A colorful backsplash can completely transform the look and feel of a kitchen. With so many different materials, colors, and patterns to choose from, backsplashes provide an easy way to add visual interest and personality to your cooking space. A vibrant, eye-catching backsplash serves both stylish and practical purposes – protecting your walls while also uplifting your mood.
In this article, we’ll look at creative ideas and tips for designing a joyful, colorful backsplash for your kitchen. Whether you prefer traditional tiles or unique materials like glass and metal, there are endless possibilities to make your backsplash as lively as your cooking.
Why Add a Colorful Backsplash?
A backsplash is more than just a functional element – it’s an opportunity to add artistry and design flair. Here are some top reasons to go bold with a colorful backsplash in your kitchen remodel or redecoration:
Infuses Personality and Style
A colorful backsplash is an easy way to showcase your personal taste and interests. You can match it to your existing décor or use it as an accent to liven up a neutral color scheme. It’s a simple kitchen upgrade that makes a major style statement.
Protects Against Messes and Spills
The backsplash takes a beating from cooking splatter and spills. Vibrant glass, metal or ceramic tile stands up well to stains and is easy to clean. The smooth surface won’t trap grease and grime like an unprotected drywall can.
Reflects and Diffuses Light
A gleaming glass or metallic backsplash will amplify natural light and make the kitchen brighter. Darker hues can also hide unattractive electrical outlets or vent fans. The color and surface material play with light to enhance the ambience.
Serves as Canvas for Creativity
With countless colors, shapes, materials and accessories, the backsplash offers a literal blank canvas to conceptualize designs. Mix and match tiles or use mosaics to create patterns. Contrast grout colors for added pop.
Adds Visual Interest and Depth
Monochromatic kitchens, while stylish, can feel flat and monotonous. A colorful backsplash adds visual punch and dimension that draws the eye. Complementary or contrasting colors make the space more dynamic.
Modernizes a Dated Kitchen
Tired of blah or outdated kitchen décor? A new colorful backsplash can modernize the whole room without a full renovation. Use trendy colors like deep greens, bold blues or bright metallics.
With all these benefits, a vibrant backsplash is an easy choice for any kitchen needing character and flair. The remaining questions are which colors, materials and designs to select. Keep reading for backsplash inspiration.
Colorful Backsplash Design Ideas
When planning your backsplash, think about how color can transform the vibe and functionality of your kitchen. Here are some eye-catching ways to incorporate color for brilliant results:
Go for an Ombre Effect
An ombre backsplash blends two or more colors, gradually shifting in tone across the surface. The tranquil, watercolor-like effect works with any color scheme. Try light blue fading to navy or moody greys transitioning to warm taupes.
An ombre backsplash adds soft, blended color.
Contrast Popping Brights
Make your backsplash the star with bold, saturated hues like cherry red, sunflower yellow or lime green. Contrasting bright colors are energizing and make cooking feel more fun. Just be sure to match countertops and cabinets accordingly.
Bright green backsplash tiles pop against dramatic red cabinets.
Go Monochromatic
Using shades of one color from light to dark has a stylish, modern look. Gray is a popular choice, but you can also do different tones of blues, greens, reds or neutrals like beige. Choose whether to mix up tile shapes and textures or do clean uniform tiling.
Shades of blue glass subway tiles keep this backsplash design unified yet dynamic.
Accent with Metallics
Metallic backsplashes add glam and luxury, plus reflect light beautifully. Polished brass, copper and nickel make warm, natural accents. Stainless steel, silver or chrome have an ultra-modern vibe. Use metallics sparingly or go bold with an entire metal mosaic tile wall.
Warm brass metallic tile accents class up this backsplash.
Craft Geometric Patterns
Use shape and layout to build color patterns with tiles. Hexagons, chevrons, arrow inserts and grids arranged creatively prevent monotonous rows of subway tile. Vary grout color for added contrast. Geometric patterns feel fresh and modern.
A herringbone tile pattern adds geometric interest.
Design a Colorful Mosaic
Mosaics use small tiles of different colors, shapes, and textures to form picture-like designs. You can find pre-made mosaic sheets or mix loose pieces to create your own work of art. Colorful mosaics feel playful, quirky and one-of-a-kind.
A handmade mosaic backsplash incorporates whimsical personality.
Contrast Classic White Subway
White subway tiles are a versatile basic. Pair them with bolder hues in inserts, borders or accents for definition. Intersperse blue, green or terracotta tiles among white for a hint of color. Crisp white also balances wild multicolor tile designs.
Pops of blue and green add interest to classic white subway tiles.
With thoughtful color combinations and smart design, you can create an artistic backsplash that electrifies your kitchen.
Materials for Colorful Backsplashes
The materials you choose impact the look, durability and cost of your backsplash. Consider these creative options:
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
Tried and true, ceramic and porcelain tiles stand up to heat, stains and moisture. Both come in endless colors, prints, shapes and textures at varied price points. Glazed ceramic is shinier while porcelain has a matte look. Porcelain is denser and more resistant to chipping.
Glass Tile
Sleek and reflective, glass tile emanates color and light beautifully. Use it sparingly as an accent or cover entire walls. It’s easy to clean but chips if struck. Small mosaic sheets minimize grout lines. Adding a metal or frosted texture gives more dimension.
Metal Tile
Polished or brushed metal tiles infuse industrial flair. Stainless steel, aluminum, copper and brass all make stylish choices. Metal holds up well but shows scratches and needs resealing. The bold shine energizes kitchens and reflects light.
Natural Stone
Granite, marble, slate and travertine come in a spectrum of captivating colors with natural veining, movement and texture. Stone has a commanding presence but must be sealed to prevent staining and etching. It’s on the heavier, more expensive end.
Peel and Stick Tiles
Budget-friendly peel and stick backsplash tiles allow you to easily upgrade kitchens without remodeling. The self-adhesive backing adheres to clean surfaces. Use high-quality vinyl tiles meant for kitchens. Remove carefully since they can damage wall surfaces.
Painted Surfaces
For affordable color, simply paint a backsplash surface in any sheen and hue. Use high-quality kitchen and bath paint. Paint requires more frequent touch-ups from splatters and demands careful prep and primer. DIY accent designs under glass for protection.
With this range of options, you can find the perfect colorful backsplash material to match your kitchen’s existing elements within your budget. Visit showrooms to view types and styles in person.
Design Considerations for Colorful Backsplashes
Once you’ve settled on a color palette and materials, use these tips to optimize your backsplash design:
Select Practical Colors and Patterns
While you want color, some vibrant hues show stains more easily, like white grout with bright tiles. Busy or light patterns also camouflage inevitable splatter. Neutrals, wood looks and irregular patterns do this well.
Complement Cabinets and Counters
Your backsplash should coordinate, not overpower. If cabinetry is loud or colorful, do a simple tile. But pale cabinets provide the perfect contrast for an intricate mosaic. Match undertones so colors harmonize.
Incorporate Other Materials
Limit colorful tile to a single focal wall or use it thoughtfully among other materials. Mixing in wood accent strips, polished stone, or metallic inserts prevents overwhelming spaces with brightness.
Include Borders and Edging
Borders frame and finish off your backsplash design. Use them to pull colors together, contain mosaics or tile sections, or protect walls. Metal trim strips also enable designs to stand out.
Illuminate Properly
Ample, well-placed lighting ensures your tiles radiate. Use fixtures above and inside cabinets on the backsplash wall. Go for broad ambient light and task lighting. Dark backsplashes may need more wattage.
By keeping these principles in mind as you plan, you can create a colorful backsplash that harmonizes beautifully with the rest of your kitchen.
Creative Color Schemes for Vibrant Backsplashes
Unsure where to begin with colors? Here are ten lively backsplash schemes to ignite your inspiration:
Sunny and Inviting
- Tile colors: Sunflower yellow, red-orange, sky blue, white
- Works well in: Country cottage, farmhouse, or craftsman kitchens
- Matching cabinetry: White, light wood
This cheerful palette evokes warm sunshine. Use citrusy yellows and oranges to energize. Cool sky blues counterbalance for breezy contrast. Crisp whites prevent overpowering brightness.
Cool and Calming
- Tile colors: Light aqua, soft greens, white, pale grays
- Works well in: Coastal, cottage, or modern tranquil kitchens
- Matching cabinetry: White, gray, light wood
These soothing cool and neutral colors have a relaxing oceanic feel. Use pale aquas and mints contrasted with whites and soft grays. Perfect for a beach house or urban oasis.
Natural and Earthy
- Tile colors: Terracotta, mustard yellow, sage green, rust orange
- Works well in: Farmhouse, rustic or craftsman kitchens
- Matching cabinetry: Wood, black, white
Warm, grounded tones reflect the colors of nature for a raw yet cozy look. Terracotta, deep green, yellow ochre and rusty red embody an organic vibe perfect for a countryside kitchen.
Bold and Dramatic
- Tile colors: Navy blue, emerald green, black, white
- Works well in: Modern, urban, or artsy kitchens
- Matching cabinetry: Glossy black, white, wood
Deep, saturated jewel tones make a daring color statement. Pair navy with emerald green and black for an avant garde look. Contrast with bright white. Use sparingly to customize sleek, modern kitchens.
Retro and Eclectic
- Tile colors: Mint green, peach, yellow, robin’s egg blue
- Works well in: Vintage, cottage, or eclectic kitchens
- Matching cabinetry: Robin’s egg blue, mint green, white
Playful pastel hues give a lighthearted, nostalgic vibe. Use a mix of retro colors like peach, robin’s egg blue, minty green and soft yellow. Keep walls and cabinets light to let the backsplash pop.
Warm and Welcoming
- Tile colors: Burnt orange, terracotta, mustard yellow, sage green
- Works well in: Rustic, Tuscan, Spanish style kitchens
- Matching cabinetry: Distressed wood, black
These welcoming, old world tones add spice and comfort. Burnt oranges, mustard yellows, terra cotta and olive complement Tuscan, Spanish or farmhouse decors. Use handmade tiles and natural textures.
Sophisticated Neutrals
- Tile colors: Warm grays, greige, almond, oatmeal
- Works well in: Transitional, contemporary, or modern kitchens
- Matching cabinetry: Walnut, espresso, white
Subtle, versatile neutrals project refined elegance. Mix greige, warm grays, almond and oatmeal on stone or ceramic tiles. Use metallics as accents. Pair with walnut cabinets and modern fixtures.
Vintage Blues
- Tile colors: Robin’s egg blue, periwinkle, navy blue, white
- Works well in: Cottage, vintage, French country kitchens
- Matching cabinetry: White, light wood
Soft powdery blues evoke nostalgia and charm. Use airy shades like robin’s egg blue, periwinkle and weathered navy. Keep grout white on subway tiles. Light cabinets work best with this dreamy palette.
Contemporary Contrast
- Tile colors: Emerald green, cobalt blue, black, white
- Works well in: Modern, urban lofts, high-end kitchens
- Matching cabinetry: White lacquer, black, espresso
Punchy jewel tones enliven contemporary spaces. Pair vivid emerald greens and cobalt blues with slick black and white backsplashes. Use on one accent wall or as an abstract mosaic focal point.
High-End Glamour
- Tile colors: Champagne gold, silver, black, white
- Works well in: Luxury, modern, transitional kitchens
- Matching cabinetry: White lacquer, walnut
Metallic tiles add prestige and glitz to upscale kitchens. Use a mix of glimmering silver, champagne gold and black granite tiles for an A-list look. Pair with glossy cabinets, glass surfaces and crystal lighting.
Style Your Colorful Backsplash: Tips and Accessories
Beyond the tiles themselves, the finishing details give your backsplash personality. Use these creative ideas to accessorize and showcase your new colorful focal feature:
Vary Your Grout Colors
Grout provides contrast and defines tile designs. White is classic, but gray and beige are also versatile neutrals. Go bold with navy or terra cotta grout with lighter tiles. Contrasting grout makes colors and patterns pop.
Display Collections
Decorate your backsplash with meaningful objects. Display antique dishes, funky bottle caps, or sea shells in ornate frames. Mount utensil collections or retro kitchen tools. This personalizes the space.
Add Floating Shelves
Mount open floating shelves on or over the backsplash to stage decor finds. These built-in ledges are great for showing off cookbooks, vases, or coffee bar accessories. Shelves integrate your style into the backsplash.
Use Specialty Tiles and Accessories
Mosaic tiles, 3-D tile shapes, metallic mosaic sheets, and creative inserts like glass nuggets allow you to change up textures and sheen. Chair rail trim, penny tile accents and backlit niches incorporate diverse materials.
Install Specialty Lighting
Task lighting under cabinets spotlights backsplashes, as do puck lights. Install a colorful light strip behind clear glass tiles to illuminate them. Sconces flanking the backsplash provide mood lighting.
Finish with Plants or Flowers
Soften backsplash lines and add natural color with trailing ivy, succulents or herb pots on open shelves or windowsills. Fresh flower arrangements in colorful vases also complement bright tiles.
With smart accessories and extras, you can refine and customize your colorful backsplash to fit your personality and kitchen activities.
FAQ About Colorful Backsplash Design
Still have questions about designing your dream backsplash? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How do I choose backsplash colors?
Consider colors already in your cabinets, floors, walls and fixtures. Tiles should complement these rather than compete. Hold paint swatches next to surfaces to visualize harmony. Select 1-3 colors to keep the palette cohesive.
What tile colors make kitchens look bigger?
Light, reflective colors like white, light grays, or soft hues visually expand smaller kitchens. Glossy tiles in these tints mirror light. Long subway tiles also elongate walls. Dark or heavily patterned tiles tend to feel more closed in.
Should backsplash tiles match countertops?
It’s not essential to match, but your backsplash color should coordinate with counters. For a unified look, choose tiles in similar hues and textures as your counters. Contrasting tones can also make each surface pop. Just ensure colors are complementary, not clashing.
How do I choose a backsplash pattern?
Simple subway bricks or a uniform tile shape give a clean, streamlined look. Intricate mosaics, 3-D tiles, or combining shapes make bold statements. Frame small sections of patterned tiles with neutral borders. Start with a focal area and repeat hues throughout.
Can you put different tiles together in a backsplash?
Absolutely. Mixing complementary tiles creates interest and dimension. Use different colors, prints, textures and materials like glass/stone mosaics, metallic accents, penny tiles, etc. Unify with color scheme and grout. Add trim strips between tile sections.