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77 Inspiring Kitchen Backsplash Ideas for 2024

By: Andrew Saladino | Clock. 21 min
December 1st, 2023

Modern kitchen with brown tile kitchen backsplash behind range.

There are so many decisions to make when remodeling your kitchen. From picking the right cabinetry for your space to finding a countertop that fits your lifestyle, redesigning your kitchen can be stressful.

Whether you're looking to remodel your entire kitchen or just want to add a little pizzazz, these kitchen backsplash ideas can make all the difference in your space. With hundreds of options to choose from, it can be difficult to pick the right backsplash for your kitchen and design style. That's why we created this comprehensive guide to the 77 most inspiring kitchen backsplash ideas expected to gain popularity in 2024.

We cover everything from timeless classics to charming and cozy concepts to unorthodox, statement-making applications. We also include tips to consider like durability and cleaning practices.

1. Classic White Subway Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Kitchen with white tile backsplash and white cabinets.

It's not a coincidence that this is the first backsplash option on our list. White subway tile has become an increasingly popular choice and it's easy to see why. It's versatile yet classic, always in stock and one of the easier patterns to install for a professional or experienced DIYer. To achieve this look, the white tiles are laid in an offset pattern and can be finished off with white, gray, or black grout depending on the effect you're looking to achieve. Classic white subway tile looks great in modern farmhouse kitchens as well as modern and traditional spaces.

2. Colored Subway Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Kitchen with emerald green tile backsplash with shelves and green plants.

If you like the pattern of the subway tile but are looking for a bit more oomph, draw inspiration from this beautiful jungalow style kitchen. Jungalow is a style created by lifestyle blogger Justina Blakeney who combined the terms "jungle" and "bungalow" to describe her design aesthetic. The emerald-colored backsplash covering the wall from the counters up to the rustic wooden shelves creates a beautiful contrast to the white shaker style cabinets. You can pick from a variety of colors to complement the other elements in your kitchen and your personal style. From green to blue or even a dark red, a colored backsplash will certainly spruce your kitchen up.

3. Spanish Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Mediterranean-style kitchen backsplash with blue and green textile patterns and hanging kitchen accessories.

To bring some Mediterranean flair into your home, opt for Spanish or Portuguese tile. This type of backsplash looks beautiful in rustic or eclectic kitchens and can be used to cover the whole surface or an accent wall behind the stove. Colors like dark blue, rich green, or lively terracotta characterize the beautifully crafted clay or ceramic tiles. Because there are so many interesting patterns and colors available, this tile will turn your backsplash into a gorgeous eyecatcher.

4. Recycled Glass Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

White kitchen with shiny gray kitchen backsplash tiles made from recycled glass.

Glass tiles are the perfect choice for an eco-friendly kitchen design. They're non-absorptive, making them easy to clean, reflect light into the room, and are available in an array of colors. While they are on the more expensive side (up to $20 per square foot compared to prices as low as $2 for regular tile), they help the environment because the material is generally recycled from old bottles, windows, or jars.

5. Colorful Mosaic Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Mosaic tile kitchen backsplash with blue, green, and teal square patterns.

If you want to add a fun element to an otherwise simplistic kitchen, a colorful mosaic tile is a great choice. Pick a color palette that complements the other elements in your kitchen like your counters and cabinets. In this kitchen, the butcher block countertops and light wood cabinets pair beautifully with the white, mint green, and dark green mosaic tiles. In a contemporary kitchen, a simple black and white mosaic tile can create a dramatic yet elegant feature. Order a few different samples and hold them up next to your countertops and cabinets to find out what color palette looks best and makes you happy.

6. Diamond Shape

Backsplash Type: Tile

Kitchen with white cabinets and gray diamond pattern backsplash.

If you're looking to add drama to your kitchen, a bold backsplash can do the trick! In this case, the charcoal-colored backsplash creates a perfect contrast to the white shaker style cabinets. The grout color matches the tiles, which creates a soft look and helps balance the geometric diamond shape of the tiles. Depending on how you lay your tile, you can create the illusion of a longer or taller backsplash.

7. Hexagon Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

White tile hexagon-shaped kitchen kitchen backsplash.

For a sleek but eye-catching backsplash, pick a small white hexagon tile and white grout. The uniform color will even out the busy pattern and add just the right amount of liveliness to your modern, Scandinavian, or minimalist kitchen. Combined with white shaker style cabinets and a white quartz or quartzite countertop, you'll achieve a clean and timeless design. If you like the shape of the hexagon but are looking for a bit more color, you can create a beautiful design by opting for a colorful tile with white grout. Choose a dark green for a bohemian kitchen or a light blue for a coastal vibe.

8. Chevron Pattern

Backsplash Type: Tile

White chevron-patterned backsplash tile cut at and laid diagonally.

To achieve this gorgeous pattern, you will have to cut your tiles at just the right angle. Cutting tiles can be tricky, and if you don't know what you're doing, you may end up breaking them. In this case, hiring a professional for help may save you money. To achieve the chevron style, you'll have to lay the precisely cut tiles next to each other, forming a joint 45-degree angle. Installation will cost you slightly more than regular tile, but you'll end up with a stunning backsplash.

9. Horizontally Stacked Pattern

Backsplash Type: Tile

Blue kitchen backsplash with horizontal tiles.

In a contemporary or modern home, stacked backsplash tile can create a gorgeous feature. Rather than installing each tile slightly offset as you would for the classic subway style, the tiles are horizontally stacked on top of each other. This pattern can look quite sleek or very modern, depending on the type of tile you use. A longer, darker tile will elongate the space and create a sophisticated feature, while a thicker, white tile will keep your space more on the traditional side.

10. Vertically Stacked Pattern

Backsplash Type: Tile

Blue kitchen backsplash with vertical tiles.

If you want to create the illusion of space, try stacking your backsplash tiles vertically. This style can add a refreshing touch to your kitchen and will look phenomenal if carried all the way up to the ceiling. If your space feels very busy, opting for a vertically stacked tile pattern will help create more balance.

11. Herringbone Pattern

Backsplash Type: Tile

Black and white herringbone pattern kitchen backsplash.

Although this pattern looks a lot like chevron, you won't have to cut your tiles for this backsplash design. The herringbone pattern looks beautiful whether you choose white, gray, black, or colored rectangular tiles. It's not the easiest pattern to lay, especially if you're doing it yourself and don't have prior experience with this kind of work. Hiring a tile installer may be your best choice if you want a clean finish and a backsplash you love. Because you can use standard rectangular tiles for this look, the herringbone pattern is a great way to create a showstopper backsplash when you're on a budget.

12. Floral Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Kitchen backsplash with white and gray floral tile pattern.

For a refreshing and certainly unique backsplash, consider a floral tile. Whether you go for a subtle pattern that's barely noticeable or pick a more obvious tile that becomes the focal point of your design, floral tile looks great in eclectic, bohemian, or contemporary kitchens.

13. Penny Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Modern kitchen with green cooking pot on top of stove, brown countertops, and black and white penny tile backsplash.

Penny tile got its name from the size of the individual tile pieces but don't worry, you won't have to install this backsplash piece by piece! This tile usually comes in sheets that are at least 10 inches by 10 inches and relatively easy to install. You can move the individual tiles before the mortar dries so the backsplash looks perfectly even. This tile can look quite busy even when choosing a simple color and matching grout, so it looks best in an otherwise simplistic kitchen.

14. Square Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Black and gray square tile kitchen backsplash and gas stove top.

Square tile is a great option for a traditional, farmhouse, or retro kitchen. This shape can give off a slight vintage vibe, so pair it with a butcher block, quartz, or concrete countertop and sleek cabinetry to avoid an outdated finish. In a retro kitchen, you can contrast white tile with dark grout, and in a modern farmhouse kitchen, pick a lighter grout color to achieve a fresh and modern feel.

15. Beveled Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

All black rectangular beveled tile backsplash in modern kitchen with white cabinets and tan countertops.

For anyone who loves to add small design details that make a significant difference in a space, beveled tile is a great option. This tile is characterized by the gentle slopes that run down the edges. An entire backsplash with beveled tile gives the feature more depth and creates an interesting and elegant texture.

16. Antique Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Classic kitchen with gas stove, brown cabinets, and mosaic antique tile backsplash against square subway tile wall.

Using antique or reclaimed tiles to create your kitchen backsplash has many benefits. The tiles carry a unique history that you can bring into your home, they tend to be more durable because they're often made from high-grade marble dust, sand, or cement, and they're an environmentally friendly choice. Whether you create an eclectic mosaic out of a variety of tiles or find enough of the same material to install a cohesive backsplash, this option can save you money and will guarantee a unique design.

17. Blue and White Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Modern kitchen with white cupboards and blue and white tile backsplash with gas stove oven in the middle.

In a cottage style kitchen, a soft blue and white backsplash can bring warmth, charm, and character into the space. Pick a soft blue hue that complements the color of your cabinets and hardware to achieve a cohesive look.

18. Ceramic Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Modern kitchen with gold faucet, marble countertops, white cabinets, and white ceramic tile kitchen backsplash.

Ceramic tiles come in a wide variety of colors and design patterns, including herringbone, subway, mosaic, and more. White, beige, and gray colors provide a classic yet understated tone for a neutral look, while bold and vibrant colors add personality. Because they require less upkeep, are less expensive than other types of tiles, and are simple to clean, ceramic tiles are an excellent choice.

19. Porcelain Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Traditional kitchen with green porcelain tile backsplash.

Porcelain tile is a great backsplash option to make your kitchen stand out. Porcelain offers a wide range of design possibilities that imitate common materials like stone or wood, giving your backsplash an adaptable look. Porcelain is often confused with ceramic tile, though porcelain is far more resistant to moisture damage than ceramic, which means it's less likely to chip or crack over time. Pick from subtle shades for warmth and comfort or vivid, sparkling colors for vibrancy.

20. Terracotta Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Modern kitchen with white cabinets and rustic brown terracotta tile kitchen backsplash.

Many people find terracotta appealing because of its authentic clay material and rustic beauty. The word "terracotta" in Italian means "baked in earth.," so these tiles are perfect for a warm, inviting Mediterranean ambiance. They're also ideal for various aesthetics, including farmhouse, traditional, and bohemian, and they are highly durable.

21. Wood-Look Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Modern kitchen with diagonal wood look kitchen backsplash tile.

Wood-look tiles replicate the appearance of natural wood, but they are usually made of ceramic or porcelain. They give your kitchen a timeless and classic look by imitating the colors, knots, and textures of hardwood. Wood-look tiles are available in various finishes and styles - this versatility means they'll work in any kitchen's overall design. They also require far less maintenance than raw wood.

22. Checkerboard Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Modern kitchen with black and white checkerboard tiles, shelves, and kitchen accessories.

Checkerboard tiles are often used in retro and classic 1980s styles, making them a staple interior design look. Checkerboard tiles can be made from many materials, such as ceramic, porcelain, marble, or even vinyl, meaning you can choose tiles that match your kitchen aesthetic.

23. Arabesque Tile

Backsplash Type: Tile

Kitchen interior with gray countertops, white cabinets, kitchen decor, and arabesque mosaic tile backsplash.

Arabesque tile originated in the Middle East, influenced by ancient Islamic and Moorish art. This design style stands out and adds a sense of luxury to your kitchen with its rhythmic and curved patterns. You can create a unique backsplash as a stand-alone design or pair this style with other materials like subway tiles, mosaics, or a contrasting border to personalize the design. Select an arabesque tile that fits your style and budget from various materials, including ceramic, glass, porcelain, and marble.

24. White Shiplap

Backsplash Type: Wood

Open kitchen with island, granite countertops, and white Shiplap wood kitchen backsplash and walls.

If your dream kitchen is a rustic but modern farmhouse style, white shiplap à la Joanna Gaines can be a great backsplash option. Whether you use it for a feature wall, to surround your stove top, or for the entire length of your backsplash, the white wood planks add charm and warmth to your space.

25. Wood Planks

Backsplash Type: Wood

Farmhouse kitchen with hardwood flooring, wooden shelves, and wood plank backsplash.

If you're not a fan of the shiplap style but want to incorporate wood into your backsplash, consider wood planks instead. You can install them without an overlay and stain the wood however you like. Depending on the way you orient the planks you can elongate the room (horizontal) or make the ceilings feel taller (vertical).

26. Beadboard

Backsplash Type: Wood

Colorful, rustic wooden planks arranged vertically for beadboard kitchen backsplash decor.

The beadboard style is characterized by long slats of wood that are usually 2 1/2 inches wide and are arranged vertically. Because each slat has a tongue on one side and a groove on the other, the planks are connected in a distinctive pattern that is a popular choice for wainscoting (wall paneling), cabinet doors, or a backsplash.

27. Reclaimed Wood

Backsplash Type: Wood

Light, gray, and tan, horizontal rustic reclaimed wood planks.

Reclaimed wood or barnyard wood is another beautiful way to use eco-friendly material and reconnect with nature. For an easier installation and a better hold, you can attach the scrap or reclaimed wood pieces to a panel. To protect the wood from grease and grime, sand it down and apply an even coat of walnut oil, tung oil, or linseed oil. Let it cure for one day and apply at least three coats total.

28. Plywood

Backsplash Type: Wood

Kitchen with wooden cabinets, wooden backsplash, stovetop, oven, and kitchen accessories.

The biggest advantage of using plywood over wood planks is the price tag. A sheet of plywood typically costs around $15-$40, depending on wood type and thickness. Cut the pieces to size and install them with construction adhesive and nails. You can caulk any gaps and then paint the engineered wood for an even finish.

29. Granite Slab

Backsplash Type: Stone

Kitchen with white granite slab backsplash and cabinets with drinking glasses.

Besides the fact that this material is easy to clean and heat resistant, it's also easy to match to a granite countertop. The seamless effect that you can achieve by carrying this natural stone up the wall makes designing your kitchen a breeze. After all, you can scratch two items off your list at the same time! In terms of longevity, this material will not let you down. If you seal the stone periodically (about once a year), it won't stain and will stay scratch resistant.

30. Rough Stone

Backsplash Type: Stone

Modern kitchen with beige and white rough stone backsplash,wooden cabinets and drawers, stovetop, and kitchen utensils.

In a kitchen that leans more toward the industrial and rustic design, a rough stone backsplash can create just the vibe you're looking for. While not as simple as exposed brick, a rough stone tile will add texture and depth to the space. Keep in mind that this surface may be more difficult to clean, so consider using a different backsplash for the area behind your stove or protecting it with a glass sheet.

31. Concrete Slab

Backsplash Type: Stone

Kitchen with gray concrete slab backsplash and black faucet.

A concrete slab backsplash will look great in an industrial, bohemian, or rustic kitchen. Because it's so versatile, this material is very trendy. A concrete backsplash will add texture, depth, and a bit of an edgy vibe to your decor. You can match the countertops for a cohesive look or match a concrete backsplash with a solid white surface or butcher block counters. Like most stone materials, concrete is heat resistant and needs to be sealed about once a year to remain unaffected by stains or scratches.

32. Marble Slab

Backsplash Type: Stone

White kitchen with open windows and marble slab backsplash.

For more eye-catching kitchen backsplash ideas, marble is the way to go. Marble is quite a polarizing material - you either love it or don't understand the appeal. While marble slabs look absolutely stunning and create a luxurious look, you can also install marble tile if you like the material but don't want your backsplash to be too fancy. The material is prone to scratching and staining, so it's vital that you seal it every year to protect the beautiful stone. Failure to do so can result in the marble absorbing liquids that can cause permanent discoloration. Given that this material is not the cheapest on the market, you'll want to maintain it well to give it a long and happy life in your kitchen.

33. Natural Brick

Backsplash Type: Stone

Kitchen with black cabinets and drawers and a brick wall backsplash.

In an industrial home, you may already have exposed brick walls that look beautiful as a backsplash. If you don't live in a home with brick walls but still want a rustic brick backsplash, you can use brick veneer to create this look. Brick veneer will give the illusion of real brick without being several inches thick.

34. Painted Brick

Backsplash Type: Stone

Modern kitchen with light hardwood floors, a gray brick backsplash, and gray doors and cabinets.

An easy way to update your exposed brick walls or create an interesting feature with brick veneer is to paint the stone. You can give it a whitewash for a modern farmhouse look or paint the bricks in a solid color like white, blue, or green to completely transform your kitchen.

35. Travertine

Backsplash Type: Stone

Kitchen with golden sink faucet, beige and white countertops, beige and white travertine backsplash, and wine glasses above.

Travertine is a sedimentary rock, and this type of tile is a great choice for elegant, sophisticated kitchens. The soft and natural color palette complements nearly every type of cabinetry and countertop material. For a traditional kitchen, choose medium brown cabinets and travertine backsplash; if you're looking for an elegant style, white shaker cabinets are the better option.

36. Quartz or Quartzite

Backsplash Type: Stone

Kitchen with quartz backsplash and countertops.

Here's the deal: if you like the marble look but don't want to pay the big bucks, pick quartz or quartzite for your backsplash! While the veining in marble is real, the artificially created veins in quartz allow for a more controlled look. Quartz will cut your backsplash budget down to a third compared to marble, and you can still order it as a slab if you're looking for that seamless look. Besides, quartz is much more durable than marble and won't absorb moisture or scratch.

37. Limestone

Backsplash Type: Stone

Farmhouse kitchen with wooden cabinets, marble countertops, and multi-colored limestone backsplash on a tan wall.

Limestone tile is a beautiful backsplash option for traditional, modern, or contemporary kitchens. The natural material is environmentally friendly because the manufacturing process is relatively short. Plus, it's easy to clean and absorbs heat. Compared to other natural stones, this material and the installation are fairly cost-effective.

38. Faux Stone

Backsplash Type: Stone

Elegant kitchen with gas stove, marble countertops, and white and gray faux stone backsplash.

A faux stone backsplash resembles natural stone, such as marble or travertine, but it's much more budget-friendly, lightweight, and straightforward to install. Faux stone complements any kitchen style due to its various textures, patterns, and color options. For those who don't want to commit to regularly resealing natural stone, faux stone backsplashes are an adaptable, low-maintenance alternative. To create a dramatic yet cozy kitchen atmosphere, use faux stone tiles with striking colors or patterns or install lighting fixtures to highlight the texture of your design.

39. Soapstone Slab

Backsplash Type: Stone

Modern kitchen with dark brown cabinets, gray countertops, white cabinets above sink, and gray soapstone backsplash.

A dramatic soapstone slab as a backsplash can create a statement piece in your kitchen. The beautiful stone will look fantastic next to light wood or white cabinets. If you want to create more contrast, pick a slab that's more gray or gray-blue colored. For a softer look, pick a light gray or gray-green slab.

40. Rock

Backsplash Type: Stone

Wooden kitchen utensils in a white basket on white countertop against a white and brown-toned rock stone backsplash.

Finally, if you're looking for a truly rustic, nature-bound vibe, a rock wall backsplash will create a beautiful statement piece in your kitchen. You can use anything from river rocks to garden stones to create a stunning feature wall or backsplash in your kitchen. A backsplash made of naturally shaped rocks will elevate the design of your craftsman, rustic, or bohemian kitchen.

41. Onyx

Backsplash Type: Stone

Large kitchen with brown island, brown wall, large open windows, and orange-reddish onyx backsplash with dramatic swirls.

Onyx is admired for its vivid hues and dramatic swirls, which make it an alluring backsplash option. The stone's patterns and hues can produce a striking focal point in your kitchen. Because onyx is a porous stone, it absorbs liquids and stains quickly and is more sensitive to heat damage. For this reason, it needs to be sealed more frequently than other stones.

42. Slate

Backsplash Type: Stone

Kitchen with stainless steel oven and a slate stone backsplash with green, blue, and red color hues.

Slate mosaic tiles can be an elegant and long-lasting option for your kitchen backsplash. With various shapes to choose from, like square, rectangular, and hexagonal, and subtle or bright colors, there's no limit to how creative you can be with this design. Slate tile is durable, heat resistant, and easy to clean, making it a popular home choice.

43. Window Backsplash

Backsplash Type: Unique

Kitchen with white cabinets, dishwasher, white countertops and large window backsplash with nature background.

Who says you need to look at a wall while you're prepping your food? If your kitchen is overlooking your backyard or a beautiful piece of land, oversized windows will let in lots of natural light and make your kitchen look different every time the seasons change. While you may have to clean the windows more than you would a conventional backsplash, you'll definitely have a unique feature in your kitchen.

44. Glass

Backsplash Type: Unique

Modern kitchen white white glass backsplash, light brown countertops, and kitchen appliances.

The advantages of glass backsplash are clear: the material is easy to clean, makes your kitchen feel brighter, and creates a seamless look. The cost of glass sheet backsplash is a lot higher than tile (between $40 and $60 per square foot) and installation can be tricky, but the result will look fantastic in a contemporary, minimalist, or urban modern kitchen.

45. Stained Glass

Backsplash Type: Unique

Modern kitchen with black shelves and decor, white countertops, and royal blue stained glass backsplash.

Instead of a regular glass backsplash, you can add more color to your kitchen by picking a stained glass. You can choose a light teal or green hue for a more subtle touch or install a bright red or navy blue glass backsplash for a more abstract vibe. This feature will look great in a modern, Hollywood Regency, or minimalist kitchen.

46. Stainless Steel

Backsplash Type: Unique

Modern all yellow kitchen with stainless steel kitchen backsplash.

A stainless steel backsplash will make you feel like you're cooking in a chef's kitchen every day. The material is easy to clean, durable, and simple to install. If you plan to DIY this project, order a thickness of 20 or 22 gauge for your backsplash and match the brushed finish of your appliances (typically 304 #4). The material isn't cheap, but it will make for a unique feature.

47. Copper or Brass

Backsplash Type: Unique

Kitchen with brown cabinets and countertops accented with a light brown hexagon patterned copper backsplash.

A copper or brass backsplash will make your kitchen feel warmer and more elegant. This material can be found in a variety of different textures and patterns, from pressed tiles to brushed flat surfaces or as embellished pieces of art. While this material may look a bit outdated in a traditional kitchen, it creates a fresh and unique accent in a contemporary or minimal kitchen.

48. Laminate

Backsplash Type: Unique

Modern white kitchen with white countertops, wood walls, and light brown laminate backsplash.

Instead of wood panels or planks, install laminate that looks like wood as your backsplash. The material tends to be more durable and is fairly easy to install once you get the hang of it. You can choose from hundreds of options that mimic different types of wood and stains to get the exact design you're looking for.

49. Mural

Backsplash Type: Unique

Modern white kitchen with gray cabinets and countertops and shiny mural backsplash with swirling color accents.

Whether you paint it yourself or order custom wallpaper to create a mural backsplash, you can be sure that your kitchen design is truly unique. This backsplash design allows you to personalize the space as much as you like - you could get a wallpaper made from a photograph you took (or multiple) or paint a pattern on the wall or your existing tiles. To protect this backsplash from grease and water, you can cover it with protective glass or apply a waterproof sealer to your mural.

50. Dark Grout With White Tile

Backsplash Type: Unique

Kitchen with stainless steel oven, granite countertops, and white tile backsplash with dark brown grout sealant.

Rather than making the tile the focal point, you can create a bold aesthetic by picking a dark grout color to go in between your light tiles. This design choice gives white subway tile an edge but can also elevate tile that's stacked in a herringbone, vertical, or grid pattern. Make sure to pick a grout color that complements other design features in your kitchen, like the hardware, cabinets, or plumbing fixtures. Picking a new grout color for existing backsplash tile is also a simple and affordable DIY project that will give your kitchen a fresh look.

51. Focal Point

Backsplash Type: Unique

Kitchen with light brown cupboards, ceiling lights, red pot, and white tile backsplash with abstract pattern in the middle.

Add a cool focal point above your range by creating a piece of art with your tiles or using a different material behind your range or sink versus the rest of the kitchen. You can create a subtle focal point by laying your tile in a different pattern or go for a bolder look by creating a mosaic picture or choosing a different tile color, pattern, or style.

52. Multi-Colored Tile

Backsplash Type: Unique

Kitchen with wood cabinets, gray countertops,kitchen appliances, and colorful square tile backsplash.

Instead of picking a tile that's only white, gray, or black, see if you can add a pop of color with a multi-colored tile. Whether you go for a penny tile, mosaic shape, or a colorful subway tile - this design feature will look amazing in an eclectic, retro, or bohemian style kitchen.

53. Wallpaper

Backsplash Type: Unique

Modern home with brown countertops, steel oven, and wallpaper for kitchen backsplash saying coffee served here.

Wallpaper is having a comeback, and it's a great material for your kitchen backsplash! The sheer variety of colors, textures, and patterns makes this material an exciting option. Invest in moisture resistant wallpaper or protect it with tempered glass so it stays beautiful for a long time.

54. Textured Backsplash

Backsplash Type: Unique

Rectangular gray and white textured backsplash with wooden cutting boards and knives.

You can turn a blank wall into a statement piece by using textured tile or wallpaper for your backsplash. In a coastal kitchen, a white tile with wavy texture will bring sandy beach vibes right into your home. If you're more into the country or cottage look, try a floral wallpaper with textured accents to add a personal touch.

55. Reflective

Backsplash Type: Unique

Kitchen with black countertops and drawers, a stove top with red knobs, and a shiny blue reflective backsplash.

A reflective backsplash can look stunning as a feature wall behind open shelving. In an eclectic or transitional kitchen, installing a mirrored backsplash in the whole kitchen will add the illusion of space and create an exclusive feature that sets your kitchen apart from others.

56. Halfway Up

Backsplash Type: Unique

Kitchen with black and white tile floor, white cabinets, and a half-tiled white backsplash.

To create the illusion of height, install your backsplash only halfway up the wall. This looks especially great if you break up the rest of the wall space with a pegboard or open shelving. Not only does this option save you money on materials and installation but it's also a unique look.

57. Matching Backsplash and Countertop

Backsplash Type: Unique

Off white and gray kitchen aesthetic with matching gray cabinets, and gray and matching white and gray tile backsplash.

You can create a mesmerizing feature by choosing the same material for your backsplash as your countertop. Use a slab backsplash (continuous material) that matches your countertop, and pick a kitchen cabinet color that creates a nice contrast.

58. Pressed Tin

Backsplash Type: Unique

Shiny copper pressed tin material for kitchen backsplash decor.

In a traditional kitchen, pressed tin sheets will add an element of texture and reflect light, making the space brighter. If you have dark cabinets, this type of backsplash will make a big difference in creating a brighter space, and the silver design feature will also look great in a modern farmhouse kitchen with white or light gray cabinetry.

59. Abstract Tile Pattern

Backsplash Type: Unique

Modern kitchen with white counters, oven with gold knobs, and white and gold tile backsplash with unique abstract patterns.

An abstract backsplash gives your kitchen a unique and alluring visual appeal. Abstract patterns are found in materials like ceramic, glass, metal, or natural stone. Certain lighting can enhance the beauty of abstract tile patterns even more. Natural light, ceiling, or under cabinet lighting can all help illuminate the backsplash, giving it a beautiful, distorted appearance.

60. Fish Scales

Backsplash Type: Unique

Vintage kitchen with white drawers, rustic kitchen appliances, and fish scale inspired teal and white kitchen backsplash.

Fish or mermaid scale backsplashes are unique designs inspired by the ocean's wonders. You can bring this backsplash to life using ceramic, glass, or mosaic tiles to give it a shiny touch. Shades of blue and green are popular to create that oceanic or mermaid-inspired look. Still, these scales are available in many colors to suit your style and add a pop of personality to your kitchen space.

61. Moroccan-Inspired

Backsplash Type: Unique

Classic kitchen interior with moroccan-inspired backsplash with geometric patterns and colors like blue, maroon, and white.

Morocco's rich cultural and artistic influences are reflected in Moroccan kitchen backsplash ideas. Moroccan designs have vibrant hues like rich blues, deep reds, and earthy tones like terracotta. The complex geometric patterns found in Moroccan design are trendy, so it's common to see mosaics or tiles featuring geometric designs like diamonds and hexagons. Moroccan backsplashes can have mosaic murals that portray abstract art, landscapes, or sceneries and include plasterwork, metal accents, and tile combinations to provide depth and texture.

62. Abelhard

Backsplash Type: Unique

Stovetop with kitchen appliances and brown and white abelhard backsplash.

Abelhard backsplashes are newer styles composed of ceramic or porcelain tiles. Their textured patterns feature deep, extended grooves and lines that mimic ocean waves, giving the impression that the waves are three-dimensional. Abelhard is available in various hues, including pastels, copper, blue, black, and gray, making it a striking focal point. This material is durable, simple to install, and easy to clean.

63. Picket Style

Backsplash Type: Unique

White kitchen with gold accents, including a gold faucet, handles, and a picket-style backsplash.

Depending on your taste, you can make picket-style patterns stand out or blend in by selecting grout colors that are complementary or opposing. There are several ways to lay picket tiles, including staggered offsets, a herringbone pattern, and a straight vertical pattern. Picket tile backsplashes are ideal kitchen options since they're easy to maintain and clean.

64. Mirror

Backsplash Type: Unique

Kitchen with black countertops, white cabinets and drawers, windows with nature background, and reflective backsplash.

Making a kitchen backsplash from a mirror is an unusual but eye-catching design decision. Mirrors have a unique ability to reflect light, making the kitchen brighter. If you place a mirrored backsplash behind the cooktop, sink, or open shelving space, it can create a focal point in your kitchen. Although there are numerous benefits to having a mirrored kitchen backsplash, it's important to remember that mirrors are more likely to show smudges and fingerprints, so regular cleaning is required to keep them looking nice.

65. Chalkboard

Backsplash Type: DIY

Kitchen with chalkboard wall backsplash, brick walls, white cabinets, and kitchen appliances.

This may just be one of the easiest and most fun DIY backsplash ideas on this list! You can cover up your existing backsplash with peel-and-stick chalkboard wallpaper or paint a bare wall with chalkboard paint. The best thing about this backsplash is that you can write or draw new things on it every day and it's a breeze to clean!

66. Mix and Match Mosaic

Backsplash Type: DIY

New age kitchen with bright yellow, brown, and white mosaic backsplash patterns, brown countertops, and white cabinets.

Instead of installing sheets of mosaic tile, you can also create your own mosaic with small individual tiles. DIYing this type of backsplash will likely take a few days or weeks, depending on the size of the surface area you're planning to cover and the pattern you choose. Since you can purchase different colors, sizes, and shapes of tiles - you can create anything from fun swirls to flowers to geometric shapes. This is a challenging and intricate craft, but if you're up to it, this work can result in a beautiful piece of art that no one else has in their home.

67. Faux Brick

Backsplash Type: DIY

Kitchen with faux brick backsplash, ceiling fixtures, white cabinets, brown countertops, and window to the right with nature background.

Besides having exposed brick walls or installing a backsplash of brick veneer, there's a third option to get a rustic industrial looking backsplash: faux brick! You can buy faux brick panels that are easy to install with either construction adhesive or by ordering the renter-friendly stick-and-peel version. You can also create your own panels with styrofoam, a hot wire carving tool (or heat gun), and paint. There are plenty of tutorials online that can help you create a faux brick wall piece that looks like the real deal, saves you a ton of money, and is 100% renter-friendly.

68. Peel-and-Stick

Backsplash Type: DIY

Modern kitchen interior with patterned backsplash, marble counters, kitchen island, white cabinets, and large windows.

One of the easiest ways to cover up an old backsplash or a bare wall with a new look are peel-and-stick backsplash options. You can find anything from cute floral designs to intricate tile patterns to the classic white subway tile with dark grout. The stickers often come in 10 inches by 10 inches PVC tiles that are easy to cut and stick on a multitude of surfaces. They're typically easy to remove as well, so you won't have to worry about damaging the walls if you live in a rental house or apartment.

69. Wood Slats

Backsplash Type: DIY

Kitchen with wooden cabinets, kitchen appliances on white countertops, wooden slat backsplash, and shelf with cutting boards.

If you're looking to update your rustic or farmhouse kitchen and love to work with wood, you can create a beautiful backsplash with wood slats for a small price tag. Cut the pieces to size, sand them down, and apply the slats with construction adhesive and a nail gun. Stain or paint the panels once they're installed and caulk any gaps. Make sure to pick a paint that's water resistant so it'll wipe clean when things get messy in the kitchen.

70. Painted Ceramic Tile

Backsplash Type: DIY

Kitchen with emerald green ceramic tiles, brown kitchen island, shelves with kitchenware and decor, and open windows.

Make your kitchen a focal point with these subway tile kitchen backsplash ideas. Instead of covering up your existing tile with all-new material, try painting the ceramic tile instead! Use a high-quality primer and a good brush to ensure that the paint will apply well. For the actual paint, you can use latex, acrylic latex, or enamel paint. Apply as many coats as needed to give your kitchen backsplash a fresh look.

71. Pennies

Backsplash Type: DIY

Kitchen with dark brown cabinets and copper-accented handles, and a penny backsplash.

No, we don't mean penny tile. We mean actual pennies! This material allows you to literally put a price on your backsplash. You'll need about 250 pennies to cover 1 square foot of surface, which equals $2.50 and saves you at least a dollar per square foot compared to a low-end tile penny backsplash. While this will require intricate work and a lot more time than applying sheets of tile backsplash, you'll end up with a truly unique backsplash.

72. Wine Cork

Backsplash Type: DIY

Kitchen with cork wall backsplash, marble white countertops, black cabinets, and silver sink and faucet.

For all the wine lovers out there, have you considered creating a backsplash out of cork? Prep the wine corks by cutting them in half vertically and then lay them out in a pattern that you like before applying them to plywood panels the size of your backsplash. Another option is to break them down into a solid and uniform wall. Whether you'll just cover a small surface area behind your wet bar or create a stunning feature all along your kitchen walls, this DIY may take up more of your time, but it's going to create a unique and fun design.

73. Bottle Caps

Backsplash Type: DIY

Multi-colored bottle caps attached to wall for kitchen backsplash decor.

Consider a bottle cap backsplash to shake up your kitchen and go retro! Well-known beverage brands make bottle caps in various sizes, shapes, and colors, so collecting them should be easy. You can put your caps in a row or make exciting designs with them, like squares, circles, or diagonals. Break open the bottles and preserve the caps to craft a unique and captivating mainstay for your house.

74. Epoxy Resin

Backsplash Type: DIY

Elegant kitchen with white countertops, white cabinets, and an epoxy resin backsplash with a marble-like appearance.

Consider an epoxy resin backsplash if you're looking for vivid colors, angular swirls, and abstract designs. Epoxy coating resin is a multipurpose liquid that cures and hardens in a day. If you want to add a glossy or marble-like reflective finish to your kitchen, epoxy resin is a very cost-effective option. Since resin hardens, you can get creative with it - you can blend colors and incorporate components like gold flakes, jewels, crystals, and more. Epoxy resin comes in many brands, so look for nontoxic brands and use goggles and protective clothing whenever working with it.

75. Sea Glass

Backsplash Type: DIY

Multi-colored sea glass arrangement for kitchen backsplash decor.

A sea glass backsplash is an excellent option to bring natural beauty and tranquility into the room. People love sea glass because it's eco-friendly and typically easy to DIY. Sea glass comes in shades like aqua, green, and blue to create a peaceful and soothing ocean-like atmosphere. Working with sea glass is relatively easy and doesn't require special tools. You can use tile adhesive and grout to adhere sea glass pieces to your kitchen wall and enhance your space.

76. Neon Lights

Backsplash Type: DIY

Gray cabinet kitchen with hardwood floors, tan chairs, and a kitchen island, illuminated by a vibrant blue neon backsplash.

Neon lights can be a unique and eye-catching option for a DIY kitchen backsplash. They're perfect for a contemporary and trendy look that can make your kitchen stand out. They come in various colors that draw attention and give the area a bright, lively, and urban flair. Installing neon lights as a backsplash is also relatively simple. Kits are available online and come with instructions for direct wall placement or on a glass or clear acrylic panel to protect your home's wiring.

77. Vintage Maps or Postcards

Backsplash Type: DIY

Handwritten vintage postcards displayed in a row.

Old-fashioned maps and postcards have a unique, sentimental charm that can give your kitchen character. You can choose postcards or maps that hold special meaning to you, like maps of your hometown, places you've visited, and sentimental spots. If you search thrift stores, antique stores, or internet marketplaces, you may also be able to find vintage maps and postcards at a reasonable price. This is an inexpensive DIY project and relatively easy to install. Use strong adhesive glue to attach them to the wall and protect the maps with a clear, waterproof sealant for durability.

Kitchen Backsplash Ideas FAQs

Below are some FAQs when adding a backsplash to your kitchen.

What is the best material to use for a kitchen backsplash?

The best choice depends on your personal preferences and home design goals. There are many durable and long-lasting materials that would be good for your backsplash. The best materials to choose from include ceramic or porcelain tiles, glass, stone, reclaimed wood, or metal.

What is the most popular backsplash idea?

Ceramic tile is currently the most popular backsplash choice due to its durability, easy installation, and cost-effectiveness.

Should a backsplash be lighter or darker than your countertops?

Many people will opt for a lighter backsplash to contrast their countertops, but it all depends on your personal taste. You can also choose a dark backsplash if you want to make it a staple piece.

Create Your Dream Kitchen Today

We hope you feel inspired to revamp your space with some of these kitchen backsplash ideas. A backsplash can dramatically improve your kitchen's visual appeal. It acts as a center point and allows you to add patterns, colors, and textures that match the aesthetic of your home, including the flooring, cabinets, and countertops.

Whether you want to create an iconic backsplash or remodel your kitchen cabinets from scratch, we're here to help. Try our free 3D kitchen design to get an idea of what your project will look like from start to finish.

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