Select a Motif for Visual Interest
A motif is a single repeated design or pattern, or image. In traditional styled kitchens, an arched cabinetry detail can be reinforced by an arched picture frame tile design behind the range. This provides an elegant focal point to the space.
Photo Credit: Next Stage Design.
You can also create focal points with more literal subject motifs like a floral listello or hand painted backsplash tile.
Photo Credit: Next Stage Design
Backsplash Tile Texture Gives Three-Dimensional Movement
If there isn’t an appropriate area in the backsplash to create a focal point, then texture is a fun way to make an otherwise neutral backsplash pop. Texture can be a defining feature in the kitchen or an artistic compliment to a home’s architectural styling.
Photo Credit: Houzz
Tile Mixtures Lend Interest
Using a combination of textures, like travertine and glass also provide visual interest while staying color neutral.
Photo Credit: Next Stage Design
It is time for your dream kitchen! Schedule a kitchen remodeling consultation with Next Stage Design and we will design and build you the kitchen you’ve always wanted.
Graphic Patterns
Kitchen backsplashes that use a graphic tile design is a great way to provide a modern element in an otherwise traditional or transitional space. A kitchen backsplash is a perfect place to add your personal expression to a space. You can use a blend of design techniques (motif, texture or pattern) to create a combination that exemplifies your personal aesthetic.
Photo Credit: Houzz
Tricks of the Trade
To keep continuity throughout a home, a kitchen should complement the architectural style of the house. As such a universally flexible tile design is a simple brick or subway pattern. The subway pattern works in all styles of homes because, as a design principle, it creates a sense of movement and makes the room feel bigger. Contemporary or Transitional kitchens can utilize a glass tile, like the one pictured above. Traditional kitchens can incorporate a natural stone product or simple ceramic tile. As shown here.
Photo Credit: Next Stage Design
Care and Cleaning
Cleaning grout is the number one complaint that I hear from clients. While a tile backsplash offers aesthetic benefits, it does falls short compared to a full granite backsplash that is virtually seamless. With that said there are tile designs and products that minimize the number of grout lines and grout thickness. One way to minimize grout maintenance is to use large, format tile sizes in your backsplash as shown.
Do keep in mind that ALL natural stones are porous, and thus due require sealing. However, residential backsplashes are considered light wear, so sealing is more of annual event, not a weekly. For a truly NO Maintenance backsplash, use a porcelain tile and epoxy grout. Regardless, a full height backsplash is by far easier to wipe down and clean, than a partial (4”) splash which leaves the painted wall surface vulnerable to stains, scratches and dents.
Photo Credit: Houzz
A Backsplash is Built to Last
There’s no place like home. Is your current home your “Forever” home? If so, then your backsplash expression needs only to suit you. You can be as dramatic or unique with your tile design and selection. However, if you are considering selling your home in 5-10 years or less, an overly stylized design (like the one pictured here) may not appeal to every homebuyer demographic and this could actually hurt your home’s resale value.
Photo Credit: Houzz
Do-It-Yourself Tips
Assuming you have the right skill, tools and TIME…you can create a simple but elegant backsplash using a simple brick tile with a decorative accent liner. This combination defines the space and gives your kitchen some added interest. Pictured here is another great DYI – an all-glass mosaic. What’s wonderful about this glass tiles is they come on pre-mounted sheets. This eliminates most of the cutting. Instead, you lay the sheets on the walls, match up the pattern, and affix them with thin-set adhesive, then grout.
Photo Credit: Houzz
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