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Backsplashes were all about function in the past, protecting the walls behind countertops, ovens and sinks from well... splashes.
Nowadays, however, their ability to bring both aesthetic and practical value to a kitchen is crucial to a well-designed kitchen space.
So if you are after backsplash ideas that are going to smarten up your kitchen and perhaps even become a focal point of your space, there’s a world of choice, and a ton of other kitchen ideas to choose from.
"The kitchen backsplash is a fantastic space that you can use to add color or textural interest to your kitchen," experts at Caesarstone explain. "It's possible to work with a wide variety of materials such as quartz, tile, stone, glass, ceramic, and stainless steel to achieve the desired effect. Regardless of whether you are designing an ultra-modern or a very traditional kitchen, your choice of backsplash will have a significant impact on the look and feel of your kitchen. Luckily, designers have been redefining the look and scope of kitchen backsplashes so you can draw inspiration from many different kitchen styles."
To help narrow down your choices, we've rounded up all our favorite kitchen backsplash looks below, along with ways for you to replicate them in your own kitchen, so go and get inspired...
- Remember, if it's kitchen design advice you are after we have you covered with our in-depth feature.
1. Add a rustic look with patterned kitchen tiles
(Image credit: Maitland & Poate)
The bare plaster, crumbling walls look is bang on trend at the moment, and depending on your DIY skills, it could be something you could recreate yourself.
You would have to remove your old backsplash rather than just tile straight on top, but then you could recreate this cool, almost unfinished look, using plaster, paint or even wallpaper.
Add a smaller amount of pattern tiles, just one or two rows, and leave the rest of the space 'unfinished.'
- For tips on how to tile a backsplash head to our foolproof guide.
2. Contrast your kitchen backsplash with a funky wallpaper
(Image credit: Katie Lee)
Pink is everywhere at the moment and if you want your fix without overwhelming the kitchen, a backsplash is a great place to do it.
We love how the pink tiles in this kitchen work with the statement wallpaper too, and the muted sage kitchen cabinets just keep everything from looking too crazy.
If you love pink as much as us, you will want to have a read through our pink kitchen ideas too.
- Move over grey – these green kitchen ideas will inspire you to add shades of emerald, olive and sage to your cabinets, tiles, worktops and walls.
3. Neaten up your backsplash with a shelf
(Image credit: Topps Tiles)
This is a really neat kitchen backsplash idea – add a narrow, floating shelf where your tiles end.
It looks really smart but is also a good way to cram in a little bit more kitchen storage, plus open shelves are always lovely to decorating, adding some interest to an otherwise quite flat space.
We have plenty of lovely shelving ideas to help you style up your kitchen shelves too so head over there for inspiration.
4. Create a farmhouse vibe with a traditional patterned backsplash
(Image credit: Marlborough Tiles)
This kind of traditional, farmhouse decorative tile design is actually making a bit of a splash (get it?) even in modern homes.
They don't have to be as fussy as their more country style cousins either, just a simple pattern like the one above will add a touch of the farmhouse feel we all love.
- Looking for country kitchen ideas? Get inspired by these country kitchens, whether you live in a period property or a modern home
5. Paint over your kitchen backsplash
(Image credit: Future/Clive Nichols)
The easiest kitchen backsplash idea of all, paint over your current tiles. Yep, it's doable and we have seen so make kitchen tiles transformed with just a lick of paint.
There are a few extra steps you have to take just to make sure it will last well, and our guide to how to paint tiles will show you just what you need to do.
6. Double the impact with mirrored kitchen backsplash
(Image credit: Mark Wilkinson Furniture)
A mirrored kitchen backsplash is a good small kitchen design addition to make the space feel large and brighter, plus, it can provide an intriguing new perspective.
Choose from a plain mirror, antique finishes or colored versions like this gorgeous bronze backsplash idea.
7. Go modern with a marble-effect kitchen backsplash
(Image credit: British Ceramic Tile)
If you're looking for more modern kitchen ideas, well it doesn't get any more contemporary that this marble-look kitchen backsplash.
Ideal if you love the solid and impressive appearance of real stone, but not the cost, now you can just choose a backsplash with a real-stone effect instead.
This kitchen benefits from the elegant marble effect of the glass Impact Harmony Grey backsplash (opens in new tab) from British Ceramic Tile.
8. Pick an Ikea backsplash for an affordable update
(Image credit: Ikea)
Looking to make a new kitchen cost less?
Turn a boring backdrop into a statement feature with this clever backsplash idea: DIY-fit Clouds Lysekil wall panels from Ikea (opens in new tab).
They cost $39.98 for a 48" x19" (£25 for 1.2m in the UK), are easy to fit because they can be cut to the required size and glued to the wall, but shouldn’t be used in concert with a gas stove. The panels also come in marble look.
9. Add an extra dimension with textured tiles
(Image credit: Gemini Tiles)
As well as to introduce color, consider tiles to bring a tactile element to the room. From Gemini Tiles (opens in new tab), these Bridge Relief Graphite tiles will create a kitchen backsplash to complement industrial-style spaces alongside materials such as copper.
10. Match kitchen backsplash and countertops
(Image credit: Caesarstone)
We love the look of this backsplash idea; using the same worktop materials for preparation and dining areas as for the backsplash looks sleek and contemporary.
Here Caesarstone (opens in new tab) quartz in 5104 Tuscan Dawn has creamy veins that add visual interest and bounces light around for a space-stretching effect.
- If you want any more advice on choosing the best kitchen worktops, have a read of our guide.
(Image credit: Country Image and Stoneham)
The material you choose for a backsplash can help evoke a distinctive feel.
Stainless steel is often used in creating an industrial style kitchen vibe, but here it’s given the homeowners the 1950s diner look they were after.
Experts at Howdens say, 'Match your stainless steel appliances to your backsplash for an ultra-modern kitchen design. Stainless steel is easy to clean, and is often found in professional kitchens.'
12. Bookmatch kitchen backsplash for impact
(Image credit: Smallbone of Devizes)
Vertical surfaces have a significant influence in a design scheme.
In this kitchen, the polished Blue Savoie marble for the hob backsplash has been bookmatched, which creates a mirror image, and is an elegant focal point that complements the handsome cabinetry.
13. DIY a stylish kitchen backsplash
(Image credit: Splashback.co.uk)
Glass backsplash ideas don’t only offer the choice between clear and colored designs.
Experts at Howdens (opens in new tab) explain, 'The gloss finish of a toughened glass backsplash reflects the light, making your kitchen brighter. It also withstands heat, so it can be fitted behind your hob.'
This Wicker Charcoal motif from the Laura Ashley collection at Splashback.co.uk (opens in new tab), is a simple way to dress up a plain room, and has a peel-off backing to allow it to be DIY fitted.
14. Select a backsplash for a cook's kitchen
(Image credit: Dekton)
The keenest of home chefs might like to consider backsplash ideas that promise to be stain-proof whatever the dishes being cooked up.
Orix, a concrete effect backsplash from the Industrial collection at Dekton (opens in new tab)also has high UV resistance to avoid fading.
(Image credit: Naked Kitchens)
Follow the trend for warmer metals in the kitchen with a backsplash that continues the theme.
This copper backsplash is matched with polished copper handles, and has a verdigris finish with lacquer hand-applied, making each piece unique.
Love this? Check out our favorite copper kitchen accessories.
16. Choose an alternative, eco-friendly material
(Image credit: Alusplash)
If your aim is to make your home more eco-friendly, your backsplash ideas can become part of the project.
Alusplash (opens in new tab) backsplahes are made from post-consumer recycled aluminum, are grout-free and therefore quick and easy to install, and come in a variety of beautiful colors.
This kitchen has been kitted out with an Alusplash in Blueberry.
17. Play with polished plaster
(Image credit: Roundhouse)
Polished plaster – a decorative plaster finish – can reproduce the look of different types of stone to stunning effect.
In this kitchen, it’s teamed with a worktop upstand for additional protection at the base of the wall.
Richard Cotgrove of Surfina created this design in a Pietra Spaccata finish.
18. Go for a mosaic backsplash
(Image credit: Walls & Floors)
Make a working kitchen prettier with a backsplash in an intricate mosaic pattern.
Mosaic doesn't have to mean fussy though, a simple honeycomb design is bang on trend and the moment and they reflect the light so beautifully.
19. Add an industrial edge with an exposed brick effect
(Image credit: Gemini Tiles)
Exposed brick is cool – but not very practical in high-traffic areas, and especially not in the backsplash area, which always gets wet.
Get the look without any of the trouble with these beautiful brick-effect glazed porcelain Terramix tiles (opens in new tab) from Gemini.
With their subtle color variations and tactile texture, they are perfect for adding an industrial edge to your kitchen design.
If you want to go all out and create a feature wall of exposed brick, check out our step-by-step guide.
20. Experiment with pared-back pattern
(Image credit: Ted Baker)
If you are looking for kitchen backsplash ideas, that use pattern to create interest, but doesn't overwhelm a space, it's advisable to opt for tiles in muted shades for a unique, yet pared-back finish.
We love how these Cool Triangles Tiles (opens in new tab), which form part of the Ted Baker collection available at BCT, create a stylish focal point without detracting from the muted and industrial feel of this contemporary kitchen.
- Wondering how to choose the best kitchen tiles? We have loads of practical advice so you can pick the best option.
21. Create a moody effect with glass effect acrylic
(Image credit: Lime Lace)
Feel like your kitchen needs modernizing/want to update the look, but don't want to redo the whole kitchen?
Changing the backsplash may well do the trick – but be sure to pick a high-impact design.
We love the glass bricks used in this kitchen, they are great for small kitchens as the light can flow through them, and they are a fab choice for open plan kitchens too.
22. Create a luxurious look with a bespoke mirror-effect backsplash
(Image credit: Humphrey Munson)
How about a kitchen that looks a bit like a luxury boudoir?
The devil is in the detail: think gorgeous faucet and a bespoke backsplash.
This luxury Hampstead kitchen (opens in new tab) has been designed by Humphrey Munson and features a bespoke antique mirror-effect backsplash.
- Pack both design and functionality into the kitchen sink with our list of the best kitchen faucets.
23. Embrace the terrazzo trend for a kitchen backsplash
Kitchen for a Madrid creative space using our Marmoreal White tiles designed by Max Lamb, 60 x 60 x 2 cm format in a honed finish. Photo by Antártica Estudio Dzek (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by @dzekdzekdzek on Sep 17, 2017 at 8:21am PDT
Cool in the '70s, tacky in the '90s, terrazzo is back with a bang in '20s. We have opened our arms to terrazzo once more and we aren’t just limiting this finish to the floors (so 2018) but starting to take terrazzo to the walls and splashbacks.
The splashback in this kitchen has been made by dzek (opens in new tab) and it can be ordered in tiles or as one whole block as seen above.
- Let these beautiful bathroom tile ideas be the inspiration you need – whether you're tiling bathroom walls, floors or both.
24. Backsplash wallpaper: no one will know it's not tile
(Image credit: Lime Lace)
For a very quick backsplash idea (perhaps between moving in and a major home renovation) that will still be durable and look great, opt for a backsplash wallpaper.
The KitchenWalls Wallpaper Splashback (opens in new tab) from Lime Lace is made from water-resistant and heat-resistant vinyl, but looks like metro or subway tiles. Have a look at our other wallpaper ideas for inspiration.
Experts at Howdens explain, 'If you like kitchen backsplash tile ideas and want a low-maintenance alternative, choose a tile-effect backboard. With no need for grout, these are easy for your builder to fit.'
- How to wallpaper is a key DIY skill. See where to start in a room whether hanging traditional or peel and stick wallpaper.
25. Go glam with gold leaf
(Image credit: Annie Sloan)
How amazing does this look?! With a bit of gold leaf you can turn a tired looking kitchen into one that has a dramatic focal wall - and a super stylish backsplash to boot, plus it gives your kitchen a unique look.
You will need to seal the gold leaf after application, there are lacquers that can be painted on top, or, you can use a clear piece of glass on top of the area that could be hit with splashes.
26. Extend your backsplash to make it a feature
(Image credit: Walls and Floors)
There are two things we love here - the herringbone style layout and the fact that the backsplash tile design is extended to the side of the freestanding unit.
Having tiles on the wall like this also saves it from the bumps and scratches from everyday family life - easy to wipe, and although it’s not something we see often, it is a great design idea and one that should be used more we think!
27. Use a backsplash to add an accent color
(Image credit: Tile Giant)
As we’ve mentioned before, you don’t need to just tile the standard ‘backsplash size’, you can tile up to the ceiling if you like and if you’re using the tile color as an accent it will work better visually for it to be a continuous flow rather than sections of tiles then plain painted walls or wallpaper above that line.
This blush pink shade works really well against the white Shaker style units, wood worktop and chrome accessories.
Then, carry on your accent color through into other pieces like tableware, napkins and vases.
What materials can I use for a kitchen backsplash?
There’s plenty on offer in terms of backsplash materials. Cost, care requirements and how they complement the rest of the kitchen design should all factor into your selection.
If you're fitting a kitchen, factor in whether you can DIY install your backsplash material, as is possible with panels, tiles and mosaic sheets; a professional needs to do the job with stone and solid surfaces.
- Tiles offer many color, style and pattern choices, as well as a large range of price points. They’re easy to keep clean, although grout may need more work in time.
- Laminate, meanwhile, can be a good budget buy.
- Stainless steel has an industrial look, and is easy to look after.
- Glass can be a barely visible addition, protect a wallpaper for an individual look, or stand out in its own right if you choose a colored or patterned design.
- Stone will make a statement, if you’re prepared to invest more, while attractive.
- Quartz and solid surface materials are options to match a worktop.
- More unusual are mirrored glass and metallics, which can brighten as well as protect.
What is the cheapest backsplash?
The cheapest backsplash option would be to recycle – leftover pieces from worktops, or some mosaic tiles discarded from another project for example.
Search sites like Gumtree for a second hand backsplash from someone else. Or look out for seconds from a kitchen store, it might be that there’s a tiny mark that you would hardly notice but enough to bring the price down considerably.
Perspex would be the next cheapest option, it’s great value and you can buy sheets pre-cut in colors as well as plain. And then there’s good old glass. 100% recyclable and is one of the most popular options as it looks sleek and stylish in modern kitchens.
- Refresh your kitchen with the best DIY wall paint ideas.
What is the easiest backsplash to clean?
Glass and tiles are the two top backsplashes that tick the ‘easy to clean’ box.
They simply need a wipe with a warm soapy cloth to take off any immediate splashes from cooking.
Stainless steel whilst looking fab, can be trickier – sometimes you are left with smears however hard you try to get them off – one trick is to use olive oil on a soft cloth and then buff with a paper towel, as we explain in our guide to how to clean stainless steel.
Whatever backsplash you do choose, always remember that the quicker you wipe off the splash the easier it will - we all know how hard old ones are to remove!
FAQs
What is the most practical kitchen splashback? ›
Tiles are considered the traditional splashback material, and for good reason! Tiles are one of the most cost-effective and versatile materials to use as a splashback, available in either porcelain or ceramic; tiles come in a multitude of sizes, shapes, colours, patterns and textures.
What is a cheap effective splashback? ›Acrylic is a cheaper alternative to having a glass splashback – it looks like glass, but it costs a fraction of the price. A diverse range of design and colour options are available and can be installed DIY. However, it cannot be able to be installed behind a cooktop without additional protection.
What is the best colour for a splashback? ›If you want splashbacks that will stand up against any colour scheme or design choice in your future kitchens, stick with neutral colours such as white or black.
What is a timeless backsplash? ›A timeless kitchen backsplash is a classic design that will never go out of style. It is a simple, clean, and elegant way to update your kitchen without having to do a complete remodel. A timeless backsplash can be made from a variety of materials, including natural stone like marble or slate, glass, or even metal.
What is the most versatile backsplash? ›Ceramic tile is the most popular option for a kitchen backsplash. Ceramic tiles are incredibly versatile—they come in many shapes, sizes and colors and can be installed in numerous patterns.
What is on-trend for splashbacks? ›Keep it traditional and always on-trend with Subway Tiles
It should be no surprise to see subway tiles trending as one of the most popular kitchen splashback choices for 2023. This classic tile has been used in kitchens for decades and never goes out of style.
Porcelain tiles are perhaps the safest and most popular choice in these sorts of installations as they offer a hygienic surface finish that has the added bonus of being available in a vast assortment of shapes, colours and styles, allowing you more creative freedom in your tiled splashback while still providing a safe ...
What is the easiest splashback to install? ›Acrylic and laminate splashbacks are arguably the easiest to install yourself because they are lightweight, thin and are often supplied with self-adhesive backings.
What is the easiest DIY backsplash? ›Peel-and-stick tiles provide a cheap backsplash idea that's easier to install than traditional tile. The self-adhesive backing can be applied directly to the wall with no grout needed. The wide range of patterns lets you recreate the look of a bold tile backsplash without the high cost.
What is the most low maintenance backsplash? ›Porcelain, ceramic, metal, and glass tile top the easy-care list because they resist staining, are naturally nonporous, and don't require any special cleansers to do the job.
Should backsplash be lighter or darker than countertop? ›
So, if you have lighter cabinets and countertops, you should incorporate a darker backsplash to provide more visual interest and depth to your space. When you have darker cabinets and countertops, you should bring in a lighter backsplash to make your kitchen feel fresh and inviting.
Should backsplash be lighter or darker than walls? ›The design should be used to balance out the light and dark shades of the other elements, so if you have light cabinets and countertops, you may want to choose a dark backsplash to bring more depth to the kitchen. If you have very dark cabinets or countertops, a light backsplash will help the kitchen feel fresh.
Should backsplash be same color as cabinets? ›You want to create variation between moderate and traditional styles. Pick one color for the lower cabinets and one color for the upper cabinets. The backsplash and the countertop will become the area of transition and should boast a third color that matches somewhat to both the upper and the lower cabinets.
What color for a backsplash 2023? ›The most popular kitchen backsplash trends for 2023 are going to be bold, bright and colorful. You can choose from a variety of colors such as green, brown, blue, red and yellow but make sure you pick a color that complements the rest of your kitchen's decor.
Does kitchen backsplash have to match countertop? ›Complex or colorful backsplashes go best with solid countertops. Likewise, bold patterned countertops work best with backsplashes that have a subdued uniform color palette. “If everything is a similar shade, we recommend contrasting the backsplash,” Kelly says.
What kind of countertops does Joanna Gaines use? ›Made popular by Joanna Gaines, concrete countertops are a wonderful way to elevate a farmhouse chic kitchen or add a special touch to an industrial, modern kitchen.
What size tile looks best as kitchen backsplash? ›Larger tiles, such as 12 x 24 or 24 x 24, are easier to cut and install than smaller tiles. Smaller tiles require more cutting, laying, and grouting. However, smaller tiles give you more options for a customized backsplash. If you want a smaller tile for a backsplash, look into using 3×6, 2×10 or 2.5×8 tiles.
What is the ideal backsplash size? ›In general, a standard backsplash is installed to be four inches from the surface of the countertop. As of late, however, this height is being overshadowed by 15” installations. These can be made of any material, however, many times they are cut from the same slab as the countertop.
Do bigger backsplash tiles make a kitchen look bigger? ›Think about tiles in the kitchen
These large format tiles are excellent for making spaces appear bigger than they are. ' Using oversized kitchen floor tiles in a small room tricks the eye into thinking that the space is much bigger than it really is, so can help to create a sense of scale.
Wall tile, glass, faux wood, mirrors, marble or even vinyl wallpaper are all excellent bathroom backsplash ideas. You want a surface you can wipe clean. Keep in mind that any porous material, such as natural marble or some ceramic tile, would need sealing for extra protection.
What can you put on kitchen walls instead of tiles? ›
What can I use instead of tiles in a kitchen? There are a whole host of materials that you can use as a splashback instead of tiles, including glass, stainless steel, laminate and corian. Some of the alternatives are actually easier to clean and more affordable than tiles.
Does backsplash go behind stove or sink? ›You need a backsplash behind the stove to protect from grease and cooking splatter that could damage the surface behind the stove. The backsplash should be made of durable, nonabsorbent, and easy to clean material that will not discolor easily.
What should I put on the wall behind my stove? ›Fireproof Backsplash Behind the Stove
Grease splatters, steam and even heat from the stove and oven could melt or warp inferior materials, such as the average plastic. For this reason, ceramic, porcelain, glass or metal tiles are a great choice for the area closest to the cooking.
Your backsplash can indeed go behind the stove. Another optimal spot for the backsplash is underneath your mounted kitchen cabinets. Essentially, wherever you do the most food prep and cooking is where your backsplash should go, within reason.
Which kitchen walls should have backsplash? ›Run your kitchen backsplash between upper and lower cabinets. The backsplash connects the two sets of cabinets, which helps the room feel bigger and more cohesive. Do not put a backsplash behind your fridge unless you can clearly see that wall.
What is the easiest kitchen splashback to clean? ›Non-porous stone splashbacks are very easy to clean when compared to tiles and glass and can be cleaned using a mild detergent and a cloth. It is important you avoid anything abrasive that might scratch the stone.
What classic backsplash won't go out of style? ›Choose a classic backsplash
Subway tile is the most enduring choice for a backsplash. Avoid bold, trendy colors, and instead look for white or neutrals. Keep it simple, and bring in color elsewhere in the kitchen, with more easily replaced items, such as dish towels, art, bowls of fruit and rugs.
With the right tools, a gameplan, and a little bit of patience, you can do this and save yourself quite a bit of money by DIY-ing this project instead of hiring it out. Tiling backsplash is typically a two-day process, as long as you can hang all of your tile in one day (which may not be possible for larger kitchens).
Can you use peel and stick as backsplash? ›Peel-and-stick backsplash tile is one of the best materials you can use to bring your kitchen or bathroom into this decade.
What backsplashes are outdated? ›Tiny Backsplashes
Skinny backsplashes are out of style, we are happy to report. A ceramic tile or glass backsplash that stretches from counter to cabinets is much easier to keep clean, and is more likely to catch spills and splatters.
Should backsplash be shiny or matte? ›
They both are good for the kitchen. But they divide when we talk about being durable and stain-resistant. If you want to have a strong backsplash, matte tile is a better option than glossy. To achieve a clean kitchen look, a glossy tile backsplash is ideal because it is stain-resistant.
How much should you spend on kitchen backsplash? ›The typical homeowner will spend $950 to get a backsplash installed. You will generally pay $400 to $600 for every 16 square feet of backsplash, but this does not include the labor costs. If you use cheap ceramic, you may spend as little as $300 to $400.
How much does it cost to install 20 square feet of backsplash? ›| Backsplash Size | Average Material Cost | Average Installation Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 10 sq. ft. | $100 – $1,300 | $60 – $150 |
| 20 sq. ft. | $200 – $2,600 | $120 – $300 |
| 30 sq. ft. | $300 – $3,900 | $180 – $450 |
| 40 sq. ft. | $400 – $5,200 | $240 – $600 |
On average you can expect peel and stick floors to last between five and 25 years. However, their life span ultimately comes down to how well they're installed, how much traffic they receive, and whether they're repeatedly exposed to water.
What is the easiest backsplash to install in a kitchen? ›Peel-and-Stick Backsplash
Peel-and-stick tiles provide a cheap backsplash idea that's easier to install than traditional tile. The self-adhesive backing can be applied directly to the wall with no grout needed. The wide range of patterns lets you recreate the look of a bold tile backsplash without the high cost.
Cons: A glass splashback will not hide any markings of dirt, food, fingerprints or dust, and can become dirty quite quickly. The glass splashback might also require custom joinery when installed into a larger kitchen and might come at an expense, depending on the size of your space.
Do you need to waterproof behind a kitchen splashback? ›Effective waterproofing is vital for tiled showers & splashbacks & is highly important to keep bathrooms, laundries, & kitchens generally in good condition. Too often, poor waterproofing results in failures, leaks & costly repairs.
Should backsplash be lighter or darker than cabinets? ›So, if you have lighter cabinets and countertops, you should incorporate a darker backsplash to provide more visual interest and depth to your space. When you have darker cabinets and countertops, you should bring in a lighter backsplash to make your kitchen feel fresh and inviting.
How high should a splashback be? ›SPLASHBACKS
The standard kitchen splashback height is 600mm. The minimum splashback height is 450mm. If you have a wall unit over a sink, then there should be a minimum of 600mm splashback height between the top of the sink and the bottom of the wall unit.
Both backsplash and splashback refer to the same thing – a product which is fitted above your worktop to protect your kitchen walls from splashes and spills whilst cooking. As well as having many practical benefits, splashbacks can also be a striking design feature, with many different styles to choose from.