So my kitchen is about 90% done, with one major item outstanding: backsplash for behind the range. How I got here is a bit of winding road. Initially, my plan was to get a Viking stainless steel backing with a shelf, like the one shown in the first image. I liked the clean and classic utilitarian look, which I thought matched the overall aesthetic of my kitchen and 1900 house. But the current part doesn't work with my old Viking stove, and it wasn't worth spending $6k on a new one.

My contractor suggested just getting a stainless panel fabricated, and thought the cost would be reasonable, which was also appealing. But I couldn't get the shelf, because the oven would vent under it, causing build up/venting issues. A little disappointing, but a plain SS became the plan B, with low cost being a major supporting factor.

But it turns out the actual cost will, when fabricated correctly so it won't warp with high heat, be about $2k. For that price, contractor thinks I can spend a lot less to tile the space. Or I could do a v-groove/beadboard panel matching the cabinets.

I kind of like the idea of doing a tile and bringing in a little color (like second image). But I also like the simplicity of a v-groove. SS still an option, but it just seems like a lot of money.

This would just be for the area behind the stove (or perhaps also the area to either side of it). I have a low Danby marble splash that I will keep.

Other finishes/specs are as follows (some photos of in progress space attached - forgive the mess, it's still a construction site):

• Cabinets, trim and walls are F&B Pointing (creamy white)
• Counters are Danby Olympia White marble
• Island top will be 2" walnut
• Hardware is unlacquered brass
• Tap is polished nickel

My ideas · More Info

Kitchen · More Info