Whether you're completely renovating your kitchen or just making a few selective updates, you need to consider both aesthetics and functionality when making your decision. Appliances are a perfect example: While the color and finish of your refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher are important, so is quality.
While choosing a new kitchen backsplash doesn't require as much research as buying an appliance, it's still important to consider both form and function — after all, you want a backsplash that looks beautiful, is durable, and relatively easy to clean.
If you’re not quite sure what type of backsplash to incorporate into your upcoming kitchen renovation, we asked interior designers for their thoughts on the kitchen backsplash trends they love and recommend.
black tile backsplash
Anthony Slabo Remodeling & Design
White tile is a classic choice for kitchen backsplashes, but don't be too quick to give up on its complementary color: Interior designer Lindsay Putzier says black is a big trend in the design world right now.
“Black is a classic and dramatic color, and black tile can be used in a variety of design styles, from classic traditional to ultra-chic contemporary,” says Puzzier. “The key to using black in a timeless way is to balance it with lighter tones.”
Like other trendy neutrals, overusing black can make a space look dated after just a few years, so be sure to use it sparingly and balance it with contrasting or complementary tones.
Full marble slab
Megan Bob Photography
Luxurious marble is a timeless choice for a kitchen backsplash, and using an entire slab of marble adds an extra layer of sophistication.
“This Beverly Hills kitchen pairs wood countertops with a full-height stone backsplash, rather than the more common approach of using slabs of stone only for the countertops,” says Karen Halavutunian, interior designer and founder of Hub of the House. “We love this backsplash aesthetically because it creates a strong focal point, and we also love it practically because it adds an easy-to-clean, quiet, yet dramatic layer to the kitchen's range wall.”
Teak backsplash
Photo by Karin Millett
While wood might not be the first thing that comes to mind for a kitchen backsplash, Halavutunian encourages you to reconsider.
“Incorporating a wood backsplash into a kitchen is a great way to soften what is traditionally one of the most 'hard' rooms in the home,” she explains. “This Manhattan Beach kitchen incorporates solid teak countertops and a 2-inch teak backsplash, with a solid painted wood plank installed vertically above it.”
If you use wood as a backsplash, be sure to seal it properly to ensure it lasts for years.
Contrasting marble slabs
Angie Seckinger
For a fresh and fun twist on your marble slab backsplash, choose a marble with a high-contrast veined pattern.
“Dramatic black-and-white marble brings contrast and movement to the countertops and backsplash, creating a balanced design,” says Shannon Cadwell, kitchen and project designer at Anthony Wilder Design/Build. “Swirls of black-and-white marble mimic wafts of smoke.”
Handmade Moroccan Zellige Tiles
Danae Holst
There is beauty in imperfection and handmade zellige tiles illustrate this perfectly.
“Each tile is hand shaped, polished and crafted by artisans, giving each tile a completely unique look,” says interior designer and renovation expert Haley Kidd of Freelance Models. “They're known for their funky shapes and vibrant colors, like mosaic tiles.”
Many people use them in modern designs to create a unique feel because they are handcrafted, organic and bring a timeless feel to a space. They instantly add charm and depth to your kitchen and are great conversation starters.
Richly textured tiles
Lauren Taylor Creative
If you love the texture of zellige but prefer a more uniform look, consider incorporating ceramic or terracotta tiles for your kitchen backsplash, says interior designer Bianca Eklund.
“This application adds depth and character to your kitchen,” she says, “and also allows you to achieve a subtle pop of color while giving your kitchen a unique feel. Tiles can be found in a variety of shapes and patterns to suit the style of your home.”
Tall subway tiles
Photo by Stephanie Penick
Subway tile is a kitchen staple, and in its basic form, it can look a little dated, says Putzier, especially since the modern farmhouse trend took off in the 2010s. But you can still use subway tile to create a modern kitchen.
“Adding texture and detail creates a timeless backsplash that suits a variety of styles,” she says. This can include using imperfect tiles for added texture, adding decorative features, as seen here, or arranging the tiles in an eye-catching pattern, such as herringbone.
“When your countertops are the focal point, tall subway tile is the perfect solution,” says Putzier. “Cluttered or colorful countertops should be balanced with a muted, more neutral backsplash tile. If both the backsplash and countertops are too cluttered, they won't draw attention.”
Matching countertops and backsplash
Alyssa Capito Interiors
Continuing the material of your countertops onto your backsplash instantly creates the visual illusion of more space while bringing unity and flow to your kitchen.
“This seamless integration creates a clean, harmonious look without any visual interruptions or breaks,” says Malka Helft of Think Chic Interiors. “The uninterrupted surface creates a focal point that brings the kitchen together, exuding sophistication and elegance.”
And from a practical standpoint, continuing the countertop material onto the backsplash makes it easier to maintain and clean: With no seams or joints, there are fewer places for dirt, grime, and food particles to accumulate.
Colorful pottery
Photo by Stephanie Penick
Neutral colors are great, but don't be afraid to mix it up a bit.
“Finally, color is making a bold comeback, not just on cabinets but on backsplashes as well,” says Puzier. “To keep the look timeless, choose a shape that you won't see anywhere else online. The more timeless the shape, the more staying power it will have overall.”
This colorful approach will give your kitchen personality and keep it from feeling generic, so don't be afraid to get a little creative with this space.
Creative Mosaic
Stacey Zarin Goldberg
Smaller tiles help solve a common kitchen problem: tiles are great for covering areas that are awkwardly sized. “For kitchens with limited space and tile wrapping around a window, finding a small mosaic is the most balanced and practical option,” says Nadia Subaran, co-founder of Aidan Design.
