As a celebrity style editor, finding glimpses inside Cameron Diaz's Montecito home is inevitably at the top of my agenda. Diaz is, after all, a style icon in her own right, so of course, I expect her decorating choices to emphasize her status further – and arguably, nowhere does this better than her kitchen.
Thankfully for me (and us), the actress's organic wine brand, Avaline, is best enjoyed with a strategic food pairing, which Diaz is no stranger to showing off via Instagram. This offers ample opportunity to take notes on her backdrop, where one feature, her marble slab backsplash, commands my attention every single time.
If last year was the age of kitchen cabinet colors and finishes, 2024 has revealed itself as the era of statement backsplashes, starting with this slab feature. The label 'slab backsplash' refers to a single, continuous piece of material that covers the entirety of a kitchen wall (instead of the more conventional tiles or multiple pieces of marble). The result is indisputably luxurious, so it's no surprise that Diaz is among a host of celebrities who I've noticed experimenting with the feature.
Alongside Diaz, the likes of Jennifer Aniston and Zendaya have also exhibited twists on the 'trend' (with Aniston opting for a more matte black alternative, in contrast to this lighter, veined option). It feels fair, therefore, to categorize the look as a 'trend,' but, in truth, I'd much rather it be known as a 'forever trend.'
As mentioned, observing design trends seen in celebrity homes comes as part of my everyday, but sometimes (as in the case of the slab backsplash), I get the sense their appeal will prolong for more than just a few seasons ahead.
While micro-trends are often fun and statement-making, 'forever trends' are timeless. In the case of Diaz's backsplash, we have a piece of high-quality marble (designed to withstand time) in a versatile colorway with intricate veined detailing that feels unique and uber-luxe. All these things combined, it would be surprising if her look were to fall out of favor in the years ahead. I'd say it will look just as beautiful in a century, and it's not something that can be said for all that many design features (no matter how beautiful they look now).
My editor, Jennifer Ebert, agrees. 'The 'forever trend' label should be used sparingly, but in the case of Cameron Diaz's kitchen backsplash, it's justified,' she comments.
'Her backsplash comprises all the key features needed to ensure a feature will continue to impress through the decades: a soothing neutral base color, the perfect amount of pattern, and, of course, the fact it's made from high-quality material. It doesn't matter if something still looks fashionable if it's physically aging, so it helps to invest in the best quality you can.'
Diaz's backsplash is the most distracting feature, but that doesn't mean I'm not also swooning over her accessories and small decorating details. This cake stand will look quaint on the open shelving in my kitchen (because, while I can't upgrade my backsplash in my rented kitchen, I can still enjoy some Diaz-inspired flair).
Nobody does open-shelf styling like Diaz, but accessories aside, we need the right base. This is where these European pine wood shelves come into play. They're the perfect place for assorted bowls (like the actress's), books, or a classic indoor plant.
Whether used for cakes and muffins or simply for decoration, this cake stand feels unfussy yet quintessential. I love how its bright white colorway offers endless style possibilities.
Designed to retract and swivel above our stoves, this pot filler keeps cooking tasks efficient. Its brass construction gives the faucet a high-end quality that feels durable to the touch.
I'd be lying to myself if I said marble is not the material of the moment for our kitchen backsplashes. However, as mentioned, we can get the slab backsplash look with glass, stainless steel, or porcelain in a neutral hue. Pair it with open shelving and the perfect brass pot filler, and it's a look I will never stop talking about.
