What backsplash should I install?

11 years ago

3 years ago my husband and I designed and built our home. With so many decisions to make, I couldn't decide on a backsplash. I installed faux tin as a temporary "fix". I have always found it too shiny. It is the first thing your eye sees when entering the kitchen area.
I am now ready to commit to a more subtle, blending backsplash.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Featured Answer

whiskeyrobot

11 years ago

last modified: 11 years ago

I'm gonna put myself out there and say the skinny horizontal tiles are just...not great. I have no idea why they became trendy, but they're already on their way out. I think they were originally supposed to exude a high tech style or something, either way, those tiles have no element of classic or traditional design. Your kitchen is ABSOLUTELY beautiful. If you stick witha lighter color, it will help add a touch of brightness. I personally think these are some fantastic examples of what would look great in your kitchen, especially if cost is no object. Also, subway tiles are simple but classic.

Also, try to stay away from browns. Brown floor, brown cabinets, brown pendants, brown chairs. The hints of green in the examples linked would be a wonderful compliment to the warm reddish brown tones of your cabinets.

Artistic Tile Chateau Collection Mosaic · More Info

Traditional Kitchen Tile · More Info

Merola Metro Chelsea Subway White · More Info

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Comments (18)

Natalie
11 years ago
Hi---glass or glass/stone with the colors scheme I've attached. Tile installed on the VERTICAL for this space... Several pieces in this room are of the same hue and value---I suggest reupholstering the backs of your stools with a lighter (print) fabric. Hope this helps... :)
http://atlantalegacyhomes.blogspot.com/2012_01_01_archive.html
Natalie
11 years ago
By the way---Beautiful Kitchen!
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PRO
Susan Jablon Mosaics
11 years ago
I think a light backsplash in warm tones would be a lovely complement to your kitchen. Below are some images of neutral backsplashes that lighten up the kitchen without stealing too much attention. You can also check out our mosaic designer, http://www.susanjablon.com/designer/mosaic-designer.html or contact one of our designers to custom design a tile backsplash to match your counter, floors, and cabinets. We offer a wide variety of glass, stone, and stainless steel tiles and can help you find one to suit your tastes!
PRO
Brickwood Builders, Inc.
11 years ago
Very pretty room. You did a nice job with this. I would use a medium toned tumbled travertine with the room in keeping with the more rustic nature of the cabinetry.
cbiskit
11 years ago
I think bead board would look nice, painted a neutral color. You already have a lot of solid surfaces like granite and tile...Just my two! ;)
skyfrolic
11 years ago
I think Natalie has a very good suggestion, something more neutral rather than of the same color tones that is the rest of the kitchen. It's a beautiful kitchen.
PRO
Moyer Woodworks
11 years ago
Glass tile would be my choice as well....i might lean to a 2"x2" size or bigger so its not so busy..and perhaps a personal touch of a special tile randomly placed...very nice kitchen and layout...its such a focal point that it needs to be "mellow"
Melanie
Original Author
11 years ago
Love all the great ideas! Natalie, why did you suggest vertical, rather then horizontal? Love the tile you suggested.
mpoulsom
11 years ago
Tao Latte Foam Marble & Glass from Glass Tile Store.com is the first one.
Second one I like, but may be too busy, but very cool.
PRO
Susan Jablon Mosaics
11 years ago
Here are some close ups of light colored, neutral backsplashes. One is a handcut stained glass travertine colored mosaic, the other is a blend of tan and golden hued 2 inch square tiles. Subtle color palettes, but with some texture. Hopefully this is inspiring!
Natalie
11 years ago
Hi mellychick
I like that you asked me this question. When I looked at your photo the room seemed very horizontal to me, so much so, that my eye didn't notice your beautiful glass front cabinetry. Therefore, I suggested installing the tiles vertically---thus making the eye follow the vertical plane rather than the horizontal plane. Hope my explanation makes sense. :) Your room is Beautiful, very well done. Enjoy!
michigammemom
11 years ago
Your kitchen strikes me as Craftsman inspired. I love the look of this kitchen with hand glazed Motawi tile backsplash.
Craftsman Inspired Kitchen · More Info
Tanya Murgia
11 years ago
Stone would look fabulous for a rustic feel Glass tile in Earth tones would be more modern or transitional
stlacy
11 years ago
I agree with whiskeyrobot about the skinny glass tiles. Think in a few years they're going to look seriously dated. Far too trendy for your gorgeous kitchen I happen to like the tin tiles or even a stainless steel tile, but if you don't want shiny, travertine would be stunning. One of my bathrooms has a walk-in travertine shower and sometimes I just go stand in it to look at the stone.
,
jaynesrenopics
11 years ago
I also agree with whiskeyrobot. you need to step away from any tan and brown! think light and energetic. maybe you could introduce a subtle color. grey or green as attached by whiskeyrobot. those cabinets are gorgeous.
Nicole Allen
11 years ago
First off, I love your kitchen! The cabinets are to die for! Since there is already alot going on in there, (Pendant lights, granite etc.) I would suggest that you remain plain on the backsplash. Whether it be glass tile or ceramic or whatever, stay with minimal designs...I like the pic that i attached--pay no attention to the rest of the pic, the tile is the only part i was looking at- but in more of a warm tone to match your kitchen.
Nicole Allen
11 years ago
I also like these....