When you're ready to design the backsplash for your Chicago kitchen remodel, here are some of the most current trends homeowners are celebrating this year.
It’s wall-to-wall – and up to the ceiling
The standard backsplash used to be 4- to 6-inches high, allowing room for your paint of choice on the remaining space between tile and upper-cabinets. Now, more homeowners are designing solid backsplashes that cover the entirety of that transitional space – even if they don’t take it all the way up to the ceiling.
In addition to making this space easier to clean – and without the need to repaint every couple of years – the full backsplash option makes the transition between counter and cabinets more streamlined and consistent.
This year, however, many homeowners have taken that solid backsplash idea to the next level, continuing their backsplash of choice up to the ceiling, especially on exterior walls that house the windows and stovetop, so the backsplash continues above the upper window trim and behind the range hood.
If you opt for the up-to-the-ceiling look, larger tiles or slabs are the way to go, so cleaning doesn’t require endless attention to numerous grout lines.
Metallic or luminescent finishes
Mirrored and metallic tiles are trending, as are glass tiles or tiles with luminescent finishes. In addition to adding a little glamor, reflective tile surfaces enhance both day lighting and night lighting by reflecting the light they capture into recesses and corners.
In terms of ambient and undercabinet- or toe kick lighting for safety at night, reflective surfaces create another layer of soft illumination or glow.
Large subway tiles
Subway tiles are a big hit in the backsplash department. That trend won’t end anytime soon because, in addition to being timeless, subway tiles are to backsplashes what Shaker doors are to cabinetry – they work with any design style.
Historically, subway tiles came in pretty standard 3” x 6” measurements. Now, there is a demand for larger-versions, available in 4” x 8” and even 4” x 12” options.
Marble without the marble
Marble is one of the most beautiful and classic countertop options, but it isn’t the best idea for busy kitchens since it’s prone to staining and etching. For this reason, homeowners have often compromised by installing a more durable surface on the counter and using a complementary marble on the backsplash – away from the bulk of the kitchen action.
Now, however, quartz and Corian options offer a marble-like look with significantly more durable and low-maintenance standards. This means you can get that full marble look – for both countertop and backsplash – without all the worry (or the hefty price tag).
Vivid patterns and colors
Patterns are trending right now – and those patterns can be as subtle or dramatic as you want. The simple act of alternating tile sizes within the same shade, or going wild with a vividly colored – or multicolored – mosaic are all popular options right now. Because art deco designs are also coming back into play, you may enjoy celebrating that theme with some geometric designs, which were common in that era.
Bright colors are also popular right now, especially in high-visibility areas, like as the focal point behind your range or along an expanse of extended perimeter cabinetry. Again, make sure your lighting plan attends to any intentional visual accents, so they’re showcased after the sun goes down.
Want some input about the best backsplash ideas for your Chicago kitchen remodel? Contact Kitchens & Baths Unlimited.
