Design A Tile Backsplash | The Perfect Tile For A Kitchen Remodel
Tips to help you design a tile backsplash for your kitchen remodel.
The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in the house, and the number one room new homeowners choose to remodel first. While there are many elements in the kitchen that can establish your design aesthetic one area that can offer considerable visual appeal as well as a space to experiment with colors materials and patterns, is your kitchen backsplash.
Your kitchen backsplash is visual. Yes, it functions as a stopgap for keeping splashing hot oil or water from hitting and staining drywall, and it needs to stand up to daily cleaning, but it really is an area that you can visually experiment with. You can add color, movement or texture by using different materials like glossy ceramic, which would create a slip risk if used for floors... or glass, painted tiles, terracotta, natural stone, different shapes, you get the idea. When you design a tile backsplash, you can use any material you choose to add a subtle or bold decorative flair to your kitchen.
Here are a few tips that will help you design a tile backsplash for your kitchen.
First, identify the right tile for your home
The sheer number of choices available for kitchen backsplash tile can be overwhelming. When choosing one for your kitchen, focus on the materials that complement your home's overall interior design. For example, if your style leans towards industrial, a glass backsplash offers a raw, unfinished quality entirely in context. Using trendy subway tiles can work perfectly in an urban home, while a simple matte white chevron pattern tile can make a farmhouse kitchen really alive.
When you design a tile backsplash, don't be afraid to mix it up!
White kitchens are amazing. The have clean lines, bright faces and are very trendy right now. Combining a stark white kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a dark backsplash, for example, black slate penny tile, can add depth to your space. One tip, if you're going to go for a bold modern look like black and white, consider keeping lighting minimalist and airy, so it doesn't compete for attention in the space. Consider finishes as well. Combining gloss and matte tiles can add a dramatic, yet subtle variation to your tile pattern. Combining colors and materials can add an element of texture to the space.
Use typical materials in unexpected ways
Marble tile is a common material in many kitchens. Consider using it in creative ways to add an element of surprise to a traditional kitchen design. For example, inserting tiles with subtle color variations, like combining white marble with gray marble accent tile can be an interesting design choice. To add even a little more variety, consider designing your backsplash in a herringbone pattern or using arabesque style tile. The kitchen's design can remain simple, but using an arabesque type tile is unexpected and makes a traditional kitchen feel renewed.
Think About Color or Neutral First
A color is usually one of the first considerations when choosing a backsplash tile. While a colorful backsplash can have an immediate impact, a more neutral backsplash can still add as much character. It really all comes down to the other colors, materials, and textures already being used in your kitchen and how it all works together.
Finally, consider your countertop material
Your backsplash is always going to be right up against your countertop, so it's important to make sure they pair well together. This is true from both a color context, as well as a materials context. If you choose a colorful manufactured stone countertop, you may want to stay neutral with your backsplash, so the two don't clash or compete for visual attention. If your countertops are neutral, for example, white quartz, you have more freedom to choose a colorful tile that complements the texture and tone of the quartz. If your countertop is a complicated natural granite, you may want to stay monochromatic and add a subtle texture, for example, glass subway tiles.
When it comes to your kitchen remodel your ultimate goal is to create a warm, inviting space for your family and friends to gather. When it comes time to design a tile backsplash, consider your aesthetic, your home's décor, and of course your budget. No matter what material you choose you are sure to add a bit of drama, elegance or whimsy to the heart of your home.
Kitchen Design & Remodel Projects with Interesting Backsplash Tile
Forward Design Build is a residential design-build firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan that is known for its commitment to craftsmanship and communication. We are committed to improving our neighbors quality of life with inspired design and creative remodeling. Our homes are highly functional, exquisitely beautiful, and remarkably comfortable. Contact us to speak with an expert about your new home or remodeling project.