Every now and then, design trends take a hard left turn away from styles that become what I call "formulaic." For kitchens, the design formula usually looks something like this: first, you pick a cabinet stain or paint color to match your floors, then a slab for a countertop, then tile for your backsplash, then all of the hard finishes like plumbing fixtures and hardware. If you've ever renovated a kitchen, I bet this sounds familiar!
But sometimes, this "formula" can get in the way of the creative process and start to produce results that all feel very calculated and familiar. Which is why today I'm here to disrupt this formula and talk about a trend I am LOVING in kitchens right now -- the alternatives to a tile backsplash in your kitchen! The four looks I'm loving in place of tile right now are: slab backsplashes, wood paneling, natural stone or plaster, or (wait for it) nothing at all! Let's dive in...
Slab Backsplashes
Easily the standout backsplash of the moment, today's slab backsplashes are chic, trendy and timeless all at the same time. They have a classic feel that's reminiscent of hundreds-years old cottages or castles in Europe. There are many ways to do a slab backsplash. They can be high, low, and topped off with a floating shelf or left completely on their own. Here are a few of my favorites!
Wood Paneling
Honestly, this look my be favorite right now for kitchens. Not only is wood paneling SUPER cost effective, it just has a such a humble and cozy feel to it. Every one of these kitchens looks like it's been around since the dawn of time, showing you just how versatile and just how much staying power this look has.
Design: Shana Sherwood & George Kypreos via Scout and Nimble
Design: Heidi Caillier Design | Photo: Haris Kenjar
Natural Stone or Plaster
If you're extra lucky, the natural walls in your kitchen make a beautiful backsplash all on their own. These examples of kitchens in stone homes or older homes with plaster walls are absolutely beautiful.
Design: Alfredo Paredes via Arch Digest
Designer: Unknown
Designer: Unknown
Nothing At All
Sometimes, the best option for your kitchen backsplash is also the most cost-effective. With the right details and styling, sometimes putting absolutely nothing at all on your backsplash works like a charm!
Design: DeVol Kitchens
Design: Coco & Jack
Designer: Unknown
Are these backsplash looks you'd be willing to try? Let me know in the comments!
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Hackett House Studio is a boutique interior design firm located in Columbus, Ohio offering full-service and virtual design services, as well as concierge styling and interior photography. Using a combination of your exquisite taste and our creative know-how, we bring your vision of a beautiful and balanced home to life. Here at HHS, we use science-backed research to design carefully-styled spaces that have a positive influence on your health and wellbeing. Our processes have been carefully refined so that we can fully appreciate our clients' personalities and aspirations from the outset. After gaining an understanding of your goals and wishes, we get to work creating functional interiors that enhance our clients' quality of life. HHS designs are timeless, elevated, approachable and, most importantly, a reflection of the beauty and opportunity you desire to bring into your life.Please visit the services page of our website to learn more about us, and to inquire about working with us.