Backsplashes were created sometime after running water entered the home to prevent water and grease from splashing onto the walls. Today’s backsplashes, though, have evolved far beyond that basic functionality. Instead, modern backsplashes have become a form of expression, where a homeowner can add some personality to the kitchen. Of course, they still need to be just as functional, but now they’re available in a nearly limitless array of designs and patterns. Read on for inspiration!

Before we get to the fun part, let’s talk about how to choose the right backsplash for your kitchen. If your kitchen is small and you want to make it feel more spacious, the backsplash can help. A backsplash made of bold and colorful tile can create more visual space, and so can lighter colors. Choose long rectangular tiles for your backsplash to create a sense of more horizontal space. Stainless steel, marble tile, ceramic tile, and even mosaic tile can work well for a small kitchen backsplash. However, if your kitchen is large, consider a slab backsplash instead of tile so you’ll have less grout to maintain. You could also fill a large backsplash face with a mixture of tiles, like a section of mosaic surrounded by ceramic tile. Try warm, darker colors if you want to make your large kitchen seem cozier. If you want to create a feeling of expansiveness, use lighter colors or even reflective materials. Ceramic tile is a cost-effective, low-maintenance option for a large backsplash, but it’s by far not your only choice. Porcelain tile, glass tile, metal, natural stone, and even recycled materials can be used for a backsplash.

Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s talk about style! Here are some great options for making your backsplash a focal point of your kitchen.

• Colorful tiles can really stand out. Especially if your kitchen is primarily white and wood, bold color in your backsplash can make a significant impact. To make even more of a statement, paint your island cabinetry the same bright color as the backsplash.
• Statement tile creates a focal point. Glass tiles, in particular, add shimmering color that draws the eye. Any tile in an interesting color or shape can make a statement, though, so look for something eye-catching that fits your aesthetic. For instance, you might consider an inset design with rich texture for an elegant statement.
• Make your backsplash even more functional by adding a niche. A recessed storage niche is a perfect place to keep things you need close at hand, and putting it into the backsplash provides unexpected storage. Another great way to make use of the backsplash space is to install a rail system for your cooking utensils where they’re easy to grab when you need them.
• Create a pattern for a unique backsplash. Remember, tiles don’t have to be square or rectangular. A unique shape in a repeating pattern can be a striking way to express yourself in the kitchen. For example, Penny tiles offer a vintage look, are especially lovely with contrasting grout, and look great in a farmhouse-style kitchen. A chevron or herringbone motif gives your kitchen an energetic look.
• Subway tile offers a classic look. White subway tile with darker grout gives a kitchen a crisp but casual look, but subway tile also comes in various colors. The great thing about subway tile is that it’s affordable, so you can make a big impression without breaking your budget. Choose subway tile with beveled edges for added depth and dimension.
• Glass backsplashes can be formatted in different ways. Glass mosaics and recycled glass are just two types of glass tile that look great on a backsplash. You can also choose one large sheet of glass, painted on the back, for a breathtaking look that’s also easy to clean. Reflective glass, particularly when used in conjunction with stainless steel, makes the most of a kitchen’s natural light.
• Go beyond tile for a unique look. Stacked pebbles, for instance, create a beautiful, natural look. Shiplap is a good backsplash for a farmhouse kitchen, and beadboard paneling is perfect for cottage-style décor. A brick backsplash is perfect for an industrial feel, as is stainless steel, which comes in varied finishes. A marble backsplash provides elegance while still being easy to clean. Using mirrors for your backsplash gives the illusion of more space.

When you’re renovating your kitchen, Capitol Design Build can help. We’ve been performing custom remodeling since 1989 and building custom, high-end homes in the Washington DC Metropolitan Area for 29 years. We serve businesses and individuals in Virginia, Washington D.C, and Maryland, meeting every need from kitchen renovation and bathroom remodeling to custom home design and building. We look forward to working with you with experience spanning many disciplines, including engineering, design, remodeling, construction, and customer service. Feel free to shop our website, call us at (703) 436-2069, or contact us online for a free, no-obligation estimate.