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Splash!: Choosing a Great Backsplash
I'm a design and food-obsessed freelance writer and market research analyst, and a stay-at-home mom.
I'm a design and food-obsessed freelance writer and market research analyst,... More »
When I redid my kitchen, I thought a lot about the decor. Cabinets, countertops, paint color - even the sink got a thought. But somehow, until the very last minute, I forgot all about a backsplash.
My story turned out OK - my architect recommended some cool stainless steel tiles for the space behind the stove. They look great and complement the rest of the room. And so began my belief that the backsplash is a design element not to be ignored. Plus, I'm a messy cook. It's a relief to have that wall protected!
Here are some of my favorite backsplash looks:
My story turned out OK - my architect recommended some cool stainless steel tiles for the space behind the stove. They look great and complement the rest of the room. And so began my belief that the backsplash is a design element not to be ignored. Plus, I'm a messy cook. It's a relief to have that wall protected!
Here are some of my favorite backsplash looks:
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A great backsplash doesn't have to be flashy. I think this simple white brick pattern is perfect in this kitchen - it's straightforward and clean.
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| This earthy tile pattern is also simple, but just a little jazzier than the plain white above. I love how it ties all the room's colors together, and how it creates a connection between the living area and the kitchen. |
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| This backsplash reminds me of the one in my own kitchen - when you've got rich wood cabinets and stainless steel appliances, it's hard to go wrong by extending the stainless. It looks modern, with a slight Jetsons vibe. Plus, it's practical - so easy to clean. |
by Susan M. Davis
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This combination of stainless and tile is super cool - it's a great compromise that keeps the metal from overwhelming the room. I love the turquoise color, too. It's a bold choice, but perfect with the soft, buttery yellow.
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I think this cool mint tile arrangement is so pretty and I love how it's extended all along the wall. With different decor, it could trickle into "country" territory, but the addition of the Bertoia-style wire chairs modernizes the overall look.
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Black is an unexpected choice in the kitchen and handled the wrong way, it could make the whole space appear cold. In this kitchen, though, the tile used has an almost soft look, like a chalkboard. It's a great contrast with the bold red and the white and stainless accessories. Plus, how practical - I'm sure it hides all kinds of stains.
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This slate-like backdrop almost looks like modern art. I love the organic look of it - it's natural but modern at the same time.
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Kitchen windows are an interesting topic. A window over the sink is de rigueur, and I think everyone agrees that natural light is important in the kitchen. So why don't we see more windows behind the cooking area? I love the cabinet/window compromise here - and the idea of gazing out into the yard as I cook.
Ideabook updated on Sept. 6, 2009.
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