19 Kitchen Backsplash Ideas for the Ultimate Accent Wall

Wondering how to bring that “Wow” factor to your kitchen? Look at your backsplash. There are dozens of ways to transform this often-neglected area into something more than merely functional. From bold colors and uniquely shaped tiles to daring grout options and unexpected materials, you have near-endless resources for creating a striking visual effect that will make you want to spend hours in your kitchen.

Below are 19 kitchen backsplash ideas for the ultimate accent wall.

1. Carrara Marble

Carrara marble is a luxurious choice for a kitchen backsplash, especially when applied in a large format—like giant slabs—making it look like your walls have disappeared. In white, Carrara marble brightens a space, providing sleek elegance. Black is the perfect choice for high-end drama.

2. Elongated Hexagon Tiles

Hexagon tiles can look retro or modern—classic or funky—depending on their size and color. Opt for a fun twist on your everyday hexagon variety by buying an elongated tile and laying it in a vertical pattern.

3. Countertop-to-Ceiling Tiles

Take your pick of subway, triangular, hexagon, or other-shaped tiles but bring them to the ceiling for a striking and creative visual effect.

4. Picket Tile

Consider a picket tile look by choosing a hexagon-shaped ceramic tile with lots of texture to create the illusion of movement or three-dimensional space.

5. Triangular Tiles

Triangular tiles provide visual interest and show off creative styling, especially when paired with a simple countertop and cabinetry. Create a custom pattern to complement your design style, whether farmhouse, Mid-Century Modern, or contemporary.

6. Black Tile with White Grout

Go with a black matte tile in any shape and use bright grout—a surefire option for a statement kitchen accent wall. Round out the look with light wood cabinets and gold hardware.

7. Colorful Tile Backsplash

Play with pastels like pink or teal—or warm things up with yellow and orange—just focus on color to draw the eye and lighten the mood.

8. Uniquely Patterned Tiles

Think about the most beautifully patterned floors you’ve seen, such as those featuring painted Spanish or Moroccan tiles. Now, move the look to your walls. But contrast the tile’s complexity by sticking to minimalist cabinetry.

9. Graphic Behind-the-Stove Backsplash

Opt for a simple, low backsplash throughout your kitchen but go all out behind the stove with graphic tiles that bring attention to a fabulous range and range hood.

10. Black and Gold

Choose black and gold mosaic tile—or black tile with gold grout—for a dramatic, daring, luxurious, and one-of-a-kind look.

11. Classic Herringbone

Does herringbone ever go out of style? We think not. Create a French-inspired kitchen with white herringbone tile and don’t be afraid to go with a unique grout color like burnt orange.

12. Jewel-Toned Hexagon Tiles

Sapphire blue or emerald green hexagon tiles—small or large, glossy or matte—paired with a white countertop and cabinetry produce a striking effect perfect for a designer kitchen.

13. Black and White Marble

A black-and-white kitchen can be elegant, sleek, or edgy, depending on your choice of materials and styling. When done in marble, you have an instantly luxurious look—but make sure you choose a slab with bold and dramatic veins.

14. Subway Tiles

If you’re going to do subway tiles, make sure they stand out. Mustard yellow and navy blue are great options for a fresh take on the subway look. Choosing the same blue for your cabinetry brings your kitchen to the next level, as does opting for dark, warm wood cabinets to go with your mustard tiles.

15. Mirror Tiles

Large mirrored tiles give a backsplash a sophisticated 1970s appeal, bringing a bit of unexpected glamour. Finish the look with black cabinetry and in- or under-cabinet lighting.

16. Copper Backsplash

You have many options for a copper backsplash: subway tiles, hammered tiles, copper sheeting, and more. Copper backsplashes are warm and inviting, and they elevate a kitchen by giving it old-world flair (real copper has antimicrobial properties, too).

17. Black Slate

Black slate instantly adds a touch of luxury. Choose textured or sleek slate tiles and turn to light wood options for your cabinets.

18. Brick Backsplash

Brick can look as beautiful inside as outside. It goes well with detailed or sleek cabinetry, perfect for a classic or industrial kitchen. Brick adds texture and warmth, and offers a beautiful rustic or earthy vibe.

19. Geometric Tiles

Black and white is a great color combination for geometric tiles, but you can also create a “Wow” factor with bold blue or gorgeous gold and white. This high-impact look is perfect for all kitchens: Mid-Century Modern, retro, contemporary, and more.

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