What’s Trending in Kitchen Backsplashes?

 
There’s nothing offensive about subway tiles — it’s just that they’ve been so overdone. ⁽¹⁾ And although white subway tile will continue to be the safe choice, homeowners are trending toward bold backsplashes, using alternative materials to create artistic focal points in their kitchens and add a bit of personal style. So, why not try a different shape, a handmade tile or even a slab or stone instead? ⁽²⁾

ALTERNATIVE MATERIALS

“The tail end of the 2010s saw more homeowners experimenting with out-of-the-ordinary kitchen materials—and we can expect to see a lot more this decade,” predicts Alison Pickart. ⁽³⁾

► Mirrors/Metallics

With more and more kitchens moving away from the gleam of stainless-steel appliances, there are other ways to add some shine into your kitchen design – like incorporating mirrored, glossy and metallic finishes into your backsplash design. ⁽⁴⁾

A mirrored finish gives tiles a glossy reflective surface, which is highlighted even more when struck by natural light. Lighting reflection, via natural light or fixtures, can make for quite a dramatic look. ⁽⁵⁾

Metallics can offer a similar shine. Don’t consider just a metal-finished tile backsplash, but metal sheet goods as a backsplash. Some favorites to keep an eye on would be: stainless steel, copper, aluminum, brass and zinc. The same applies to a glass-finished backsplash. ⁽⁵⁾
 

► Wood

Yes, wood can also make a great backsplash. Think wood cladding, shiplap, beadboard, or wainscoting that can take your kitchen to the next level. Keep in mind this could be a maintenance challenge however; you need the right protective finish. But don’t rule out wood as a wall finish treatment instead of paint. ⁽⁵⁾
 

► Brick/Stone

“For 2020, we love the refined, rustic style that brick [or natural, organic stone] can bring to the kitchen,” says designer Caroline Brackett. “If the heaviness of a red brick feels a little too daunting, try white-washing a few of the bricks to brighten up the space.” ⁽³⁾ Not only does this provide a rustic feel, but we love the texture that brick and stone offer.
 

► Wallpaper

While wallpaper has become less scary to the general population over the last five years or so, folks are still reluctant to hang it in the kitchen. If you’re scared about the permanency of wallpaper, try something less, well, permanent. There are plenty of peel-and-stick papers in trendy designs that are incredibly easy to install and remove. Hot tip: Opt for a graphic design that mimics the look of tile. ⁽²⁾
 

BOLD PATTERNS/COLORS

More and more homeowners want a backsplash that turns heads and creates an interesting focal point for all to admire. Many are beginning to experiment with various tile patterns. Try: chevron, herringbone, Moroccan fish scale and laser cut tile among many others. ⁽⁵⁾

In fact, one of the hottest upcoming trends involves the use of graphic print or large pattern tiles in big, bold colors. These oversized patterned tiles have the punch to liven up any space to make any homeowner proud. ⁽⁵⁾
 

COUNTERTOP EXTENSION

“Extending the countertop material up the backsplash allows you to streamline the number materials in a kitchen creating a clean and contemporary look,” says Tina Rich of Tina Rich Design. ⁽⁶⁾

► Go Big

Stretch one large slab from countertop to ceiling. “A slab backsplash is so clean, yet adds the right amount of drama to a kitchen,” says Bailey Austin of Bailey Austin Design. Depending on the material and its movement/veining, this can be a true work of art and stand as the focal point in your kitchen. ⁽⁶⁾

Marble and marble-looking slabs are becoming especially common. Mostly what draws people to this selectin is the pure beauty, subtly of color and unique variation in veining for a stunning aesthetic appeal. In some cases, a slab backsplash can help create a smooth transition from the countertop to the backsplash. And, you get an added bonus – not having to clean up in those dreaded grout lines. ⁽⁵⁾
 

TEXTURE

Bring texture and nuance to your kitchen backsplash with handmade tiles. The possibilities are vast—try terra-cotta or cement in colors that range the rainbow—although we lean toward more neutral hues. ⁽²⁾

If you want a backsplash with a slightly aged appearance, look for tiles with a weathered finish. For a washed-out look, go for tiles with an acid wash finish.  A lot of finishes are aimed at mimicking natural appearances for a more authentic look. For instance, you can get tumbled tiles that have been designed to resemble natural stone. They have an appealing antique look to them. The natural stone effect can also be seen in matte or honed finish tiles, which are especially popular in luxury themed kitchens. ⁽⁵⁾

Sources:
1. https://www.thekitchn.com/kitchen-trends-to-avoid-2020-22972990
2. https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/g3988/kitchen-trends/?slide=3
3. https://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/g30420467/kitchen-trends-2020/
4. https://www.hgtv.ca/kitchens/photos/backsplash-tile-cabinetry-top-kitchen-trends-2020-1931289/#currentSlide=10
5. https://sebringdesignbuild.com/top-trends-in-kitchen-backsplash-design/
6. https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/trends/g29890387/kitchen-trends-2020/
 

Images:
Feature Image: Design by Ml-h design
Alternative Materials: House Beautiful
Bold Patterns: Domino.com
Texture: Pinterest
Countertop Extension: Laurey Glenn Photography