Large marble tile (6x12) backsplash

segbrown

16 years ago

I am picturing a subway style backsplash in 6x12 tiles, and I'm curious about any opinions.

Here's my perimeter layout (that's a stainless shelf above the range, and just wall under the vent hood.

So far it looks like this:

Inspiration photo:

Marble to go on island (soapstone will be on perimeter):

I'm thinking about a much less busy Calacatta or similar tile for the backsplash, mostly white but with some of the same golds and grays. I've just found 12x12, but I assume they can be cut in half.

1. Does anyone have any other photos of such a BS?

2. What potential problems/pitfalls with doing something like this?

3. I think I have enough wall space to make it look not too crowded (mainly on the sink wall ... the narrowest between cabinet and counter is 21").

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Comments (11)

segbrown
Original Author
16 years ago
The inspiration photo is of the backsplash, not the whole kitchen. I guess you could figure that out, but I didn't want anyone thinking I missed badly on following it. :-)
mamalynn
16 years ago
I'm no expert by any means, but most of the tile I remember seeing is a bit rounded off on the edges. So, if you cut them, the cut edge won't have the same shape as the uncut edge. It will look like a cut edge. More knowledgeable people, please feel free to correct me.
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shanghaimom
16 years ago
Hmmn, was just reading about someone who did a cararra backsplash where they cut 12x12 in half and installed in a running bond pattern for the backsplash. It looks great and saved her a ton of money! (Could do the same with calcutta tiles.) Page 96 of this month's Cottage Living's "Cottage Kitchens" magazine.

Your slab is soooo beautiful!
malhgold
16 years ago
That kitchen has always been one of my favorites. I think it's on the Sub Zero website and I've seen it called "Hot Chocolate". I LOVE the way they did those tiles. Just wondering if some of the effect might be lost if it's just behind the range. I don't know the answer to that, just something to think about. Maybe if you draw out in pencil the 6X12 shape you'll get a better feel.

I hope you go for it. I'm considering it for my backsplash!! I love "oversized" elements and my range wall has no upper cabs on it. Just flanked by 2 windows.
remodelfla
16 years ago
I love love love all the caramel and gray veining in that marble. Are you getting a "quite" soapstone or veiny one? My vote on the marble depends on that.
segbrown
Original Author
16 years ago
Soapstone will be Minas, which has some veining but not too much.
plants4
16 years ago
It's no problem cutting them in half. The tiles are ever so slightly beveled on the edges but they are not usually rounded. The bevel can easily be added to the cuts.
segbrown
Original Author
16 years ago
I thought Cottage Living folded?
shanghaimom
16 years ago
It is "by" Cottage Living--a special kitchens-only magazine. Yes, Cottage Living is gone....)o: Here is one of the photos from the magazine spread--I found it online!
drjgreenberg
16 years ago
I did this exact thing in our old apt. We cut 12in crema marfil marble tiles in half and used as our backsplash. The 12in tiles were used on the floor. Looked great. A bunch of tiles broke while being cut in half and the cut ends are unfinished, but I didn't mind.

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segbrown
Original Author
16 years ago
Thanks everyone! Looks great