When it comes to backsplash tile ideas, ivory travertine offers a timeless, elegant, and natural-looking option for kitchens and bathrooms. Known for its creamy coloration and subtle linear veining, travertine brings warmth and texture without being overly busy or distracting. In this article, we’ll explore why ivory travertine tile makes for such an attractive and versatile backsplash material, along with tips for integrating it into your design.
An Overview of Ivory Travertine Tile
Travertine is a type of natural stone that forms from mineral deposits in hot springs and limestone caves. It has an organic, earthy appearance with small holes and veining patterns that reflect its natural origins. Ivory travertine specifically has a light tan or creamy off-white base color. When used for backsplashes, it provides a soft, neutral backdrop that pairs well with many cabinetry and countertop materials.
Some key characteristics that make ivory travertine a great backsplash tile choice include:
- Subtle veining patterns – The veins have an organic flowing quality that adds visual interest without being overpowering. The veining has a slightly raised texture that casts small shadows for added dimension.
- Natural pitting – Small cavities and holes within the stone reflect its natural formation and give it more visual depth and character. The pitting is nicely complemented by the smooth, honed finish.
- Neutral coloration – The ivory tones are light and airy but have enough warmth to keep the space from feeling sterile. This versatility allows it to work with a wide color palette.
- Textured appearance – Travertine has a less uniform look than ceramic or porcelain tile, lending organic beauty and character.
- Durability – Properly sealed, travertine is quite durable, making it suitable for kitchen backsplashes. The surface resists scratches, stains, and heat.
With these qualities in mind, let’s look at some inspiring ways to incorporate ivory travertine backsplashes into your home.
Contemporary Kitchen with Ivory Travertine Herringbone Backsplash
For a clean, contemporary kitchen aesthetic, ivory travertine arranged in a timeless herringbone pattern makes a gorgeous backsplash option. The soft neutral color and subtle veining allow contemporary finishes like stainless steel and engineered quartz countertops to take the spotlight while still providing visual interest and texture.
Cut in a uniform shape and laid in an overlapping zigzag design, the herringbone pattern creates dimension and guides the eye in an orderly fashion along the backsplash surface. Ivory travertine’s natural texture prevents the uniform herringbone motif from feeling too sterile or predictable. The result is a backsplash that injects warmth and vibrancy into a sleek, modern kitchen.
To integrate this look, select a honed travertine tile with uniform veining in a standard shape like a 12×12 square. Keep the grout lines minimal for a seamless flow. A herringbone backsplash can serve as a focal point behind a clean-lined stove or minimalist shelving unit.
Rustic Farmhouse Kitchen with Ivory Travertine Subway Tile Backsplash
The organic beauty of ivory travertine tile also pairs perfectly with rustic farmhouse styles. While subway tile backsplashes provide a classic farmhouse look, ivory travertine adds more natural character with its veining, pitting, and textural allure.
For a cozy kitchen with vintage character, an ivory travertine subway tile backsplash can provide the ideal accent. Match 3×6 subway tiles with exposed wood beams, antique cabinet hardware, and an apron-front farmhouse sink for a harmonious aesthetic.
Ivory travertine subway tiles will exhibit natural color variations that communicate the authenticity farmhouse styles are known for. Their organic vibe helps balance the clean lines of subway tile shape for a nuanced look.
Let the subway tiles run vertically behind the stovetop and go all the way to the ceiling for a dramatic impact. For added interest, alternate full tiles with a partial subway tile round mosaic pattern. Finish it off with dark grout lines to highlight each tile for a handmade look.
Light and Airy Bathroom with Ivory Travertine Shower Surround
With its limestone origins, travertine tile brings an unmistakable spa-like feel, making it a fitting choice for bathroom applications. An ivory travertine shower surround imparts a light, airy, and elegant aesthetic perfect for luxurious master baths or powder rooms.
The creamy ivory backdrop exudes warmth while still feeling bright and fresh. Meanwhile, the natural stone surface provides delightful texture and detail to an area where many hard surfaces often exist.
When working with travertine in shower surrounds, take moisture and sealing into consideration. Make sure the tiles are professionally sealed to prevent water damage and discoloration. Pay attention to grout lines and make sure the installation allows for proper drainage.
For a cohesive, spa-like look, use ivory travertine tile on the shower walls and floor. Introduce contrast and interest by framing the surround with subway tiles, mosaic tiles, or even marble accents. Use travertine’s veining patterns and textural allure to give your bathroom an ultra-luxurious feel.
Ivory Travertine Kitchen Backsplash Ideas
Beyond the examples above, there are endless possibilities for integrating ivory travertine into stylish and functional kitchen backsplash designs. Here are some additional ideas to spark your creativity:
- Stacked ledgestone tiles for a natural, organic look
- Irregular brick pattern backsplash for cottage charm
- Clouded or chiseled tiles for dimensional allure
- Inlaid tile pattern or decorative mosaic for a focal point
- Contrasting subway tile trim framing a travertine field
- Travertine plank tiles for a wood-like aesthetic
- Combining travertine with marble, granite, or ceramic
- Shelves, niches or backsplash cutouts for displaying items
Design Tips for Ivory Travertine Backsplashes
When working with ivory travertine tile, keep these design recommendations in mind:
- Select tiles with uniform veining and coloration for backsplash cohesiveness
- Honed travertine finishes hide less dirt and are easier to clean
- Consider strategic use of accent tiles to highlight the travertine beauty
- Proper sealing is essential, especially for kitchen and wet area use
- Pay attention to tile cuts and grout lines in intricate layouts
- Natural stone varies – blend tiles from multiple boxes/batches
- Don’t overcrowd backsplash space; let the stone shine
- Use lighting to highlight backsplash texture and dimensions
- Natural stone accents like marble tie together a backsplash design
The Timeless Beauty of Ivory Travertine Backsplashes
With its organic patterns, creamy colors, and dimensional allure, ivory travertine creates a backsplash with timeless sophistication and nature-inspired beauty. Integrating travertine into your kitchen or bathroom backsplash adds warmth, texture, and vibrancy for an eye-catching focal point.
Yet with its neutral palette and subtle veining, an ivory travertine backsplash complements and enhances a wide range of materials and styles. Whether you favor modern, farmhouse, rustic, or traditional design, ivory travertine tiles bring a touch of exquisite of style.