Bruno Pugh
A kitchen backsplash can anchor the space and become the reason people can’t stop staring. But that will only happen if you choose one capable of drawing or holding attention, or both. As you read on, you’ll find 20 stunning designs that deliver visual interest and lasting style.
Herringbone Marble
Herringbone marble backsplashes, crafted from genuine stone, bring elegant movement and rich texture to small kitchens. Their angled design reflects light beautifully and echoes the durable patterns once used in Roman roads. You’ll often spot this luxe look in upscale hotel kitchens.
Classic White Subway Tiles
Originally laid in New York subways in 1904 for cleanliness and brightness, these tiles have stood the test of time. With finishes like gloss, matte, and crackle, they suit nearly every kitchen style—and they’re affordable as well as easy to clean. Moreover, they are endlessly versatile.
Bold Moroccan Zellige Tiles
Each Zellige tile from Fez, Morocco, speaks of subtle imperfections and saturated color that make walls shimmer with life. Crafted from natural clay, they’re both eco-friendly and unique. Their handmade quality turns an ordinary backsplash into a rich and textured focal point.
Bold Geometric Patterns
Geometric backsplashes, made using encaustic cement or porcelain, bring an artistic edge to any wall. With deep roots in Bauhaus and Art Deco influences, their dynamic shapes and colors transform open kitchens into bold visual experiences you can’t help but notice.
Sleek Stainless Steel
In sleek, high-function kitchens, stainless steel backsplashes are more than a style statement—they resist heat, repel bacteria, and wipe clean in seconds. Their reflective surface also opens up small spaces while giving any kitchen that professional, chef-grade finish found in commercial settings.
Mirrored Glass Tiles
Mirrored tiles create the illusion of a larger kitchen by bouncing light and reflecting their surroundings. They clean up with ease and work well in city lofts or glam interiors. Some versions even come with smoked or antiqued finishes for added flair.
Hexagonal Tiles
These honeycomb-inspired tiles echo nature’s precision and introduce a clean yet soft structure. Often paired with contrasting grout, they deliver standout detail and work beautifully in Scandi or mid-century modern kitchens, whether in mosaic form or oversized layout.
Textured 3D Tiles
With surfaces shaped like waves, ridges, or geometric forms, 3D tiles turn plain walls into eye-catching features. Made from ceramic or even recycled materials, they add texture and dimension, perfect for modern kitchens that crave bold visual depth.
Hand-Painted Spanish Tiles
Known as Talavera tiles, each piece is kiln-fired after being painted by artisans in Puebla, Mexico. They bring bright color and a rich historical aesthetic to kitchens, and Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial styles showcase their charm at its fullest.
Marble Slab Backsplash
Using a full marble slab creates a clean and uninterrupted surface from countertop to wall. Its natural veining becomes the focal point, catching the eye with minimal effort. This high-end choice brings elegance to modern kitchens and adds long-term value to the home.
Peel-And-Stick Vinyl Tiles
These tiles mimic everything from classic marble to intricate mosaics and hold up well against water and heat. Peel-and-stick vinyl offers an easy upgrade with no mess or tools. Ideal for renters, they come off cleanly without harming walls or cabinets.
Penny Tiles
With roots in early 1900s American interiors, penny tiles lay tightly together for a nostalgic finish. These round mosaics thrive in bold grout pairings and are a favorite in quirky retro kitchens where personality speaks through texture and color.
Metallic Tiles
These metal tiles—whether copper, tin, or aluminum—change over time as patinas form, adding depth and personality. Their reflective finish catches the light absolutely perfectly. In kitchens with an industrial or steampunk edge, they always make a statement.
Wood-Look Porcelain
Designed to mimic natural wood grain, this porcelain option resists both water and fire, perfect behind busy cooktops. Unlike real wood, it won’t warp or fade, so it’s a long-lasting alternative that merges rustic looks with a practical and modern performance.
Glossy Fish Scale Tiles
Fish scale tiles, also known as scallop or fan tiles, bring soft curves to kitchen walls. With shimmering or matte options available, they blend seamlessly into coastal themes and deliver a flowing and decorative nod to Moroccan and Art Nouveau influences.
Chic Terrazzo Backsplash
Born in 16th-century Venice, terrazzo features chips of marble, quartz, or glass set into vibrant slabs. Each tile is completely unique. Known for its durability and personality, it has become a retro revival favorite, especially in kitchens inspired by the 1950s.
Concrete Panels
Choose a smooth or textured finish to highlight matte black accents and achieve an understated look that feels both functional and bold. Concrete backsplashes deliver modern grit and minimal maintenance. Their heat- and stain-resistant surface suits loft-style or minimalist kitchens.
Brick Veneer Backsplash
Lightweight faux-brick panels bring warmth and character without heavy installation. You can whitewash, paint, or seal them to fit farmhouse-meets-industrial spaces. Paired with Edison bulbs and rustic wood, this style creates cozy, urban vibes with undeniable charm.
Sea Glass Tiles
Sea glass tiles, made of recycled material, feature a soft frosted surface that catches light in a gentle glow. Their non-porous build suits beach kitchens and coastal homes. The soft ocean tones bring a calm and polished look rooted in sustainable design.
Matte Black Tiles
Not only do these resist smudges, but they also look striking against wood or even white finishes. Matte black backsplashes bring intensity and modern drama to any kitchen. Popular among designers aiming for a moody and minimalist atmosphere, this trend is quickly becoming a new classic.