When you’re renovating a kitchen, there is no right or wrong way of choosing what element to start with. Some people start with cabinets, some with the counter, and some start with the floor. Regardless where you start, the backsplash can certainly add a great deal of impact to a kitchen design.
Backsplash materials options have grown over the years; they no longer have to be a painted wall or a Plain Jane 12” x 12” tile. Options include tile in travertine, glass, porcelain; and you can insert decorative tile, or do a subway look. You can also use stainless steel, tin, wood, living walls of kitchen herbs – whatever suites your tastes.
With so many choices, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Here are a few key things to consider when you’re making a decision.
Patterned or Plain?
Keep in mind that there are two things that the backsplash is very close to: the cabinets and the counter. Making sure that the backsplash works effectively with the countertop is critical. If the counter has a lot of pattern, try to go more solid on the backsplash. The same things goes for the opposite situation: if the counter has more of a pattern, try and choose a backsplash that compliments but does not compete with the counter top.
One trend that I’ve seen a lot lately for kitchens with the same colour cabinets and counters is to give the backsplash a pop of colour for contrast. It can be an effective way to keep everything from blending in too much.
For tiny kitchens, using the same tile to create a unified backsplash that goes all the way around the room can help make the room look larger.
Rough or Smooth?
Whatever colour or pattern you choose, don’t forget the practical side: clean up. If you do a lot of cooking, you may want to choose a smoother surface that’s easier to clean, rather than a rougher one.
For look and feel, smooth tiles look very contemporary, and rougher tiles more relaxed and rustic.
Tile Installation Options
There are plenty of installation choices as well. You can lay the tile straight where the grout lines match up, in a staggered (or brick) layout, or even lay the tile on a 45 degree angle.
Getting a Kitchen You Love
Between materials and installation choices, the options will help you either create the perfect traditional or contemporary kitchen space, or anything in between.
If you’re having difficulty making a choice for your kitchen, why not come in and talk to me or one of my designer colleagues at Laurysen? We’d love to see you!
