Creating a complete kitchen design begins with the backsplash. Any kitchen design can be accentuated with a backsplash as it tends to bring the whole kitchen space together and add grace to the overall kitchen interior. Whether it is for a kitchen or a bathroom, backsplash provides both practicality and aesthetic appeal. The household can easily play with different textures, materials, and designs to customize their bathroom or kitchen space. However, it is to be kept in mind that the choice of backsplash must be balanced by the selection of cabinets and countertops to present a harmonious look. A consistent design scheme for the kitchen and opting for the right texture and finish for the backsplash will bring visual depth to the entire space.
Is the Backsplash Really Necessary To Install Behind the Stove?
Yes, for most homeowners, installing a backsplash behind the stove or sink is an absolute necessity, and here is why.
Protect the Wall From the Heat
Installing a backsplash behind the stove acts as a protective layer for the wall and screen against the warmth of the stove. The important point to consider here is the material of the backsplash. Typically, porcelain and ceramic tiles offer a great degree of heat resistance. Glass tiles can work perfectly fine as well.
Protect the Wall from Grease and Splatters
Grease and splatters are inevitable when it comes to a busy kitchen, and this is where a backsplash comes in handy. While cooking, the oils and sauces spills are adsorbed on the surface of the backsplash which acts as a shield and the wall remains protected from any potential stain, grease, and discoloration.
Eliminate moisture
Dishes are regularly washed in the kitchen and the sink vicinity is often a victim of unwanted mildew, fungus growth, and mold. Sometimes, due to excessive use, the wall gets damaged and tarnished. To prevent water seepage, backsplashes come into play. They are water-resistant and can protect against water leakage into the wall surface.
Stain-free environment
Since the splatters and spills are absorbed on the backsplash surface, the wall behind the stove remains shielded against the stains. It is far more convenient to clean the messed-up backsplash than the wall itself. Even a mildly damp cloth piece is enough to clean and wipe off all the impurities and keep the area stain-free.
Add decorative elements for the kitchen
The backsplash binds together all other design elements in the kitchen or bathroom space. The availability of varying colors, designs, and patterns makes it a valuable addition to your space. It contributes to achieving an aesthetic appeal for the area. The visual depth and dimension are enhanced by installing the backsplash with the right texture and material.
What Are the Suitable Materials for the Backsplash?
There is a wide range of materials available for the backsplash. Some of the common and extensively used materials are listed below with visuals to help you get a better idea of the backsplash textures that you can choose from.
Glazed Porcelain Tiles
These tiles are made at high temperatures with clay as the primary ingredient. The tiles have an additional liquid glass layer that makes them effective against heat and water. These tiles resemble ceramic tiles but have higher durability and are much more dense and strong than ceramic tiles. Porcelain tiles are used for the backsplash as they are highly resistant to stains and moisture.
The gray herringbone mosaic tile is well-suited for the kitchen backsplashes behind the stove. The neutral shade gives an illusion of an open kitchen. The backsplash holds the various cooking spatulas for ease during the cooking process. The creamy painted cabinets are in contrast with the wooden countertop. A jute rug is placed in the middle.
For an open-floor kitchen design, go with a wide kitchen island and white hardware and create a style that defines your personality. The backsplash is a white-glazed porcelain subway tile. Silver hardware showcases a dynamic look. Vintage bar stools are randomly placed around the kitchen counter.
The French blue cabinetry is streamlined with white range backsplash. The high-end paint on the kitchen island creates a statement piece. The dreamy kitchen look is achieved by the blend of white quartz countertops with polished wood floors. A framed white herringbone subway pattern within the brick bond pattern handmade ceramic is used for the backsplash.
Marble Tiles
Properly sealed marble is an excellent choice for those looking for a durable backsplash idea. It is a scratch and stain-resistant material and works as a heat-resistant and waterproof element. The marble backsplash is a symbol of richness and elegance. This is easily paired with any kitchen design to display a modern and a traditional amalgamation. A marble backsplash alone can serve the purpose of absolute extravagance easily.
This friendly kitchen atmosphere is styled by dreamy wall lights, a warm color scheme, a white luxury marble backsplash, and the wooden framework installed in the cabinetry and the kitchen island. The cushioned bar stools with wood frames appear to be inspired by bohemian architecture, adding a classic touch to the dine-in space.
What a beautiful green kitchen this is! This is truly a charming kitchen inspiration for anyone looking for a splash of color in the culinary space. The white marble slab backsplash rests behind the stove and the sink area. A nichrome chandelier hangs above the bench top. The floor is a reclaimed brick tile for an obvious color variation.
Glass Tiles
Glass tiles are a popular choice for a sleek backsplash, speaking modernism and style. These tiles are available in different styles and designs. Considering the overall kitchen design, you can opt for slim subway tiles or mosaic glass tiles which can be laid out in a complicated pattern to create a visually appealing corner for the kitchen. For their shiny surface, these tiles are tending today and will remain a center of interest for home designers.
Nothing can beat the traditional look of the white kitchen. With all the other elements like the white cabinetry with black hue in the dining chairs, glass white offset tiles evoke brightness and refresh the look of a conventional and simple kitchen. A couple of butcher block floating shelves and a similar wood floor offer a rustic contrast.
The dual combination of slate blue and white cabinets offers a hallmark of sophistication. The design keeps the simplicity of the kitchen intact, yet it manages to stir up a stylish appearance for the kitchen plan. A silver vent hood is in perfect equilibrium with the dark gray Chevron glass tile backsplash.
Mother-of-Pearl Mosaic Tiles
This is indeed a unique collection of tiles made from the shell of pearl coating. It is available in different geometric patterns that are intricate and looks stunning when incorporated into a kitchen backsplash. The iridescence effect with a range of shades seems aesthetically pleasing when viewed from different angles. The absolute colors include blue, green, pink gold, etc which are noticeable when light interacts with the shell.
The chevron pearl white Thassos combined with shell tile grabs the attention of the beholder. The endless shimmer keeps the eye focused. The walnut lumber open shelves break the continuity of the white hue and add a natural feel to the space. White quartz countertop is part of the design element.
The natural color of mother-of-white pearl tile in a seamless pattern is spread throughout the backsplash and provides a great glow to the kitchen. The subtle blue cabinets add a decent touch to the kitchen space. Brass pendant lights create a delicate and minimal design. A rectangular mirror bar is installed for a complete reflection.
Metal Mosaic
Metal mosaic like stainless steel tiles or aluminum tiles furnish an industrial design for your kitchen. Displaying extraordinary strength, and higher resistance against stains, grease, and corrosion, the mosaic-like small patterns help induce a twisted touch for your backsplash. These materials offer a high-end reflectivity that looks stunning and exhibits a brighter room. The durability of the metal makes it popular among emerging home designers and makes it a fashionable option to use for decor.
The kitchen speaks of the lustrous quilted brushed aluminum backsplash with dark brown wooden open shelves holding cocktails and delicate glassware. The kitchen is all set for a party scene. The romantic small light fixtures are all lit for a warm ambiance. Dark brown cabinetry is installed to provide a darker tone.
This kitchen transformation will take the design to the next level. The 3D black-grained square metal backsplash looks elegant and stylish. The black hue is balanced by the white oak cabinetry. The sink is a squared one designed within the marble kitchen island, and a silver faucet is installed to make the space functional.
Brick Tiles
Brick tiles have a rough texture and are considered durable for the backsplash area. It imparts a natural look to the space. The popular tiles include white brick, beveled brick, metro tile, and stack bond. All these designs qualify for complementing any kitchen form ranging from traditional to contemporary to industrial. The brick’s rough appearance helps hide any smudges and stains, giving you a rustic feeling of the kitchen.
The kitchen showcases a rustic and exposed brick backsplash tile wall with an industrial kitchen range which appears to be the showstopper. White cabinetry looks ideal with the polished wood floor. An alcove built into the backsplash wall holds useful cooking items. A black marble tile is placed at the bottom of the recess.
Greige cabinets, bristol red brick backsplash wall, and white oak kitchen hood all combine to give this kitchen a farmhouse look. The white wood floor seems distinct and antique. The red dials of the cooking range are in contrast with the backsplash brick. The kitchen stainless steel appliances rest on the white granite countertop.
Stacked Stone Tiles
The key feature of this material design is the layered appearance that is created when the tiles are stacked vertically. The stones employed for this look are quartzite, travertine, slate, etc. The stones have varying colors that give them a unique and captivating aspect. Both vibrant and earthy tones such as green, gray and brown are the color ranges for the stone tiles. The installation requires precise considerations due to the correct alignment of the tiles. However, the maintenance is far easier.
The natural light pouring through the white framed windows and the everlasting charm of the grayish-black slate stacked stone tile backsplash complete the look for a black-and-white kitchen. The white quartz countertop with the quartz floating shelves holds delicate kitchen necessities. The Greenery adds a touch of green to the kitchen.
This random natural split face slate backsplash wall defines a French kitchen outlook. Coupled with the French-style vent hood and white quartz countertop, the kitchen design seems an ideal manifestation. The brass knobs of the free-standing oven are made in style. The square-shaped open shelves hold the ceramic plates and bowls.
Terra Cotta Tiles
One of the types of ceramic tiles is terra cotta tiles. These are red-brown and are made with clay and baked in a high-temperature kiln. The tiles are widely used in the southwestern design and also in the Mediterranean style for both outdoor and indoor settings. Terracotta flooring in yellow to orange shade is common. The interesting feature of terra cotta tiles is that the aging process results in the subtle sheen formation, which further deepens the existing color to enhance its aesthetic.
The fashionable terracotta grid backsplash tile, a big square, is the highlight of this kitchen. The warm shades give an earthy look to the space. The black and silver coffee maker machine is the center of attention, and the walnut wood floating shelves hold the coffee requisites, such as the jar containing the coffee pods and the several coffee bean jars.
Marlborough parquet terracotta tiles and triangular handmade tile for the backsplash are known for their rustic finish. A small corner in the kitchen exhibits a white marble kitchen counter with traditional wooden cutting boards and spatulas promoting a natural feel. A brass rail with detachable hooks is fixed on the backsplash wall for hanging the regular pans and other utensils.
Granite Tiles
Ranked among the hardest natural stone, granite is a hot choice for homeowners to be used for the kitchen backsplash wall. Due to their heavy weight, a professional way is required to install these tiles precisely. The result is a luxurious and elegant appearance that looks flawless. Granite tiles offer strength and are resilient to potential damage caused by heavy loads and can withstand heat and pressure without even cracking.
The white custom kitchen design seems impressive and the extensive granite backsplash is matched with the similar countertop. The large milky kitchen island provides a focal point for this kitchen. Brushed nickel hardware is visible, and the nickel hanging light fixture adds grace to the entire space.
This rustic kitchen evokes an ancient look. The kitchen remodeling is inspired by wooden architecture as visible in the cabinetry and the kitchen island. The backsplash is a granite tile extended to the full height. A couple of vintage dining chairs are positioned around the benchtop.
Quartz Tiles
Quartz tile is a highly engineered material available in the market. The tile is a mixture of quartz crystals and resins both of which give it strength and resistance against corrosion and heat. The wide array of colors and design patterns make them a popular choice for the home interior. Be it backsplashes or flooring, quartz tiles are considered a safe and suitable option. Since quartz is easy to maintain, housebuilders use it more often for residential applications.
The kitchen screams white to the fullest. The Britannica gold backsplash seems to be a symbol of richness and royalty. White cabinetry and warm wood hues as seen in the counter and flooring contribute to achieving a well-defined traditional kitchen. Green plants add freshness to the space.
The excellent color scheme makes this kitchen stand out. The Calacatta Fresco quartz backsplash is framed nicely within the dark gray range hood rundown. A white quartz worktop is installed for a coherent look. Brass hardware and a shaded pendant light feature an elegant kitchen. The dining area is expansive with many smoky chairs arranged in a row.
Shiplap Backsplash
Shiplap backsplash offers a farmhouse look. The wooden planks are arranged horizontally or vertically depending on the kitchen design and the gaps (if any) are filled with a caulk filling for a consistent appearance. Using a level, the planks are installed and glued to the desired wall. The shiplap backsplash creates a rustic look and makes the area much more functional. Utensil rails can be installed for practical use.
The kitchen has kept all the design elements to a minimum. The backsplash is a white shiplap backsplash that adds organic warmth to the space. Also, the upper cabinets are a trifold style which is quite ingenious to think about. The natural oak floors present a natural charm, and the golden hardware looks perfect.
What else do you care about when your kitchen has a backsplash that is practical and looks pleasing to the eyes too? The kitchen is designed with a kitchen island having a peg board to hang all your regular kitchen accessories and to keep you at ease during cooking. The backsplash is a blue-painted distressed wood shiplap wall with matching lower cabinetry.
Peel and Stick Tiles
As the name suggests, peel-and-stick tiles require no human effort to install as these tiles have an adhesive backing which makes the whole process a hassle-free one. Glass, ceramic, and metal designs are available in different textures and styles. It is to be noted that compared to traditional tiles, these tiles are less durable and might not be a long-lasting option. However, for a quick update to your kitchen, the peel-and-stick tiles serve the purpose.
This kitchen exhibits white peel-and-stick subway tiles with dark grouts covering the entire countertop area. The tiles seem no different from the real ones at one glance. The tiles seem smooth to put on a backsplash wall. For a farmhouse kitchen look, white cabinetry and polished U-shaped wood countertops are installed.
The pastel mint fish scale peel and stick backsplash take center stage in this kitchen. The color itself looks pure and fresh and renders the kitchen look all-time clean and tidy. The white cabinetry showcasing geometric towels looks iconic. A double sink is installed with a brassy faucet, and the spa dispenser is placed near it.
Cement Tiles
Cement, sand, and various other raw pigments make up the decorative cement tiles. These tiles are a popular choice for flooring and wall coverings for residential and commercial use. Like every other tile, ceramic tiles come in a wide range of colors, designs, and patterns that looks attractive and add an artistic corner to your home. To be used as a backsplash wall, these tiles offer a long life without getting worn out, and the cement tiles withstand high temperatures making them an excellent option for stove areas.
Nikea Sephia cement tile looks stunning on the backsplash wall. The tile is contrasted with a white quartz worktop, navy blue cabinetry, and a herringbone brick floor. The mosaic pattern looks elegant, and the non-vibrant shade of the tiles gives a soft appeal to the space. The navy shiplap wall incorporates exposed shelves that hold the glassware.
This white and blue kitchen features mosaic pattern cement backsplash tiles that appear to have done wonders for the space. The vibrant pattern has kept the kitchen alive. White cabinetry along with the blue kitchen island finds peace with the backsplash color scheme. The candle-style chandelier warms up the space.
Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles are one of the emerging tiles in the home interior industry. This material is highly durable and made to resist high temperatures without getting cracked. Concrete tiles are strong and rigid. These tiles are popular in modern and industrial homes, and also for indoor and outdoor applications. Options are endless for customization of these tiles, resulting in a range of different textures like engraves and imprints, suitable for any kitchen design.
The concrete panels in medium gray for the backsplash reflect the highlight of this modern kitchen design. Wooden wall paneling exhibits a feature wall that integrates a refrigerator unit and a baking oven. The white quartz kitchen island with dual sink looks dapper. Two sparkling globe lights look classy.
The gray and white kitchen depicts a neutral and crisp color palette. The marble countertop displays a deep black vase with dry branches. White cabinetry is in perfect harmony. The jute chandelier hangs on top of the kitchen island. The Matte gray sink vessel rests peacefully with a flexible silver faucet.
Mirror Tiles
Mirror tiles are reflective and their use in the kitchen or bathroom presents a spacious space. The varying shapes and sizes of the mirror tiles make them a versatile option to install in the home interior. Above all, mosaic patterns go well with glass tiles and help enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area. Because there are chances of breakage, glass tile must be professionally installed with correct alignment.
The combination of a blue quartzite countertop with a butcher block worktop looks fascinating. Celery ice mirror subway tile backsplash grabs the attention. The checkerboard marble floor is installed well. White paint is used for the surrounding walls. All in all this Victorian kitchen design is the apple of the eye.
The backsplash is an antique mirror backsplash on an Arabescato marble wall. A retro mirror hood is everything in this kitchen design. The white millwork cabinets with applied wainscotting look effortlessly exquisite. The Arabescato marble countertop looks visually appealing. The outcome is a french inspired kitchen that looks stunning.
Wallpaper Backsplash
A wallpaper backsplash is employed for embellishing the backsplash. In contrast to the tile backsplashes, wallpaper is easier to install and is reusable. It can be an interesting DIY project for homeowners looking for style in the home interior. The wallpapers can be chosen depending on one’s taste and the overall kitchen aesthetics. Geometric patterns, floral designs, and faux brick, and stone textures are the frequently opted wallpaper prints. Before installing, make sure that the surface is clean, free of dust, and properly primed for a perfect wall finish.
This framed geometric wallpaper backsplash is all set to add color and texture to your kitchen. It is beautifully incorporated with a white subway tile backsplash behind the sink. The lower blue cabinetry is installed with a white quartz countertop and rustic wooden open cabinets display fine crockery.
The beachy muted wallpaper backsplash is an absolute beauty in the kitchen. The gray cabinets are set against the white quartz benchtop. The sink is fitted within the kitchen counter. A long continuous wooden open shelf spreads on the backsplash wall and holds the kitchen accessories.
