When it comes to designing a kitchen, many homeowners focus heavily on appliances, cabinets, and countertops. However, there’s another crucial element that often doesn’t receive the attention it deserves: the backsplash. According to George Glasier, co-founder of the British kitchen company Pluck, “Backsplashes are frequently an afterthought, but they can truly make or break a kitchen.”
Allison Bryan, founder of Open Studio Collective, an architecture and design firm with locations in Portland, Oregon, and Bozeman, Montana, supports this view. “The backsplash is one of the most significant aspects of the kitchen,” she explains. Ms. Bryan emphasizes that since it’s a vertical surface positioned roughly at eye level, “I consider it to be a piece of art.”
Of course, this artistic element must also be practical. A backsplash needs to endure various kitchen challenges, from splashes of water to accidental sprays of spaghetti sauce or squirts of citrus juice. Therefore, selecting the right material is essential.
With a wide array of options and treatments available, a backsplash can dramatically transform the aesthetic of your kitchen. Before diving into choices, it’s essential to establish a broader design vision. Considerations such as your desired color palette and whether you prefer the backsplash to blend seamlessly with the overall design or to serve as a striking focal point are key. Once you’ve clarified your direction, you can begin to explore the possibilities.
Here’s how Mr. Glasier, Ms. Bryan, and other designers have skillfully utilized backsplashes to craft extraordinary kitchens:
- Incorporating unique materials such as handcrafted tiles or natural stones to add texture and character.
- Using bold colors or patterns to create a statement that draws the eye.
- Opting for minimalist designs that complement modern aesthetics.
- Integrating functional elements, like built-in shelving, for added utility without sacrificing style.
