You can get creative with custom designs that represent your taste. Because these backsplashes can be made from a range of materials, you have a ton of options to choose from. That said, a unique, custom look might mean a higher budget.
9. White Backsplash
Want your small kitchen to feel bright and airy? Gut it and go clean and modern. This includes adding a white backsplash to the mix. Not only does it brighten up your kitchen, but it can also fit in with any decor style. However, remember that white surfaces can show dirt and stains more easily, so they might need frequent cleaning to keep that fresh, crisp look.
10. Floral Backsplash
Infuse some spring energy to your kitchen with a floral backsplash. When used correctly, it can create a striking focal point in your space. Just be careful with the pattern, as too much of it can feel overwhelming.
11. Green Backsplash
Whether it’s a subtle sage or a bold emerald, a green backsplash can add a touch of the outdoors to your cooking area. Feel free to match the shade and material to your home’s unique personality- after all, you have a plethora of options to choose from.
12. Chevron Kitchen Backsplash
Investing in glossy, eye-catching tiles like chevron patterns can transform your kitchen remodel dramatically. A bold, peacock ceramic tile, for instance, can bring a stunning pop of color, especially against white cabinets. Use this pattern to blend traditional charm with a modern twist and make your kitchen feel more inviting.
13. Herringbone Tile Backsplash
If you’re looking to elevate your kitchen with a sense of refined style, a herringbone tile backsplash is the way to go. It’s classy, sophisticated, and can elevate any space. Plus, herringbone patterns work well with different tile materials to suit various kitchen designs. That said, installing a herringbone pattern can be a little complex. Talk to a professional kitchen remodeler to see if this backsplash style will work for you.
14. Subway Tiles
You can never go wrong with subway tiles. While it’s often seen in other areas of the home, it’s a fail-safe option for the kitchen too. You can stick with the classic 3 x 6-inch white tile or get creative with larger sizes like 2 x 4, 4 x 8, or 6 x 12 inches. Try experimenting with bold colors to customize this classic look.
15. Laminated Kitchen Backsplash
For budget kitchen remodels, choose a laminated backsplash. These are wallet-friendly, a breeze to install, and simple to maintain. You’ll also find a wide range of options to choose from. The only downside is that they might not be as long-lasting as tile or stone backsplashes. But they do work well in a pinch.
16. Penny Tile
Penny tiles can add a delightful texture and whimsical charm to your kitchen backsplash. They’re usually circular and between 3/4th inch and 1 inch in diameter. You can go monochrome for a subdued, textural installation, or go bold with confetti colors. We do recommend sealing the tiles post-installation to prevent staining.
17. Hexagon Tiles
Hexagon tiles are a conversation starter, no questions asked. They have an edgy, geometric shape that can add visual interest to your space. What’s more, they’re durable, easy to clean, and versatile- a winning combination for any kitchen.
18. Ceramic Tile
When you think of the classic kitchen backsplash, you’re thinking of ceramic tiles. It’s the evergreen choice for kitchen interiors, thanks to its heat resistance, low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness. They also fit well in a variety of kitchen styles, from vintage to contemporary.
19. Porcelain Tiles
If you’ve ever confused porcelain with ceramic, you’re not alone. Most of the technical differences between the two are in material composition and durability. Porcelain tiles usually have crisper, cleaner edges than their ceramic counterparts. Additionally, they’re non-porous, scratch-resistant, and immune to high temperatures. You can choose porcelain instead of ceramic if you have slightly more to splurge on your kitchen backsplash remodel.
20. Wood Backsplash
Wooden backsplashes, like those made from oak or water-resistant iroko, can add a unique touch to your kitchens.
However, they require much more maintenance than traditional kitchen wall tiles. We’re talking about regular waxing and oiling to prevent stains. While hardwoods are robust, they need conditioning and acclimatization to prevent issues like shrinkage.
We’d also advise against placing wood near your stovetop due to scorch or fire risks. You can, however, install wood backsplashes over your sink area. Make sure it’s well-sealed to avoid warping issues down the line.
21. Faux Metal Tile
Are you on the lookout for a lightweight, affordable alternative to metal backsplashes? We recommend faux metal tiles. They’re lightweight, easy to install, and offer all the convenience of metal at nearly half the price. But they’re not as long-lasting as real metal, meaning you’d need to replace them sooner.
22. Peel-and-Stick Tile
Let’s say you don’t like the backsplash in your rented apartment. There’s no real way to change it without losing your security deposit.
Or is there?
Yes, there is. Just opt for peel-and-stick backsplash tile! It’s easy to install, and most times, you can do it yourself. All you need to do is cut the tile sheet to size, peel off the adhesive backing, and stick it where you prefer. Once you’re bored with the design or ready to move, just peel it off to remove it.
Fair warning, peel-and-stick adhesive does wear down quicker than mortar and grout, especially when it comes in contact with water. They’re usually seen as a temporary fix, not a permanent home addition.
23. Chalkboard Paint
When tiles are too common, marble is too expensive, and you don’t feel like polished metal, try chalkboard paint. It offers texture and depth with its dark shades, creating a dramatic contrast against light-colored cabinets. More than that, a chalkboard backsplash is like a canvas. You can get creative, doodle, or write recipes directly on the wall. This personalization makes your space more original and interactive.
24. Geometric Patterned Backsplashes
Geometric patterns can draw attention and give your kitchen purpose. They’re a great choice for backsplashes because they limit a bold motif to a smaller space. Geometric patterns are a great fit for transitional or modern kitchen designs, as they bring a sense of ‘now’ to the space.
25. Moroccan Fish Scale Tile
Also known as mermaid tiles, Moroccan fish scale tiles can create a 3-D effect and add depth to your backsplash area. While trendy, they also have a classic appeal that won’t go out of style too soon. Feel free to arrange these tiles in different ways for a personalized look.
26. Granite Backsplashes
Granite backsplashes are suited to homes that cook hearty meals daily, thanks to their durability. You can either match it with a granite countertop or choose a different material for contrast. It’s the perfect balance of form and function for your cooking area.
Buying Considerations for Backsplash Material
It’s important to consider these factors when choosing backsplash materials.
Ease of Installation: Some materials require professional installation, while others, like peel-and-stick tiles, are DIY-friendly.
Durability and Longevity: Think about how resistant the backsplash is to heat, moisture, and wear.
Maintenance Requirements: Different materials need varying levels of upkeep. Choose one that fits your lifestyle.
Cost and Budget-Friendliness: Align your choice with your budget, including both materials and installation costs.
Compatibility with Kitchen Design and Style: Ensure the material complements the overall look of your kitchen.
The Bottom Line
That’s a wrap on our deep dive into 25+ backsplash inspirations for your kitchen. Remember, you can stick to one idea from this list, or mix and match designs to leave your very own stamp. It all comes down to what speaks to your visions and preferences.
No matter what backsplash style you choose, OMG Kitchen & Bath can bring it to life! We have the skills and expertise to handle different materials and styles. Our team has been working with kitchen backsplashes for decades, so we can also share a few tips to guide you in the right direction. Contact us today, and let’s get started on your kitchen remodel!
