A backsplash can act as a focal point in the kitchen, creating interest and balance between the other materials and elements. A backsplash is also functional as it protects the wall from splashes and splatters.

 

Joos Kitchens - A backsplash can act as a focal point in the kitchen

 

The options for kitchen backsplashes are pretty much limitless in terms of material, color, size and cost. Ultimately, you’ll have to decide what’s best for you and your lifestyle. Knowing how to navigate the process of installing a new backsplash can help ease some of the stress.

First you’ll want to decide what kind of backsplash you’d like to have. As mentioned, the options are endless, from smooth, backsplash glass to complex ceramic tile patterns and custom murals.

 

Option 1 – Choose your countertop finish first

The type of countertop you have will be a very important determining factor. For example, a busy backsplash would clash with a busy granite countertop that has a lot of variation. Make sure to consider how the material will enhance the other elements in the room, and vice versa.

Your countertop is the workhorse in your kitchen and can constitute a good chunk of your budget, so you’ll want to get it right. Countertops will also be installed before the backsplash, so you definitely need to decide on them first if construction has already begun.

 

Joos Kitchens - A backsplash can act as a focal point in the kitchen

 

Option 2 – Select the Backsplash First

Of course, if you happen to find a backsplash you absolutely love before you’ve even looked at countertops, I say go for it. Making this selection will absolutely help you narrow down the options for the countertop.

It is important to decide whether the counter top or the backsplash will be the star of the show and that the other material play a supporting role.

I prefer that either the countertop or the backsplash be the star of the show,

If both of your materials feature multiple hues and have different patterns, aggregates or movement, stick to one overriding colour palette for both materials. This will give the materials a nice cohesiveness, so they don’t fight with each other.

 

Joos Kitchens - A backsplash can act as a focal point in the kitchen

 

Option 3 – Use the Same Material for Both Counter and Backsplash

Love your countertop selection and want to keep this process simple? Consider running your countertop material up onto the wall as the backsplash. This is an especially smart option if you are required to purchase entire slabs of your chosen countertop material and you happen to have enough material left over to use the remainder as the backsplash.

Another cost-effective approach is to run your countertop 100 to 150 millimetres up the wall as a short splash. It will give you a nice finished edge where the countertop meets the wall, and it will also provide protection to the part of the wall most likely to get wet or dirty.

 

Joos Kitchens - A backsplash can act as a focal point in the kitchen