A kitchen backsplash serves both form and function – it protects your wall from splatters and spills while also providing an opportunity to add visual interest and personality. With so many backsplash tile options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide on the right look for your space. This article will explore some of the hottest and tresndiest kitchen backsplash ideas to inspire you. We’ll look at popular materials like subway tile and quartzite, on-trend colors and patterns, and modern styles like geometric designs.
Elegant and Timeless: White Subway Tile
White subway tile is a classic backsplash choice that continues to remain popular. The simple rectangular tiles have a clean, elegant look that works in both traditional and contemporary kitchens. Subway tile comes in glossy or matte finishes, allowing you to add subtle texture.
While white subway tiles are the most common, you can also find them in light greys, biscuit, and ivory hues for a softer look. Stack the tiles in the traditional brickwork pattern or get creative with patterns like herringbone. For a modern twist, use longer planks instead of square tiles or alternate between white and grey.
Subway tiles have versatile appeal, suiting shaker, farmhouse, and transitional style kitchens. Their timeless quality makes them a sound investment that won’t go out of style anytime soon.
Why White Subway Tile Continues to Trend
- Affordable and budget friendly
- Easy to install in DIY projects
- Classic, versatile, timeless aesthetic
- Clean, neutral backdrop that works with any color scheme
- Allows you to easily change up the look with grout or accent tiles
- Durable and low maintenance
Natural Stone Backsplashes: Marble and Travertine
For an elegant and luxurious backsplash, natural stone is the way to go. Marble and travertine are two high-end options that bring beauty and texture to your kitchen.
Marble is known for its veining, making each tile unique. Carrara is the most popular white marble, with subtle grey veining for a classic look. But marble also comes in other colors like grey, black, and green. Use marble subway tiles or mosaic sheets to create stunning patterns. Combine different marble varieties for visual interest.
Travertine is a beige-colored limestone filled with holes and grooves, creating an antiqued appearance. The organic texture and neutral color works well in traditional Tuscan, Mediterranean, and farmhouse style kitchens. Travertine can be filled or unfilled. Go for larger travertine tiles or small mosaics.
While natural stone does require more maintenance than ceramic, the unmatched elegance is worth it for many homeowners. Use a natural stone sealer to help protect the surface.
Design Tips for Marble and Travertine Backsplashes
- Layer white Carrara marble with grey veins for a striking contrast
- Choose smaller mosaic tiles to maximize the veining and patterns
- Alternate filled and unfilled travertine tiles
- Incorporate other materials like wood or metal for eclectic styling
- Use dark grout if you want the veining to stand out more
- Seal natural stone to prevent stains and etching
Modern Geometric Tile Patterns
While subway tiles remain popular, geometric shapes are on the rise for a contemporary backsplash look. Hexagons, chevrons, and herringbone patterns create visual interest and a sense of movement. These angular designs especially suit modern kitchens with a minimalist, clean-lined aesthetic.
Hexagonal tiles efficiently fit together to form honeycomb patterns. Mix up different colors for a retro mosaic appearance. Or create a graphic black and white look using only one colored tile. The hexagon shape works well in both small and large kitchens.
Intricate herringbone or chevron designs instantly elevate a basic backsplash. Go bold with contrasting colors or use tonal shades, like greys and beiges for a more subtle effect. The directional patterns work best on a large wall expanse.
Geometric tiles look great on their own, but also consider combining them with subway tiles. Use geometric shapes as an accent in the center of your backsplash or as a border. This allows you to enjoy a pop of pattern while still keeping the look classic.
Geometric Backsplash Inspiration
- Honeycomb patterns using hexagonal white, black, and grey tiles
- White chevron subway tiles paired with traditional brickwork
- Marble hexagon mosaics for an elegant geometric design
- Classic blue and white zig-zag tile pattern
- Herringbone pattern using wood-look planks instead of tiles
Inviting Moroccan-Inspired Zellige Tiles
Zellige tiles offer all the charm and vibrance of Moroccan style. These colourful handmade tiles are an eye-catching choice for a backsplash. Each irregular tile has slight imperfections that contribute to the artisanal craft look.
Traditionally, zellige tiles feature intricate mosaic patterns. But some designers are using them in simpler applications as well. You can make a bold color statement by covering an entire wall. Or, use zellige tiles sparingly as an accent mixed with plain white subway tiles.
Popular color combinations include blue with yellow and green with terracotta. But don’t be afraid to create your own eclectic combinations. The randomly mixed multicolored look works perfectly in bohemian, eclectic, or Mediterranean style kitchens.
Zellige tiles make a fantastic focal point around the rangehood. Alternatively, use them to frame out a baking station or beverage center. The dazzling colors and artisanal quality bring warmth and personality into any kitchen space.
Working with Zellige Tiles
- Mix zellige with plain tiles for easier installation
- Use zellige sparingly as an accent or focal area
- Pair with terracotta, wood, or cork for an earthy feel
- Include a pops of color like turquoise or yellow
- Allow professional installation for intricate mosaic patterns
- Seal tiles after installing to protect finish
Chic and Modern: Grey and White Color Combo
Grey and white is a color scheme that just doesn’t quit. This versatile combo continues to trend for modern backsplashes, and it’s not hard to see why. Grey and white partner together beautifully while still remaining neutral.
Choose from light to dark grey subway tiles and pair with crisp white for definition. Or, go bold with a statement grey and white geometric or floral pattern. Introducing black metal hardware and accents can give this scheme an edgier vibe as well.
Grey and white is an ideal backsplash choice for minimalist, modern, urban, and contemporary kitchen designs. It feels clean and streamlined, without becoming sterile. Warm up this cool combo by pairing it with wood cabinetry and open shelving.
Don’t be afraid to play around with different sizes, patterns, and tile finishes. Mirrored, polished, or handmade grey tiles add visual interest. Use white grout for a seamless look or go bold with dark grout. There are so many directions to take this versatile color scheme.
Styling Tips for Grey and White
- Chevron, herringbone, or stacked patterns
- Ombre look fading from dark to light grey
- Mirrored grey subway tiles with white grout
- Marble or quartzite mosaic in grey and white
- Geometric starburst design behind the range
- Bold floral grey and white pattern for cottage charm
Natural Wood Backsplashes
Wood remains a top backsplash trend, adding natural beauty and warmth. Real reclaimed wood instantly gives your kitchen a rustic, cottage feel. The multi-toned planks add lovely contrast, texture, and depth. Use authentic salvaged wood or wood-look porcelain planks that emulate the look while being moisture-resistant.
Butcher block is another attractive wood option. It wears beautifully over time and coordinates effortlessly with butcher block countertops. Use it sparingly as an accent or cover the entire backsplash area. Mixing wood tones, like maple and walnut butcher block, creates visual interest.
For a lightweight alternative, install wood veneer backsplash panels. These peel-and-stick sheets come in different stains and wood grain patterns. Use veneer sheets to achieve the wood look without the higher cost and intensive labor of real planks.
Whatever wood option you choose, it naturally brings warmth and texture to kitchens with shaker, farmhouse, rustic, or eclectic style. A charming wood backsplash can even soften and accent sleek contemporary spaces.
Wood Backsplash Design Ideas
- Linear pattern using alternating wood planks
- Statement reclaimed barnwood focal wall
- Rustic shiplap paired with white subway tile
- Walnut butcher block on a kitchen island
- Distressed wood veneer sheets for vintage appeal
Gorgeous Statement-Making Stone Slab
For a natural backsplash that steals the show, a stone slab is just the thing. Oversized granite, marble, or quartzite slabs create a stunning focal point behind the stove or sink. The raw, organic beauty of natural stone brings your kitchen to life.
Stone slabs come in a gorgeous array of whites, greys, blues, and blacks. A single solid slab has dramatic visual impact. Or, piece together a collage using remnant scraps for eclectic styling.
Don’t limit yourself to just the backsplash area either. A stone slab can sprawl across adjacent walls or even the entire kitchen perimeter. Mix different materials like pairing stone with brick or wood.
Stone slabs work wonders in modern, rustic, or farmhouse kitchens. The elevated material palette dresses up the space. Yet, the grounded nature of stone keeps the look inviting. For a showstopping focal point, nothing beats the wondrous beauty of a stone slab backsplash.
Tips for Installing Stone Slabs
- Choose a specialist for structural work and waterproofing
- Use heavy-duty silicon and adhesives made for stone
- Consider extra reinforcement like concrete backer board
- Take care of sealing and maintenance requirements
- Accentuate natural veining and variation for a organic look
- Illuminate stone with strategic lighting
Inviting Open Wood Shelving
Open shelving provides a lighter, airier alternative to upper cabinets. The absence of imposing cabinetry makes small kitchens appear more spacious. Exposed shelving has that coveted industrial-chic look but also integrates beautifully into cottage and farmhouse spaces.
Wood open shelving adds natural warmth against cool stainless steel appliances and countertops. Complement with antique display pieces for vintage character. Or play up the modern vibe with colorful dishware, geometric ceramics, and clean-lined kitchen tools.
Don’t overload the shelves with too many decorative objects that make them seem cluttered. Strike the right balance of form and function. Use shelves to display cherished glassware along with frequently used cookware.
Floating shelves are a breeze to install on drywall. For a more bespoke look, use thicker wood brackets and boards. Match existing cabinetry finishes for a cohesive custom look. Open shelving is attractive, useful, and budget-friendly.
Style Tips for Open Shelving
- Match wood shelf finish to existing cabinetry
- Float shelves directly on drywall for a clean look
- Use varying lengths and heights for visual interest
- Anchor open shelf area with rangehood or dining banquette
- Style shelves with a mix of decorative and functional items
- Incorporate color with dishes, pots, and edibles
Textural Corten Steel Makes a Statement
If you favor an industrial modern aesthetic, corten steel makes a compelling backsplash choice. Corten gets its signature rust patina and color variations from oxidizing and weathering over time. This reclaimed metal instantly adds texture and depth with fantastic visual appeal.
Highlight the multi-toned rusty orange color with contrasting materials. For instance, pair corten steel with bright white cabinetry or marble countertops. Or match with wood surfaces and leathered granite for an earthy vibe.
Use large format corten steel panels, like 12×24 inch rectangles, for a bold backsplash focal point. Introduce slim strips of another material like wood to break up the metal expanse. Corten steel truly dazzles around a professional rangehood.
Along with its rich textural allure, corten steel is tough and durable. The thick metal stands up nicely to potential kitchen damage. For a dash of industrial edge, raw corten steel makes an outstanding backsplash choice.
Corten Steel Backsplash Tips
- Provide plenty of contrast with white cabinets and walls
- Accent with pops of color like aged brass hardware
- Allow steel to develop patina over several months
- Use corten steel strips on upper wall or behind open shelves
- Pair with marble, wood, or concrete for texture play
- Protect surrounding areas while steel oxidizes
Stacked Ledger Panels for Rustic Allure
Ledger panels constructively mimic the appearance of stacked stones. These 3D textured tiles infuse rustic character into both modern and traditional kitchen spaces. Stacked ledgers create depth and visual motion on an otherwise flat backsplash area.
For authentic charm, use natural colors like sand, slate grey, brown, and weathered white. But colorful ledger panels in hues like navy, green, and brick red provide whimsical impact as well. Use ledgers sparingly as an accent or arrange in a full stacked pattern across the entire backsplash.
Layer ledgers with open wood shelving for a cohesive casual look. The varied tile heights and grout lines provide plenty of texture. Pair stacked ledgers with cream cabinets and brass hardware to dial up the vintage farmhouse vibe. Let these textured tiles infuse any kitchen with laidback sophistication.
Designing with Stacked Ledger Panels
- Use 3-4 alternating colors for subtle visual depth
- Incorporate ledger strips between open shelves
- Line the area around cooktops or sinks
- Pair with wood beams, shiplap walls, and antique accents
- Contrast rustic tiles with sleek modern elements
- Limit busy patterns so ledgers stand out
Luxurious Green Marble Backsplash
Green marble delivers serious wow factor. The emerald and sage tones inject life and vibrance wherever applied. Once exclusive to palatial estates, green marble now graces stylish kitchens for a taste of timeless luxury.
For a fresh feel, combine green marble with crisp white cabinetry and modern brass accents. Let the distinctive veining sparkle as a backsplash focal point around the range or sink. Small mosaic marble tiles maximize the natural patterning.
Prefer traditional elegance? Cream cabinets, gold hardware, and darker green marble achieve a stately refined look. Lean into green marble’s organic side by pairing with other natural finishes like wood, stone, and plants.
Green marble makes a stellar high-end material choice. Yet, it feels warmer and more welcoming than other luxe options like granite. Make a dazzling design statement and uplift your whole kitchen ambiance with radiant green marble.
Styling Green Marble Backsplashes
- Play up the marble white veining with bright white grout
- Choose small hexagon or herringbone marble mosaic tiles
- Mix green marble with neutrals like white, grey, and wood
- Use green as an accent stripe or focal area against white subway tile
- Pair green marble with ornate metal light fixtures and hardware
- Consider other earthy green accents like plants, art, and decor
Colorful Handmade Encaustic Cement Tile
Another backsplash option bringing artisanal charm is encaustic cement tile. These colorful tiles get their signature look from layering pigment into the cement before pressing. The design goes through the full tile thickness rather than sitting on the surface.
Encaustic tiles come in rich Moroccan-inspired patterns, spectacular florals, and vibrant geometrics. They instantly transport your kitchen to a worldly retreat. Use encaustic cement tiles to create a striking backsplash focal point or tile the entire wall.
The handmade quality brings personal character that manufactured ceramic and porcelain tile lack. But encaustic tiles still hold up beautifully to moisture and stains. Their vibrant permanence makes them ideal for heavy-use kitchen backsplashes.
Don’t be afraid to get creative mixing patterns, layouts, and colors. Encaustic cement tile gives you the freedom to let your design imagination run wild!
Working with Encaustic Cement Tile
- Account for slightly irregular size variations during installation
- Use a tile saw with diamond blade for intricate cuts
- Clean with pH neutral cleaner to avoid stripping color
- Seal tiles after installation to protect finish
- Pair with plain white tile for easier styling
- Accent colors in the tile with decor and textiles
Sophisticated Metal Tile Backsplash
For a dash of glamour, consider installing metal backsplash tiles. Brass, copper, and nickel silver tiles infuse industrial flair. Combining metal tiles with glass mosaics or subway tiles creates next-level sophistication.
Brushed brass lends a subtly lustrous, chic look, especially against cool grey and white. Aging brass develops a warmer antique patina over time. Punchy polished brass makes a bold design statement.
Nickel silver imparts an elegant, nearly iridescent sheen. Copper provides a rich finish ranging from rosy pink to caramel. Mix metals within a tile design for striking multi-tonal impact.
Use metal tiles conservatively as an accent or go bold across the entire backsplash. Metal tiles require gentle hand-washing but are virtually indestructible. Let these glimmering tiles be the jewelry your kitchen’s been waiting for.
Metal Tile Inspiration
- Brushed brass starburst mosaic behind the range
- Antiqued copper subway tiles with black grout
- Multi-tonal metal geometric pattern wrapping the stove
- Nickel silver herringbone pattern against white marble
- Solid brass, copper or nickel tiles as an accent
Stylish and Ultra-Durable Quartzite
For beauty and brawn, quartzite rocks a kitchen backsplash. Sourced from sandstone, quartzite dazzles with natural grey