If you’re looking for backsplash ideas, you’ll want to consider style as much a function. Think of the backsplash as the accent wall of your kitchen—capable of quietly tying together the culinary space’s overall aesthetic while also making a grand visual statement.
“A backsplash is often one of the few eye level spaces in the kitchen, free of cabinets or appliances. So it’s a great opportunity to underscore the space’s intention and evoke an emotion,” says Anita Lang, AD PRO Member and founder of IMI Design in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Ahead, take a deep dive into all things backsplashes, with options to inspire and delight any homeowner, for kitchens ranging from traditional to ornate to modern. These 72 kitchen backsplash ideas both capture the newest design trends and dig into AD archives to showcase the culinary gems in the homes of Gisele Bündchen, Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, and Nate Berkus. But first, FAQs about kitchen backsplashes to get you excited for your next DIY project.
What is the most popular backsplash for 2026?
Designers are betting big on the artisan-and-maker movement that is continuing to gain momentum in 2026. “For the year ahead, we can expect an interest in materials crafted by hand, from zellige to terra-cotta-glazed tiles,” says Lang. While we continue to see full, highly graphic-movement stone slab backsplashes that make architectural statements, Lang predicts we will also notice a surge in highly bespoke and client-driven installations that allow freedom for self-expression. Along those lines, Carly Moeller, founder and principal designer of Unpatterned in Chicago, notes that 2026 will likely bring more colorful tile and bespoke tile backsplashes; she sees designers and clients alike gravitating toward “hand-painted, unique patterns, and one of a kind materials.” Moeller believes we’ll continue to see statement stone in all varieties, but with a lot more contrast and mixing of materials in a fresh way.
Darlene Molnar, AD PRO Member and principal of her namesake firm in Reston, Virginia, singles out opalite-inspired finishes as rising in popularity in the year ahead. Waterworks’ Repose line of tile, for example, and other glass finishes with a mother-of-pearl look will be hard to miss, she says, adding, “We can thank Taylor Swift’s chart-topping song ‘Opalite’ for influencing that!”
Is white subway tile out of style?
Here’s what Roy Marcus, brand ambassador at Artistic Tile thinks: “White subway tile will always be a ‘correct’ material, but backsplash design can and should be so much more rewarding.” Marcus is a proponent of natural and truly artisanal materials, especially in homes designed for inheritability.
Should the backsplash be lighter or darker than the countertop?
Ah, the weighty question. "Every space has different light: natural, ambient, tasks, and accent, which will provide direction,” says Marcus, conceding that there are few “rights or wrongs” at play. He does point out that the bigger focus should be on selecting the countertop material that works with the lifestyle of the cook, then deciding on the color scheme to suit the kitchen cabinets and the rest of the home decor. “Marble is not hard to care for, and the patina it acquires over the years can be very alluring. Not all cooks will appreciate this, so for them a quartzite with low acid-sensitivity is a better choice,” he adds.
What is the best type of backsplash for a kitchen?
Lesley Myrick, owner and principal interior designer of her eponymous firm based in Atlanta. stresses that, since kitchen remodels are a large investment, she often hears hesitation from potential clients about introducing too much personality into the design for fear that it might limit resale potential. Still, refraining from embracing your personal style isn’t always the best move. “If you’re remodeling your kitchen with the intent to sell your home within a couple of years, then choosing a ‘safer’ backsplash option may help make the most of your investment,” she says. “However, if you’re designing a kitchen for your forever home, or even a home you plan to enjoy for the next 5 to 10 years, then I strongly recommend creating a statement backsplash. The beauty of a backsplash is that it’s not typically a lot of square footage, so it’s a worthy splurge, from a design perspective.”
What can I use instead of a backsplash?
“Many people are unaware that kitchen backsplashes perform a function other than just acting as background material,” Janette Mallory, founder and principal designer Janette Mallory Interiors in Santa Monica. “But as the name indicates, it has to catch the splash of water and grime that are an inevitable part of washing dishes and pots and pans. Therefore, you need to consider something that cleans easily and has durability.” When remodeling your kitchen, remember: The purpose of a backsplash is to protect the kitchen wall behind the countertops, stove, and sink. No one wants to repaint this space over and over. Keep in mind, the protective barrier can come in a variety of easy-to-wipe-down backsplash materials. If you don't have the budget for a slab of natural stone or porcelain tile, consider installing a panel of stainless steel. Vintage tin tiles can also do the trick, though may be more challenging to clean if they are placed behind a stovetop.
1.Black and white
This cohesive look was achieved by Laetitia Laurent, AD PRO Member and founder of Laure Nell Interiors in Boca Raton, Florida. As she describes it, “the backsplash extends seamlessly from the black-and-white waterfall countertop, creating a strong visual moment.” According to the principal designer, the bold stone becomes a functional and sculptural element, while dark cabinetry adds depth and contrast. “Using the same material for the countertop and backsplash creates continuity and visual impact,” says Laurent, noting that this approach works especially well when you want the material itself to be the focal point without adding additional colors or patterns.
2. Oversized flowers
“A backsplash can enhance the architectural goals of the home,” says Anita Lang, AD PRO Member and founder of IMI Design in Scottsdale. “In this case, I used custom hand-painted Malibu ceramic tile in this refresh for my client’s Santa Barbara family home.” Whether you’re grabbing breakfast at the island’s high-top chairs or sautéing veggies on the range, it’s hard not to find a moment of zen—and awe—with this sunflower-esque kitchen backsplash that almost reads as golden in hue. To complement the oversized accent wall, Lang and her team installed Paul Ferrance Carlyle pendants in black old iron with gold highlights and hand-blown clear glass bulbs.
3. Glass tiles
Darlene Molnar, AD PRO Member and principal of her namesake firm in Reston, Virginia, asserts that a white glass backsplash makes colorful kitchen accents pop. We agree, especially when it is placed in a kitchen that leans more minimalist in design. “The reflective nature of glass backsplashes exudes a clean, contemporary luxury, and white in particular creates high-contrast interest when paired with brighter colors,” says Molnar.
4. Brass accents
To elevate classic marble, Molnar recommends creating a graphic design using brass inlaid tile. “In this example, a brass pattern inlaid in Thassos marble tile creates a bespoke focal point over the range and picks up brass accents around the kitchen,” she says. Along with the backsplash, brass accents punctuate the kitchen in places as varied as the matte brass bar stools and the golden-brass salt and pepper shakers.
5. Functional frame
Creating more storage space is always a good thing—especially in the kitchen. That’s why Carly Moeller, founder and principal designer of Unpatterned in Chicago, is a fan of framing a natural stone backsplash with cabinetry and shelving in order to create more semi-hidden storage while simultaneously highlighting an incredible piece of quartzite. “By creating recessed shelving nooks of walnut, we’ve married two different but complementary natural materials, highlighting the incredible veining of the backsplash and creating an easy-access storage and display area,” she says.
6. Window dressing
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“If you’re already all-in on adjusting the kitchen layout, consider flanking your range with windows,” offers Moeller. “In this kitchen we went from one window to two vertical versions flanking the range with a zellige backdrop.” This move, says Moeller, took the “light and bright effect” to the next level. The kitchen accent wall also helps to separate the space from the light-filled breakfast nook.
6. Stone and wallpaper
Stone and wallpaper aren’t often paired, but when done right, this combination sings. “In this scenario, a wet bar off of a kitchen has a quartzite backsplash at the counter level, but the open shelving above has a colorful vinyl wall covering backdrop—still wipeable for your worst-case scenario, but it adds that extra level of pattern and color,” says Moeller. When pairing stone with wallpaper, light wall coverings tend to complement light stone the best, and dark wallpaper selections complement darker stones.
7. Luminous mother-of-pearl
“Add shimmer and elegance with a mother-of-pearl mosaic backsplash,” says Krista Shugars, owner of KD Designs Custom Interior in Baltimore and Washington, DC. In this historic kitchen renovation, Shugars and her team opted for a gorgeous mother-of-pearl mosaic backsplash to contrast with the light blue cabinetry and soft flow of the leathered quartzite countertops. “The backsplash shimmers and beautifully reflects light back into the space,” she comments.
8. Terrazzo for vintage vibes
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For this home’s culinary epicenter, Meeshie Fahmy, AD PRO Member and founder of Haus of Meeshie in Los Angeles, and her colleagues used terrazzo as both the backsplash and countertop. “Made from chips of marble and granite set in concrete and polished to a smooth surface, the material feels playful while also adding warmth and grounding the space,” she says. Here, the peachy terrazzo perfectly complements the nostalgic cabinetry (painted in Churlish Green by Farrow & Ball) and the vintage range in a reimagining of a 1920s Colonial Revival.
9. Dramatic dark stone
This kitchen by Laure Nell interiors features Dekton, a richly veined marble-inspired surface used as the backsplash. “The dark tone introduces contrast against the soft cashmere-colored cabinetry and grounds the kitchen within an open-plan layout,” says designer Laetitia Laurent. Per Laurent, darker stone backsplashes can be incredibly effective when balanced with lighter cabinetry; just be sure to let the material run continuously so the veining reads as intentional and architectural rather than decorative.
10. Glazed ceramic tile
“In this kitchen, I used a glazed ceramic tile with an artisanal, hand-finished quality,” says Laurent, who paired this backsplash with the cabinetry’s warm oak tones and soft neutrals of the cabinetry. “The surface has an intentionally imperfect brushstroke-like texture that catches and reflects light beautifully throughout the day.” When selecting meticulously crafted tile, Laurent recommends looking for subtle variation in glaze and texture, as those natural inconsistencies bring warmth and authenticity.
11. Stainless steel
Don’t overlook this utilitarian material. “Stainless-steel backsplashes are ideal for durability and ease of maintenance,” says Laurent. To keep the look inviting, she suggests balancing the metal with organic materials and warmer finishes elsewhere in the kitchen. Here, take note of how “the reflective surface enhances natural light and complements modern appliances,” says Laurent, which reinforces the streamlined lines of the space. To avoid the kitchen feeling cold, Laurent added warm wood elements and thoughtful lighting throughout the space.
12. Hand-stacked stone
Sarah Barnard, an interior designer with a namesake firm in Los Angeles, is a big proponent of hand-stacked natural stone backsplashes, even though they “require an investment of time, attention, and quality materials.” The decorator has found there is no way to achieve this effect other than having the design team “don gloves and sift through the rocks one by one, planning their careful connections on the ground before the wall.” She loves that such a material ensures that the client’s daily experience is visually connected to the surrounding landscape.
13. Matte glass tiles
Per Barnard, glass tiles in a matte finish offer an understated aesthetic that brightens a space with a gentle white hue. Here, large-format rectangular tiles, arranged in simple rows, lend themselves well to a warm, minimalist style, she says. In particular, Barnard loves how the brushed finish of matte glass tiles offers both tactile experience and visual quiet.
14. Architecture-inspired backsplash
“Instead of relying on tile to carry the visual weight, this kitchen treats the backsplash as part of the architecture itself,” says Lauren Saab, founder of Saab Studios in Dallas. “The beadboard functions as architectural paneling, finished to match the cabinetry and trim so it reads as a continuous piece of millwork rather than a separate surface.” Saab notes that the material is finished with a sealed, moisture-resistant surface to hold up comfortably in daily use. When paired with the vintage stained glass window above the sink, the result, says Saab, is “one of layering, intentionality, and subtle distinction.”
15. Fluted details
Natural stone, how we love thee. “The stone’s veining and overall aesthetic can look the same from a distance, but look dramatically different up close,” says senior designer Alicia Saso of Drury Design in Chicago, who chose a fluted detail to resonate with cabinetry in the same kitchen. “The vertical striping of a fluted pattern resonated with the vertical striping of the nearby cabinetry’s reeded pattern, making this a fun but fitting decision,” she elaborated.
16. Rich veins
Whether working with a natural stone or a man-made quartz, Avery Carter, of her namesake design firm in Denver, likes to select a slab with intentional, expressive veining. “Collaborate closely with your fabricator to orient the stone in a way that enhances the architecture of the space,” she advises. In this kitchen, the veining was placed to draw the eye upward, “highlighting the rich patina of the custom metal hood,” says Carter.
17. Monochromatic layers
When updating cabinetry with paint, you may want to land on a backsplash tile within the same color family, just a shade lighter or deeper, says Carter. “This subtle tonal layering creates depth without visual noise, allowing the space to feel calm and cohesive,” she says. “A monochromatic approach has a unique ability to bridge design styles and time periods, ensuring the kitchen feels enduring rather than trend-driven.” Plus, the white hues infuse the space with a sense of calm.
18. Leathered Travertine
Olga Doykhen, of her namesake firm in Orange County, California, is a fan of this unsung kitchen hero: leathered travertine. Though the stone can be intimidating to some because of its porous texture, which requires maintenance and care, Doykhen would argue that the small stains and patina are what make it such a compelling material. “It has a lived-in look that invites you into the stories behind its imperfections. A small stain may remind you of a party you hosted or a delicious meal you made,” she says, noting “it’s a kitchen, not a museum.” Doykhen chose the darker travertine here to encourage people to take a closer look.
19. Patchwork tile
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It’s hard not to stop and marvel at this quirky yet refined backsplash. Kaitlin McQuaide, owner of McQuaide Co. in New York City designed this kitchen with a custom mix-and-match backsplash using hand-painted Delft tiles and zellige tiles for a bespoke patchwork look. To pull off something similar yourself, she recommends choosing two or three colors, so the mix feels intentional, not chaotic; varying the scale and finish (“slight irregularities are what make it special”); and working with a tile installer who understands that this style thrives on a handmade feel, not perfect symmetry.
20. Calming stone
One senses an inherent movement in this kitchen thanks to a careful selection of materials by Mark Tremblay of Marc-Michaels Interior Design, based in Winter Park, Florida. “This kitchen balances a refined stone backsplash with a sophisticated blend of blue and neutral cabinetry used as architectural framing rather than accent colors,” he says, pointing out that the pale stone allows the backsplash to remain calm and understated. “The result is a layered composition that feels modern, intentional, and quietly dynamic.”
21. Animal accent tiles
Bring on the culinary Easter eggs! Here, Drury Design added accents of Frank Lloyd Wright–inspired patterns and quirky birds in a project helmed by senior designer Samantha Schoell. “We were pleased with how subtle yet appropriate the accent tiles are,” says Schoell of the accent tiles by Motawi Tile, which brought personality to this Arts & Crafts kitchen. “They add interest, charm, and personality from the homeowner. Yet, from a distance, they don’t dominate the eye,” she says.
22. Perky chartreuse
A lime backsplash? A delight. The use of color in a kitchen can have an energizing effect when doing the most mundane tasks like meal prepping or dishes. “If the last few years have taught us anything, it's to take risks and lean into the things that bring joy,” says Atlanta designer Leah Alexander. “Taking to heart the existential impermanence of it all, I encourage everyone to dig a bit deeper and fully explore that which feels risky, exciting, and rewarding, starting with our immediate surroundings.”
23. Reflective tile
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You can still make a statement backsplash without bold color. Instead, try metallic shine. “Reflective tiles for a backsplash are a great way to add light to an otherwise dark kitchen,” says Swati Goorha, principal Swati Goorha Designs in New Providence, New Jersey. “In this kitchen we added rose gold mirrored tiles to offset the green kitchen cabinets,” she explains, adding that the soft pink offers a pop of color without taking away from the drama on the green cabinets. The reflective tiles make the space look larger to boot.
24. Mini chevron
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“Adding accent tiles is a great way to enhance a space and highlight key areas in a kitchen,” Goorha says. Even if you prefer not to commit to colorful backsplash, a variegated chevron pattern in a multi-grey color scheme can still serve as a focal point that gives your wall tile personality.
25. Natural marble
To elevate a kitchen’s appeal, Janette Mallory, founder and principal designer of Janette Mallory Interiors in Santa Monica, is a fan of natural marble slabs for backsplashes—for both an aesthetic and practical reason. “I try and avoid using a tile backsplash because it has grout joints that crack, stain, and start to discolor over time and eventually will need to be replaced,” she says. “Natural marble slabs on the other hand are classic and timeless. The level of the veins in the slabs will determine how dramatic the backsplash will be.”
26. Stone meets tile
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Tanya Smith-Shiflett says her firm, Unique Kitchens & Baths custom cabinetry and design studio, is seeing an uptick in British-inspired designs when it comes to kitchen design. The trend is noticeable in this Fairfax, Virginia, kitchen. “We choose to extend the counter halfway up to the floating shelf and introduce the tile squares so they would have a beginning starting point,” she says. “The organic and handmade elements of the tile provide movement to the space.” When it comes to backsplash tiles, natural stones are timeless, age well, and add to the rustic look that pairs so nicely with drywall hoods with plaster for texture.
27. Bigger (better) subway tile
Breathe fresh life into expected subway tiles with a riff on traditional scale. "We're seeing a lot of creative uses of subway tile in backsplashes. For example, we used oversized subway tiles in this Austin bungalow, and I love how the bigger size makes the traditional subway tile feel fresher, as well as anchors the space,” says Avery Cox of Avery Cox Design. “In this home, the kitchen could be seen across the dining room so the larger scale pattern really anchors the space better than a smaller size tile, which would have felt busier and more chaotic."
28. Zellige tile
People are swooning for zellige tile’s wavy, imperfect aesthetic. “The popularity of zellige tile backsplash has soared in recent years,” says Anastasia Casey, the founder of IDCO Studio and Design Camp. “It coincides with homeowners’ desire for bespoke, handcrafted design features, which is exactly what a zellige tile backsplash delivers. The perfectly imperfect look of zellige tile makes an all-white backsplash look like an intricate tapestry.”
29. Full-height stone backsplash
“Full-height stone backsplashes have been gaining in popularity,” says Bethany Adams of Bethany Adams Interiors. “Particularly if the backsplash is framed like a picture on all four sides by cabinetry.”
30. Black glass
Not a fan of scrubbing tile or dealing with dirty grout? A sleek glass backsplash may be the way to go. “We went with black glass to maintain the monochromatic color palette our client loves that is used throughout the home,” says Eilyn Jimenez, founder and creative director of Sire Design, who did this kitchen design in St. Petersburg, Florida. “The color and finish of the backsplash also provides a reflection of the home’s oceanfront views. As an added bonus, it is easy to maintain and clean, which is especially important to the homeowner, who loves to cook.”
31. Mermaid mood
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White cabinetry with ocean-like tile, complemented by deep wood grain, come together beautifully in this modern kitchen. “The cerulean blue Fireclay tiles add a splash of color and cheer to the kitchen. These pops of blue appear throughout the predominantly neutral apartment in the pendant lights, wallpaper, artwork, and cushions,” says Sarah Jefferys, principal and founder of Sarah Jefferys Architecture + Interiors in New York. “The backsplash is a commanding element that ties these pops of color together.”
32. Shiny steel
Geddes Ulinskas, principal and founder of Geddes Ulinskas Architects, showcases his project with stainless steel backsplash design in this light-filled California home. “This kitchen has a breathtaking view of the San Francisco bay, and we selected the stainless backsplash to subtly reflect the light and color shining in,” he says. “It was our way of integrating the exterior palette further into the kitchen area.”
33. Verdant backsplash wall
Jenni Vetter of Vetter Architects in Milwaukee, winner of BlueStar Kitchen Design Project, executed this backsplash with hand-cut tiles positioned to create a continuous backsplash wall that lends texture and warmth to the hearth of the home. “Filling the expansive back wall with one tile was an exciting element to commit to,” she says. “The deep olive green tile has been in my inspiration folder for years before the kitchen became a reality.” Locally sourced in San Francisco, the Heath Ceramics tile has a beautiful natural color variation that speaks to its handmade quality. “I knew that the color palette was going to be saturated hues of deep green that would contrast beautifully with the black and brass BlueStar range.”
34. Ocean hues
Stephanie Lindsey, principal designer of Etch Design Group in Austin, used robin's-egg ceramic tile for this kitchen makeover. “The beautiful blue kitchen tiles were showcased in a unique alternating horizontal and vertical pattern, with colored tile against the white cabinets creating a dynamic contrast,” Lindsey says. “The glossiness also adds a sleek element to the overall kitchen design. The light blue pattern is more traditional and adds the perfect balance to the subtle cabinet and plumbing details."
35. Iridescent hand-glazed blue tile
These homeowners wanted a sharp kitchen design, and kept the space above the stovetop minimal by avoiding upper cabinets. Karen Parent, principal at Dynia Architects based in Jackson, Wyoming, chose hand-glazed tile in an eclectic blue to add depth and character that softens the adjacent oversized aluminum cabinets, the lower walnut cabinets, and the bold black countertops. “The use of mixed colors and materials navigates the eye around the full kitchen, instead of stealing your attention in one direction,” she says. “Colorful tile serves as a backdrop for simple, steel floating shelves that offer an easy built-in functionality.”
36. Chevron with a twist
The eye-catching glossiness of scene-stealing tiles is well worth the investment when doing a kitchen remodel. The effect of these chevron-like tiles makes the kitchen space feel inviting, and lively, and yet also leave a lingering sense of sanctuary. “This bold peacock ceramic tile used in the kitchen was unique and added a gorgeous pop of color against the stark white cabinets,” Lindsey says, noting that this tile has a more modern pattern, creating a bit of contemporary edge.
37. Beveled edge subway tile
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Liz Toombs, owner and president of the firm PDR Interiors in Lexington, Kentucky, notes that you can enhance the look of basic subway tile by choosing tile with a beveled edge. “This simple detail adds dimension and visual interest to the classic backsplash choice,” she says.
38. Black-and-white
This selection from Artistic Tile with design by Deb Ingersoll, owner of Virtue Tile, is a visual stunner. "A dynamic pattern like Geotzzo Ribbon adds modern movement to a classic black-and-white color scheme,” says Marcus. “The matte black cabinetry, with its ordered vertical grooves, creates a clean and interesting frame for the adventuresome repeat of the backsplash."
39. Modern marble
Lauren Martin-Moro, founder and creative director of LM Design Associates in Los Angeles, decided on pure white quartz for the back counter tops, and added a more vivid, uniquely patterned marble for the backsplash as a standout feature. “The marble on the vertical wall surface will be more durable over time, away from citrus and red wine spills, leaving the perfect opportunity for us to find an extra special slab,” she explains. Using a natural stone for a backsplash design element also helps reduce the overall slab costs, compared to doing full kitchen countertops in a specialty high-end material.
40. Gray border
A backsplash that riffs on other design flourishes in your kitchen is always a good idea, as shown in this minimalist modern space. “For this midcentury full kitchen remodel, we were seeking warm, modern simplicity,” Martin-Moro says. “To soften the sight lines of the modestly sized kitchen, we opted for the soft gray quartz countertop material to be repeated as a backsplash. Both walls and backsplash are easy on the eyes and the maintenance level is slim to none.”
41. Luminescent zellige tile
An eye-catching backsplash makes a beautiful kitchen with its magnetic pull, perhaps as the desired hub for a prep station when entertaining. Here, the luminescent hand-glazed terra-cotta zellige tiles add the perfect amount of pizzazz and patina. “The irregularity in size and shape, paired with the natural color variations, makes for a dynamic visual spot,” Martin-Moro says.
42. Moroccan mood
The character lies in the details. Bring in a taste of Morocco when researching backsplash design ideas to dazzle with intrigue. Martin-Moro notes that this kitchen, once rimmed by dark-stained wood and an unimaginative backsplash, was completely transformed with North-African-inspired geometric tile.
43. Dusty blue
Subway tile loyalists can reimagine the wall tile staple by trading in the iconic white subway tile for shades of dusty blue, which can create a monochromatic look when paired with deep blue cabinetry. “Removing some of the upper cabinets and extending the backsplash to the ceiling brings a fresh look to this 90-year-old home,” says Lesley Myrick, owner and principal interior designer of her eponymous firm based in Atlanta.
44. Floral porcelain tile
The blue kitchen cabinets anchor the space, allowing the vintage-inspired backsplash tiles to add visual rhythm and harmony, “Kitchens are often composed of large swathes of solid color like painted cabinets and white quartz countertops, but a patterned backsplash is a way to infuse personality, color, and texture into the space,” Myrick says.
45. Elongated hexagon tile
This guest house kitchenette nook gets a dose of spunky style with this blue backsplash in a standout elongated hexagon shape that awakes the otherwise plain wall. "Installed vertically, the backsplash accentuates the ceiling height and brings more presence to this petite kitchen,” Myrick says. “Floating asymmetrical shelves and a statement wall sconce add a relaxed element to the strong visual lines.”
46. Maximalist design
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Artistic Tile alongside design by T.K. Wismer of Department of the Interiors in Louisville, Kentucky, shows that maximalist glamour is oh-so-right for a backsplash that was inspired by the legendary Iris Apfel. The Café Appliances Bold Ambition Kitchen employs two striking patterns (one on the backsplash, the other on the range hood), Billie Ombre and Hip 2B Square, to harmonized into one color scheme: green, black, and gold color. “The repetition of shapes, colors and materials—squares on squares, bronze on bronze, green on green—makes this space a great example of maximalism in design and shows how strong design can be compatible with everyday living," says Roy Marcus, brand ambassador at Artistic Tile.
47. Retro pattern
When extending a backsplash from counter to ceiling with a strong pattern, like Alison Rose Euclid from Artistic Tile did here, Marcus says that it is key to be diligent with accessories. “An oversized brass hood and sleek hardware celebrate the power of the backsplash; though the brass is itself remarkable and powerful, the contrast with Euclid is pleasant, and the two do not compete,” he says.
48. Swirly style
This sophisticated onyx polished stone, Tiger Lily from Artistic Tile, is the star of this show. “A simple kitchen design becomes instantly bold and daring with the use the waterfall island and backsplash,” Marcus says. “Wood accents add warmth to the space while allowing the bold orange striping to dominate."
49. Geometric
To add a twist to a suburban home remodel, Rockwall, Texas-based interior designer Kim Armstrong opted for a Scandinavian vibe. “[Piet] Mondrian served as inspiration for how to lay out the pattern and mix of materials on the cabinetry,” she says. As a result, the heartbeat of the kitchen is undoubtedly the Adessi Canberra Decor porcelain tile. The Mondrian-inspired backsplash by designer Kim Armstrong creates a strong visual focal point while adding a bit of playfulness.
50. Stacked tile
Luke McClelland designed dozens of high-end kitchens for clients before he took on the task of renovating his own. Here, he chose to complement the ensemble with a clean white tile backsplash, but instead of going with predictable subway tile, he upped the ante by stacking it vertically.
51. Scalloped tile
For this house in Porto, Portugal, architecture studio Ding Dong’s founders Michael Miranda and Davide Gomes imbued the 1930s townhouse with a 21st-century twist by adding blush-colored scalloped backsplash for warmth and delightful texture. The calming sea foam green cabinets further enhance the green leopard wallpaper.
52. Graphic design
Alexandra Barker, founder and principal of BAAO Studio took on the renovation of a couple’s town house in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn. The kitchen backsplash is one of the most fun design elements in the entire space: The duo opted for a patterned Kelly green cement tile from Clé. The bright green color with geometric patterns on hexagon tile makes for the perfect pop. A clean and simple white cabinetry and a white-marble kitchen island with wooden chairs round out the polished yet unfussy look.
53. Chrome backsplash
A metallic chrome backsplash makes the perfect chef’s kitchen in this suburban LA home. It’s not something you see very often, but the unconventional backsplash material does a lot for the space. With a slight reflective sheen, it adds subtle brightness. “It was important to introduce a communal aspect to the family spaces and foster a rich connection to the exterior,” says Jeff Kaplon, the interior designer and co-owner of Part Office. “Another main objective was to have a high-functioning but practical chef’s kitchen that would also serve as the social center of the house.”
54. Flower power
The floral motif of Solar Antique Tiles distinguishes the backsplash and adds a charming design to this Palm Beach mansion, restored by designer David Easton. The cream Ann-Morris ceiling fixture above the kitchen island picks up the neutrals of the interiors and actually makes the eye travel toward the stove.
55. Majolica tile
The kitchen’s La Cornue range and hood match the tone of the majolica tiles that design firm Studio Peregalli used on this Italian villa’s walls and backsplash. To fulfill the kitchen design vision that pays tribute to texture and layers, an early-20th-century bronze chandelier is suspended over the Carrara marbletop table and antique dining chairs.
56. Backsplash with open shelving
Architect Deborah Berke and designer Thomas O’Brien included a striking marble backsplash as an ingeniously way to allow the open shelving play second fiddle to the gorgeous black-and-white marble slab in this Hamptons house’s kitchen.
57. Colorful tile
The rooftop kitchen in art dealer Dorothea McKenna Elkon and designer Salem Grassi’s Moroccan home is decorated with antique blue-and-yellow square tiles that contrast beautifully against the copper-hued plaster walls.
58. Harlequin backsplash
In this New Orleans house, the kitchen is outfitted with a black-and-white tile backsplash and matching floors that embrace the check pattern on a larger scale. Instead of being sensory overload, the complementary backsplash and floors wind up giving the room an anchored elegance.
59. Antique square tile
In Gisele Bündchen Los Angeles home, antique Tunisian tile from Exquisite Surfaces was used as a focal point behind the range rather than spanning the entire wall. The lively blue-and-maroon pattern is paired with Formations pendant lights, marble countertops, custom-made alder cabinetry, and an oak kitchen island.
60. Subway tile
Subway tile works as a safe backdrop for Nate Berkus’s Manhattan kitchen. The designer employed dark grout to contrast with the bright white tiles, allowing the rich-hued kitchen cabinets to refine the space, but still afford laid-back ambience.
61. Rustic tile
A stately kitchen deserves a backsplash worthy of its stature. Iconic designer Bunny Williams sheathed the stovetop space with antique Italian tiles from Michael Trapp to further enhance the rustic notes of this Virginia house.
62. Painted glass
In the kitchen of a Manhattan apartment by Jennifer Post, a painted-glass backsplash complements the Poggenpohl cabinetry and Corian counters. A framed print by Mary Heilmann plays up the color scheme.
63. Stainless steel
Stainless steel is more durable than chrome plating, but chrome plating creates a shinier surface. In a New York residence by ODA, the kitchen’s red-lacquer cabinetry and Snaidero stainless steel counters and backsplash compliment the streamlined architecture.
64. Metallic tile
The metallic Ann Sacks tile adds sparkle and contrasts to the black elements, especially in a small kitchen, like this one by Ray Booth in Nashville. Roman Thomas pendant lights are installed above the Booth-designed kitchen island add welcome contrast.
65. A continuous countertop and backsplash
“Using the same material as your countertop for a backsplash creates a very clean and sleek look for a kitchen,” says Grey Joyner, an interior designer in Wilson, North Carolina, who thinks this trend is here to stay. “A continuous countertop and backsplash can really make a kitchen appear more open.” The seamless transition of this backsplash design allows for a smooth transition from countertop to backsplash, and thus allows for bolder choices in cabinetry, wall treatments, and other design elements in the space. Bonus: It’s also a cinch to clean.
66. Basalt backsplash
The dark stone backsplash adds drama and organic beauty to the space. Designer and antiques dealer Richard Shapiro used basalt for both the countertops and the backsplash in his open-plan kitchen in Malibu.
67. Gradient subway tile
Neutral Waterworks tile is the perfect complement to the marble countertop and waterfall island, as seen in this Northern California home conceived by San Francisco–based interior designer Steven Volpe.
68. Granite
A Marmol Radziner–designed kitchen in Beverly Hills is outfitted with a granite backsplash and countertops. The hue of the granite adds to the warmth created by the walnut cabinetry.
69. Custom mosaic
For ultimate backsplash bonanza, follow in the steps of singer John Legend and supermodel Chrissy Teigen, who added custom-made backsplash by Mosaic Sphere Studio under the tutelage of designer Don Stewart. The floral motif softens the room's industrial elements, such as the island and stools. For your own mosaic surprise, explore New Ravenna’s ready-to ship collection.
70. Speckled tile
“Understatement is the statement,” says Wendy Word, interior designer and founder of Wendy Word Design in Manhattan Beach, California. “With the variety of entertaining styles at home, a flashy statement tile is no longer the direction. A backsplash that is subdued and used extensively evokes a feeling or experience rather than a memory of strictly the backsplash material.” Word says to consider the backsplash as a canvas to the kitchen, then layer in elements to work as an artist's palette of color and expression. Adding speckled tile will keep it from looking flat.
71. Picturesque
To add a bit of oomph and character to an otherwise small kitchen, consider an elaborate backsplash design with a tiled image. Stick to a small-scaled storyline, like this tiled estate inside a Chester, England, home decorated by Mark Gillette.
72. Unexpectedly bold backsplash
Georgie Smith and Hilary Gibbs, cofounders of LIVDEN, a modern tile manufacturer, know that going with bolder backsplashes not only adds vibrancy, but can also be a budget-friendly kitchen remodel hack. "Only utilizing the tile above the range creates an impactful focal point and can still completely transform your kitchen," Smith says.
