Tile backsplashes can bring a lot of character and interest to the kitchen. With all the options out there for tiles, though, it can be hard to pinpoint exactly what might work well for you and your kitchen. Looking at what's popular can sometimes offer inspiration or cues to find the backsplash look you're going for. If we can pinpoint any one thing that unites the trending options we're seeing in the kitchens we've done recently, it would possibly be a desire to create kitchens that feel unique. These trends are more like basic guidelines with a lot of ways to apply them, rather than strict or specific choices, which works very well to create trendy kitchens that still feel special and custom. Here are 7 of these trends we're seeing in tile backsplashes right now.
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Counter to Ceiling Backsplash
This tile trend doesn't shy away from going big. Backsplashes don't always have to be limited to a short vertical height. Depending on the items on the wall and the way they interact with each other, a full wall backsplash is sometimes a great choice to keep everything cohesive visually. The tile used for this type of installation should be something that isn't overpowering in the large amount. That doesn't necessarily mean it needs to be plain or white, however. In the example above, small-scale porcelain and glass mosaic tile mixture coats the full wall to help the individual wall elements feel more visually connected.
Graphic or Printed Tiles
This trend has had some staying power in recent years, partly because it can be exactly the right choice for homeowners who like a lot of detail, color, or pattern in their homes. Graphic tiles can come in a few different varieties, including printed tile, such as the example above, or mosaic tiles that produce colorful patterns. The exact option selected and how much is used should be based on the colors it introduces to the kitchen's palette, and the overall impact it will have on the kitchen's look. Same as with a full wall of tile, it's important here that a bold backsplash makes a statement but doesn't overwhelm the room.
Long Subway Tiles
Subway tile on its own is what we'd call a "classic" tile option that never seems to feel out of date. If that's up your alley, but you'd like to explore a different, more modern take on the brick-like pattern, consider longer rectangular tiles that can be laid in the same pattern that are a bit trendier right now. The look is a fresh take on the classic, works in any color, and can especially suit under-cabinet backsplash areas that are somewhat vertically short. Another thing that could add a bit more trendy character is to look at non-matching grout options that could increase the graphic look if that suits your kitchen design goals.
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Unusual Repeating Shapes
Not all tiles are rectangular, and these days it's possible to find a variety of interesting and unique shapes that can create repeating patterns. These tile types often trend precisely because they are unexpected or different from the usual backsplash. They can be statement-making, but different shapes, sizes, finishes, etc. can adjust the visual impact they make. One thing to consider with any unusually-shaped tile, though, is how it will look when cut off at a corner or edge, so if you're going this route, be sure to ask your designer about how that will be handled.
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Hand-Made Qualities
Whether you go for genuinely hand-made tiles or those manufactured to look handmade, the trend here is the same. Tiles with slightly imperfect finishes or colors from one tile to the next, or those with less-precise edges are a popular choice to add subtle interest and depth to the backsplash without having to go with something more graphic. This option will introduce a slight color range to the kitchen's design which may help pull together a wider variety of colors or finishes used throughout the room or help to match an element that also has color variation, like the countertop example above.
3-D or Textured Tiles
This next trend we've been seeing is quite broad. We're seeing it most often with white or shades of white as the basic color choice, but that's by no means the limit. In this case, it's less about the color and more about the texture, and in that respect, there's no shortage of options. Whether the tile is a 3-D design like the one above, or it has a more organic or natural texture, the trend makes room for all possibilities. The upside to this is that there's likely an option that works perfectly for your kitchen if you want something subtle but still interesting.
Mixed Finishes
We've also seen homeowners recently opt for tiles that are uniform in shape and color, but not in their finish. Mixtures that include glossy and matte finishes will play with light and create interesting and eye-catching effects. This can make the wall feel more dynamic and give the kitchen a layer of something unexpected or even a bit bold.
Are you ready to create a new kitchen that shows off your unique character? We'd love to speak with you about your project!
