Timeless Backsplash Ideas to Elevate Your Kitchen Design
Cabinets and countertops are two of the most important parts of a kitchen remodel. Then we have to consider the backsplash, which will cover the wall between them.
Backsplashes are a common area to express your personal style, but they can also fall victim to short-lived trends. If you don’t want to update this highly visible area in two or three years, keep reading. We have some timeless backsplash ideas to help inspire your kitchen design.
The importance of a backsplash in kitchen design
Most backsplashes will serve their purpose regardless of design. However, their aesthetic qualities still carry a lot of weight.
The backsplash draws the eye toward your kitchen’s proudest investments. It will accentuate or complement quality cabinetry, high-end appliances, or one-of-a-kind countertops.
How a backsplash reads in a kitchen also impacts buyer appeal. While backsplashes don’t contribute or subtract much from property value, they add a lot to the overall impression of the room.
Timeless kitchen backsplash ideas
Natural stone effect
The durability and aesthetic appeal of granite and engineered quartz countertops translate just as well to the backsplash. Plus, softer stones such as marble are better off as a backsplash since they can scratch.
Cabinet contrast
A darker tile backsplash with white or light cabinetry provides elegant contrast. It’s also good insurance against the inevitable decline of the all-white-everything kitchen trend. You maintain the bright, clean look of a light kitchen with an element of depth and distinction that doesn’t go out of style.
Mosaic-effect tiles
Smaller patterns painted on larger wall tiles are much easier to install and maintain than piecing together the real thing. Fewer seams or grout lines interrupt the look or suffer from wear and tear. Keep colors neutral for a backsplash that stays current for decades.
Pearlized finishes
Metallic and pearl finishes always pop, especially when the cabinet design is kept clean and minimal. You don’t have to go for the chevron pattern seen here, but opting for larger tiles instead of the micro-mosaics keeps it from looking dated.
White subway tiles
Subway tiles have gained popularity which suggests they’ll eventually be outdated. The truth is, they’ve already been a mainstay in kitchens and bathrooms for more than 100 years. Don’t expect them to fall completely out of fashion anytime soon.
Dream up your best kitchen backsplash with The Designery
Balancing what’s popular with timeless style is the mission. A design professional is the easiest way to open up your options and find a custom solution that will serve your kitchen well for years.
Request a no-risk design consultation to begin.
Kitchen backsplash design FAQ
Should your backsplash be lighter or darker than your countertop?
Contrast is a personal preference. A darker backsplash can add intensity and character to a light countertop. A lighter backsplash can open up spaces appointed with dark counters and cabinets.
Matching backsplashes and countertops are also a great choice since the continuity can make a kitchen feel more spacious.
The area to tread carefully is in the “similar yet different” design. Counters and backsplashes that aren’t an exact match but are in the same shade family can seem unintentional and patchwork. Contrasting textures can help here.
What are the most popular backsplash materials for kitchens?
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are the most popular kitchen backsplash materials by a landslide. Engineered quartz, marble, quartzite, and granite are also good gainers.
What kitchen backsplash trends should you avoid?
No one should be talked out of the backsplash they truly want. However, designers do ask some homeowners to think twice about limestone. Limestone has a great earthy look but might be prone to mildew.
Tiny glass mosaics and pebble backsplashes are also more difficult to clean and maintain due to the amount of grout and rough edges.
