A popular focal point that seamlessly marries form and function, tiled kitchen splashbacks have the power to transform your cooking space. It’s the finishing touch that has the ability to breathe new life into your kitchen, creating a visually stunning backdrop for cheffing pursuits.
Tiled splashbacks have become more than just a practical must-have, though; they’re an integral part of the look and feel of your kitchen, and are an easy way to give your space a little refresh without splashing out on a whole new scheme. And, most importantly, they’re where tiles really come into their element.
But do you opt for a bold patterned tile? A luxurious marble? Or a stylish subway tile? Here, we bring you all the best kitchen splashback tile ideas to upgrade your interior.
Left: Babylon Olive, Right: Wentworth Flower
What is the latest trend for kitchen splashbacks?
Kitchen splashbacks are a great way to tie in the popular design trends – and for good reason. Not only do they serve a practical purpose, but they also help to build upon your colour scheme and add an extra dimension to the heart of the home.
The latest kitchen splashback trends have shifted from the plain and simple to the more creative and eye-catching. While single colour, untextured splashbacks will always be a timeless addition, there’s a growing emphasis on being bold with colours, patterns, and textures. Think striking patterns, interesting motifs, contrasting colours, and innovative materials.
Read more about these trends in our 2024 tile trend report, to discover the most current styles and how to use them in your home.
Cambridge Dune Patterned Tiles
What is the best tile for a kitchen splashback?
Deciding on the best tiles for a kitchen splashback depends on a number of factors, such as style, size, finish, and practicality (i.e. durability, stain resistance, and water resistance).
Aside from the practicalities, though, you’ll also want to ensure your kitchen tile splashback looks the part. Consider the colours, textures, and patterns that are already present in your kitchen and think about how you can match the tile to your existing décor.
Kitchen splashback tile ideas
Marble splashbacks
If you’re looking for timeless and luxurious tiled splashback ideas, marble will instantly add a touch of opulence while protecting your surfaces. The natural veining and unique patterns of marble tiles will create a dramatic focal point, while its versatility allows it to effortlessly complement almost any kitchen style, from classic to contemporary.
Beyond its aesthetic charm, though, marble is a durable and heat-resistant option, providing a protective surface against splatters, spills, and cooking-related messes. However, given that marble is a naturally porous material, they must be properly sealed and maintained to ensure your tiles stay easy to clean, and your kitchen remains both beautiful and hygienic.
Terrazzo splashbacks
For a bold and eye-catching splashback tile that’s also highly durable, consider terrazzo-effect porcelain. Whether your kitchen is colourful, neutral, dark, or light, a terrazzo tiled splashback can add some pizazz to any kitchen.
It’s an easy way to add some trendy pattern into your kitchen without going too wild. If you’re aiming for a minimalist look, opt for subtle white or grey terrazzo tiles. Alternatively, if you want to make a statement, why not opt for a stylish green, pink, or mixed?
Metro tile splashbacks
Metro tiles are always a reliable go-to when it comes to kitchen tile splashback ideas, continuing to be a favourite option year after year. The classic, subway-inspired design lends a timeless and chic aesthetic to your kitchen space, with clean lines and understated elegance creating a versatile backdrop that complements a range of kitchen designs.
Metro tiles are also practical and easy to maintain, providing a durable surface that withstands the rigours of kitchen activities, and the smooth, glazed surface makes cleaning a breeze.
Left: Winchester Almond, Right: Salcombe Rose Crackle
Herringbone splashbacks
Transform your metro tiles into something even more eye-catching by arranging them in a herringbone pattern. This will add a touch of geometric intrigue to any kitchen, providing a captivating focal point for your cooking space.
The clean lines of the metro tiles add a sense of modernity into the traditional herringbone pattern, making this a suitable kitchen tile splashback idea for both contemporary and classic kitchens alike.
Left: Valencia Azure, Right: Camden Cloud
Patterned splashbacks
If you’re looking for tiled splashback ideas that are going to make a real impact in your kitchen, why not opt for a bold patterned tile? This is a great way of injecting personality into your culinary space, allowing you to express your individual style.
Whether you prefer intricate designs or graphic, geometric shapes, a patterned tile splashback provides endless options to complement your kitchen aesthetic. Patterned tiles also serve as a focal point, drawing the eye and adding depth to the room while camouflaging stains and splatters, making them super low maintenance.
Left: Wentworth Lattice, Right: Porto Vintage Blue
Wood-effect splashbacks
Wood-effect kitchen tile splashback ideas are a great way of adding warmth to your space. Wood-effect porcelain tiles present a diverse range of options, from rich hardwoods to lighter, more contemporary finishes, allowing you to tailor your look to your specific taste.
The warmth and texture of wood-effect tiles creates a welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for those who seek a rustic, farmhouse aesthetic, while wood-effect porcelain provides a durable and resilient surface that, unlike real wood, can withstand the demands of the daily grind of the kitchen.
Porcelain tile splashbacks
If it’s versatile kitchen tile splashback ideas you’re after, porcelain tiles allow for an extensive range of designs, patterns, and colours, catering to various styles and preferences. Whether you want a timeless monochromatic scheme or a bold, vibrant pattern, porcelain can accommodate.
Porcelain tiles are also highly durable, resistant to stains, and easy to clean, making them an ideal choice for busy kitchen environments. The non-porous surface of porcelain is impervious to moisture, making it an excellent choice for areas prone to splashes and spills.
Left: Amalfi Gold, Right: Calacatta Hex Silver
Stone splashbacks
One of the most timeless splashback tile ideas you can choose is natural stone. Combining the beauty and strength of natural materials, stone tiles come in a range of textures, and subtle colours to suit any kind of kitchen. Whether it’s limestone, granite or marble, a stone tile kitchen splashback is guaranteed to complement the other materials in your space.
When opting for natural materials in your kitchen, always be sure to follow maintenance instructions, including sealing and cleaning advice, to ensure your stone tiles are resistant to the tougher conditions to last a lifetime.
As kitchen design trends continue to evolve year on year, the practicality and aesthetic of tiled kitchen splashbacks endure. From timeless classics like metro tiles to bold patterns and materials that draw the eye, there are plenty of ideas to choose from. For more inspiration, check out our full range of tile advice guides, including our favourite traditional kitchen tiling ideas.
