Over the past year, as we’ve faced closed restaurants and social distancing guidelines, many of us have spent more time in our kitchens than ever before. Perhaps this time has made you realize the need for an updated look, or perhaps you’re starting from the ground up, with a new build in mind. Either way, when it comes to the kitchen, most of us want an aesthetically pleasing, inviting room; but where to begin? The backsplash. 

In the past, designers have gravitated toward white or neutral backsplash, using it as a complementary feature of the kitchen; however, more recently, the backsplash is becoming the focal point of the room, a design element in and of itself. If you’re looking for inspiration, here are four backsplash ideas we love, and why we love them. 

TO THE CEILING 

Have a small room? Try taking your backsplash all the way to the ceiling. This creates a visual masterpiece that produces an illusion of space: As your eyes are drawn upward, the room feels more expansive. We also love this idea for framing often-overlooked features of your kitchen, such as the range or a window. By framing these features, you draw attention to their beauty and help create a dramatic feel throughout your space. 

 

THE MARBLE SLAB 

Want a more dramatic look? Try marble slab instead of tile. Many designers are using slab backsplash as a budget-friendly alternative for creating a timeless, luxurious-feeling kitchen. You can match the slab to the countertops or to the kitchen island for a sleek, harmonious design. We love this trend for its visually dramatic effect. And the best part, there are no grout lines, which makes it incredibly easy to clean! 

 

THE REFLECTIVE BACKSPLASH 

https://www.bhg.com/kitchen/backsplash/kitchen-backsplash-ideas/

Another backsplash design we love is the reflective backsplash. However, this isn’t just your mirrored tile from the 1970s; designers are now choosing whole slabs of mirror or glass. This reflective material is enhanced by natural light and brightens up your space. 

It also showcases your fixtures and appliances and makes the counter space feel larger. We love this because it both adds dimension to your kitchen and makes the entire area feel more spacious. Like the slab backsplash, a mirrored backsplash is easy to clean and non-porous, making it less prone to bacteria than more traditional backsplash choices. It is also heat-resistant and will not fade, which makes it an excellent alternative for your design.

 

THE BOLD 

Move over plain white subway tiles, and make room for color, patterns, and texture. Designers are choosing vibrant colors, such as deep blues, wine reds, and rich browns, to create warmth and depth. They’re also playing with patterns like chevron, herringbone, and mosaic tile to add character and personality to the kitchen. We love this trend because it is bold and makes the backsplash the artistic focal point of the room. 

 

BRING OUT YOUR PERSONALITY 

Designing one’s kitchen can be an arduous process, no doubt. But don’t let the desire to have a stylish kitchen prevent you from imparting your own personality into the design. The two can go hand-in-hand. The year 2021 is for pushing the boundaries: moving away from neutral, subtle designs and moving toward the bold, playful, and vibrant. Your kitchen backsplash can become a statement piece, a work of art in and of itself.