You may not have given it much thought, but the kitchen backsplash is one of the best places for introducing color, pattern, and texture into the room. Whether you choose the always popular subway tile or another trending look, the possibilities are endless. Quietly understated or in-your-face bold, there’s a kitchen backsplash idea that is just right for your kitchen remodeling project.
Modern Kitchen Backsplash Ideas
Today’s backsplashes do much more than protecting walls from splatters – they’re the focal point of the kitchen. They are often stunning works of art, too, featuring eye-catching materials like metal, stone, wood, or glass. Here are just a few examples of how homeowners are taking a functional feature and using it to express their personal style.
Backlit Onyx
Why not take advantage of onyx’s unique translucent beauty and create a stunning visual centerpiece through the use of backlighting? LED lights installed behind onyx make a dramatic statement, so you may want to limit it to one smaller area, such as above the cooktop.
Back Painted or Printed Glass
A hot backsplash idea that’s been used in Europe for the last several years, the back painted or printed backsplash in gaining popularity in the States, especially for contemporary kitchens (no grout lines means a nice smooth look). The image below is from a recent McDermott Remodeling project.
The concept is simple: a sheet of glass is painted in whatever color you choose and then installed above your countertops. Some manufacturers bake the finish on, which is a more durable design.
Easy to clean and maintain, it’s important to have this type of backsplash put in by someone skilled in its installation. Care must be taken that no dust or other debris falls behind the glass while it’s being installed, as there’s no way to get it out once 
the backsplash is put in place. Options include a full-height, half-height, or 6-inch backsplash, and keep in mind that there are size limitations. If you want to run this type of backsplash along a very long wall, you may need to use two pieces, which will have a seam where they come together.
Some homeowners choose a printed pattern or place posters or materials behind the glass. The options are truly limitless. Another benefit: glass backsplashes beautifully reflect light, which can be a real plus in kitchens without much natural light. (left)
Plexiglass
Typically seen in restaurant settings, plexiglass backsplashes are a great option if you want to display a collection of items, such as antique silverware, bottle caps, coasters, corks, and photos. This creative concept works best in a smaller area as opposed to the entire room, since it might otherwise overwhelm and detract from the rest of the kitchen.
Stainless Steel
This is a fantastic design choice, especially when used behind the cooktop. Stylish and scratch resistant, a stainless-steel backsplash can transform an outdated kitchen into a modern masterpiece! It works well with virtually every color palette and looks particularly stunning when used with darker wood cabinets.
Cohesive Countertop and Backsplash
Another stylish approach is to create a seamless look by extending your countertop material up the wall to create a backsplash. It’s a terrific look, but keep in mind that, unlike glass and metal, natural stones require sealing.
Other interesting backsplash choices include recessed niches, ledges, or alcoves like the ones installed inside a shower. This option works well behind the cooktop and is great for keeping olive oil and other frequently used items close at hand.
Learn More
The real secret to making the best use of your backsplash? Understanding that it’s never just about the backsplash – it’s how it interacts with the rest of the room. Whether your dream kitchen is rustic and cozy or modern and sleek, one of these backsplash ideas is sure to have you covered.
If you’re ready to get started on your kitchen remodeling project and would like to learn more about the wonderful world of backsplashes, schedule a consultation with one of our designers today. We look forward to meeting with you!
