The kitchen backsplash serves both stylish and practical purposes, allowing you to add visual interest while also protecting the walls from splashes and stains. With a bit of creativity, your backsplash can provide added storage and functionality too. Here are some tips for tricking out your backsplash to maximize its usefulness.
Creative Materials for Added Storage
The material you choose for your backsplash can provide built-in storage solutions. For example:
- Glass tile: Using glass mosaic tiles allows you to create patterns and designs while also allowing you to see items stored behind the tiles. Attach cups, containers, or spices to the wall behind a glass tile backsplash to keep them nearby but out of the way.
- Stainless steel: Stainless steel backsplashes instantly provide a modern, industrial look. But stainless steel sheets also allow you to attach magnetic holders to keep knives and spices right within reach.
- Chalkboard tiles: Kids love chalkboard backsplashes for drawing, but they also provide the perfect space to keep lists, notes, and reminders. Attach chalk holders nearby to always have one handy.
- Reclaimed wood: A reclaimed wood plank backsplash has loads of character. Screw cup hooks, shelves, and magnetic strips to the wood to customize your storage solutions.
- Natural stone: Beautiful backsplashes made of natural stone materials like marble, travertine, or granite offer a great surface for keeping frequently used cooking tools close by. Attach a mounted knife block or pot lid holder directly to the stone.
Open Shelving for Display and Access
One of the easiest ways to add storage and display space to your backsplash area is by incorporating open shelving. The shelves don’t even need to be attached to the backsplash itself. Wall-mounted ledges and floating shelves mounted above the backsplash provide perfect spots for displaying cherished kitchen items while also keeping them within arm’s reach.
Niche Built-Ins for Hidden Storage
Look for unused nooks and crannies around your backsplash to transform into hidden storage spaces. Install custom-built cabinetry or shelving into recessed areas to take advantage of every spare inch. Frequently accessed items like spices, cooking oils, condiments, or cooking utensils can be kept organized and out of sight but still conveniently located right around your workspace.
DIY Magnetic Strips Keep Tools Handy
You can buy magnetic strips or easily make your own by adhering self-adhesive magnetic sheeting to wooden strips or sturdy metal bars. Mount these horizontal magnetic strips above your backsplash to keep all types of kitchen tools at your fingertips, from knives to measuring cups and spoons. Arrange the tools in whatever order makes the most sense for your kitchen workflow.
Tiny Vertical Shelves for Small Storage
Even the tiniest of spaces can be put to work with practical mini shelves. Look for narrow recessed areas around windows and install tiny vertical shelves. A slim 3-inch shelf can hold spices, jars, or other small items that tend to clutter countertops. Or attach a few small floating shelves. They provide a perfect spot for displaying pretty jars of cooking staples like salt, oil, and garlic.
Backsplash Endcaps for Extra Storage
Take advantage of the outer corners of your backsplash by adding storage options to the endcaps. DIY or purchased wooden endcaps install right over your backsplash providing a little extra surface area. Use them to mount knife blocks, paper towel holders, supply caddies, or shelves. The storage solutions can be as simple or complex as you like and make use of wasted space.
Practical Prep Space Behind the Sink
The area around your sink and backsplash provides prime real estate for storing and prepping. Install floor-to-ceiling shelving on available wall space around the sink to store prep bowls and colanders. Or mount shallow shelves specifically sized for line drying dishcloths and hand towels. For quick access to water, mount a sliding pot filler that extends right over your sink.
Secret Spice Racks Hidden Behind Frames
Take inspiration from secret door designs and install spice racks that are concealed behind movable panels or frames. Small wall-mounted racks can hold your favorite herb and spice jars. Mount frames or panels over the racks on a hinge so you can swing them open when needed and conceal them when not in use.
Backsplash FAQs
How can I incorporate storage into a tile backsplash?
For a tile backsplash, opt for materials like glass tile or chalkboard tile. You can attach hooks, shelves, and racks directly to these surfaces. You can also install open shelving above a tile backsplash or build custom niche storage in recessed areas around the tiles.
What are quick DIY backsplash storage solutions?
Some easy DIY storage solutions for backsplashes include mounting self-adhesive magnetic strips, installing floating shelves, or attaching wall-mounted pot racks and paper towel holders. These are great weekend projects that don’t require remodeling your entire backsplash.
Will adding backsplash storage make my kitchen feel cluttered?
The key is to incorporate purposeful storage into your backsplash design rather than just random shelving. Focus on keeping frequently used tools accessible and organizing necessities like spices into neat compartments. Proper organization will make your kitchen feel efficient rather than cluttered.
Can I install storage cabinets directly into my backsplash area?
Definitely! Custom built-in cabinets allow you to completely transform recessed areas around your backsplash into functional hidden storage. Just make sure to choose cabinetry depths and styles that don’t protrude too far out from the backsplash and interfere with the work triangle flow of your kitchen.
What are good backsplash materials for attaching storage accessories?
Backsplash materials like glass, marble, stainless steel, reclaimed wood, chalkboard, or tile provide great surfaces for attaching hardware, hooks, racks, and other storage accessories. Avoid brittle materials like natural stone slabs that could crack under weight.
Conclusion
With a bit of creativity, it’s easy to maximize the storage potential of your kitchen backsplash. Take advantage of the unique characteristics of different backsplash materials. Incorporate space-saving shelving and make the most of the surrounding wall area. The access to frequently used tools and hidden storage possibilities will make your kitchen more functional and enjoyable to cook in. Experiment with the many possibilities to create custom storage solutions perfectly suited for your cooking style.
