Software
Houzz Logo Print
njohs

Backsplash or not?!?

9 years ago

We are finishing a project in our laundry room. We installed new quartz counters, including the area of the utility sink. I opted not to install the standard 4" backsplash of the same quartz because we have a long folding table on the opposite wall that does not need a backsplash. The sink gets minimal use. Should I install some type of tile back splash around the sink area? Both walls? Where should it stop? So confused....



Comments (37)

  • PRO
    9 years ago

    I would just leave it as is! The only option that would look good is a 4" backsplash of the quartz!

  • 9 years ago

    no backsplash

  • PRO
    9 years ago

    You don't need a backsplash.

  • 9 years ago

    I don't understand why not putting up a back splash around the folding board area has to do with not putting up a back splash around the sink? Yes, I think sinks need a back splash for the obvious reason .... water. So I would add a 4" one in the same material as the counter top if possible. If that's not possible, then I would do something corresponding like a white-ish subway tile and in that case I would tile up higher on the walls.

  • 9 years ago

    The room is still a work in progress. Here are pictures of the opposite wall, couldn't capture the whole area in one photo. I left the backsplash off of the sink area so it would be consistent with the folding table area. Do you think it should be either 4" backsplash on both or neither? I had considered moving the hanging bar to the area above the folding table but it is nice in the snowy winters to be able to hang the kids' dripping coats over the sink.

  • 9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    i would still do a hanging bar for shirts/blouses. or some shelving. Fold down ironing board. some art. very nice room!

  • PRO
    9 years ago

    Given that the sink is likely to see minimal usage, a backsplash is totally optional. It looks like a very nice space and I love your color choices. I would want to put something interesting there because it is a small space and you could do almost anything as it wouldn't be overpowering. Just don't get too bothered by it, either option is reasonable so just whatever tickles your fancy.

  • 9 years ago
    I have more of a "industrial" look and used a door kick plate for the bs to go with my GoJo...
  • PRO
    9 years ago

  • 9 years ago
    Sure you don't need a backsplash. The area will be just fine without it. However, I think a backsplash always makes a worlds difference in just making everything look nicer. So if you have the resources, I would definitely add it. It can only make it look nicer!
  • 9 years ago

    Odd without any.

  • 9 years ago

    look at this idea photo ,the backsplash is there but only short ,I like it it will protect the walls .

    Contemporary Laundry Room · More Info

  • 9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I don't think there is a need for a backsplash - it's really a matter of taste vs need as this sink is not big enough for anything more than rising out small items. You can always add tile if you feel you need it. Would be cute to add something on the wall behind though for interest (an antique scrubbing board). I would take full advantage of the folding table for hanging as it's so convenient to do everything along the one wall.

  • 9 years ago

    you need backsplash

  • 9 years ago


    I am considering using this tile as a backsplash, flipped so the long side of the tiles are horizontal. The sheets are 11x11. Any suggestions for a good height for the backsplash? Do I leave them full height (probably 10" after cutting straight edge) or make them shorter? Thanks for any suggestions!

  • 9 years ago
    I would do the entire wall and around the cabinet like the photo below. It will add drama to a space we all hate being in. BTW I love your layout! Can't wait for the day we can redo our laundry room :(
  • 9 years ago
    Here's what I did in the same situation: install a high shelf above the chrome hanging bar. Use this as a break for backsplash tile and take it all the way up. On the adjacent wall, tile and continue up to match the first wall. You could also end with a trim piece rather than the shelf, or finish with a schluter edge. A wall adjacent to water should be protected, and you'll be free to be messy and get more use out of the sink if you tile now.

    Have fun - there are so many beautiful large format tiles to choose from - this can help you cut costs and add a little personality to your laundry room :)
  • 9 years ago

    anniebird, I would love it if you could share some pictures! Thanks!

  • PRO
    9 years ago

    Backsplashes · More Info

    Backsplashes · More Info

    You could do something sleek like the first picture shown or do the whole wall like photo two shows

  • 9 years ago

    I think if you want some life in the room add a backsplash! The photos above are great options.

  • 9 years ago

    I think adding a backsplash is a great idea! I agree that there are some good examples above.

  • 9 years ago

    I would say when it comes to the laundry room, less is more. Backsplash would be an extra expense that I, personally, would not want to take on, especially since I won't have many guests going into that room. The style you chose for that room is already beautiful by itself. I would leave it be! :-)

  • PRO
    9 years ago

    I would do tiles or 4-6" of that same stone

  • 9 years ago
    I will take pictures for you when I get home:)
  • 9 years ago
    Here's the corner of our laundry room. Tile goes all the way to the floor on both sides since it's a wall mount sink. I think there's a cabinet under yours, right?
  • 9 years ago

    Make it fun....add color...add whimsy. Take a space that is meant for work and make it where you don't mind being in there. Doesn't matter that not a lot of other people will ever go in there. It matters because you and your family use that room, so it needs to have some personality. Go for a beautiful, fun, decorative backsplash.

  • 9 years ago

    Or even wall paper. One that will hold up to humidity, a bold one.

  • 9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    After many years, our quality wallpaper is damaged [over kitchen sink].... tile best.

    What color / style is in the rest of your house?

  • 9 years ago

    Nice detail while you work / and whistle? anyone remember.... my age.

    Antic Sensations Ceramic Wall Subway Tile, Milk · More Info

  • 9 years ago

    8 for $20 / more colors:

    Antic Feelings Ceramic Subway Wall Tile, Pergamon · More Info

  • 9 years ago

    Darker tones - I'll ask if you have wood/wood-look flooring to tie this in?

    Glass and Stainless Quarter Rounds, Full Sheet · More Info

  • 9 years ago

    varieties of / 25 for $52:

    Twenties Ceramic Floor and Wall Tile, Petal · More Info

  • 9 years ago

    Only if u intend to do the whole wall up. Otherwise I think it will look strange. N I wouldn't keep the pole with hangers there either. I understand it's a laundry room but IMO That just seems to be the wrong place for hanging things. :)

  • 9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Practicality in a laundry room - that's enough for me. You could extend it to top of nearby machine.... end on adjacent wall before light switch? There are tile people around to help!

    or maybe to the pole.

  • 9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Some place them vertically - then a border - maybe same tile the other way? Trim.