Tile Tips for an Eye-Catching Backsplash

This post was originally published in July 2015 as a contribution to the Range Hoods Inc. July Blog Hop. However, because it offers so many great design ideas and tips, we wanted to share it with our readers on our site.

Patchwork designs create an eye-catching backsplash but take planning to achieve a balanced blend of color and pattern.

The choices and options are endless and range from a traditional fruit-themed mural, multi-colored mosaic, colorful Spanish tile patterns, or a muted bold pattern with cement tile. Consider the style and color palette of your cabinets, flooring, appliances and range hood. Then follow these three important tips that will point you in the right direction to create a winning kitchen backsplash. Don't be afraid to splurge a little on the backsplash. It's a small area and one you'll for several years!

1. Decide on the countertop you want first. Then you can start talking tile and backsplash designs. Make sure the two complement each other. Don't draw attention away from a stunning counter with a busy tiled background. If the countertop is plain or simple, then let the backsplash be the focal point. Here are a few photos that show the "yen and yang" relationship of a counter and backsplash. In the patchwork above, bold colors and strong patterns are placed next to clean white cabinets and counters with stainless steel appliances and hardware. The backsplash is both eye-catching and appealing because the cement tile patchwork is the dominant focal point.
   
   Here's another example of a bold, colorful backsplash featuring traditional hand-painted Spanish decorative ceramic tiles that really catch your eye. A plain counter, in a similar color that is dominant in the tile pattern, doesn't take your attention away from the backsplash.
   
   
   

   Balance decorative pattern tiles in a backsplash with plain colors on the counter and floor.

   Above, a Spanish-inspired tile creates a bright and bold backsplash using Barcelona San Jose 6" x 6". The tile pairs nicely with a simple solid-color counter. Alternatively, the pattern in the cement tile backsplash below gets your attention while integrating a bold pattern that works flawlessly with the counter. Bold patterns can often be toned down with similar colors, neutral colors or colors without high contrast.
   
   
   

   A bold cement tile pattern is muted with neutral colors and hues similar to the counter and cabinets.

   Below, the Indian Teal brown granite countertop takes center stage. The decorative dots of hand-painted Spanish tile and plain field tile are the supporting cast.
   
   
   

   Small decorative accent tile, or dots, keep the backsplash interesting and don't detract from the handsome counter.

   The French cement tile backsplash pattern behind the stove below was customized to complement the colors in the granite counter and floor. The backsplash provides the eye-catching focal point; but, the porcelain flooring and granite counter really support the overall color palette, style and feel of the design.
   
   
   

   Consistent color choice with the decorative tile, counter, and floor make this design work.

    

2. Work with the available space. You can't fit 10 pounds of gold into a 5-pound sack. Large tiles with big patterns just don't work in that tiny wall space behind the sink with a big picture window - no matter how much you love the tile. It sounds obvious; but pictures make it very clear.
   
   
   

   Find the right scale of patterned tile to fit your space.

   Above, Cuban Heritage Design 110 2B cement tiles require eight tiles to complete both the cross and medallion pattern. It works well for a large wall with no cabinets. The same impact could not be achieved below. There is only 18" between the cabinets and counter. However, decorative tile placed randomly throughout the backsplash and grouped to form a medallion create a warm, Tuscan feel.

    

   Smaller tiles can be used randomly or grouped to create a medallion.

   Consider creating a mural with smaller, decorative tiles and frame with a lavish, textured molding if you don't have space for large pattern tiles.

    

   A framed tile murals below the range-hood accommodates the space perfectly.

    

3. Define your style. A kitchen designer can really help. First, try to define the experience you want to achieve, the importance of aesthetics versus ease of maintenance. What colors do you like? Do you like clean lines and contemporary designs or classic patterns? Bright colors or muted colors? Vivid colors or earth tones? Here are a few examples of classic and contemporary styles that incorporate tile to define the design.

   Fruit, vegetable and flowers are a classic kitchen theme for a kitchen backsplash.

    

   Traditional cement tile patterns in hip colors work with this updated contemporary kitchen.

    

   If too much pattern scares you, then consider "blocking tiles" to create one or two interest areas.

    

   Consider using Pinterest to collect ideas you like. Not only will you discover a theme that works, you'll also be able to share your vision with your designer or friend who is helping with the design.