If you absolutely love your countertop, there's always the option to continue it up your walls as a backsplash. This can be especially cost-effective if you had to purchase a slab to cut your countertops and have a lot of material left over.
Unlike other rooms in your home, every aspect of a kitchen's design has to look good while also being functional. Even the walls themselves can serve a purpose in a kitchen, especially when we look at the latest trend in kitchen countertops: the solid surface backsplash.
The thing is, backsplashes aren't a mandatory component of a kitchen reno, but they are a useful one. Most designers will recommend that you use a backsplash because they prevent water, grease, and other liquids from damaging the wall behind it.
A backsplash is, essentially, an extension of your countertop. It can extend as low as a few inches off the wall or as high as the ceiling. The purpose of any kitchen backsplash is preventing water, grease, and other messes from damaging your walls, particularly behind stoves and sinks.
Why Quartz Is a Great Choice for a Matching Counter and Backsplash. Modern quartz has many appealing qualities because it's a non-porous, food-safe surface. It's especially resistant to damage like staining, abrasions, chipping, and cracking.
If you absolutely love your countertop, there's always the option to continue it up your walls as a backsplash. This can be especially cost-effective if you had to purchase a slab to cut your countertops and have a lot of material left over.
Weight: Quartz is relatively heavier compared to other materials, so be sure that your wall can support the weight of the quartz backsplash. If needed, take necessary measures for reinforcement. Precision Cutting: Quartz backsplashes require precise cutting to fit around outlets, corners, and other obstacles.
The most common and durable material for kitchen backsplashes is ceramic tile. This type of tile stands up well against moisture and can be very cost-effective.
Traditionally, backsplashes are lighter than countertops, similar to how walls are often light-colored. However, there are no hard rules—dark backsplashes with light countertops can be stunning, and monochrome schemes can be timeless.
Ceramic tile, one of the most popular options, is also one of the cheapest. It's so widely available and comes in so many different styles, colors and textures that you'll likely have no trouble finding the option that's right for your kitchen design and budget.
Typically, the backsplash fills an area between lower and upper cabinetry. For the most cohesive look, the general rule is that your backsplash should line up with the bottom part of the upper cabinets. Vertically, this means that there are no backsplash tiles behind the cabinets.
"To ensure not including a backsplash is still practical, we usually use glass to protect wallpaper or if using paint, as in this kitchen, choose a water-resistant pool paint," adds Marta. "Mineral plaster is also a good solution but only in kitchens that aren't too heavily used."
Peel-and-stick floor tile, or peel-and-stick backsplash tiles more specifically, are primarily for decorative purposes and likely won't see as much wear as peel-and-stick floor tile on a daily basis. All varieties can last years should you install and care for them well.
Solid slab backsplashes may be more difficult to install and need to be cut to the right size by a professional, which is part of the reason why they are typically more expensive, as well as the face that slightly more material is required due to the lack of grout lines.
Recent research from Houzz indicates that top materials for kitchen backsplashes in 2024 include porcelain or ceramic; engineered quartz; and marble. Handmade zellige clay tiles are also increasingly popular with designers and homeowners.
Ceramic or porcelain tiles are the best backsplash materials for your kitchen backsplash. Since they offer durability, longevity, low maintenance, affordability, and aesthetics, all at the same time - this option can definitely work the best.
Black and White Backsplash Ideas for a Timeless Kitchen. When it comes to creating a kitchen that never goes out of style, a black and white backsplash is a perfect choice. This classic combo works with any decor, bringing a touch of charm and simplicity to your space.
Acrylic plastic is typically the go-to material for cheap kitchen splashbacks.
Geometric patterns will continue to dominate kitchen splashback trends in 2025, bringing a sleek and contemporary edge to your space. Designs like hexagons, diamonds, and chevrons add clean lines and dynamic visual interest, making them a versatile option for modern kitchens.
So, if you have light countertops and cabinets, then you might want a darker backsplash. If you have darker countertops and cabinets, then you might want a lighter backsplash. That contrast is a great way to make a statement in your kitchen while still keeping everything cohesive.
Quartz may be the better choice if you're targeting buyers who prefer a modern, low-maintenance home with contemporary finishes. Granite could add more value if you're appealing to buyers who appreciate natural materials, unique patterns, and the classic elegance of a traditional kitchen.
Absolutely! The same non-porous qualities of quartz also make it a backsplash material. It's wipeable, heat and stain resistant and very durable. By continuing the countertop up through the backsplash we achieved a really sleek look that, by default, became a focal feature in our kitchen.