Updating your kitchen's backsplash with the right style can turn an ordinary kitchen into something special. Whether you're going for a classic look or something that adds interest, find out which backsplash styles are here to stay and see examples of how they've been incorporated into some of our client projects.
We've also included a number of links to backsplashes so you have a good launching pad. None of these links are affiliate links -- just simply some of our favorites we're passing along!
01. | Subway Tile
Subway tile has been popular for many decades and still continues to be one of the most versatile and timeless kitchen backsplash styles. Its glossy finish and simple, rectangular design can be used to enhance any type of kitchen décor. Subway tile comes in a multitude of colors, sizes, shapes and materials. You can mix and match or use a single color to create an attractive neutral look.
The best way to select a timeless subway tile is to stay within proportions similar to these classic sizes: 3x6, 2x8, 3x12. Other sizes can either date the backsplash because of their funky proportions or the odd scale to everything else in the space. We also like to incorporate subway tiles with edges that aren't completely straight. It gives the backsplash a slight movement and feels more natural which translates timelessly.
02. | Zellige
Zellige is the perfect choice for making a Moroccan-influenced statement in your kitchen. This handcrafted tile is made from up-cycled clay and minerals, providing a high end look and texture. Its subtly varied patterns provide gorgeous contrast and dimension for brightening up a kitchen backsplash or a feature wall. True zellige is hand chiseled which means that it's a more expensive material to incorporate, but there are a number of "zellige-inspired" options on the market that are more cost effective.
03. | Natural Stone Backsplashes
Natural stone is a classic material for creating an elegant kitchen backsplash. Marble, granite, and limestone are all popular options because of their timeless, organic look. They come in a range of colors and they can be installed with minimal grouting so they offer a uniform surface with less visible seams. Natural stone also adds more durability to the kitchen, as it’s resistant to chipping, scratching, and staining.
04. | Out of the Box Ideas
If you’re looking to add a more modern spin to your kitchen, you can opt for an unusual material such as cement tile or slab panels. Cement tiles come in a variety of sizes and colors, so they provide plenty of options to create a visually interesting backsplash design. Slab panels are also a durable option, with more texture and pattern variations than other materials. Just because these materials are "out of the box" doesn't mean they're not timeless. When selecting the material, just make sure the pattern is from the tile shape instead of painted on the actual tile. It also is important that the color has a base that can be found in nature.
These are some of our favorite backsplashes on the market right now and hopefully seeing them in some of our client spaces has further inspired you! Let us know what other round ups you would like to see from our team in the comments.
Sincerely,
HMD