Post by Stacey Walker. Stacey mostly works behind the scenes for Greenbrook Design, managing day to day operations, marketing, sourcing product and keeping the showroom beautifully designed. Stacey also does interior design & home styling for a select number of clients. Find out more about Stacey here.

The kitchen backsplash tends to be overlooked during the planning session for a renovation but it has a big impact on the overall look of the design and it should not be underestimated. To many it may seem like such a small element but it has the power to bring style, class, and protection to the heart of the home.  When walking through a model home or flipping pages in an interior design magazine, the kitchen always has a backsplash that often tends to draw our eye. Coming in multiple sizes, styles, and shades, the kitchen backsplash has come a long way from being a simple surface to creating a glamorous highlight that immediately draws the eye. Now more than ever homeowners are realizing the potential of these beautiful tiles and placing them on their must have list when making selections. While many would agree that it has become a standard in kitchen design, they might not be aware of the additional benefits it brings to the home, reasons we want to discuss in this blog as well as answer a few common questions about kitchen backsplash.

Why have a kitchen backsplash

Does it matter if you have a backsplash? Do you really need one? The answers are yes. Couldn’t paint work do the same job or fill the need? No. Most paints do not have the same ease of clean up or variety of options that backsplash does. The kitchen is where we cook, where we create those amazing meals that everyone enjoys and where there is food you can be sure there will be accidents waiting to happen such as. 

• A glass gets knocked over and liquid is everywhere.
• A bowl is bumped and contents spill out.
• Bacon is fried splattering grease all over the wall. 

This is the number one function of backsplash, it provides an easy to clean area while preserving the integrity of your home. It can protect against stains and other things too. There is also the benefit of an added layer of protection to your wall, keeping it safe from mold and the occasional pests that like to make their way into your home. Learn a few more helpful reasons you should have backsplash in this article by The Spruce.

What kitchen backsplash is in style?

Modern, traditional, farmhouse, or transitional, there are multiple choices available to you that are sure to meet your unique style. This is the beauty of the evolution of backsplash. No longer is it boring, serving just a function, the wide variety of colors and patterns have opened a whole new world in design. Some of them include:

• Material: glass, tile, and even metal are some of the choices available to homeowners today. Each has their purpose and function for the space. For those that want to remain more eco-friendly, natural materials such as glass, tile, and granite make great options. A modern look can be accomplished by using metal like stainless steel or gold colored.
• Size: some owners chose to go with one large piece giving a continuous flow to the kitchen backsplash while some prefer the delicate option of smaller pieces put together. Each has their own beauty and reflection of the owner.
• Color: if you can dream it, it probably exists. Manufacturers have met the demand of the consumer by creating a rainbow of options. Bold or subtle, neutral or exciting, there is a color reflective of your style and sense of beauty. Be sure to look at places like Pinterest for inspiration so you can be sure to know all your options.
• Pattern: mosaic, stripes, herringbone, or subway, there are lots of ways to create visual interest using patterns. Sometimes you can use the same material and color but the placement creates an elegant pattern.

No matter your preference or design choice, there is a backsplash that will match. Our design team at Greenbrook Design makes it a priority to take the time to get to know you and your preferences. They seek to understand what you’re looking for and find it for you.

Common kitchen backsplash questions

We receive a lot of questions from our clients as we move along with the details of their project including backsplash, here are some of the more common ones.

• What grout for kitchen backsplash? Epoxy and cement based are the two main options available and come in sanded and unsanded. It is recommended to use unsanded when spacing between tiles is less than ⅛ in. The epoxy is a better choice when doing a larger area and if exposed to things such as grease which the kitchen will be. Don’t forget that grout can be used as a design element since it can create a beautiful contrast to the tile or simple blend in creating a unified look. 
• Can you do a kitchen backsplash without upper cabinets? Yes it can and make a stunning project. Many homeowners use backsplash instead of paint since it is easy to clean and is a great background when using floating shelves or limited uppers.
• Kitchen backsplash and countertops. Some wonder what guidelines they need to follow when choosing their backsplash. This truly depends on your sense of style and what look you want to achieve. When wanting to create a nice visual interest, contrast is a great option such as dark countertops and light backsplash or vice versa. A harmonious look and calming vibe is better accomplished through a neutral color palette where it all comes together as a unified project.
• Can the backsplash go to the ceiling? The answer is yes and many clients have chosen this route in their design which resulted in a stellar outcome. You can also choose to have your countertop be your backsplash as it is durable and prompts the eye to follow it.

Our experienced design team is always ready to answer your questions, and if we do not have an immediate answer we will make sure to find one for you as soon as possible. In the meantime read what interior designer and television host Jane Lockhart has to say about backsplash tips.