Kitchen Design
Choosing a Backsplash: What's Your Personality Type?
10 Tile Styles That Say a Little Something About You
As one of the most used rooms in our homes, kitchens present us with some of the greatest design challenges and most rewarding solutions. In designing kitchens for my clients, I always strive to create a space that reflects individual style and aesthetic. But, what if we designed for personality traits? That would certainly be fun and challenging. Here are 10 different personalities — and backsplashes to match.
Bubbly. Like a multi-colored carbonated beverage, this backsplash above the cooktop seems almost effervescent. I can just see this homeowner as the life of the party.
Masculine and grounded to tradition. Simple Shaker-style cabinets in a warm wood are mixed with graphite-gray subway tile and black granite counters. I picture this kitchen in a stylish bachelor pad.
Multi-faceted and complex. The pattern, texture and depth created by this basketweave backsplash works beautifully with the smooth, clean surface of the marble counters.
Analytical. Like the Fibonacci Sequence, this one is all about numbers. How many different shapes and sizes can you fit into one area and still have it all make sense? The use of shades of blue keep it from being too crazy.
Goes with the flow. Reminiscent of a stream, bubble tiles are used to great effect by creating movement and pattern in this playful bathroom.
Subtle but complicated. The monochromatic backsplash with a slight geometric provides an understated accent to the gray-washed cabinetry. Subtle texture and pattern soften the room with sophisticated style.
Sees the big picture. Running the counter material up the wall unites counter and backsplash. Green-gray cabinetry, glass and steel, and strong patterning in the stone are a timeless combination.
Focused on the details. There is something about this pattern and color combination that reminds me of a kaleidoscope with all the repetitive patterns and shapes — perfect for someone who likes the smallest of details. The wall-mounted swing-arm lights are an interesting and unique touch to this Old World-style kitchen.
Looking forward to the future. This clean, modern space all in blacks and whites has a beautiful vertically-oriented backsplash. To me, it speaks to optimism about the what's coming next.
Self aware. Another clean modern kitchen with a twist. The onyx raised bar, with all its warm tones and large-scale movement, is a complete surprise against the starkness of the cabinets and mirrored tile backsplash. I guess this would allow you to be constantly checking your hair, even while cooking.
Next: More guides to kitchen design
Next: More guides to kitchen design