Before we delve into the world of backsplashes, first let us understand what exactly a backsplash is. A backsplash is often described to be the area behind a sink or your cooking range. It is also often referred to as splashback. When renovating your home this is something in the kitchen area which gets changed.

Traditionally, backsplashes were limited to a smaller area between the countertop and cabinets, but now, more often than not, they also cover the entire walls behind the sink or cooking range. Choosing the right kitchen backsplash tile is very important since it is a fundamental aspect of kitchen design – not just with respect to aesthetics, but from a functional point too since it helps protect the walls from splashes and splatters that are inevitable in a kitchen.

Explore the different tile options available to you and see what you prefer. Standard Tile is a great place to see tiles in real life and touch the designs they have on display to see if they will work for you.

Backsplashes do require some attention to detail while fitting. The professionals can be found by a quick Google search, handyman services near me in Greater Heights or wherever your location is and you will be able to hire someone to fit it for you.

Kitchen Tile Backsplash Ideas

1. Play with colour tones

If you want to create a show-stopper kitchen, it is best to play around with different colours when it comes to your backsplash. You can either opt for a single shade colour palette to create a monochromatic space or you can opt to go wild with your backsplash and opt for a completely different colour.

Either way, you can be assured, that your backsplash will definitely get some head-turning!

2. Change the shape

While choosing tiles for your backsplash consider the shape of the tile. Do you want to go for a subway tile look with long rectangular tiles or want to opt for a symmetrical look with square tiles? You can also go the geometric route and opt for hexagonal tiles to create a geometric pattern on your wall.

3. Go dark

One of the latest trends is darker kitchens with tones of dark grey and black and this is one trend we don’t see going away any time soon. You can opt for a dark backsplash in contrast to white or wooden cabinetry or opt for a monochromatic kitchen with everything (cabinetry, tiles, floors, backsplash) in various shades of grey and black. You can even either go bold with a black or a dark grey backsplash or create a subtle juxtaposition by using lighter grey tiles with darker or black grout.

4. Pick a natural stone tile

If you want to create a space that is comfortable, warm and inviting, consider bringing the outside indoors by installing natural stone tiles.

If you do not wish to add natural stone to your floors or walls, you can opt for a natural stone backsplash – the coarse texture of stone will do wonders for your space. Pair it with natural wood cabinetry and you will have a cosy and inviting space to cook in and entertain.

5. Use patterns

If you are looking to create a subtle, minimalistic kitchen this one is for you. While a whole wall with bold patterns may prove to be too much for your taste, a subtle and small section of backsplash covered with patterned tiles can not only break the monotony of the simplicity of space but can also create a focal point for the said space. You can opt for subtle tiles embossed with the design or bright floral patterned tiles – the backsplash will definitely be the star of your kitchen!

6. Opt for a marble finish

Marble has the ability to uplift the look of any space and take it from bleh to glamorous and marble tiles are a great way to add the marble aesthetic to your kitchen backsplash without any added maintenance. They are also easy on the pocket, which is an added plus. With the variety of colours and sizes available, you will definitely find a marble tile that fits perfectly into your kitchen.

7. Use Zellige tiles

If you wish to make a bold statement with your backsplash that is a combination of old-school and modern – Zellige tiles are what you are looking for! These handmade tiles have an uneven surface and give the space a quaint, rustic touch. The uneven surface also disperses light across the room, making your kitchen appear brighter and more spacious.

8. Try organic quartz

Quartz has been used for kitchen countertops for a long time now but has now found use on the backsplash thanks to its resistance to staining, scratches and cracks. Man-made quartz is not only highly durable but can be easily installed, making it a great choice for the backsplash. The fluid design adds movement to the space and makes it feel almost languid and relaxed.

9. Use a mirrored backsplash to make your kitchen seem bigger

The job of the kitchen backsplash is not just to protect your walls from splashes and stains – it can also help make your kitchen look a lot bigger. Mirrors are a great way to make a smaller space seem bigger. To have a greater impact on your space, install a mirror throughout the length of your kitchen. You can add subtle tarnishes to the mirror to prevent the space from getting too disorienting.

10. Play with 3D textures

3D tiles are highly popular and for good reason. Along with the design, they help add an extra textural element to your space. Even something as simple as a fluted design can have a great impact on the overall look of the space. 3D tiles are often used on the backsplash to help add depth to the space and create an illusion of roominess.

11. Try bespoke brass

While brass (and copper) has been often used in hardware (such as taps, handles, drawer pulls, etc.) and lighting fixtures since time immemorial, they are absolute newcomers in the world of backsplashes. You can use aged brass (shade determined by the rest of your décor) to cover the backsplash area – this works as an interesting kitchen wall décor idea too. Just make sure you mop up spills immediately and do not use abrasive cleaners and you should be good to go.

12. Try wood/metal tiles

Natural wooden backsplashes can have a stunning impact on the space, but the age-old problem of wood requiring copious amounts of maintenance and protection against water and stains remains. To counter this, you can opt for wood look tiles for your backsplash. The tiles provide you with the aesthetic of natural wood but in a convenient tile form. Today, with the advent of technology, wooden tiles are available in various wood designs such as timber, oak, birch wood, and ash wood, to name a few.

Similarly, using metal directly on the backsplash might not be a good idea – depending on the metal, it may catch rust or get damaged easily. Metal tiles provide you with the metallic shine and look of metal, but in a tile form that is easy to clean, durable, and requires minimal maintenance.

Ceramic, porcelain and vitrified tiles are great choices for kitchen backsplashes. The tiles manufactured using these materials are durable, require minimal maintenance, are easy to clean and have low porosity – all the properties that can further enhance the benefits of kitchen backsplash. While natural stone tiles or natural wood may also be used, they will need to be sealed and require regular sealing and other maintenance activities in order to preserve their pristine condition. Opt for the backsplash that works best for you – aesthetically, functionally and practically – and you will be good to go!