A kitchen backsplash serves both form and function. Not only does it protect the wall from splatters and spills, it also adds style and visual interest to the kitchen. With so many backsplash options to choose from, deciding on the right one can feel overwhelming. To help narrow down the possibilities, we asked interior designers about their hottest backsplash picks for today’s kitchens. From timeless subway tile to bold patterns and textures, read on for insights and inspiration from the design experts.
Classic White Subway Tile
Subway tile has been popular for over a century, and for good reason. The simple rectangular ceramic tiles lend a clean, classic look to kitchen backsplashes. Interior designers say white subway tile is one of their go-to backsplash recommendations because of its versatility and timeless appeal.
:strip_icc()/white-subway-tile-kitchen-backsplash-1132593-hero-b66ff4174d094c36be609c8e1274d829.jpg)
Image source: The Spruce / Jasmin Eve Photography
White subway tiles have a minimalist, clean look that works with any kitchen style from modern to traditional. They also serve as a neutral backdrop that allows other elements like countertops, cabinets, and décor to shine.
Interior designer Tara Mangini of New Jersey-based Mang Architects notes, “White subway tile is a classic choice because it complements every color scheme. It works equally well with navy cabinetry as it does with crisp white cabinetry.”
The designer adds, “Subway tile has a nice handmade look but is still affordable. The smaller scale elongates the kitchen, while the classic color evokes a timeless look.”
Beyond versatility, subway tile backsplashes offer a few other benefits:
- Easy to clean – The smooth glazed surface wipes clean easily.
- Durable – Subway tile is ceramic so it resists scratching, staining and heat.
- Budget-friendly – Inexpensive per tile, allowing big backsplash impact for a smaller budget.
- Design flexibility – Linear layout creates clean lines, while a brick pattern or herringbone design adds visual interest.
Interior designer Beth Diana Smith of California recommends white subway tile for achieving balance in a kitchen. “White subway backsplash tile looks sharp with countertops and cabinets in dramatic colors and patterns,” she explains. “The simple tile neutralizes bold granite counters or bright decorative tile so elements don’t compete.”
Smith suggests pairing white subway tile backsplashes with nickel or chrome fixtures rather than warm metals like brass for a fresh modern look.
For those seeking an updated twist on the classic, consider glossy or matte finishes rather than traditional high-gloss. Half-height backsplashes are also coming back in style. Regardless of layout, white subway tile makes for a backsplash that truly withstands trends and the test of time.
Vibrant Colored Tile
While neutral white backsplashes remain popular, many designers also recommend colorful tile for an eye-catching alternative. From deep teal to rich maroons, navy blue to acidic yellows, don’t be afraid to make a bold backsplash statement.
“Colorful tile backsplashes are having a major moment right now,” says Orlando Soria, interior designer and HGTV host. “It’s an easy way to add a ton of personality to your kitchen without a huge commitment.”
Image source: FlooringInc
Playful mosaics or Moroccan-inspired patterns tend to work better for colorful backsplashes than large solid tiles, which can feel a bit overwhelming. “Keeping colored tiles relatively small in scale prevents them from seeming too loud,” advises California designer Breegan Jane. “It allows color to provide vibrancy without going overboard.”
When incorporating a vibrant backsplash, interior designers recommend sticking to one dominant color rather than a multitude of competing hues. Pair colorful tile with simple, neutral cabinetry and countertops to keep the overall look cohesive. “Too many different colors in a kitchen can feel chaotic and disconnecting,” warns Smith. “Choose a color scheme and let the backsplash be the star.”
Colorful backsplashes pair perfectly with whites and grays but also pop beautifully against black cabinets or stainless steel appliances. Just take care to pick a color that flatters (rather than fights) your cabinet and countertop hues.
While bright backsplashes provide visual wow-factor, they can also serve more functional purposes. “Warm shades of red, orange and yellow have an energetic, uplifting effect,” explains Soria. “They can make a small or dark kitchen feel more vital and spacious.”
Cool blues and greens, on the other hand, bring a relaxing ambiance. Ultimately, the best colorful backsplash breathes personality into your space while also evoking the vibe you want.
Natural Stone
For an organic yet polished look, leading designers frequently recommend stone backsplashes. Natural materials like marble, travertine, and granite bring depth and texture to kitchens. While often associated with luxurious homes, advances in technology have allowed for stunning stone mimicry at more accessible price points.
Image source: MSI Stone
“I’m a huge proponent of using marble and other natural stones for backsplashes,” says Soria. “It instantly elevates the design and brings the eye up.”
The designer suggests marble mosaics or smaller cut stone tiles rather than large slabs for backsplashes. “Smaller pieces make the veining and patterns more visible, creating great visual interest against cabinetry.”
Stone backsplashes require more maintenance than ceramic or glass tile since the porous material can stain and etch. Annual sealing is recommended for protection. For a budget-friendly alternative with a near-identical look, porcelain stone collections offer durability and are more stain-resistant.
“I love the look of white marble backsplashes contrasting with wood Cabinetry,” notes Mangini. “It creates an Old-World aesthetic, but feels fresh at the same time.”
Earthy travertines and limestones also pair beautifully with shaker cabinets, wood countertops and stainless steel appliances for an organic yet modern vibe.
For those concerned a stone backsplash might feel too heavy or formal, designers suggest adding visual interest through mosaic layouts, stacked patterns or special edge treatments and finishes.
statement-making tile
With so many stunning tile collections now available, don’t be afraid to make a bold statement with your kitchen backsplash. From eye-catching forms and shapes to intricate artistic patterns, there are countless options for transforming your backsplash into a work of art.
Image source: Modwalls
“Statement backsplashes are really on trend,” observes Mangini. “Whether it’s an artistic shape mosaic that brings in sculptural dimension or handmade moroccan tiles in an exotic pattern, there are so many innovative materials now that can turn your backsplash into a showstopper.”
When selecting a statement tile, both scale and color palette impact the overall look dramatically. Remember, the backsplash should enhance your kitchen design rather than overwhelm it.
“Statement patterns and vivid colors work best on a smaller scale,” advises Smith. “Avoid statement tiles from countertop to ceiling. Add a decorative border or niche to frame more intricate designs.”
Solid countertops and cabinets (rather than busy patterns) provide the ideal canvas for bold backsplash tile. Stick to a tightly edited color palette of one or two hues for a cohesive look. Varying tile shape, finish and layout also helps temper patterns that could otherwise feel too busy.
In terms of popular trends, expect to see lots of dimensional tile, handmade cement tiles, mosaics, arabesque and moroccan patterns, and creative takes on geometrics.
Soria recommends visiting showrooms or trade shows when possible to see statement tiles in person. “Photos don’t always capture the full essence,” he explains.
While stunning backsplashes can inspire kitchen designs, it’s essential to choose tile and patterns you’ll enjoy long-term. Follow current trends or go for more timeless applications based on your own style.
Mixing Materials
While many backsplashes focus on just one material, there are also endless possibilities for combining textures and tile shapes. Mixing materials provides visual interest while still keeping relatively simple for easy care and maintenance.
“I love the look of mixing ceramic, glass and stone tiles together,” says Smith. “Varying the size, finish, and design of each material creates texture and depth.”
Image source: Pinterest
Consider pairing brick-shaped white ceramic tiles with a stone mosaic inset, or combining marble and glass tile for contrast. Horizontal and vertical elements also add dimension when using different types of tile.
In this kitchen designed by Studio McGee, for example, elongated white subway tile is combined with small square mint green ceramic tile. While each material is clean-lined and classic, together they make for an instantly livelier backsplash.
Image source: Studio McGee
“Don’t be afraid to mix up your backsplash materials,” advises Mangini. “The key is sticking to a cohesive color scheme and balancing more subtle tiles with a statement mosaic, marble or standout metal.”
In addition to varying tile, don’t overlook other kitchen materials. Contrast a stone backsplash with unfinished wood shelves or introduce black metal brackets. Continuing cabinetry stain colors onto open shelves is another designer go-to. The options are endless for thoughtfully combining elements.
Bold Metallic Tiles
For a touch of glamour and shine, nothing jazzes up a kitchen quite like metallic tile. Once an avante garde trend only seen in high-end designer kitchens, metallic backsplashes have become much more accessible. Today’s styles range from subtle champagne brushed finishes to eye-catching jewel-toned metal mosaics.
Image source: Pinterest
“I’m drawn to warmer metal backsplashes like antiqued copper and brass,” says Smith. “They feel timeless yet still modern. I love the aged, Old-World look.”
Cooler hues like silver, gunmetal and aluminium finishes bring a more contemporary, edgy vibe. Soria suggests embracing these bolder metals if your personal style leans modern or industrial.
With such reflective surfaces, restraint is key in bathing the kitchen with metallic shine. Designers recommend limiting metal backsplashes to small sections or statement walls. Mangini likes to pair metal mosaic insets with classic white ceramic subway tiles.
“Use metallics sparingly to frame or highlight specific areas,” the designer suggests. “This prevents it from feeling too intense while still providing that wow factor.”
No matter your metal finish, avoid pairing it with other gleaming finishes like glass tile or stainless steel. “You don’t want your kitchen to veer into disco territory,” jokes Jane.
For quick clean-up and a budget-friendly alternative, consider metal-lookalike porcelain tiles. With technology that mimics the look and feel of real metal, these tiles offer comparable visual appeal. Just take care with metal hues and finishes, as some mimic the real deal better than others.
Textural Tile Materials
In addition to varying colors, patterns and finishes, don’t overlook the importance of texture when selecting backsplash tile. Ceramic, porcelain, glass and natural stone each lend their own tactile qualities. 3D tiles are also on the rise for added depth and dimension.
“When you use tile materials that play with light and texture, it brings so much more character to the space,” explains Mangini. The designer frequently combines tile types and has a current preference for dimensional ceramic tile.
“I like to bounce light around the kitchen backsplash area and make it sculptural,” says Mangini. “Dimensional tiles create shadows and make the design more nuanced and interesting.”
Handmade tiles also offer artisanal appeal, full of depth, color variation, and imperfect textures that celebrate the tile’s origin. Handmade cement tiles have grown especially popular for kitchen backsplashes, with their earned patina that grows more beautiful over time.
Image source: Pinterest
Smooth glass tiles make a stunning contrast to textural surfaces like handmade ceramic or pebbled stone. Combining materials with differing finishes and tactile variance brings visual energy.
Don’t overlook 3D tiles and mosaics with dimensional surfaces, an updated alternative to traditional flat backsplashes. These textural tiles catch light beautifully to create an almost iridescent effect.
Practical Matters
While aesthetics understandably dominate backsplash considerations, functionality should not be forgotten. Designers note a few key factors beyond simply looks that influence backsplash design:
Easy Care – Consider how easy the tile will be to wipe clean, an essential factor for areas prone to grease and food splatter. Porous natural stone requires more maintenance than glazed ceramic or glass.
Durability – Hardness and durability should suit your kitchen’s demands. Glass tiles may better suit a low-traffic prep area than heavy-use cooktop backsplashes, where ceramic holds up to heat and daily wear-and-tear.
Layout – Simple grid layouts keep backsplashes clean-lined, while offset patterns add interest. Frame statement sections with more classic materials.
Grout – Lighter grout sued in tight joints best suits bold or busy patterns. More subtle tile looks better with darker grout and wider joints. Minimize grout lines on solid surfaces.
Scale – Keep backsplashes in scale with cabinets and countertops. Smaller mosaic tiles prevent overwhelming. Vary materials and layouts to provide balance.
Texture – Consider finish and light play. Combining matte and glossy finishes adds dimension. Too much competing texture risks feeling visually noisy.
Color – Choose a tile hue that accentuates rather than competes with existing elements like cabinetry and countertops.
Keeping these pragmatic considerations in mind while also looking for tiles you love will lead to a winning backsplash design.
Designer Tips for Selecting Tile
To choose the perfect backsplash tile while avoiding common pitfalls, designers share their pro tips:
- Gather inspiration from books, catalogs, well-designed homes and tile showrooms. Seeing tile in person can prove invaluable.
- Bring home tile samples. Seeing them in your space reveals color accuracy and scale.
- Stick to a cohesive color family, varying only texture and finish. Mixing too many competing colors risks a disjointed look.
- Consider ease of maintenance. Porous natural stone and large grout joints require more upkeep.
- Choose quality materials made to last. While small areas use less tile, avoid compromising on quality.
- Arrange for experienced installers, especially important for tricky patterns and natural stone requiring cuts.
- Know the tile dimensions if arranging an intricate layout. Pre-planning prevents surprises or coming up short.
- Remember to account for grout lines widening the overall dimensions when calculating tile needs and layout.
- Incorporate other kitchen materials like cabinetry wood or hardware finishes into the backsplash design.
- Look at tile during different times of day; lighting impacts color and texture significantly.
- Order all tile at once, including extras for repairs down the road. Tile collections get discontinued.
Making a sizable investment in new tile? Take your time weighing the options, follow expert guidance, and don’t feel pressured to rush into a decision.
Coordinating Countertops
With the myriad of backsplash tile materials and colors available today, it’s important to keep countertops in mind so all elements work harmoniously. Here are designer tips for coordinating backsplashes with popular countertop choices:
Laminate Countertops
- Stick with ceramic, porcelain or glass backsplash tile rather than heavy natural stone that could overwhelm laminate.
- Avoid bold backsplash colors or patterns that draw too much attention and make laminate counters look dated.
- Softer glass or ceramic tile and classic white subway layouts balance laminate counters nicely.
Granite Countertops
- Choose a backsplash color that ties into the granite’s flecks and colors but doesn’t compete.
- Pair dramatic granite with classic white subway or mosaic backsplash tile.
- Honed stone or ceramic tile backsplash finishes contrast nicely with granite’s shine.
Marble Countertops
- Match marble backsplashes to counters for an elegant, seamless look.
- Contrast
