When designing a kitchen, you are probably very focused on the most impactful elements of the space – the cabinetry styles, the colors, the flooring. But your choice of backsplash can be just as important and have just as much impact as those bigger design choices.
Designers have been preaching the importance of your kitchen backsplash design forever more, but it seems like we are catching up and now seeing backsplashes get the attention they deserve. This doesn't mean you need to go bold with your design, it's more about considering shapes and materials and how they can be less of an addition to the space and really play into the overall aesthetic. And no backsplashes are not just about tile! There are so many beautiful options that can elevate your whole kitchen.
We spoke with designer LeeAnn Baker, who gives us her advice on how to always ensure your kitchen (or bathroom) backsplash looks chic.
Take your backsplash full height
'Nothing says "off-the-rack" like a standard 4-inch backsplash. When designing custom backsplashes, we aim to fill the entire wall, whether with full-height slab, tile, or even vinyl wallcovering,' is LeeAnn's first piece of advice.
There has been a tendency when adding a splashback to go 4-5 tiles up and the stop, and while that's fine, looks fine, works fine, it's not really adding much elegance. Going from the countertop to the ceiling is far more impactful and looks more elegant too as you don't break up the wall and add too much visual clutter. It can be a great trick in smaller kitchens too, to allude to more height and space.
Treat the backsplash as an extension of the wall
'If a full-height backsplash isn't an option, we recommend treating the backsplash as an extension of the wall rather than just a continuation of the countertop or vanity,' continues LeeAnn.
'One way to achieve this is by wrapping the backsplash around the room at 42”h like wainscoting. This creates a seamless look and makes features like the vanity appear as though they are furniture placed against the wall, enhancing the overall aesthetic.'
This approach tends to work better in a bathroom where tiling from the floor to halfway up the wall would be a practical choice, as well as an aesthetic one. You could use it as a backsplash for behind the tub too. It creates more of a seamless look, rather than just having your backsplash awkwardly floating above the sink it looks more cohesive to take it around the whole, or at least a proportion of the room.
Avoid porous materials
'The key is to make sure the backsplash is watertight and easy to clean, especially in high-use areas like kitchens. This means avoiding surfaces that are overly textured or difficult to maintain such as porous natural stones like unsealed limestone, which can easily stain or absorb moisture. While textured surfaces can add visual interest, they often trap dirt and grease, making them impractical in busy kitchen areas,' explains LeeAnn.
Adding texture to a kitchen is a trend we talk about a lot on H&G, but as LeeAnn points out, the backsplash is not the place to do it. You can still choose materials that will work well with that textured, characterful look like zellige tiles and marble is an option if you seal and care for it correctly.
Stick to timeless colors and classic patterns
'I often advise clients to avoid overly busy patterns that may compete with other design elements, like countertops or cabinetry,' says LeeAnn. 'While bold patterns can make a statement, they can also become overwhelming and feel dated over time. We instead opt for classic, neutral designs that will age gracefully.'
We are never ones to say play it safe, but when it comes to those big design decisions, going for timeless over something that's trendy is always the better option. As LeeAnn suggests, keep your backsplash as a classic backdrop for other patterns that you can bring in in the form of artwork, rugs, and window treatments.
Consider what design is best for your budget
Slab backsplashes are a huge kitchen trend right now, but slabs of uninterrupted stone are expensive. So if that's not how you want to invest your budget, LeeAnn suggests looking for different ways you can work with that same material and create a similar aesthetic rather than cutting corners by going for a cheaper material.
'Material selection is another crucial consideration, and budget changes can sometimes lead to shifts in design. For instance, if we start with plans for a full-height slab backsplash, budget constraints might lead us to switch to the same material in tile form to save on costs.' explains LeeAnn. 'This allows us to maintain the original design intent while adapting to the practicalities of the project, ensuring the finished look is both luxurious and functional without breaking the bank.'
Pay attention to the installation
'It might not sound as important as the colors and designs you choose for your backsplashes, but always avoid poor installation,' warns LeeAnn. 'A backsplash should be properly installed with the correct grout and sealing techniques to ensure its longevity and water resistance. Poor installation can result in peeling tiles, mold growth, or water damage, particularly in areas behind sinks or stoves.'
Ensuring your backsplash looks luxurious and isn't just an afterthought, can have a huge impact on your space. Gone are the days when a backsplash is just a few tiles floating above your countertops or vanities, there are so many more beautiful options and approaches that can really elevate your kitchen or bathroom.
