11 Kitchen Backsplash Ideas and Designs for Every Style

Many homeowners spend years dreaming of a new kitchen. Yet between new appliances and tearing down walls, it’s easy to forget about the little things. One detail you should never overlook is your new kitchen backsplash!

Your kitchen backsplash is a protective barrier between your culinary workspace and the drywall underneath. It’s also the perfect place to show off your taste in interior decor.

Draw inspiration from these kitchen backsplash ideas when planning out your future home improvement!

1. Brick Backsplashes for a Storybook Kitchen Charm

If your dream kitchen looks straight out of a storybook, it might be best to skip the tile backsplash altogether. Instead, consider protecting your kitchen walls with exposed brick or a brick overlay.

Natural stone brick backsplash with earthy tones adds rustic charm to a kitchen with wood cabinets and stainless steel sink. — Source: @aaronlflooring via Instagram

Warm-toned exposed brick backsplash adds an industrial yet cozy feel to this modern kitchen with black countertops. — Source: @nafeesa.fernandes.designs via Instagram

This type of backsplash is ideal for any farmhouse-, cottage-, or chateau-inspired home. Or take your kitchen in a totally different direction with an industrial aesthetic.

A brick backsplash can be left “natural” or whitewashed for a brighter appearance. Contrasting grout will make your brick backsplash really pop. But there’s nothing wrong with a monochromatic look.

2. Expanding Spaces with Dark Backsplash Tiles

Dark colors don’t always make the surrounding space appear smaller. Dark backsplash tiles can actually create the illusion of a more spacious kitchen by adding contrast and dimension to the room.

Dark herringbone tile backsplash creates a bold, artistic vibe in this eclectic kitchen with open shelving and colorful accents. — Source: @bunnipunch via Instagram

Glossy mosaic backsplash with metallic tones adds depth and drama to this modern kitchen with dark countertops and warm wood cabinets. — Source: @carlaroyderdesigns via Instagram

Sleek black tile backsplash with a glossy finish brings a modern, minimalist edge to this kitchen with wood cabinetry and underlighting. — Source: @chardafebiyana via Instagram

Tall vertical dark green tiles give this compact kitchen a sleek, modern touch, paired with white cabinets and floating wood shelves. — Source: @cletile and shot by @concept_renovations via Instagram

Glossy black subway tile backsplash adds contrast and shine to this contemporary kitchen with cream cabinets and wood countertops. — Source: @renovatingno.64 via Instagram

Dark-colored tile contrasts beautifully against white cabinetry and countertops. However, you can also go all-in with a dark color scheme that encompasses the entire kitchen.

Play around with natural stone and other materials that feature subtle variations. These details will prevent your dark backsplash from looking too flat.

3. Glass Sheet Backsplashes: Sleek, Modern, and Reflective

You can’t get more modern than a glass sheet backsplash. With a seamless look and reflective finish, glass is the perfect choice for a kitchen remodel.

Sleek gray glass backsplash adds a clean, reflective surface to this minimalist kitchen with two-tone cabinets and modern lighting. — Source: @gcs_glass via Instagram

Glossy white glass backsplash gives this compact kitchen a bright, seamless look, perfectly paired with sleek modern cabinetry. — Source: @glass_concepts_limited via Instagram

Glossy black glass backsplash adds depth and reflection to this sleek two-tone kitchen with wood and white cabinetry. — Source: @houserenovationatno.47 via Instagram

High-gloss black glass backsplash enhances this modern kitchen with sleek cabinetry and bold geometric pendant lighting. — Source: @millanglass via Instagram

Polished glass tile backsplash in soft marble tones adds elegance and texture behind a vintage-style chrome faucet and dark counter. — Source: @cherylmccrackeninteriors via Instagram

Shimmery glass tile backsplash adds a touch of glam to this bright kitchen with open wood shelves and white marble countertops. — Source: @eugene.vacation.homes via Instagram

Artistic glass tile backsplash in varying teal heights adds a bold, modern accent to this neutral kitchen with white cabinetry. — Source: @keddykat75 via Instagram

Soft gray glass subway tile backsplash adds a clean, elegant contrast to this all-white kitchen with granite countertops. — Source: @mydesignedhome via Instagram

Glossy sage green subway tile backsplash brings a soft pop of color to this cozy kitchen styled with fall-themed decor. — Source: @ourperfectingmanor via Instagram

Mirrored glass tile backsplash in a chic herringbone pattern adds glam and shine to this elegant white kitchen with marble counters. — Source: @teoria_ny via Instagram

Glass backsplashes come in several different colors. You can’t go wrong with white or a shade of light blue. On the other hand, black glass is undeniably sleek and a touch dramatic.

Unfortunately, glass sheets cost a pretty penny. Repairing damage typically means replacing the entire panel. If you’re looking for an economical version of this trend, consider a traditional glass tile backsplash instead.

4. Marble Backsplashes: Timeless Elegance in Neutral Tones

If you want to maintain a neutral color palette throughout your kitchen, natural stone is an ideal choice for your backsplash tile. Marble, in particular, pairs well with nearly all kitchen decor.

Full-height marble backsplash with soft gray veining blends seamlessly with matching countertops in this bright, modern white kitchen. — Source: @djanthony via Instagram

Elegant marble slab backsplash with dramatic veining adds a seamless and luxurious touch to this minimalist white kitchen design. — Source: @ncconstructionaz via Instagram

The trendiest way to use marble for a tile backsplash is in large, uninterrupted panels. This design preserves the color variations and patterns within the stone. Combined with a marble countertop, this will give your kitchen a modern, seamless aesthetic.

The innate color differences in marble allow for designs that stand out without overwhelming your kitchen.

5. Versatile Metal Tile Backsplashes for Every Kitchen Style

Have you ever thought about using metal tile for your kitchen backsplash? Depending on how you style it, this material can give your kitchen an ultra-modern or classically rustic atmosphere.

Intricate metal tile backsplash adds a vintage, textured charm to this warm kitchen with wooden cabinets and terracotta flooring. — Source: @forevertileandstonedesign via Instagram

For a modern metal backsplash, opt for a stainless steel or brushed nickel finish. If you want your kitchen to have an Old World aesthetic, copper is your best option.

One of the most wonderful things about metal is that it’s incredibly easy to press patterns into the material itself. Porcelain, ceramic, and stone tiles just can’t compete with that potential versatility.

6. Embracing Patterned Backsplashes for Distinctive Kitchen Designs

If plain subway tile isn’t for you, why not give your kitchen backsplash a personality of its own? With the growing popularity of maximalist design, patterned kitchen backsplash ideas are becoming increasingly common.

Subtle geometric-patterned backsplash tiles add a soft, modern texture to this minimalist kitchen with black and white contrast. — Source: @ceramiccityperth via Instagram

Bold patterned tile backsplash with vintage flair adds personality and contrast to this cozy kitchen with white cabinets and modern fixtures. — Source: @cozyzebracottage via Instagram

Blue and white patterned tile backsplash creates a Mediterranean focal point behind the stove in this elegant kitchen with gray cabinetry. — Source: @down.to.earth.photography via Instagram

Bold black and white patterned tile backsplash adds contrast and energy to this modern white kitchen with sleek cabinetry. — Source: @gingerellarunsandspins via Instagram

Soft gray and white patterned tile backsplash brings a vintage charm to this cozy kitchen with shaker cabinets and farmhouse sink. — Source: @julia_homedogslife via Instagram

Mix-and-match patterned tile backsplash brings playful charm and a vintage feel to this cozy kitchen with gray cabinets and a farmhouse sink. — Source: @my_little_grey_farm via Instagram

Geometric patterned backsplash adds a modern, artistic edge to this kitchen with sleek gray cabinets and a striking pendant light. — Source: @our.valley.home via Instagram

Moroccan tile is a go-to option for any patterned backsplash. Installing these intricate tiles is quick and easy.

Remember that patterned tile does not need to include multiple colors. Monochromatic designs can have as big of an impact without making your kitchen backsplash feel visually cluttered.

7. Authentic Rustic Backsplashes with Classic Materials

White subway tile might be the star of contemporary farmhouse design. But this clean-cut backsplash idea won’t cut it for an authentic rustic aesthetic.

Earth-toned square tile backsplash adds rustic warmth to this traditional kitchen with dark wood cabinetry and a statement metal range hood. — Source: @adamgibsondesign via Instagram

Distressed turquoise subway tiles create a vintage rustic look in this cozy kitchen, perfect for festive holiday baking. — Source: @jetgirl1219 via Instagram

Weathered wood plank backsplash gives this cottage-style kitchen a rustic, vintage charm with its distressed white and brown finish. — Source: @my_seaside_home via Instagram

Rough concrete-style backsplash adds raw texture to this rustic kitchen, paired with black counters and natural wood open shelves. — Source: @mycanadianhome via Instagram

The secret to a rustic kitchen backsplash is to select a material that looks well-loved from day one. Opt for a backsplash made of classic building materials like shiplap, brick, or tin.

Embrace the imperfections in your backsplash design and avoid bright colors, intricate patterns, and unusual tile shapes. After all, rustic backsplashes are more about utilitarianism than perfection!

See more rustic kitchen ideas here.

8. Exploring Natural Stone Backsplash Options for Your Kitchen

Marble is far from the only natural stone that makes a great backsplash. Whether your home decor leans industrial or rustic, there are countless ways to incorporate stone in your new kitchen backsplash.

Peach-toned penny tile backsplash adds soft texture and warmth to this cozy kitchen, paired with brass fixtures and wood shelving. — Source: @ceramiccityperth via Instagram

Rough-cut stone backsplash brings rustic elegance and old-world charm to this spacious kitchen with dark cabinetry and woven pendant lights. — Source: @sablestonellc via Instagram

Don’t be fooled… the vast majority of stone backsplashes are not made of solid stone at all. You can replicate the look and feel of natural stone minus the labor and expense with a sculpted wall overlay.

If you have your heart set on using real stone for your kitchen backsplash, look for rough-cut tiles that can be installed like ones made of glass or porcelain. Pebbles can also be set like penny tiles for a one-of-a-kind backsplash that’s perfect for a lodge or cabin.

9. Diverse Tile Options for Your Kitchen Backsplash

One of the worst assumptions you can make about tiles is that they only come in a handful of styles. Today, interior tiles are available in countless different shapes and finishes. And if you can’t find the exact style you’re looking for, there’s a good chance you can special order it!

Modern kitchen with white cabinets, wooden countertop, gas stove, toaster, kettle, and geometric tile backsplash. — Source: @newton.ever.after via Instagram

Modern kitchen with gray tiles, black stools, a countertop with bread and fruit, a built-in oven, and shelves with decor. — Source: @olgaashby via Instagram

White hexagon tile backsplash brings a clean, geometric flair to this modern kitchen, perfectly balanced with natural wood countertops. — Source: @ourforeverhome____ via Instagram

Classic blue and white checkerboard tile backsplash adds vintage charm to this cozy kitchen with wooden cabinets and matching floor tiles. — Source: @ourlittlevictorian1896 via Instagram

Bold blue elongated hex tiles create a striking backsplash in this bright kitchen, complementing the crisp white cabinets and stainless finishes. — Source: @stancilinvestmentsdesign via Instagram

Less is often more. Don’t overwhelm your intricate tile layout with garish colors or vice-versa. If you want to highlight your backsplash tiles, a monochromatic color palette might be best.

Of course, tile setting is an art form! While some decorative tiles are DIY-friendly, it’s 100% worth hiring a professional to create a custom backsplash for your kitchen walls.

10. Creative Touches for a Unique Kitchen Backsplash

There are plenty of interesting ways to give your kitchen backsplash a unique touch. These projects may not be as straightforward as uniform subway tiles but are well worth the extra time and creative energy required.

3D hexagon tiles in soft gradient tones create a unique, modern backsplash in this minimalist kitchen with wood countertops and white cabinets. — Source: @meble_kd via Instagram

Modern white hexagon tiles form a striking mountain-like backsplash design against a black wall, adding bold contrast to this sleek kitchen. — Source: @sustainablecontracting.llc via Instagram

Modern kitchen sink with a sleek chrome faucet, set against a textured, dark wooden tiled backsplash. — Source: @tricklecreekyyc via Instagram

An asymmetrical backsplash is simple yet unexpected. You can achieve this look with shaped tiles or different colors. Play around with gradients and high-contrast shades in your kitchen tile design.

There’s also no rule that backsplash tiles must end in a straight line. One of the most unique details you can include in your kitchen is a geometrical backsplash. Hexagonal tiles work particularly well for this idea!

11. Wooden Backsplashes: A Unique and Warm Tile Alternative

If you’re looking for an alternative to plain marble or porcelain tile, a wooden backsplash might be right up your alley. (As long as you apply the right sealant, wood can be just as durable as tile!)

Horizontal wood plank backsplash adds warmth and a natural touch to this modern kitchen, blending beautifully with open shelving and pendant lights. — Source: @encircledesignbuild via Instagram

Sleek wood backsplash adds a warm, seamless look to this minimalist kitchen with clean white cabinets and integrated cooktop. — Source: @europrozord.o.o2010 via Instagram

Warm wood plank backsplash adds rustic farmhouse charm to this kitchen, beautifully paired with open shelves and stainless steel appliances. — Source: @momma2pax via Instagram

Vertical beadboard backsplash adds classic cottage charm to this kitchen, complemented by sage green cabinets and a natural wood peg rail. — Source: @sandraguerreroalvhem via Instagram

Horizontal wood plank backsplash adds warmth and contrast to this modern kitchen with sleek black cabinetry and open shelving. — Source: @thinkcurated via Instagram

Seamless wood-look backsplash and countertop create a cohesive, warm feel in this sleek white minimalist kitchen with built-in lighting. — Source: @wlodarzmeble via Instagram

Instead of square or rectangular tiles, wood backsplashes tend to be made of planks or large panels. These pieces can be arranged horizontally, vertically, or even horizontally.

Wood grain is both neutral and warm. But if natural wood doesn’t suit your kitchen decor, you can paint your wooden backsplash at any point.