A black and white backsplash is a stylish and timeless option that can enhance your kitchen's look. Whether you like the classic feel of subway tiles, the striking look of geometric patterns, or the sophisticated touch of marble, there are many ways to use this color combination in your kitchen backsplash.
Consider the Classics
First, classic ceramic and porcelain tiles are timeless beauties that stay in style. Affordable and easy to install, you can't go wrong with our selection of these backsplash tiles.
So, if you have lighter cabinets and countertops, you should incorporate a darker backsplash to provide more visual interest and depth to your space. When you have darker cabinets and countertops, you should bring in a lighter backsplash to make your kitchen feel fresh and inviting.
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.
Stone slab backsplashes
Whether it's applied to a wall, covering a range hood, or even wrapping around an island—statement stone slabs are taking up more real estate in kitchens than ever. Tile backsplashes are giving way to full stone slabs, often extending seamlessly from the countertops to the ceiling.
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.
How High Should a Kitchen Backsplash Be? There is no right or wrong answer for how high a kitchen backsplash should be, but a good rule of thumb is to make your backsplash end at the bottom of your kitchen wall cabinets.
Typically, countertops dictate the color of the backsplash but everything must flow in the kitchen to look fantastic so you should never underestimate the importance of also matching the kitchen cabinets.
The rule of thumb for backsplashes is to either complement or contrast with the surrounding elements in the space. Consider choosing a backsplash that harmonizes with the dominant colors and patterns of the countertops and cabinetry for a cohesive look.
Small-format mosaics
'Finishes and lighting are the two biggest giveaways that make a kitchen look dated. Imitation stone, sparkly quartz counters, and small-format mosaic backsplashes don't have the same timeless appeal as natural stone and beautiful handmade tiles,' says Kyle.
What is the most timeless kitchen backsplash that won't go out of style? It's more about color than style. "A backsplash in a neutral color palette, such as whites, grays, blacks, and even hints of beige or tan, are definitely a timeless choice," Goerzen says.
Hardwood flooring
In addition to the visual and textural appeal, it adds to the mix, there is a wide range of finish options. Hardwood is also universal, working just as well in a traditional design as it does in an uber-contemporary kitchen.
Glass Tiles
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.
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.
Ensuring a gap for the expansion and contraction of tiles helps in creating a water-resistant seal. It also allows some space for caulk or grout. Experts recommend leaving a 1/8" to 1/4" gap between the countertop and backsplash tile.
Once you start shopping for wall plates, choose to prioritize color. You can create the illusion of uninterrupted backsplash with color over texture or finish. You can find wall plates online that are close to or are even an exact match with your kitchen backsplash. And don't try to go for a contrast.
If you want your kitchen to remain timeless in design, we suggest sticking with a classic field tile size such as a 3 x 6 subway tile or a 4 x 4 in a straight-set pattern. Or add some design detail with a herringbone pattern. Field tile will transcend trends, making your tile backsplash a sustainable design feature.
The most popular method is to start with the countertop; although there are many different countertop materials, colors, and patterns to choose from, the choices for backsplash wall tile is nearly unlimited.
Use Your Backsplash to Create a Focal Point
Since your backsplash makes up the bulk of the wall space in your kitchen, use it as an opportunity to create a focal feature. You could run mosaic tile vertically from your range all the way to the ceiling. You could have a set of accent tile above your sink.
Subway Tile Is a Classic
If you're newly tiling a space, you might want to play around a bit and have some fun—but according to Brady, subway tile can't go out of style because it's a classic. “In my opinion, subway tile is always in,” Brady says. “It's like the little black dress of tile, timeless and versatile.”
A backsplash is a surface installed behind the sink, stove, and countertop. It serves two primary purposes: to protect the wall from stains and splatters and to provide you with an aesthetic design element that can separate upper and lower countertops and frame the kitchen.
The standard height for a kitchen backsplash is typically 4 inches, although it can range from 3 to 6 inches. This classic option serves both functional and aesthetic purposes.