Six Backsplashes to Tie Your Kitchen Together
When it comes to designing a kitchen that wows, it’s all in the details. There’s prime real estate behind the range that’s a great spot for creating a focal point for your kitchen. Functionally, backsplashes are a way to protect walls from stains and splatters. However, today they also serve as an eye-catching centerpiece that can tie together your entire kitchen theme. Here are a few options that may very well be a perfect fit for your kitchen design.
Think out of the Box
With the rise of the “industrial look”, adding a backsplash of recycled brick or salvaged corrugated metals gives a modern and chic look. Re-purposed antique wood will add a rustic feel and warmth. With the exception of behind the cooking area, which needs to be non-combustible materials for code (and your safety),
Porcelain or Ceramic Tile
Still the most popular backsplash choice, there are a huge variety of ceramic and porcelain tiles to adorn your kitchen with. Tiles are scratch, heat, and water-resistant, and very durable. The range of shapes, sizes, and patterns available make tile an affordable and practical way to add creativity to the kitchen. A bold color can liven up a neutral kitchen palette!
Glass
Glass comes in large seamless panels, giving your kitchen a more sleek and refined look. Tempered glass is harder than ordinary glass and much more scratch-resistant. Easy to install by screw or glue, glass sheets can also be customized by screen-printing artwork or digital images on the panels, for a super creative and one-of-a-kind look.
Stainless Steel
For a more industrial vibe, stainless steel captures the heart of modernity beautifully while remaining an affordable and heat-resistant option. To create a minimalist marvel in the kitchen and to achieve greater visual depth, choose a flat sheet of steel for your backsplash. You can also opt for textured stainless steel mosaic tile to provide contrast and to emphasize sleek kitchen finishes.
Stone
A perennial favorite for backsplashes, stone works well in both traditional and creative out-of-the-box settings. Because no two slabs are exactly the same, a unique look is guaranteed every time. Choose between honed granite with an understated matte finish or polished granite, which is more shiny and eye-catching. Something to remember: slabs of natural stone is a costlier option for backsplashes, often having to be milled down in thickness from 1 ¼” to ¾”. It also should be sealed regularly due to its porosity.
Mirror
Once a 1980’s staple, the mirror is making a strong comeback in the kitchen. Based on Feng Shui principles, designers are creating the illusion of more depth and space with a mirror backsplash, especially in an area without windows and natural light. An antique mirror with a darker hue and worn finish offers a subtle look without being too distracting. Mirrored tiles, ranging in size from large subways or herringbone mosaics, create a great play on light with a modern twist.
While every material has both pros and cons, do your research and scan the myriads of photos showing the array of available options. Houzz is a great source to gather your ideas and share them with your designer!