Blog

A tile-effect kitchen splashback combines the best of all worlds. The elegance and sophistication of exquisite wall tiles, coupled with the durability and affordability of a classic kitchen splashback.

Today’s tile-effect splashbacks can recreate the look of almost any type of tiled surface with near-flawless accuracy. You have to look close to realise you are not actually looking at a tiled wall, but a toughened glass splashback of the highest quality.

If you are looking to bring the best of both worlds into your kitchen, here are just a few trending tile-effect splashback designs to consider in 2022:

1. Circle Patterns

Geometric patterns remain a popular choice in many households, but creative circle patterns can be even more eye-catching. This is a classic design that originates from Mediterranean regions, combining elegance and sophistication with a touch of innovation. Choose a combination of colours that blends in with its surroundings, or something that stands out as a bold point of focus in its own right.

2. Faux Brickwork

There never has been and there never will be a time when exposed brickwork does not look fantastic. Exposed bricks can be particularly attractive in the kitchen, but have never been particularly practical due to their porous nature. A brick-effect splashback could therefore be just the thing, combining the rustic and timeless appeal of exposed brick with a flawlessly hygienic and maintenance-free surface.

3. Warm Metallics

Metallic tile with a fairly dull (rather than reflective) surface can radically transform the look and feel of any interior space. They bring a sense of warmth and luxury into the home, while at the same time bursting with practicality. This can be particularly true with a metallic-effect splashback, which can be installed at a fraction of the cost of a genuine metallic panel. Dull metallic surfaces are compatible with almost all kitchen colour schemes and designs, making them easy to integrate.

4. Earthy Stones

As with exposed brickwork, natural stone-effect tiles can look fantastic in almost any type of kitchen. They represent the ultimate in timeless sophistication, and can be paired with almost any existing theme and décor.  Increasingly, stonework with a rustic and ‘earthy’ vibe is being embraced by interior designers. All in the name of bringing a touch of the outdoors indoors, which has become the interior design trend of the moment for the modern household.

5. Sparkles and Shine

Alternatively, you could go for something quite the opposite of understated. Kitchen tiles can be crafted to provide just the right amount of sparkle and shine. From the sophistication of granite right through to an eye-catching glitter effect, there are literally no limitations to what is on offer. The same can also be said for a tile-effect splashback, which can be every bit as sparkly and shiny as you want it to be.

6. Two-Tone Tiles

Simple yet effective, this is where tiles of contrasting colours are used to create something of a 50/50 split. How you go about the split is up to you – horizontally, vertically, diagonally, or in a completely random pattern, if preferred. Just as long as the colours you choose complement the rest of your kitchen, the resulting effect can be quite sublime.

7. Magnificent Marble

Last up, a marble-effect splashback can be just the thing for bringing the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity into your kitchen, without the prohibitive price tag. Polished marble has graced residences of distinction for centuries, and continues to be a prized commodity today. Every colour, shade and design you can think of is available, without the heavyweight properties or high costs of traditional marble.

When shopping for a kitchen splashback, the first thing that hits home is just how many options there are. Freedom of choice is never a bad thing, but the sheer scope of what is on offer can be overwhelming.

To help keep things simple, here are seven essential tips and considerations for anyone looking to pick up the perfect kitchen splashback for their home:

1. Budget

First up, setting a budget is a good place to start. Custom splashbacks are available in literally every shape, size and configuration imaginable. You can spend as much or as little as you like, so it is worth considering how much you would like to pay. The good news is that even the most sophisticated glass splashbacks can be surprisingly affordable, so you will not need to break the bank.

2. Acrylic or Glass Splashbacks

Acrylic Splashbacks are cost-effective, attractive and easy to install. With a toughened glass splashback, the same benefits are accompanied by relentless durability, and the capacity to withstand temperatures as high as 300° C. Which of the two is better for your kitchen depends on where you plan to install your splashback, and how much you would like to spend. Toughened glass splashbacks are, in most instances, slightly more expensive than their acrylic counterparts.

3. Design

Your splashback can either be a standout point of focus for your entire kitchen, or an understated feature that fades silently into the background. Popular designs and finish options include geometric patterns, colourful flowers, reflective mirrors, metallic finishes, stone-effect splashbacks and even glitter-sparkle effects. All of which can look equally fantastic, depending on the type of look you are going for.

4. Lifespan

Technically speaking, both acrylic and glass splashbacks can have an indefinite lifespan. With minimal maintenance, any high-end splashback can complement your kitchen with long-term protection and pristine presentation. But as toughened glass is a naturally more resilient material, a glass splashback will usually have the longer lifespan of the two. Over time, this could make toughened glass the more cost-effective option.

5. Cleanliness and Maintenance

For a splashback to do its job properly, it must have a non-porous surface. Glass splashbacks in particular are fantastically hygienic, and can be kept sanitary with no more than a quick occasional wipe. Toughened glass makes it impossible for grease, grime, dirt, germs and bacteria to penetrate beneath the surface, making it just the thing for food preparation environments.

6. Installation

Kitchen splashbacks can be installed in one of two ways. With an opaque splashback, the panel can be attached to almost any surface with a coating of adhesive. If you plan to install a clear or transparent splashback, you may need to fit it to the wall with screws. You therefore need to think carefully about where you intend to install your splashback, and the supplies you will need to get the job done.

7. Future Planning

Last up, it is a good idea to think about your kitchen’s long-term décor, when installing a splashback. Given how a splashback can have an indefinite lifespan, it will become a near-permanent feature in your kitchen. Hence, if you plan to decorate or remodel your kitchen at some point in the future, you will want your splashback to continue looking as good as it does today. Think about how your splashback will look in the future, and choose something you will be proud of for years to come.

For more information on any of the above or to discuss kitchen splashback design in more detail, contact a member of the team at DIY Splashbacks today.