Traditionally, backsplashes were panels behind a kitchen’s stove or sink that protected the wall from splashing food. While they still serve that purpose, we live in a time when backsplashes have a lot more creative freedom, serving as beautiful and personalized accents not restricted to any one size. If you are in the market for some creative backsplash ideas for your kitchen, you have come to the right place.
Backsplash Design Ideas
When it comes to the way you design your kitchen backsplash, the possibilities are endless. The backsplash you design should work with the atmosphere you want to create in your kitchen, and that is entirely up to. As you consider the many creative backsplash ideas at your disposal, take colors, patterns, and materials into account.
Color
Backsplashes in neutral colors work well in kitchens with either bold schemes or similarly neutral tones, but a bold color and pattern combination is sure to make an impression. Do you want your backsplash to stand out or blend into the rest of your design scheme? If you want to add texture without adding color, match your backsplash to the color of your wall.
Patterns
The pattern of your backsplash is an area where you can really play around. Some patterns, like simply arrayed square tiles or subway tiles interlaced like a modern take on old brick, add subtle elegance. Others add a bit more spice, like an outlined chevron or hexagons or other geometric shapes like triangles. If you really want to let loose and have fun, go wild with florals or a speckled or latticed design.
Materials
Material may be the area where you have the most room to express your creative backsplash ideas. This is because you can use a quality material, like brick or marble or a mosaic of stones, or another solution that simply looks like it. (More on that later.) Metal, laminate, and ceramic or glass tiles all make for good backsplashes. Don’t be afraid to combine materials. A combination of stone and wood makes for visual and textural interest.
Creative Backsplash Ideas on a Budget
A beautiful backsplash doesn’t have to break the bank. You can find beautiful pieces on a budget if you know where to look. If you know what you like, there’s a way to see it done if you’re willing to get inventive. If you don’t know what you like, here are a few creative backsplash ideas perfect for pinching your pennies.
Easy DIY Backsplashes
If you love a good project, you can create a beautiful backsplash from some unexpected materials. As we mentioned above, you can get the appearance of brick or stone with nothing but a paintbrush. With stencils and right paint, you can design your own backsplash without dealing with heavy stone or a hefty price tag.
Fabric is another cheap way to add color and visual interest behind your stove. Apply swatches of fabric of your choice with liquid starch to make them rigid. Keep in mind however that fabric backsplashes are not waterproof.
Looking for some creative backsplash ideas that border on off-beat? Create a mosaic of wine corks. Doing so will make a statement and keep the memories associated with each bottle close. Complete the project with a clear sealant. Another idea that’s off the beaten path is to use tile grout to set broken pieces of glass in an array. You can use remnants of any glass container, including mason jars dyed to match your kitchen decor.
If your tastes run toward the elegant, beadboard does the trick. The material is an economical alternative to tile and is relatively easy to install. Cut the panels to fit your space and secure them with glue and nails. Just watch as they make your kitchen feel more cozy and clean.
Backsplashes for Renters
If you need some creative backsplash ideas that are less than permanent, we’ve got you covered. Many materials come in a peel-and-stick variety, including wallpaper, vinyl, and even tile. Peel and stick wallpaper that can be cut to the right shape, then simply peel off the backing and apply it to your kitchen wall.
A clipping from a roll of vinyl works in the same way, serving as a temporary yet—get this—waterproof backsplash for your kitchen. Vinyl is relatively inexpensive, and any mistakes are easily corrected. You can use scissors or a vinyl-cutting machine to cut backsplash pieces of the right size and shape. Both wallpaper and vinyl come in a plethora of colors and patterns.
You wouldn’t think so, but plywood planks can serve as a temporary backsplash. They should be treated with waterproof caulk and can be painted with semi-gloss paint if you prefer, but either way, planks are sure to be a showstopper. For truly impermanent installation, you can use strips of Velcro to apply the planks to the wall. If you want your plywood backsplash to last, use glue and nails instead.
