A backsplash is one of the quickest ways to change how a kitchen feels. It's a small area, so you can splurge on a tile you love without a huge material bill.
Popular backsplash tiles
- Subway tile. The classic 3x6 rectangle works in nearly any kitchen. Longer 2x8 or 2x10 versions feel more current.
- Handmade-look and zellige-style tile. Glossy, slightly uneven tiles that catch the light.
- Patterned cement-look tile. A bold choice behind a range or as the whole wall.
- Marble and stone mosaics. Elegant, but they need sealing, especially behind the stove and sink.
- Large-format slabs or panels. Very few grout lines and a sleek look.
Layouts change the look
The same tile can look very different depending on how it's set:
- Running bond (offset by half a tile) is traditional.
- Stacked (tiles lined up in a grid) is clean and modern.
- Vertical stack draws the eye up and makes ceilings feel taller.
- Herringbone adds movement and works well as a feature behind the range.
How far should it go?
- Counter to the bottom of the upper cabinets is standard.
- To the ceiling on walls without upper cabinets, such as around open shelving or a range hood, looks finished and intentional.
- Plan the edges. Decide where the tile stops at the end of the counter and how the edge will be finished, with a trim piece, a bullnose tile or a metal edge.
Details that make it look right
- Outlets: extenders bring outlets out flush with the new tile.
- Grout color: white grout with white tile looks seamless; gray or dark grout shows off the pattern and hides stains near the stove.
- Start point: a good layout centers the pattern on the range or sink so cut tiles end up in the corners.
Do the counters first
Install countertops before the backsplash. The tile sits on top of the counter, and template and fabrication schedules usually set the timeline.
Bring samples home
Kitchen lighting changes how a glossy or colorful tile looks. Hold a few samples against your cabinets and counters at different times of day before you decide.