Even if deciding to tackle a kitchen renovation is easy, picking the details of that renovation can be less so—especially when it comes to picking just one backsplash tile idea. The addition of a kitchen backsplash can take a space from pretty standard to completely impressive, but it's a challenging choice for such a small-scale add-on.
With kitchen trends constantly shifting, being confident that a backsplash tile idea will last as long as the kitchen does isn't always a sure thing. Trends in larger kitchen features such as appliances, countertops, and kitchen cabinet paint colors seem to be all over the place. They pop up, disappear, and then make a comeback every few years, and kitchen backsplash designs are in the same boat.
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Of course, with more kitchen backsplash ideas floating around, it's more important than ever to know which ones suit your style and taste. Subway tiles aren't the only trending choice anymore.
Take a look at these kitchen backsplashes and decide which eye-catching look will give your kitchen that perfect, polished finish.
Colorful Mosaic Backsplash
A wide swath of colorful tile centered around the oven shift out to a more subtle color scheme elsewhere in the kitchen in this cool, cubed mosaic backsplash.
Basketweave Backsplash
Glass and marble tiles combine to create a cool basketweave pattern for a kitchen backsplash.
Green Backsplash
Dark green has become a red-hot addition to kitchens—it's a bold color, yet still on the neutral side. Running the kitchen backsplash tile all the way from floor to ceiling gives the kitchen a cohesive (and cozy) vibe.
Penny Tile Backsplash
Tiny penny tiles with a metallic finish add a little extra glam to this bar backsplash.
Textured Backsplash
Go 3D with your backsplash with textured tiles that make simple white tiles more intriguing.
Floral Backsplash
If you want a kitchen backsplash that'll take center stage, consider tiles that feature patterns, like this pretty floral motif that gives off vintage vibes.
Teak Backsplash
While ceramic, glass, and porcelain tiles tend to be used in backsplashes, teak can also be a viable option, as it's water resistant and easy to clean. (And we love the honeycomb pattern detail!)
Coffin Tile Backsplash
Using uniquely shaped tiles—such as these coffin-shaped ones—is a simple kitchen backsplash idea that'll still create plenty of punch. (Use a darker grout to help highlight the shape.)
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Artistic Backsplash
Don't be afraid to mix and match tiles—just stick within a similar color scheme, as this backsplash does with an array of different organic designs.
Speckled Backsplash
Using speckled natural tile elevates this on-trend chevron backsplash.
Sea Glass Backsplash
Designing a coastal kitchen? These soft aqua tiles give the backsplash a sea glass look that's perfect for a beach house (or for someone who dreams of living at the shore).
Iridescent Pastel Backsplash
The soft hues and the subtle glow from the iridescent finger tiles creates a backsplash that'll change with the light.
Matte Backsplash
Using matte tiles (like these simple hexagon tiles) is a sophisticated choice that (bonus!) can help hide a bit of dirt and grime.
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Leafy Backsplash
This gorgeous, nature-inspired backsplash becomes a focal point when paired with muted cabinets.
Diamond Backsplash
Turn square tiles into a (literally) on point kitchen backsplash idea by shifting them to a diamond shape.
Vertical Backsplash
Putting the tiles at a different angle (such as this vertical placement of finger tiles) can give your kitchen backsplash a whole new look.
Floor Tile Backsplash
This may have been an oops on the part of the kitchen contractor, but we're digging this floor tile pattern as a backsplash.
Vintage Tin Ceiling Backsplash
These textured tiles look like old-school tin ceiling squares—making them perfect for a vintage kitchen.
Hexagonal Backsplash
Hexagonal tiles are a classic look that's making a big comeback—and this stylish backsplash opts for patterned tiles in lieu of solid hues to help make the backsplash pop.
Art Deco Backsplash
This silver, black, and white triangular kitchen backsplash is giving major Art Deco vibes.
Natural Kitchen Backsplash
A natural stone backsplash can be a real statement piece in your kitchen.
Marble Backsplash
If you love the marble you chose for your countertop, you can use a swath of it as a gorgeous backsplash.
Ombre Backsplash
If you can't decide on a color (or just love a lot of color in general!), opt for an ombre look, with bands of different color intensities. Rather than do standard stripes, you can make the transition from one color to the next a little more organic to keep it interesting.
Color-Coordinated Backsplash
When you're picking tiles, don't forget to think about the whole picture. This stunning tile backsplash perfectly complements the painted cabinets, wall color, and brushed metal handles.
Retro Backsplash
A bright and bold mosaic pattern gives the kitchen a retro look and feel, especially when paired with red appliances.
Colorful Backsplash
Colorful ombre tiles, arranged in a striking vertical pattern, make this sleek backsplash the perfect backdrop for a set of open shelves.
Sunburst Backsplash
Navy blue sun shapes make this tile backsplash a standout.
Terrazzo Backsplash
Sturdy terrazzo makes a stylish kitchen backsplash idea—and you can find it with subtle flecks or bolder hues like in this kitchen.
Stainless Steel Backsplash
Sleek, classic, and durable, stainless steel isn't just for appliances—or for commercial kitchens.
Bubble Backsplash
Colorful glass bubbles in on-trend 1970s hues of orange, gold, and rust brighten up a basic kitchen.
Ovalesque Backsplash
The rounded ends of these tiles add a little extra flair to this backsplash. Consider unexpected shapes to add some wow to your kitchen.
Organic Backsplash
Kitchen backsplashes don't have to end in a straight line. These starburst tiles extend out into a unique pattern that becomes an artistic statement on the kitchen wall.
Peel-and-Stick Backsplash
Want to change up your backsplash without the mess of tiling? Peel and stick tiles can help you DIY a kitchen refresh.
Vinyl Backsplash
Tired of tile? Vinyl wallcovering can be a cost-effective kitchen backsplash for people on a budget, and it's easy to clean away splashes and stains.
Beadboard Backsplash
For that modern farmhouse look, nothing beats beadboard, especially when paired with a charming set of hooks.
Chalkboard Backsplash
Chalkboard paint can help make a more durable surface for a backsplash—and may be one of the most budget-friendly kitchen backsplash ideas around. (And bonus: You can change out the look with your own artwork whenever inspiration strikes.)
Wallpaper Backsplash
Wallpaper may not be the best choice for behind the sink or stove, but in places less likely to have splashes or spills, it can make a gorgeous backsplash.
Black-and-White Backsplash
You don't have to go with bright colors to make a big statement, as this black-and-white design shows. (Plus, we love the idea of mirroring the backsplash with a treatment along the top of the wall.)
Bright Floral Backsplash
Penny tiles can be arranged in fun patterns (like this bright floral motif) to add character to a vintage-style kitchen. (It also pairs perfectly with the penny tile countertop.)
Gray Backsplash
Is gray the new white? Maybe not, but a pop of gray can spice up an all-white kitchen. (Bonus points if it has an irregular shape, like these kite-shaped tiles.)
Blue Backsplash
Textured blue tiles with complementary accent tiles in a standard rectangular shape make this kitchen backsplash a focal point for the space.
Moroccan-style Tile Backsplash
Painted tiles in an irregular pattern create a Moroccan tile backsplash. Small-scale patterns can lend a space energy, while a large-scale pattern has a more soothing, laidback feel.
Brick Backsplash
Exposed brick is still trending, and the faded, rustic look of this brick backsplash brings new energy to white cabinetry and countertops.
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White Kitchen Backsplash
All-white kitchens aren't as popular as they once were, but white kitchen backsplashes are still having a moment. Pair with colored cabinets to avoid a washed-out look.
Herringbone Backsplash
Give backsplash tiles of any color an unexpected arrangement with a herringbone backsplash pattern. Try alternating colors or finishes (glossy and matte, for example) for extra pizazz.
Wood Backsplash
Paired with a monochromatic room, a wood backsplash of natural or finished wood adds a pop of color that also helps to warm up a space.
Subway Tile Backsplash
This tried-and-true backsplash tile idea is still going strong. Try subway tiles with dark grout for a contemporary, casual look, or white grout for a more sleek, elegant vibe.
Black Backsplash
A black backsplash is a surprising twist that will have every visitor admiring your daring. Try tiles with varying finishes for a slightly softer look, or go with a uniform tile for a sharp, contemporary kitchen.
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Glass Tile Backsplash
Glass tile has a lighter, gentler look than porcelain. Try it for an elevated, almost ethereal backsplash.
Mosaic Tile Backsplash
Mosaic might be a little retro, but in the right kitchen, these little tiles pop.
Turquoise Backsplash
For a pop of color in your kitchen, try a turquoise backsplash. Pair with tan kitchen cabinets to show off the turquoise color.
Geometric Star Backsplash
This geometric backsplash style brings a star shape to your kitchen. With the black and white colors, this adds a subtle yet bold pattern.
Olive Green Backsplash
If you love darker colors in your kitchen, add an olive green tile backsplash for some color. This style features a herringbone pattern to show various shades of olive green colors. Try olive green tiles with dark kitchen countertops for an elevated look.
Arabesque Cement Tile Backsplash
Arabesque cement tiles paired with muted tones make for a fresh, bright kitchen. This beautiful sage green color kitchen cabinets looks elegant with the white arabesque cement tile backsplash.
Neutral Backsplash
If you love a simple neutral color, try this beige tile backsplash in your kitchen. Pair with black island cabinets to create some contrast in your space.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the most popular backsplash for a kitchen?
Traditionally, simple ceramic tile has been the go-to, but Heather Goerzen, lead designer at Havenly, says there's a new popular pick. "Marble countertops that flow into a seamless backsplash are incredibly popular! The look is ultra-modern, texture-rich, luxe, and incredibly beautiful—especially in a more timeless cut of marble, like carrara."
2. Should the backsplash be lighter or darker than the countertop?
"Generally speaking, it’s all about contrast here," Goerzen says. "If the countertop is dark, go light with the backsplash, and vice versa. A white subway tile backsplash set against a black marble or quartz, for example, adds eye-catching contrast and ensures color variation in the kitchen overall."
3. What is the easiest backsplash to install in a kitchen?
If you want to stick with traditional tile, look for square shapes, which can be easier to line up and cut. But you'll find a lot of different options out there that may be easier to install, such as a paint effects like chalkboard paint, peel-and-stick tiles, and beadboard or other wood backsplashes.
4. What is the most timeless kitchen backsplash that won't go out of style?
It's more about color than style. "A backsplash in a neutral color palette, such as whites, grays, blacks, and even hints of beige or tan, are definitely a timeless choice," Goerzen says. "These hues are always in style and will blend seamlessly with any style or decor upgrades."
5. What backsplash color is the most popular for a kitchen?
"In recent years, we’ve seen an uptick in colorful backsplash, which is a trend that we are so happy to see home owner’s embracing," says Lindsay Biondo, principal designer and owner of Houzof Rebel. "Kitchen cabinets tend to be in a neutral color like white, gray, or cream, so the [colorful] backsplash is the perfect opportunity to incorporate a fun pattern, texture, or color into your kitchen." If you like to stick to your neutral colors, white is also very popular. "White backsplashes are classic and timeless. They provide a clean, bright look that can complement any kitchen style, from modern to traditional. They also make the space appear larger and more open," explains Kallie Green, interior designer at Dwellify.
6. What are the best places to shop for kitchen backsplash tiles?
Since texture is an important part of making a tile purchase decision, it is recommended to see tile backsplash in person. "I love purchasing authentic Zellig tiles from the Zellij Gallery in West Hollywood," explains Caren Rideau, owner of the Kitchen Design Group. "If you opt for a unique online retailer like Clay Imports, Cle Tile, or Zia Tile, we recommend ordering samples before making a final decision," says Barrett Oswald, principal designer and partner for Barrett Oswald Designs.
