10 Gorgeous Kitchen Backsplash Ideas Interior Designers Love

Black Tile Backsplash

White tile is a classic option for a kitchen backsplash, but don’t write off its opposite so fast. Black is having a major moment in the design space right now, says interior designer Lindsey Putzier. 

"Black is such a classic, dramatic color, and black tile can be used in so many different design styles, from classic traditional to ultra-chic contemporary," Putzier says. "The key to using black in a timeless way is to ensure the black is balanced with lighter tones."

As with any other trending neutral, overusing black can date your space in just a few years, so use it sparingly and balance it with contrasting or complementary hues.

Full Marble Slab

Luxurious marble is a timeless option for a kitchen backsplash. Using a full slab further heightens the sophistication factor.

"This Beverly Hills kitchen combines a wood countertop with a full height stone backsplash, a refreshing change from the typical use of stone slabs on countertops only," says Karen Harautuneian, interior designer and founder of Hub of the House.  "I love this backsplash aesthetically because it provides a strong focal point, and I love it practically because it adds an easy to clean, quiet, yet dramatic layer to the kitchen's range wall."

Teak Wood Backsplash

Wood may not be the first material that comes to mind for a kitchen backsplash, but Harautuneian says to reconsider.     

"Incorporating a wood backsplash into your kitchen is a great way to soften down what is traditionally one of the 'hardest' rooms in the house," she explains. "This Manhattan Beach kitchen incorporates a solid teak countertop and 2-inch teak backsplash, accompanied by vertical solid painted wood planking above."

When using wood as a backsplash, make sure to seal it well so it’ll last for years to come.

Contrasted Marble Slab

For a fresh and fun twist on marble slab backsplashes, opt for marble with high-contrast veining.

"Dramatic black and white marble brings contrast and movement on the counter and backsplash to the otherwise balanced design," says Shannon Kadwell, kitchen/project designer at Anthony Wilder Design/Build. "The swirl of black and white marble mimics a drift of smoke."

Handcrafted Moroccan Zellige Tiles

There's beauty in imperfection, and handcrafted Zellige tiles demonstrate that point perfectly.

"Artisans make these tiles one by one, shaping and glazing them by hand, which gives each tile a totally unique look," says Hayley Kidd, an interior designer and renovation expert at Freemodel. "They’re known for their funky shapes and vibrant colors, kind of like mosaic tiles."

Because they’re handmade and bring an organic, timeless vibe to a space, a lot of folks love using them in modern designs to add a touch of something unique. They instantly add charm and dimension to a kitchen, and they double as a conversation piece.

Texture-Rich Tile

If you like the texture of Zellige but prefer a more uniform look, consider incorporating ceramic or terracotta tile as your kitchen backsplash, says interior designer Bianca Ecklund.

"This application brings character to a kitchen by adding depth," she says. "It also allows you to be subtle in color while still giving your kitchen a unique feel. Tiles can be found in several shapes and patterns to suit the style of your home."

Elevated Subway Tile

Subway tile has been a kitchen mainstay forever. In its basic form, Putzier says that the look is a bit played out—especially after the modern farmhouse trend took over in the 2010s. However, you can still have your subway tile and a modern-looking kitchen, too.

"Add some texture and detail, and you have a timeless backsplash that fits with many styles," she says. This could include using an imperfect tile for more texture, adding a decorative feature, as seen here, or arranging the tiles in an eye-catching pattern, such as herringbone.

"Elevated subway tile is a wonderful solution when your counters are taking center stage," says Putzier. "Busy or colorful counters need to be balanced with a calmer, more neutral backsplash tile. If both the backsplash and counters are too busy, they'll compete for attention."

Matching Countertop and Backsplash

By continuing your countertop material into your backsplash, you instantly create the visual illusion of a larger space while achieving a sense of cohesion and flow within the kitchen.

"This seamless integration eliminates visual breaks or interruptions, creating a clean and harmonious appearance," says Malka Helft of Think Chic Interiors. "The uninterrupted surface creates a focal point that ties the kitchen together, exuding sophistication and elegance."

And from a practical standpoint, continuing the countertop material into the backsplash offers easy maintenance and cleaning. With no seams or joints, there are fewer areas for dirt, grime, and food particles to accumulate.

Colorful Ceramic

While neutrals are nice, don't be afraid to dabble in a little color.

"Color has—finally!—made a big, bold comeback. We're seeing color not just in cabinetry, but also in backsplashes," says Putzier. "To keep the look timeless, select a shape that you're not seeing everywhere online. The less trendy the shape, the more overall staying power."

This colorful approach infuses some character in your kitchen and prevents it from feeling too generic. Don't be afraid to flex a little creative expression in this space.

Creative Mosaic

Smaller tiles help solve a common kitchen problem: They're a great way to cover awkward-sized areas. "For kitchens where we wrap tile around windows with limited space in between, finding a small mosaic is the most balanced and practical option," says Nadia Subaran, co-founder of Aidan Design.