Design Notes
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 draws 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, which we will discuss in this blog, as well as answer a few common questions about kitchen backsplashes.
Why Have A Kitchen Backsplash
Does it matter if you have a backsplash? Do you really need one? The answers are yes. Couldn’t painting 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 its contents spill out.
- Bacon is fried, splattering grease all over the wall.
This is the number one function of a 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 a 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 has 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 its purpose and function for the space. For those who 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 metals 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 its 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 to explore 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 the backsplash. Here are some of the more common ones.
- What grout for kitchen backsplash? Epoxy and cement-based are the two main options available, which come in sanded and unsanded versions. It is recommended to use unsanded when the spacing between tiles is less than ⅛ in. The epoxy is a better choice for larger areas, and if exposed to substances like 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 simply blend in, creating a unified look.
- Can you do a kitchen backsplash without upper cabinets? Yes, it can 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 upper cabinets.
- 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 the look you’re aiming for. 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 are 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.
Windows are one of the most essential elements in any home—yet they’re often the most overlooked. Gone are the days when windows served a purely functional role. Today, they do so much more than provide natural light and fresh air—they enhance energy efficiency, connect us to the outdoors, and contribute significantly to a room’s overall design and mood.
Whether open or closed, windows allow us to enjoy nature from the comfort of home. But their impact doesn’t stop there. With the right window treatments, you can transform the feel of a space, improve insulation, increase privacy, and even boost the value of your home.
In this blog, we’ll explore what window treatments are, the various styles available, and how they can bring both beauty and benefits to your living space—for you, your family, and your home.
Walker WoodworkingWithout a doubt, the most significant statement piece in a bathroom is the vanity, as it is usually the first thing the eye sees. Floating vanities have become increasingly popular, particularly with minimalist, clean, and modern aesthetics. This blog will explore what they are, what designs complement floating vanities best, and the benefits this style can bring to your bathroom.
Granite, Quartz, Marble, or Quartzite?
These are the top contenders when it comes to selecting the perfect countertop material for your kitchen or bathroom. Each one brings its own strengths, aesthetic appeal, and practical considerations—making the decision both exciting and a bit overwhelming.
Granite is a natural stone known for its durability and unique, one-of-a-kind patterns. Quartz, on the other hand, is an engineered surface that offers a wide range of color options and is prized for its low-maintenance qualities. Marble stands out for its timeless elegance and heat resistance, though it requires more upkeep. Quartzite closely resembles marble in appearance but offers greater durability and easier maintenance.
When making your selection, it’s important to consider factors such as heat and stain resistance, ease of maintenance, and of course, budget. Below, we break down the key differences, pros, and cons of each material to help you determine which surface best suits your lifestyle, design vision, and practical needs.
The kitchen pantry is often one of the most underutilized yet high-potential spaces in the home. While it can easily become a catch-all for clutter, a well-designed pantry is a true hidden gem—capable of transforming the functionality of your kitchen. From storing oversized serving pieces to housing everyday essentials, a thoughtfully planned pantry helps keep countertops clear and mealtime prep more efficient.
Whether you have a compact pull-out pantry, a spacious walk-in, or a dedicated butler’s pantry, innovative organization is key. A well-designed pantry not only maximizes storage but also supports the flow of your kitchen. Below, we’re sharing a few of our favorite design ideas and practical tips to help you better utilize your pantry space—and maybe even inspire your next kitchen upgrade.
Our showroom’s grand opening was the culmination of two years filled with vision, planning, and hard work—a dream brought to life through dedication and passion. Now, as we prepare to celebrate our second anniversary, we find ourselves reflecting on how quickly time has passed. It feels like only yesterday that we opened our doors and welcomed our very first clients into the space we’ve come to love so much.
Join us as we take a walk down memory lane and revisit the milestones, challenges, and moments that brought us to Uptown Shelby. This anniversary isn’t just a celebration of time—it’s a celebration of growth, community, and the relationships we’ve built along the way.
Walker Woodworking