When planning a kitchen renovation, splashbacks can sometimes be an afterthought. But they offer so much more than protection from cooking splatters. The right kitchen splashback can add personality, texture, colour and even a touch of drama to your design.
Whether you’re updating a compact kitchen or designing a bespoke open-plan space, choosing the right splashback can make all the difference. In this post, I explore a variety of kitchen splashback ideas to suit different styles, budgets, and layouts.
1. Classic Metro Tiles
Metro tiles remain a timeless choice and for good reason. They’re versatile, affordable, and can be laid in various patterns: horizontal brick, vertical stack, herringbone or basketweave.
Why choose them?
- Perfect for both modern and traditional kitchens.
- Huge range of colours, from crisp white to bold navy or soft sage.
- Glossy or matt finishes available.
Pair white metro tiles with dark grout for a classic industrial look, or opt for a softer neutral palette for a more contemporary feel.
2. Glass Splashbacks
Glass splashbacks are sleek, streamlined and incredibly easy to clean. They reflect light beautifully, making them a great option for smaller kitchens or spaces that need a little brightening.
Why choose them?
- Minimal joins mean less grime build-up.
- Custom colours available, including bold statement shades.
- Can be back-painted to match your cabinetry or worktops.
If you want a splashback that feels modern and seamless, glass is a great contender.
3. Natural Stone
Using natural stone, such as marble or quartz, as a splashback adds luxury and elegance. It also creates visual continuity if you use the same material as your worktops.
Why choose them?
- Beautiful veining adds texture and movement.
- Durable and heat-resistant.
- Ideal for high-end kitchen designs.
For a minimalist look, a full-height splashback in the same slab as your worktop can feel incredibly sleek.
4. Porcelain or Ceramic Tiles
If you’re after variety, ceramic and porcelain tiles come in an endless range of colours, shapes and patterns. Think hexagons, scallops, Moroccan prints or simple squares.
Why choose them?
- Budget-friendly options available.
- Easy to mix and match with your cabinetry.
- A great way to introduce pattern or texture.
These are ideal if you want to create a focal point or add a splash of fun to your design.
5. Mirrored Splashbacks
Mirrored splashbacks bounce light around the room and create the illusion of space, which is especially useful in galley kitchens or smaller homes.
Why choose them?
- Make the room feel bigger and brighter.
- Add a sophisticated, contemporary edge.
- Can be antiqued or smoked for a softer look.
Just be mindful of what the mirror reflects—tidy countertops work best!
6. Stainless Steel
Once reserved for commercial kitchens, stainless steel splashbacks are now a firm favourite in industrial and minimalist home kitchens.
Why choose them?
- Incredibly durable and hygienic.
- Heat and water resistant.
- Easy to wipe clean.
They pair well with matt black cabinetry, concrete worktops, or even rich wood tones.
7. Painted Wall (With Clear Splashback)
Love the look of paint but need practicality behind your hob or sink? A clear acrylic or glass splashback lets you enjoy your painted wall without the mess.
Why choose them?
- Lets you play with bold paint colours.
- Easy to change the look without retiling.
- Budget-friendly and low-fuss.
This is a great option if you like to refresh your space regularly.
8. Wood or Wood-Effect Splashbacks
Wooden splashbacks bring warmth and character to a kitchen. Whether you use real timber (sealed properly) or a wood-effect laminate, they can add a rustic or Scandi touch.
Why choose them?
- Great for cosy, homely kitchens.
- Works beautifully with shaker-style cabinetry.
- Laminates can be surprisingly realistic and easier to maintain.
Just ensure any natural wood is treated correctly to withstand moisture.
9. Slab Splashbacks for a Seamless Look
A slab splashback uses one continuous piece of material, such as quartz, sintered stone or Dekton, for a seamless finish. This works particularly well in modern and minimalist kitchens.
Why choose them?
- No grout lines for a clean look.
- Matches the worktops for a high-end finish.
- Easy to maintain and long-lasting.
This is a designer favourite for good reason: sleek, elegant, and timeless.
10. Custom Printed or Artistic Splashbacks
Want something truly unique? Printed splashbacks can showcase anything from abstract art to cityscapes, or even your own photography.
Why choose them?
- Total creative freedom.
- Great for injecting personality.
- Makes a striking focal point.
This is a brilliant way to personalise your kitchen and make it truly yours.
Top Tips for Choosing Your Kitchen Splashback:
- Consider practicality. Behind the hob and sink, you’ll want materials that are easy to clean and resistant to heat or water.
- Think about height. A full-height splashback can feel dramatic and seamless, while a standard upstand offers a subtler effect.
- Match or contrast. You can blend your splashback with your worktops and cabinetry, or use it as a bold contrast.
- Sample first. Colours and textures look different in natural light. Always try samples in your actual kitchen space.
Final Thoughts
Kitchen splashbacks are an important part of your overall kitchen design. They not only protect your walls but also enhance your space visually. Whether you go for classic metro tiles, sleek glass, or bold printed panels, there’s a splashback to suit every style.
If you need help choosing the perfect combination of cabinetry, worktops and splashbacks to suit your kitchen, I’d love to help. Drop me a message or book a consultation. Let’s make your dream kitchen a reality!
Have a good week!
Vicky
