How to Select a Backsplash

There are almost an unlimited number of factors to consider when selecting your backsplash. Here are a few tops to help assure you select the right materials for your backsplash to achieve the look and feel you want in your kitchen.

Color scheme

Colors used in the kitchen is a major factor in determining the type of backsplash. The color should complement the other design aspects of the kitchen. For some projects, a dash of bold color helps the backsplash become a focal point in the kitchen. Other clients that want a calmer feeling for their kitchens may opt for a white or light gray color scheme.

Colorful Backsplash

Material

Material is just as important as color. Backsplashes can be used to make a dramatic personal design statement with mixed materials, wood, brick, tile, stone or almost anything that the imagination desires.

Blue and Yellow Backsplash

Cooking Styles

A third consideration is the amount and type of cooking that will take place in your kitchen. For our clients who are avid cooks, we suggest a stainless steel backslash or painted glass backsplash because they are easy to clean, plus glass and stainless steel can help round out the design of other components of the kitchen.

Stainless Steel Backsplash

Backsplash Height

The height of the backsplash is another factor that most do-it-yourselfers and nonprofessionals often don’t account for. Cabinet placement typically dictates the height of the backsplash. Some clients prefer having the backsplash end at the bottom of cabinets. Others like the backsplash material to come to the first shelf in an open or glass front cabinet. Some of our clients have extended the backsplash to the ceiling in areas where there are no cabinets to make the backsplash a focal point in the kitchen.

 

Shapes and Patterns

The shape and patterns of materials used for backsplash are additional considerations. If you plan to stay in your home for a long time period, we suggest that the shapes, colors and materials complement the other kitchen components, and also other décor in your home. However, if your time in your home is relatively short, you may want to make sure that the material and design are timeless that will serve as an asset in the future sale of your home. A subway tile backsplash is one example of a timeless material and design.

Patterned Backsplash

Other Materials in the Kitchen

Backsplashes should also complement and coordinate with countertop materials and colors. If you desire a patterned granite countertop, the backsplash that generally works best is one with a neutral color scheme. If you opt for a solid color quartz countertop, the backsplash can be more colorful.

How much should you budget for your backsplash? The cost depends on the amount and type of materials that you want. Subway tile is a cost-effective material but may not achieve the look of a stone backsplash or intricate tile. Custom colors are more costly than traditional off-the-shelf products. Mixing and matching materials is an effective way to stretch budget dollars.

Which backsplash shape, material, design and color will make your kitchen the envy of your friends and neighbors? Give us a call at 401-463-1550 or visit our Design Center at 139 Jefferson Boulevard, Warwick, RI to help determine the best backsplash for your home.