Renovating an older kitchen or designing a new kitchen can be challenging, after all the kitchen has the most traffic and activity of any room in the house. Finishes, cabinets, countertops, and hardware, along with a versatile and functional backsplash need to be chosen with care. To help with decision making for the backsplash, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure your kitchen is functional and beautiful for years to come.

And while you may have a favorite material, you should keep in mind what is currently trending and what is no longer so trendy. Ultimately, though, keep in mind that trends come and go regularly and your kitchen, while it can certainly boast the latest trend, should, more importantly, reflect your own personal style, while looking great and functioning well. To accomplish this feat, focusing on exceptional craftmanship and premium quality is the key to backsplash success.

Organic, Handmade Materials

Organic, handmade materials are perfect for those who want a refined bit of interest in the kitchen. Handmade tiles are organic, offering unique artistic variations with no two alike and deliver a measure of depth and subtlety not found in a unified look.

Subway Tiles

While some designers are saying the subway tile is completely overdone, most agree white subway tiles are a timeless classic. Plus, subway tiles come in a variety of sizes and lengths and colors, allowing you to develop your own unique kitchen style. You can even choose a print, texture, or pattern for your subway look. And don’t forget the beauty of setting your subway selection in a herringbone pattern for something completely different.

Trendy Colors, Hip Patterns

While not for everyone, trendy colors and hip patterns aren’t always the first choice for kitchen design. Of course, if you fall in love with a look, chic colors and patterns offer a way, like no other, to show off your distinct personal style.

Marble

Marble, the quintessential classic choice for counters, is now trending with coordinating marble backsplashes. The beauty of marble means you can showcase your style from the latest ultra-modern look to the timeless traditional approach.

Go Big (Well, Tall)

There was a time when backsplashes were only a few inches tall, but that time has passed. Today’s trends call for backsplashes to go big and tall. Whether you choose tiles or a slab to complete your backsplash, go big, taking it at least 18 inches in height or to the base of the upper cabinets. If your budget allows, take it to the ceiling and make a statement.

Textures and Shapes

Hexagonal tiles are trending, and when you combine uniquely shaped tiles with glaze and texture, the result is a backsplash that delivers character, depth, and a style all your own. Another popular trending tile look is the harlequin pattern, which is growing in popularity for its sleek appearance as well as the way you can play with color and pattern. And remember, glazing any tile adds immediate sheen and showcases craftsmanship in your kitchen.

Custom-Made

If your budget allows, a custom designed backsplash may be exactly what you what you are looking for in your kitchen. Custom design means you choose exactly what you love – from vines to old-world patterns, flowers to fish, no look is out of reach!

Whatever you choose, don’t be afraid to show your unique style with color, patterns, textures, and shapes. Choose a subtle pop of color or a bold statement.  Go classic and timeless, modern and chic, or cozy and rustic, the choice is yours.