5 Kitchen Backsplash Trends to Avoid

When it comes to designing your dream kitchen, it’s likely that you’ve considered adding a backsplash. Not only does a good backsplash add another layer to the aesthetic depth of your kitchen, but it protects the space, as backsplash materials tend to withstand a bit more than regular walls.

Of course, home decor can be a fickle friend. There are a few backsplash trends that don’t work well long term or are on their way out. Now, this list isn’t meant to deter you if a look you’re totally in love with happens not to be so hot anymore. We’re all for embracing the design approaches you like the best.

That being said, there are quite a few backsplash looks that are on their way out for very good reason. Here are just a few of those kitchen backsplash trends to avoid.

1. Leaving It Blank

The first of our kitchen backsplash trends to avoid is just leaving things blank. This one isn’t the worst thing in the world, because it leaves room to add something later. However, you’ll lose out on valuable design space that could otherwise add a personal touch and make your kitchen function even better.

In addition to the aesthetic touches a backsplash can bring, an intentional backsplash can keep pests out of the kitchen, protect the walls underneath and make cleaning a much easier process. Going for a solid backsplash can bring so much more value to your kitchen.

2. All White Backsplash

All-white kitchens have been all the rage for the past few years, with white cabinets, countertops and — of course —backsplashes to match. While they can look sleek and bright, kitchens are beginning to skew warmer in tone. Homeowners like a little color, and the backsplash is the perfect place for this.

White backsplashes can sometimes come across as plain, in addition to being difficult to fully clean. If you are in love with white and bright tones, go for it, but don’t feel like you need to abandon your cozy leanings to accommodate minimalist trends.

3. Subway Tiles

Subway tiles are another trend of the past few years — one that often goes along with the all-white kitchen. While subway tiles can add to an industrial, modern look in any kitchen, they’re also starting to appear absolutely everywhere. Like an overplayed radio song, this can just lead to exhaustion.

Subway tiles can still be spun into unique and eye-pleasing design choices. Just don’t be surprised if their ubiquitous presence over the past few years starts souring as homeowners look for something fresh and new.

4. Pebble Tiles

Pebble tiles came into trend a bit less than a decade ago and often serve to bring a natural, textured or even spa-like aesthetic to any space. While this might be right for some tastes, pebble tiles can also make a counter feel cramped and cluttered with too many textures and tones.

It can be too much for your eyes to handle. This is especially true when pebble tiles are added as a backsplash on top of an already deep range of colors and tones in your countertop. If you want a more current kitchen, a sleeker look might be your best bet.

5. Matching the Countertop

Sure, monochrome can be a fun idea, but simply letting the countertop bleed into the backsplash doesn’t give you the opportunity to explore your style further.

Backsplashes can be great balancing acts for your counters. Plain countertops can make a space feel absent, while busy countertops can make the space feel cluttered and consumed with busy colors and textures. A different backsplash and a bit of contrast can give the eyes a break.

Avoid These Kitchen Backsplash Choices

No matter what trends you choose to go with, a good backsplash can take your kitchen to the next level and help you create a space that’s totally right for you.