Advice on Basement Bar Backsplash

8 years ago

We are remodeling our basement, including a new bar area. The floor, cabinets and countertop are installed. The next step is to decide on a back splash. Two questions:

1) I like the Cleopatra Silver Amalfi subway tile (see picture below), but wasn't sure if it would be too busy with our granite (Blue Pearl). One ideas we had is to add a 3/4" black glass tile between the countertop and the subway tile to separate the designs. Thoughts? Other suggestions?

2) Because of a bulkhead, the upper cabinets end prior to the edge of the countertop. I was planning to end the back splash tile in-line with the upper cabinets on each side, but know some recommend aligning to the end of the countertop. Thoughts on what would look best for this layout?

kjkhome's Ideas · More Info

kjkhome's Ideas · More Info

Featured Answer

Beth H. :

8 years ago

last modified: 8 years ago

no black accent, I'd run it all the way across the countertop (that's why you have a backsplash,,for the countertop, not the upper cabs), and I'd do that schluter edge flo mentioned, but in the flat, Jolly trim piece. Will look like this against the wall.

you would also do it on the top where there are no cabinets.

I'd also consider doing a larger format tile. It will look better. Since it's for a bar, consider doing something a little more pizzazz, like a mirrored subway

or, a glossy black, or midnight to go w/the blue pearl

If you like the SS tiles, then try something like this,,,(just one color, not all four). you could also do it in the herringbone design.

at least try and find a tile over 6" in length. the 4" ones won't look as good.

or try some cool iridescent tiles,,,,all of these will bounce around the light.

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Comments (10)

R M
8 years ago
Install just to the end of the upper cabinet.
The end area is perfect for a decorative item..
or a mini wine rack.
PRO
Flo Mangan
8 years ago
Do just one type backsplash. You can do the backsplash either way, but with each, you will need a "edge trim piece since it will end where the sides of tiles show. Need finished edge. Schluter edging in a metal that matches would be nice. But that has to be installed before tiling! You need to read up on it if you aren't familiar with them.
tile · More Info
Makes for a very nice finished edge. Comes in many different finishes and styles.
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Mid America Mom
8 years ago
Just the silver tile would be lovely!
PRO
Joy Street Design
8 years ago
Doing one tile would probably work best here, and we think a flashy tile like Beth suggested might be really stunning since it's a bar.
Florence Avenue: Kitchen · More Info

Florence Avenue: Kitchen · More Info
PRO
Flo Mangan
8 years ago
Love glass mirror backed tiles for thus type situation. Reflective tiles would be great. I agree with all Beth’s suggestions.
K R
8 years ago
The mirrored would look awesome! I almost went with that for my bar but I was doing a stone fireplace wall next to it so went with the same stone for behind my tv. Otherwise I definitely would have picked mirrored.
Sara Vogel
8 years ago
I do like the mirrored ones.

We, too, are diminishing our basement, was wondering if you’d share where/who the cabinets are made by. We are debating big box vs local custom (which is blowing the budget, but worth it?)
PRO
Flo Mangan
8 years ago
Basement would do fine with Ikea type cabinets. Many people use them with good luck. And save a lot of money.
kjkhome
Original Author
8 years ago
The cabinets are Medallion brand: Hawthorne style in Cherry with a Chestnut finish. We purchased them at Menards and were able to customize to our space. We have not used the cabinets yet, but happy with the look and quality.