Neutral shades, like black, white, beige, tan, and gray. Classic patterns and designs, like black and white checkerboard and herringbone. Natural stone or porcelain and ceramic lookalikes. Hexagon-shaped and other geometric tiles.
Tiles in marble, limestone or terrazzo will never go out of style. These are the materials we consider to be the most classic and timeless. The issue is that they can be hard to keep clean but now thanks to all the advancement in tile technology we can get the look using porcelain tiles instead of the real deal.
'Glass backsplashes are no longer at the forefront of kitchen design. In 2024, there's a move toward more textured and statement backsplashes,' she says. Rather than glass, Amber suggests slab backsplashes that match with kitchen countertops for 'a contemporary aesthetic' that won't date.
Cement Tile
Cement tiles are a no-go for the kitchen backsplash (as is limestone, the chief component of cement) because it's just too porous. A cement backsplash will absorb particles from the kitchen and become irreparably dirty much too quickly, making it a bad choice for cleanliness and longevity.
A timeless kitchen design features subtle, neutral colors that have mass appeal. Classic backsplash colors include neutrals such as white, beige, gray, and charcoal black. Premium white marbles like Thassos and Calacatta Gold make a gorgeous yet understated backsplash for white kitchen cabinets.
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.
Kitchen backsplash trends in 2025 are all about making a statement with backlit designs that add a touch of luxury. These illuminated surfaces will be a show-stopping trend for the kitchen, making your space feel like a high-end restaurant.
Although a 4 inch backsplash is generally considered outdated, it is possible to create modern kitchens with this style. It can be used in any area according to the style and taste of the person.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether your backsplash should be lighter or darker than your countertop. Both options have their unique advantages and can transform the look and feel of your kitchen.
Glass tile backsplashes are a favorite because they're easy to maintain and clean. Tiling kitchen backsplashes with glass tiles creates a modern look that pairs well with a variety of décor styles. The large selection of colors and textures makes them appealing to designers and homeowners.
Rule #2: Tile Should Stop At the Bottom of Your Cabinets
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.
Neutral Tones: Warm, earthy neutrals like beige, taupe, and soft terracotta are in vogue. These colours provide a calm and inviting backdrop for your kitchen and complement the trend toward sustainable design. Mixed Materials: Unconventional backsplashes that incorporate a mix of materials are gaining popularity.
Stone tiles are as timeless as they come and there is a huge choice to pick from. As well as large-format tiles, you can pick smaller subway-style, mosaic or square tiles to line your bathroom walls and floors and create an ornate finish.
Porcelain, ceramic, metal, and glass tile top the easy-care list because they resist staining, are naturally nonporous, and don't require any special cleansers to do the job.
Unlike traditional tiled surfaces, groutless tile eliminates the need for grout lines, which are prone to staining and require frequent cleaning and sealing.
“Tiny mosaic tiles on a kitchen backsplash is a recipe for a bad investment,” Meadows says. “It screams outdated. Leave these sad beige mosaic pencil backsplashes back where they belong—in the early 2000s." The worst offender, according to Meadows, is linear stacked glass mosaics.
Light Colors: Light-colored backsplash tiles, such as white, light gray, or soft pastels, can reflect more natural and artificial light, making the kitchen feel brighter and more open. Light colors create a sense of airiness and expansiveness.
If you like having a short backsplash, consider using a 1 inch, 2 inch, or 3 inch backsplash instead of the standard 4 inch. The shorter backsplash will make the backsplash nearly disappear yet still protect the wall at the back side of the countertop.
Marble, granite, and limestone are all popular options because of their timeless, organic look.
Dark cabinets will be the focus in 2025, bringing unparalleled depth and drama to kitchens, bathrooms, and beyond. Shades of browns, deep reds, and even black are perfect for making a bold statement while exuding sophistication.
Ceramic Backsplash
One of the main advantages of ceramic tiles is their minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is usually sufficient. Additionally, ceramic tiles are resistant to stains and moisture, making them an ideal choice in high-splash areas such as behind sinks and stovetops.
Experts are predicting kitchens will continue to be designed around a statement backsplash, but subway tiles are leaving the station. While the classic subway tile emotes a clean look, keep your eyes peeled for unique stonework that makes the most social room in the house that much more appealing in 2024.
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.
Subway tile backsplashes are becoming very popular. One of the most modern kitchen backsplash ideas is to use subway tiles that are boldly colored, like our Denver Brick Green Glossy Porcelain Tile. Combined with neutral-colored tiles, it will make a statement in 2025.