There’s a saying that a messy kitchen is a sign of a good meal. For instance, when cooking that favorite soup recipe and ending up with a splattering against the back of your stove. But why not cook a great meal and prevent the mess? You should consider adding a backsplash, which can be easy to clean yet add a design element to the room. Ultimately, your backsplash is a kitchen focal point and a chance to be creative!

When people begin a kitchen remodel, they usually first pay attention to updating countertops and cabinets which tend to be a practical choice. But this is a great time to have some fun and add a backsplash, which finishes off the kitchen’s look.

The first step is to decide which material will suit your needs. There are many options available, including ceramic, porcelain and glass tiles which all have fairly easy upkeep. You could choose a natural stone, like slate or marble, which are very beautiful but can spot with grease and are prone to chipping. One of the biggest benefits of slate is that it pairs well with many different styles.

If you are an unusually messy cook, you may want to steer clear of highly textured stacked or rough tiles which may accumulate grease in nooks and crannies. Weigh the pros and cons of the artistic value vs. potential extra time to clean.

So, what’s in style now? Even though the 3-D stacked look mentioned above is harder to clean, its popularity is rising. Subway tiles – replicas of the classic rectangular white ceramic tiles used in the New York City subway – are also very popular. The most popular tile size remains 2” x 6”, but we’re also seeing smaller or larger variations for a unique look

Graphic encaustic (or cement) tiles which were popular in the ornate Victorian era, are now enjoying a modern-day revival. Albeit more expensive, a lot of people are increasingly drawn to glass, which can be painted in any color you choose. This works well in contemporary kitchens going for a seamless look. If you can splurge a little, you could also consider marble or granite. If trying to be cost friendly, the best option is to stick with porcelain and ceramic.

Don’t forget the rest of your kitchen décor and how the backsplash will achieve visual harmony. You can mix and match one of three ways. Either pair tiles in a backsplash that match up well with the countertops, like a classic sleek, white tiled wall behind the range that makes the area feel spacious and clean.

Or opt for a design that sharply contrasts the existing décor style, and acts as a focal point in the kitchen. For example, play with patterns and textures, like geometric shapes or a floral pattern with contrasting colors. Thirdly, if you’ve found the countertop of your dreams, why not enjoy more of it by extending it upwards? So your backsplash IS your countertop.

Another important consideration is the surface area you wish to cover. Some people choose to place the backsplash from the counter up to the ceiling on a wall. This is a more expensive option because it requires more materials. A budget savvy tip is to use the more expensive, stylish tile/material behind the prime wall, the stove or sink area, then another more affordable tile around the surrounding areas.

Don’t forget about the grout! This may seem like a trivial decision, but grout choice can make all the difference in a room. With many designer colors available, you can match grout almost perfectly to any tile used in your kitchen backsplash. This creates a much more cohesive and modern look, with less contrast. Or select a grout that stands out against your backsplash. Be creative and have fun!

Our team would love to help you design the backsplash of your dreams. Call Mosby at 314-909-1800 to get started on your new kitchen.