8 Top Tile Types for Your Kitchen Backsplash
Backsplash designs don't have to be set in stone; glass, mirror and mosaic tiles can create kitchen beauty in a range of styles
Shane Inman
April 29, 2013
Houzz contributor and senior principal interior designer of The Inman Company. Under Shane's leadership, The Inman Company is committed to raising the standard of business to incorporate the highest-quality customer service with unwavering excellence in design.
Houzz contributor and senior principal interior designer of The Inman Company. Under... More
The backsplash could be considered the most important part of your kitchen's design. No matter what material you choose, it's a focal point. Tile tends to be the most popular choice — for its flexibility in style, budget and application. Whether your backsplash goes up to the bottom of the upper cabinets, reaches all the way up to the ceiling or falls somewhere in between, using one of these inspiring and intriguing tiles can add to your kitchen's unique look.
Laser-cut tile. These tiles are intricately cut with lasers to produce elaborate designs that are pieced together like a puzzle, as shown here.
Beware of the price tag on these tiles, as many of them are made of precious materials like quartz and marble, or handmade gold- or silver-backed glass.
Talk to a kitchen designer about how to get this look
Beware of the price tag on these tiles, as many of them are made of precious materials like quartz and marble, or handmade gold- or silver-backed glass.
Talk to a kitchen designer about how to get this look
Mirror tile. Tiny mirrored tiles all assembled into one design create a mirrored backsplash with texture. Something like this is perfect for that area in your kitchen that requires an extra-special touch — like a buffet area, serving station or butler's pantry.
Diagonal tile. Give ordinary tile a spin by placing it on the diagonal. Keep in mind that a diagonal layout means you'll need to order about 10 percent more tiles to complete your backsplash. Diagonal tile layouts also tend to be more labor intensive — more cuts are required at the top and the bottom — so the installer may up the price a bit.
Large-pattern tile. Big, bold patterns are in vogue right now — try placing one on your kitchen walls. Many companies produce overscale patterns that can be customized to repeat, much like wallpaper.
With a large-patterned tile, it's very important to lay out your wall space thoughtfully, so that your design ends up looking even throughout the installation.
With a large-patterned tile, it's very important to lay out your wall space thoughtfully, so that your design ends up looking even throughout the installation.
Subway tile. One of the most beloved tile designs to date is the timeless and classic subway tile — so named because this type of tile is often used in subway stations worldwide.
Tile all the way to the ceiling to give this classic tile a fresh and more modern look.
Tile all the way to the ceiling to give this classic tile a fresh and more modern look.
Herringbone tile. Add loads of texture to your kitchen with tile in a herringbone pattern. Many tiles in the herringbone pattern can be purchased on a mesh backing (usually a 12- by 12-inch backing material on the underside of the tile that holds several pieces together), which means you won't have to lay out each and every individual piece.
Specialty-shaped tile. Don't limit yourself to a square. Many manufactures take pride in offering unique shapes and colors. You should have no problem finding a manufacturer near you to get the color and shape you need.
The oval shape in this kitchen has a great retro feel.
The oval shape in this kitchen has a great retro feel.
Custom mosaic tile. If you have the budget for it, consider going with a design that is all your own. The design here was created with mosaic tiles, expertly trimmed piece by piece to create a stunning custom design.
Some designs can be purchased directly from a tile manufacturer, and others can be designed and installed by an artist who specializes in custom mosaic tile design. It all depends on the look you’re going for.
More: See the Houzz guides to kitchen counters, backsplashes and more kitchen remodeling ideas.
Some designs can be purchased directly from a tile manufacturer, and others can be designed and installed by an artist who specializes in custom mosaic tile design. It all depends on the look you’re going for.
More: See the Houzz guides to kitchen counters, backsplashes and more kitchen remodeling ideas.
Related Stories
New This Week
4 New Kitchens With Wonderful Wood Cabinets
Pros share how they used various wood species, styles, stains and details to create warm and welcoming kitchens
Full Story
Kitchen Backsplashes
30 Bold and Beautiful Range Backsplashes
Get ideas for eye-catching tile and stone backsplashes inside stove alcoves and behind cooktops
Full Story
Kitchen Design
7 Essential Features of a Well-Designed Kitchen
Make sure your new kitchen not only looks good but also functions beautifully
Full Story
Kitchen Workbook
How to Map Out Your Kitchen Remodel’s Scope of Work
Help prevent budget overruns by determining the extent of your project, and find pros to help you get the job done
Full Story
Kitchen Storage
Foolproof Storage Solutions for Corner Kitchen Cabinets
By tidgboutique
Consider Lazy Susans, pullouts and more to maximize storage
Full Story
Trending Now
The 10 Most Popular Kitchens So Far in 2024
Get inspired by the warm neutral palettes, ample storage and inviting islands in these most-saved new photos on Houzz
Full Story
Houzz TV
5 Trends for Kitchen and Bath Products in 2024
See fascinating new features for showers, tubs, faucets and more launched at the 2024 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show
Full Story
Kitchen Backsplashes
Where to Start and Stop Your Backsplash
By tidgboutique
Consider these designer tricks to work around cabinets, windows and other features for a finished look in your kitchen
Full Story
Kitchen Workbook
How to Find Your Kitchen Style
If you’re planning to remodel your kitchen, here’s how to find inspiration and start narrowing down your choices
Full Story
Kitchen Design
15 Stylish Kitchen Range Hood Ideas
Get ideas for hood shapes, sizes and looks that can elevate a kitchen’s design while ridding it of bad air and odors
Full Story
Dimensional handmade wall tile can also add a unique surface quality to any kitchen backsplash.
At SAVU LLC we offer design consultation and backsplash installation services
www.savullc.com
Awesome backsplashes just beautiful!