#14 Kitchen Backsplash Ideas That Refresh Your Space

A kitchen can look finished without a backsplash, and sometimes a clean coat of (washable) paint is what best executes a design. But at the same time, there’s also an opportunity to use the space to anchor the overall design of the room.

While countertops, flooring and cabinets are generally places to keep it simple, the backsplash is a good place to inject some personal style, whether that’s with a mosaic feature or a bold color. And since that wall literally connects the countertops with the cabinets it’s also a place to tie everything together.

Do you really need a one? Not really. But you’ll inevitably get that wall dirty while cooking or washing dishes, and an easy-to-clean surface can make messes easier to wipe up, especially if your stove doesn’t have a one built in. And almost any type of material can work–from bamboo to corkboard–as long as it’s properly sealed.

Whether you’re remodeling your entire or kitchen or just looking to refresh the space, we’ve narrowed down a few different kitchen backsplash ideas.

Our Top Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

• Ceramic tile
• Stainless steel
• Mosaics and focal points
• Stone
• Brick
• Solid glass
• Uncommon materials

Ceramic Tile

Given the numerous shapes, sizes and colors available, ceramic tile is probably the most versatile option (it’s also proven to be timeless). There’s plenty of room to play with patterns while still maintaining clean lines: stack tiles in columns, stagger them, or lay them at an angle. Most tile requires minimal maintenance, just be sure to seal the grout so it doesn’t get stained or absorb water.

Stainless Steel

Mosaics and Focal Points

Stone

Brick

Solid Glass

Glass backsplashes are quickly becoming more popular in kitchen design for a number of reasons: they’re inexpensive, modern, low maintenance and easy to customize. Glass offers a seamless, uninterrupted surface that has the added bonus of reflecting light, which helps to brighten up the room.

Uncommon Materials

When choosing a backsplash it’s best to think about what you want in the space. Are you a big cook? You’ll want something that doesn’t stain or require hours of scrubbing to clean up. On a budget? Intersperse a pricier tile you like with a cheaper option. After a high resale value? Skip the focal point and stick to something simple with clean lines. Nervous about color? Pick a bold paint color to use on walls instead.