This blog post answers all your questions about kitchen backsplash ideas.

It’s funny how one small detail can change the entire look and feeling of a kitchen.

I’m talking about the backsplash.

It’s usually the first thing you notice when you walk in and it’s one of the easiest ways to add character to your kitchen without ripping everything out.

Maybe you’re into Mediterranean patterned tiles or you want classic subway tiles with a twist. Maybe kit kat tiles feel more your speed or you’d rather go quiet and elegant with marble.

In this blog post, you’ll find 20 kitchen backsplash ideas that show just how much character and impact this one surface can bring to your space.

If you’re also looking for small kitchen decor ideas, I’m happy to help. In this blog post, I’ll share 17 ideas with you, and I’m sure you’ll find one or two that suit you.

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1. Zellige Tiles

Gray cellular tiles are particularly suitable for those who like a rustic look that still makes an impression and is a real eye-catcher.

The unevenness of the tiles on the wall creates visual dimension and depth. This simply makes the wall look interesting.

I would definitely keep all the tiles in the same color so that the overall picture does not appear too restless.

2. Mediterranean Patterned Tiles

If you are a fan of the Mediterranean region or have vacationed there and simply cannot get enough of it, you can bring a little bit of that feeling home with the right tiles.

Mediterranean tiles, which are often designed in shades of blue, look particularly beautiful when combined with white floor tiles and white bathroom furniture and sanitary facilities.

When combined, they can really stand out visually.

3. Kit Kat Tiles – Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

If you have a small kitchen and want to make it look bigger or taller, you can use Kit Kat tiles.

These narrow, slim tiles are installed vertically on the wall, drawing the eye upwards and making the room appear taller.

You can choose between different tile surfaces. They are either completely smooth or, as shown in the picture, have a slight grain. This gives them that certain something.

4. Hand-Painted Wall Tiles

Are you looking for unique, very special tiles for your kitchen backsplash? Then this idea could be just the thing for you!

There are many artists who paint tiles. This creates a unique work of art that is tailored to your ideas and wishes.

Just take a look around your area or search online for artists. I’m sure you’ll find someone who can turn your tiles into a unique work of art.

5. Vintage Delft Tiles

My next idea is for anyone who loves the past and the vintage look.

Either find tiles from previous centuries that are still in good condition and integrate them into your kitchen or buy new tiles with a vintage look.

Either way, you can achieve the look you want with tiles.

The good thing is that you don’t have to design your entire kitchen in a vintage look just because of the vintage tiles. You can do that if you want, of course, but vintage tiles also look great in combination with modern kitchens and furnishings, creating a real break in style.

6. Fish Scale Tiles

Fish scale tiles are so named because they resemble fish scales or mermaid fins.

This type of tile has a playful look, yet is still simple and not too flashy.

Nevertheless, they create a very special visual effect that simply makes your kitchen look more interesting.

You can get the tiles in different finishes, depending on what suits your kitchen best. They are available in glossy, matte, ceramic, porcelain or glass.

7. Grey Marble Backsplash

Marble always looks elegant, regardless of the color you choose.

Personally, I love marble. Each piece is unique and one-of-a-kind, never to be found again in exactly the same form.

Gray marble works well as a backsplash and looks particularly good with white walls and kitchen cabinets.

8. Subway Tiles

A very classic tile shape that is often used as a backsplash in the kitchen is the subway tile.

Subway tiles owe their name to the subway stations of the early 1900s.

The best thing about this tile is that it fits into virtually any kitchen, regardless of style.

They are available in all kinds of colors and finishes, so they can be perfectly adapted to your kitchen.

Subway tiles have a timeless look and are easy to maintain.

9. Black Tiles – Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

Black tiles can create a striking contrast to light-colored kitchen cabinets and light-colored floor tiles.

They also have a modern look and, thanks to their simplicity, suit many different interior design styles.

They are available with different surface finishes, e.g. glossy or matte.

10. Handmade-Look Subway Tiles

Subway tiles do not always have to have a smooth surface.

This handmade look of the subway tile is characterized by an uneven surface. This makes it look as if the tiles were handmade.

This makes the tiles visually interesting and creates a slight dynamic effect.

11. Geometric Hexagon Tiles

Tiles do not always have to be plain. Color accents can also be used to create new shapes.

As shown in the photo, for example. The gray tiles are arranged in such a way that they look like little boats in front of the white tiles.

The overall look of the kitchen is very dynamic and lively, which is also achieved by the turquoise kitchen cabinets and the brown-orange marble countertop.

12. Fluted Tiles – Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

The fluted tiles are arranged vertically, which visually elongates the kitchen and makes it appear larger.

You don’t always have to choose white tiles, you can also opt for colored tiles, such as a brownish color as shown in the photo.

The brown tone gives the kitchen a warm touch.

13. White Marble Slab Backsplash

We already talked about marble backsplashes above.

At this point, I would also like to introduce you to this light-colored marble backsplash.

The brownish lines almost look golden and make it something very special. It looks high-quality and luxurious and the cream color gives it a warm, soft and high-quality appearance.

The backsplash works particularly well in combination with wooden kitchen cabinets.

14. Glossy Green Subway Tiles

This idea is for fans of color who don’t like it too flashy, but rather subtle.

The dark green of the classic subway tiles makes them look completely different than they would in white.

The green also has a color gradient, making the tiles darker in some places and lighter in others. This gives them more depth and dynamism.

I can best imagine white kitchen cabinets with the dark green tiles. This makes the green a special contrast and eye-catcher.

15. Tumbled Stone Tiles

Tumbled stone tiles bring a weathered, rustic look to your kitchen.

They feature natural color variations and textures which give the tiles a unique and natural appearance.

The tiles are particularly suitable for Mediterranean or traditional kitchens or farmhouse-style kitchens.

16. Beveled Subway Tiles In Herringbone Pattern

If you’re not keen on classic subway tiles and want something a little more vibrant, this variant could be just the thing for you.

The bevelled edges give the subway tiles more depth and make them more visually interesting by creating a herringbone pattern.

This combines the timeless look of subway tiles with a modern twist.

Here, too, you can choose between a matte and glossy surface finish.

You can also use black or pastel-colored tiles on your walls, it doesn’t always have to be white.

17. Rustic Stone Tiles

If you like a rustic look and slightly darker colors, you’ll probably love this idea.

Rustic stone tiles are usually slightly darker, as shown in the photo and each tile looks slightly different due to the color and texture of the stone. Overall, however, the result is a harmonious look.

This tile is particularly suitable for country-style kitchens and traditional kitchens.

However, if you find the tiles too dark, you can also opt for lighter stone.

18. Striped Marble Slab Backsplash

If you like extravagant and eye-catching designs, pay close attention now.

We’ve already had two examples of marble and now here’s a third (but a completely different one).

Marble isn’t just available in plain, almost monochrome designs with fine lines running through it. Marble also comes in striped designs!

This variant is much more eye-catching and has a more visually restless effect. For this reason, I would keep the rest of the kitchen simple and uniform so as not to overload the eye.

19. Raised Panel Subway Tiles

The raised center surface gives subway tiles more depth and texture than the classic version.

The play of light on the raised surface creates light and shadow, adding dimension.

Choose between glossy and matte versions, depending on what best suits your kitchen and your taste.

The tiles harmonize particularly well with marble and wood and look especially high-quality in this combination.

20. Tumbled Travertine Tiles

These tiles are made from natural travertine stone.

They have a warm and rustic look, making them perfect for Mediterranean or classic interior styles.

Each tile has unique color and texture variations, making every tile truly one of a kind.

Regular impregnation protects them from moisture and stains.

Wrapping It Up: Kitchen Backsplash Ideas That Truly Shine

Your backsplash isn’t just there to protect the wall from splashes.

It’s actually one of the few spots in your kitchen where you can get a little creative without going overboard.

You want bold patterns? Go for it. You prefer something natural and textured? That works too. You’re more of a clean, simple person? There’s plenty of options for that.

The thing is, changing your backsplash makes a bigger difference than you’d probably think. Small update, big impact. That’s the sweet spot.

Need more help decorating and organizing your home? Feel free to browse my blog, where I provide you with lots more ideas.