One of the key elements to consider when designing or remodeling a kitchen is the choice of a backsplash. In 2020, there are a range of backsplash options out there, from the traditional 4-inch backsplash style to a range of possible sizes and configurations.
Whatever you choose, your backsplash will probably be one of the more visually prominent elements in your kitchen, so it offers you an opportunity to express your personal preferences. For example, designers at house beautiful note that “bold backsplashes” are one of the most significant kitchen trends for 2020.
As designer Tyler Hill observes:
“Large-scale backsplashes will continue to be popular, and the designs will get more elaborate and serve as art and focal points… I see them being mixed with unique statement lighting and textures”
The question remains: what kind of backsplash will be best for your particular, unique kitchen? Here are just a few considerations to keep in mind:
1. Why You Might Want a Traditional 4-Inch Backsplash
For years, the 4-inch backsplash was ubiquitous in kitchen design. Even though there are many more options today, there are still several good reasons why you might prefer this classic style in your kitchen.
One reason that homeowners love the 4-inch backsplash is that it extends up far enough to protect the kitchen wall from messy splatters while still leaving wall space that can be used for other accessories or accent pieces.
Also, if you only have 4-inches, you need less material - and if you’re choosing an expensive material like granite or marble, you can still get the effect you desire while saving money. This is especially true if you’re matching the backsplash to the countertop, where you can use the same material and still keep within a tight budget.
2. Why You Might Want a Larger Backsplash
Of course, there are many reasons why you might prefer a larger backsplash.
From a purely functional perspective, if you engage in a lot of cooking, there is a strong likelihood your kitchen messes will reach above just 4 inches. A larger backsplash will make it easier for you to keep your kitchen cleaner.
Also, from a design standpoint, sometimes you need a color or texture to coordinate the wall with the countertop area. A mere 4-inch backsplash could create more of a distraction or sense of disjoint, as opposed to a larger backsplash that would help tie everything into a cohesive look.
3. Coordinating Your Backsplash and Countertop
Typically, before you choose your backsplash, you want to choose (and invest!) in your countertop. Maybe you would love a countertop made of marble, quartz, or granite with a beautiful full-wall tile backsplash to match, but your budget doesn’t allow for it.
In this case, it’s often wiser to invest in the countertop, which will have more functional use and stand out as a visual element in the kitchen. If you make this choice, you might still be able to add a more economical 4-inch backsplash, or you could choose a contrasting material and color / pattern that would make your wall function as a bold accent in the overall kitchen design.
4. Get Creative!
Let’s face it: kitchens can be expensive. In addition to the countertop, probably the other most significant aspect to consider in terms of cost and overall design prominence will be your kitchen cabinets.
Again, the sweet spot is finding a functional, beautiful kitchen cabinet choice that will reflect your personal style and still leave you money in your budget for everything else you want in your kitchen.
If this is your situation, the backsplash is one element where you can get creative. Today you can use non-traditional materials in a variety of colors to achieve a uniquely personalized look – and it can help you save money to invest elsewhere in the kitchen.
Are you ready to explore options to remodel or build your kitchen? If you’re looking for an affordable way to incorporate gorgeous new kitchen cabinets into your kitchen design project, talk with one of our RTA Wood Cabinets consultants today at: 800-788-7575.