kitchen backsplash trends 2024: top 10 ideas to inspire

the hottest 2024 kitchen backsplash trends

rich, saturated hues

the antidote to neutral palettes and the typical white kitchen/white cabinets is all about making a statement with deep, rich colors. a popular kitchen trend for you to consider: jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue and ruby red. these deep shades can add depth and personality to your kitchen space, creating a luxurious and inviting atmosphere.

mixing shapes and patterns

uniform tile layouts have certainly had their day. in 2024, we're seeing a playful mix of shapes and patterns that add visual interest and texture to backsplashes. you might combine hexagons with squares, mix geometric patterns with organic shapes or pair chevron or herringbone patterns with classic subway tiles for a truly out-of-the-ordinary style.

the timeless look of natural stone

natural stone continues to be a top interior design choice, but this year, designers are mixing stone like marble, slate and travertine with other materials like glass, metal or wood for added dimension. this trend allows you to create a custom appearance that reflects your personal style while maintaining the elegance of natural materials.

embracing simplicity

large-format tiles with minimal grout lines are also taking center stage. these create a seamless vibe that doesn't overwhelm the eye, allowing other kitchen elements to shine. neutral colors like soft whites, light grays and muted earth tones are current popular choices, providing a timeless backdrop for your culinary adventures.

this simple approach reflects a growing desire for calm, peaceful spaces that serve as a respite from our busy lives. neutral hues also offer unparalleled versatility, allowing homeowners to easily update their kitchen's look without a complete overhaul. these understated tones pair beautifully with both dark and white cabinets, making them a wise choice for those seeking longevity in their design.

mixed materials

some backsplash designs are breaking free from monotony by embracing a mix of materials. this kitchen trend adds depth, texture and visual interest, creating a truly unique and personalized space.

and here at clé, we back that concept. so, don't be afraid to mix and match. try pairing sleek glass tiles with rustic stone for a striking contrast, or blending polished marble with matte ceramic or porcelain tiles to create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. the key is to choose materials that complement each other while offering variety in texture and finish.

metallic finishes

metallic elements are currently making a strong statement in kitchen trends. you could consider incorporating copper, brass or stainless steel tiles or trim pieces alongside your primary material. these accents catch the light and add a touch of glamor to your kitchen. for a subtle approach, try metal mosaic inserts or a thin metal border to frame your backsplash.

textured tiles

textured tiles are also taking center stage, offering a sensory experience that goes beyond the visual. from subtle ripples to pronounced 3D effects, these tiles add depth and character to your kitchen. some ideas: embossed ceramic tiles with intricate designs, natural stone with rough-hewn surfaces or handmade tiles with intentional imperfections (like zellige and its lookalikes).

classic subway tiles with a twist

rethink the basic white rectangles you're used to seeing. this year, it's all about putting a creative spin on this prototypical look. from bold colors to unique layouts, you'll find endless ways to make subway tiles feel fresh and modern. that’s because one of the of the greatest strengths of subway tile is its adaptability: you can create countless looks by experimenting with different colors, finishes (gloss, matte, textured) and layouts (herringbone pattern, chevron pattern, vertical stack), or contrasting grout colors to make the tile pattern pop.

or, break away from the standard 3x6 inch tile by exploring new dimensions. elongated subway tiles can create a sleek, modern look. Try 4x12 or even 4x16 inch tiles for a modern take that makes a big impact with fewer grout lines. on the other end of the size spectrum, tiny mosaic-style subway tiles (like 1x3 inch) offer a fresh angle on this tile type and create a delicate, detailed look perfect for smaller kitchen areas.

artistic murals and custom designs

meanwhile, mosaic designs allow you to play with vibrant colors, shapes and textures to create a truly unique pattern.

and there’s no need to settle for off-the-shelf when you can personalize. here’s a thought: incorporate meaningful symbols, quotes or even family recipes into your backsplash design. custom-cut tiles can be arranged to form logos, monograms or abstract designs that reflect your personality.

just don't forget about practicality. choose materials that are easy to clean and maintain, ensuring your artistic backsplash retains its beauty over time. with the right balance of creativity and functionality, you'll have a kitchen feature that's both a conversation starter and a joy to use every day.

authentic handmade tile

another on-trend interpretation of the backsplash is embracing a touch of artisanal charm with handcrafted tile. representing a continual shift away from mass-produced uniformity, more designers are recognizing the unique imperfections and character that only handmade tiles can offer. we’ve been championing the traditions and cultures that produce handmade tiles since the beginning, and we wholeheartedly value their beautiful flaws.

they offer a world of possibilities for a kitchen backsplash (a unique bar backsplash, too). since each piece tells a story, the subtle variations in color, texture and glaze create an exceptionally singular installation. you could consider moroccan-inspired zellige tiles for a touch of exotic elegance, or opt for hand-painted portuguese azulejos to infuse your space with old world charm.

artisan-crafted glass tiles can add a luminous quality to your kitchen. from iridescent sea glass-inspired pieces to richly colored jewel tones, these tiles catch and reflect light in captivating ways. try mixing different shapes and sizes for a playful, dynamic backsplash.

choosing the right backsplash trend for your kitchen

consider your kitchen’s overall aesthetic

in the process of selecting the right tile for your kitchen backsplash, it's crucial to consider the overall design and style of the space. your backsplash should complement, not clash with, the existing elements in your kitchen design. start by taking a good look at your kitchen island, cabinets, countertops and flooring. what colors and textures are dominant? are you working with a modern, minimalist, white kitchen or a more traditional, rustic space? is there a tile to wood transition? these factors should influence your decision.

balance function and beauty

no matter what, you’ll want to strike the right balance between aesthetics and practicality. while a stunning visual element will enhance your kitchen's overall look, remember that a backsplash also serves a vital purpose. it protects your walls from splashes, stains and heat, making cleanup a breeze. look for materials that are both eye-catching and easy to maintain, such as glazed ceramic tiles or sleek glass panels.

stay true to your personal style

in the end, your kitchen backsplash is more than just a protective barrier; it's an opportunity to express your unique style with a captivating focal point. what colors, patterns and materials resonate with you? do you gravitate towards bold, statement-making designs or prefer subtle, understated elegance? your backsplash should be a reflection of your taste and complement your lifestyle.

understanding the latest trends in kitchen design and consulting an interior designer will help you make an informed decision, but we highly encourage you to come up with your own ideas, too. that’s the beauty of artisan tile: with thoughtful, handcrafted materials, you’re already halfway there.