The
purpose of a kitchen backsplash is to protect the walls above your kitchen
sink, stove and counter from being damaged by cooking-related activities, as
water, grease and food stains can mar the walls. However, backsplashes can
serve a decorative purpose as well. Many homeowners use their backsplashes to
accent their existing kitchen decor, choosing materials and patterns that
highlight and frame their kitchen's architectural features and fixtures. When
selecting a backsplash, don't forget its functional purpose--pick one made from
durable, stain-resistant materials.
Metal Backsplashes
The
traditional choice for professional cooking facilities, stainless backsplashes
clean easily, resist wear and tear well, effortlessly repel water and look
chicly modern. A tin or stainless steel backsplash will last for years. Now
days the trend is to personalize your metal backsplash by choosing metal tiles
that have been stamped or imprinted with a decorative pattern.
Tiled Backsplashes
Tiled
backsplashes appear in the majority of home kitchens, for good reason. Whether
made from glass, ceramic or other materials, glazed backsplash tiles can be
maintained and kept immaculate with little effort. They also offer a multitude
of design possibilities, as they come in hundreds of colors and can be placed
in virtually any pattern. Those days you can also order via internet tiles with
any print or a photo.
The image above is an example of a tiled backsplash with a print on the tiles - cutom made kitchen by OOCK (keuken op maat by OOCK)
Marble Backsplashes
A
marble backsplash adds instant elegance to any kitchen. White marble pairs well
with white or pale green kitchens; however, marble can be found in many shades.
Older marble can be "recycled" for backsplash use; this option works
well if you want your kitchen to be ecologically friendly. Since marble can be expensive,
a practical option might be to use it only in some areas, using a less
expensive stone to cover the rest of your backsplash.
Bamboo Backsplashes
Bamboo
makes an excellent backsplash material, as this wood has exceptional hardness.
This material also has ecologically friendly qualities, as bamboo grows very
quickly and so is a highly renewable resource. Bamboo backsplashes complement
natural or earthy kitchen styles.
Glass Backsplashes
Glass is a great choice because it can be tailor made to suit your own
unique tastes and ideas. Whether you decide to go with one large sheet, a
combination of tiles or textured blocks, the possibilities are endless. Glass
is also available in a huge range of innovative shapes, sizes, colors, designs
and textures. Glass mosaic is becomes also a popular choice.
Painted Backsplashes
The
paint industry is progressing fast with the improvements and there are several
paints that can be successfully used to create a backsplash. One of the ideas
is to use an acrylic paint, stencil patterns and motifs directly onto the wall
and then seal it with polyurethane. You can also paint tile patterns or fill
this area in with a solid accent color. Frame your faux backsplash with thin
strips of molding for a polished effect.
By Marta & OOCK
