The purpose of a kitchen’s backsplash is to simply protect a part of the wall, whether from the dirty water from washing dishes or the splattering oil and grease from cooking. A backsplash can be a simple, nondescript panel. But like everything in a modern kitchen, the backsplash can bring its own beauty into the room and reflect the owner’s aesthetic taste. Here are six ideas for customizing a kitchen’s backsplash.
1. Install the Backsplash to the Top of the Wall
One way to customize a backsplash is to install it from the counter or sink area all the way up to the ceiling. Another idea is to use the material of the backsplash as wainscoting for the entire room. This is a change from the usual backsplash, which is only about 4 inches high. A wall height or wainscot backsplash gives the kitchen a special elegance, no matter how the type of material is used.
2. Splurge on Materials
Even if a kitchen is large, the area served by a backsplash does not take up much square footage. Because of this, a homeowner might be able to splurge on truly luxurious materials without breaking the bank. These types of deluxe materials include kinds of rare marble or other types of nonporous stone and tiles made of porcelain or even glass.
3. Install Unusual Tiles
The glossy but regular beauty of rectangular subway tiles is popular for a kitchen backsplash, but one way to make a backsplash even more noticeable is to install tiles of an unexpected shape. Five-sided, six-sided, or eight-sided tiles that are longer than they are wide can add interest to an otherwise run-of-the-mill backsplash.
4. Use a Backsplash in a Restricted Space
Another way to customize a backsplash is to install one in a small space. A backsplash made of tiles in a pattern or eye-catching colors can be installed just over the sink or just over the stove. A more subdued backsplash that won’t take too much attention away from this focal point can be placed in other areas of the kitchen.
5. Install a Thermoplastic Backsplash
Thermoplastic can mimic real metal but does not require the upkeep. When used as a backsplash, thermoplastic is inexpensive, comes in a rainbow of colors, and can even be installed by the homeowner, who only has to use a pair of shears to cut it to size. One caveat is that though thermoplastic is fire-resistant and can be placed over the stove, it does tend to warp in the presence of high heat.
6. Install a Backsplash in Bold Colors
There is no rule that says that backsplashes need to come in neutral colors. Materials in primary colors of red, blue, or green make an amazing statement when it comes to a backsplash. Vibrant colors work especially well in smaller kitchens as they won’t overwhelm the space.
Customizing your kitchen’s backsplash is an important part of making your kitchen feel like your own space, and thankfully, it can easily be accomplished.