7 Ways of Looking at a Kitchen Backsplash
by Clare Kaufman
Repair-Home Columnist
Just because kitchen backsplashes are functional doesn't mean they can't be beautiful too. Think of the strip of wall between your cabinets and countertop as a blank canvas. The design you choose for this space will have a profound impact on the look of your kitchen.
There are nearly as many kitchen backsplash designs as there are durable, waterproof materials. Here are seven kitchen remodel ideas to help you make the most of this focal point.
#1: Ceramic or Porcelain. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are among the most versatile. Depending on the color and/or pattern, they can lend a retro feel, an old world rustic look, or a sleek, modern style. For a truly personal effect, you can hand paint a mural onto the tiles.
#2: Natural Stone. For a rich, earthy look, stone is the way to go. Granite is the high-end option, beautiful and long-lasting--plus a granite kitchen remodel instantly adds to the value of the property.
#3: Glass. Glass backsplashes are "trendy practical." Glass produces a clean, open surface, and can be used as a white board for notes. Textured and painted glass offers endless style variations.
#4: Metal. Different metals produce different effects. Pressed tin is a hot trend today, lending a hip Euro look. Stainless steel gives the impression of a professional chef's kitchen--or as one designer puts it, a trendy "New York bistro feel."
#5: Cork. Cork is durable and attractive. What's more, it's a perfect surface for pinning notes, recipes, phone numbers, and to-do lists.
#6: Wallpaper. Washable wallpaper is an inexpensive, attractive kitchen backsplash option. To add interest, install wallpaper "tiles" in different colors.
#7: Mosaic. Anything's possible with mosaic--design your own tile arrangement to bring out the colors in your countertop and cabinets. For a truly unique look, use chipped tile or china in irregular shapes.
These seven kitchen backsplash remodel ideas are just the tip of the iceberg. Designers such as Scott Sicari are expanding the frontiers of kitchen backsplash design even further using laminate and resin surfaces, holographic stickers, cartoons, and more.
Whether you choose stately granite or trendy pressed tin, rustic stone or bold marbled glass, your kitchen backsplash remodel is an opportunity to let your imagination run wild.
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About the Author
When Clare Kaufman is not decorating her kitchen walls, she works as a writer and editor for an online media company. She has completed a graduate degree in English.
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