1. Keep it Simple…and Chic!

A backsplash staple, white subway tile is a timeless classic with endless versatility. This modern farmhouse kitchen, designed by Esslinger Design Co., features an Imperial Bianco Gloss tile backsplash behind open wood shelves. The simple brick-lay tile provides a neutral background, allowing the dark green range hood and brass swing-arm sconce light fixtures to stand out. If you love this cozy-chic style, check out our guide to modern farmhouse design.

2. Create a Stylish Slab Look

A backsplash crafted from a large block of stone is a popular feature of high-end design, but you can achieve this look on a more modest budget with large-format tile. These supersized tiles (up to 48″ x 48″) mimic the appearance of a single piece of stone while offering the durability and easy maintenance of ceramic or porcelain. As demonstrated in this contemporary kitchen, a counter-to-ceiling backsplash featuring extra-large marble-look tile makes your space feel expansive as well as elevated.

3. Show Off Your Style with a Graphic Pattern

Patterned tile offers the ornamentation of wallpaper with the superior protection of ceramic or porcelain. Perfect for adding design to a mess-prone backsplash, patterned tile can easily be stretched to the height of your wall to further celebrate your style. This fashionable kitchen features the graphic-patterned Nikki Chu Tangier Graphite tile. The eclectic hand-drawn print is bold in its simplicity, adding definition to the space while allowing flexibility to swap out accessories and change paint colors for easy updates. Discover more unique, fashion-forward designs in our exclusive Nikki Chu collection.

4. Display Your Taste with Diamond-Shaped Tile

When your tile covers a large area, choosing a design that creates a sense of movement and rich visual texture not only makes your space feel more expansive but also adds interest. This can be achieved through pattern, shape or material. This beautiful kitchen features the Africa Tempesta Polished Wheaton tile, a diamond- and chevron-shaped mosaic made from vividly veined marble. The zigzag pattern, combined with the grey and beige veining, draws the eye up the wall, creating the illusion of height and adding a touch of luxury. Shop diamond-shaped tile for more brilliant designs.

5. Tile the Range Hood

When you have a tile as elegant and expressive as the Firenze Calacatta marble subway tile, you’ll want to display it without interruption. That’s exactly what Christie Juncaj did in her magnificent contemporary kitchen. By using the tile to disguise the range hood, the kitchen maintains a cohesive appearance from the counter to the ceiling and across the wall.

6. Showcase Mid-Century Modern Design

Even if you don’t have an A-frame house, you can embrace the simple sophistication of mid-century modern style with The Tile Shop’s new Stoneware collection from Fired Earth. Featuring a sleek elongated subway format in five retro-inspired colorways, these tiles celebrate the best of 20th-century design. Here, the Stoneware Rainwashed tile runs along the expanse from the counter to the tip of the angled ceiling, creating a vibrant statement wall that feels contemporary while evoking a vintage appeal.

7. Marvel with a Mosaic Tile

Perhaps counterintuitively, a small-format mosaic tile can have the same space-widening effect as a large-format tile. The petite pieces provide visual texture that draws the eye across a space, adding depth and a sense of movement. This charming kitchen, designed by @dwellwithmichelle, features the Hex Matte White with Black Flowers mosaic. The repeated retro floral pattern guides the eye up the wall, while the open shelving makes the space feel light and airy.

8. Create a Work of Art

A tall backsplash allows for creative use of the space behind your stove or kitchen sink. Take advantage of the expanse by showcasing a beautiful patterned or mosaic tile within a tiled picture frame. Using trim to “frame” the decorative tile, this design technique elevates your space while providing a pleasing focal point you can admire while cooking and cleaning. This elegant transitional kitchen features the Morris & Co. Pure Net Cloud Grey tile, framed by a double layer of Firenze Carrara Somerset trim.

9. Achieve Artisanal Excellence

Zellige tile is handcrafted using ancient techniques, ensuring that each tile is authentically unique. Showcasing this singular tile from counter to ceiling creates a one-of-a-kind backsplash that celebrates artistry. This chic kitchen, designed by Fox Homes, features the Zellige White Gloss tile. The square format aligns with contemporary design, while the traditional craftsmanship connects it to the past.

10. Embrace English Cottage Style

Put the kettle on and take in this charming kitchen backsplash featuring the Laura Ashley Wexbord Fresh Green tile. With a whimsical floral motif inspired by historic prints from the iconic British brand’s archive, this patterned tile is made to be displayed. We love how it pairs with white cabinets, but a bold blue or sunny yellow would look equally delightful. As enamored with this style as Mr. Darcy is with Elizabeth? Click here to discover how to bring English cottage design into your home.

11. Showcase Your Stove

If your kitchen cabinets cover most of your counter-to-ceiling space, the area behind the stove might be the only place to showcase this design trend. However, even this limited space can deliver big results, as is evident in this stylish kitchen designed by Georgia Pepperberry Interior Design. The Liria Negro tile adds a pattern that helps to highlight the stove and the dark copper range hood. The use of white subway tile below the white cabinets prevents the room from feeling too busy and ensures the stove remains the star of the show.

12. Make “Hex-Cellent” Choices

The six-sided hexagon is a classic tile shape that’s surprisingly versatile. Available in a variety of sizes, colors and materials, hex tile offers a wealth of possibilities and timeless design. This contemporary kitchen features the Royal White polished marble hex tile. The stone’s natural tonal variation, combined with the tile’s shape, gives the backsplash a sense of movement that draws the eye up the wall.

13. Tile Above the Cabinets

Your wall cabinets don’t have to define your backsplash. This elegant kitchen takes the Cheverny Blanc patterned encaustic tile to the ceiling by tiling the space above the cabinets. The result is a stunning statement wall that maintains a sense of continuity.

14. Go Retro

An expanded backsplash offers a unique opportunity to showcase your style. This groovy kitchen, designed by Total 360 Interiors, embraces flower-power ideals with the Star Olive/Grey Encaustic tile. The bold, bright geometric floral pattern exudes 70s vibes, while the modern stainless steel appliances and sleek white cabinets ground this space firmly in this century.

15. Create Contrast

Contrasting colors–whether they be classic black-and-white or contemporary neutral-and-bright–add depth to your space. This chic kitchen, designed by Timber Trails, features Noir Amalfi limestone tile installed with contrasting white grout. In addition to complementing the white cabinetry and window frame, the white grout lines highlight the tile’s classic brick-lay pattern. By extending the tile to the ceiling, the designer enhances the dramatic effect of the stark contrast.

16. Find Historic Inspiration

Popular in the Victorian era, tin tiles were embossed with decorative patterns, adding both texture and visual interest. The 19th-century-inspired Victoria Gris Fonce tile (also available in Blanco) features the characteristic raised pattern in a durable ceramic format. Here, You Neek Designs updates Victorian aesthetics for a contemporary kitchen. The tin-look tiles behind the stove are flanked by white subway tile, another popular style of the era. However, the Annie Selke Artisanal White tile’s handmade look and the horizontal straight-stack layout add a modern twist. Extending the subway tile behind the open wooden shelving makes this design feel fresh.

17. Add Movement With a Herringbone Pattern

If you love the sleek, chic silhouette of subway tile but want a more dynamic design, consider installing your favorite tile in a herringbone layout. The zigzag pattern of this classic format evokes a sense of movement by drawing the eye both up and across the space. We love how this backsplash, designed by Twigg + Lu Design Company, uses the Look Oliva subway tile as both a backsplash and window frames.

18. Choose Classically Chic Chevron Tile

Another classic tile pattern that adds dynamic interest, chevron tile offers the same zigzag as herringbone, but with tiles specially cut to form the characteristic V-shape. This elegant kitchen, designed by Accent on Cabinets, features the Bianco Puro Honed Chevron tile. The luxurious white marble enhances the sophistication of this gold-accented white kitchen.

19. Add Rustic Details

You probably wouldn’t put real wood behind your stovetop, but wood-look porcelain or ceramic tile offers the contemporary rustic aesthetic of a cabin in an easy-to-clean, flame-retardant material. Available in a range of realistic designs–like the distressed Colonial Wood White Brillo tile shown here–wood-look tile makes your kitchen feel rugged without sacrificing modern conveniences.

20. Reflect Your Style

Glass tile’s naturally reflective surface adds brightness and depth to your space. This contemporary kitchen, designed by Riemer Kitchens and Fine Cabinetry, features the Winter Morning glass tile. The light playing across the surface makes the small backsplash feel more expansive. While it looks amazing in this bright and open kitchen, glass tile would also help illuminate a space that doesn’t receive much natural light.

Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide assortment of kitchen backsplash tiles to find your perfect style. If you’re up to tackling a DIY project, check out our guide on how to tile your backsplash yourself. Need more assistance? Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, where you’ll find the tile, tools and expert advice you need to get started.

The post 20 Counter-to-Ceiling Kitchen Backsplash Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Contrasting Colors

Dark and light or neutral and bright, contrasting colors add drama and dimension to a space. Drastic color contrasts allow each tile to stand out in relation to the other, resulting in a space that both stimulates and soothes the senses. Here are a few of our favorite spaces that use contrasting colors to stunning effect.

Black and White With Charm All Over

This modern colonial bathroom, designed by Chris Loves Julia, demonstrates just how elevated a simple black-and-white color scheme can be. The floor features a custom design using Hex Matte Black and Hampton Carrara Tumbled Hex tiles. The uniform shapes of similarly sized hexagon and penny round tiles allow for creative designs and borders, which are even more striking when using contrasting colors. The dark floor is juxtaposed with the subtly grey-veined white marble wall tile, and the addition of the slim black pencil trim provides a visual throughline that ties the design together.

Bold and Neutral

A bright, bold color will make your wall or floor pop, and that color becomes even more vibrant when contrasted with a neutral element. This kitchen features the Zellige Turquoise Gloss subway tile paired with the Arbour Lowlands Summer Oak luxury vinyl plank. The beige wood-look tones of the floor complement the brilliant jewel tones of the wall tile, and the mix of warm and cool colors gives the space a contemporary feel. For more durable, easy-to-install flooring options, shop our newly expanded wood and vinyl offerings.

Color Blocking

Add interest to your tile design by color-blocking two contrasting colors. This chic shower features one black wall and one white wall, creating the illusion of depth, which helps the small space appear larger. The black-and-white patterned Jeffery Alan Marks Summerland Toro floor tile keeps the space feeling cohesive.

2. Monochromatic Mix

Contrast naturally adds depth to your design, but if you prefer the clean look of a monochromatic space, you can create interest by incorporating different finishes, sizes, shapes and materials. Here are three tile designs that prove a limited color palette can still be lively.

White on White

Crisp and clean, white is an invigorating shade that works in virtually any space. This beautiful bathroom, designed by @lifewithmadisonm, showcases white tile in two distinct styles. The shower walls feature the Regent Bianco handmade-look subway tile, while the floor is adorned with Calacata Brilliante marble-look tile. The slight variations inherent to handmade and handmade-look tiles add subtle visual texture, while the striking grey veining on the marble-look tile lends depth to the space. If you love the look of an all-white room, shop our wide selection of white tile.

Color Drenched

Embrace a bold hue to create a vivid tableau. A gorgeous green, beautiful blue or radiant red adds personality to your space. This lush shower pairs the Alison Victoria Gem marble mosaic tile with the Marradi Calacata Emerald marble-look tile. Though both tiles feature expressive veining, they are distinct in shape and tone, creating visual interest while maintaining color harmony.

Neutral Territory

A neutral color palette is the perfect recipe for tranquility. If you like an all-over creamy look, like this serene beige-on-beige shower, use texture and shape to keep your calming neutrals stimulating. The subtle mix of travertine and marble stone tiles adds just enough variation in tone and texture to create interest, while the framed Arctic White Large Herringbone tile wall detail and the Claros Silver square mosaic floor tile provide a sense of movement.

3. Coordinated Collections

One of the easiest ways to guarantee your design flows together is by using tile from the same collection or series on both walls and floors. A main benefit of a Tile Shop stone collection is its variety of shapes, sizes and trim offerings. All the tiles within a Tile Shop stone collection are sourced from a single quarry, so while natural variation ensures no two pieces are ever the same, your overall design will remain cohesive.

Marvelous Marble

Nothing symbolizes luxury quite like marble. This exquisite stone comes in a wide range of colors, from black and white to beige, grey and even red. Here, Calacata Evora marble tile is used to create a sumptuous bathroom featuring eight different field, mosaic and trim tiles–all crafted from the same stone. The use of varying sizes and shapes elevates the design by creating a sense of movement and refinement. The mix of grey and beige veining in the classic white marble makes it a popular choice for both contemporary and traditional styles.

Lush Limestone

Limestone is a naturally occurring stone formed from calcified coral and shells. Our limestone collections feature several stunning colors, including brown, tan, black, and the shimmering grey tones of the Silver Mist collection showcased here. With the use of subway and hex mosaic tiles in the shower, along with large-format tile for the main floor, this elegant bathroom, designed by Chris Loves Julia, demonstrates how to utilize different sizes and shapes within a single collection to create distinct yet cohesive spaces.

Timeless Travertine

Travertine, a type of limestone formed in mineral springs, is a rich stone distinguished by its naturally earthy tones. Shades of brown, grey, beige and silver (both alone and in combination) can be found in our travertine tile collections. Here, Legno travertine, with its soft beige tones and smooth veining, creates a relaxing atmosphere. Notice how the Wheaton mosaic, used as a focal point on the wall, maintains symmetry with the Double Chevron mosaic floor tile.

4. Patterns That Pop

One of our most popular wall and floor tile combinations is patterned and non-patterned tile. For the bold at heart, there’s nothing better than an accent wall or floor brimming with striking shapes. Delicate, floral, abstract or geometric–shop our wide assortment of patterned tile to find a style to suit your taste.

Botanical Beauty

A nature-inspired pattern will fill your space with serotonin-boosting outdoor vibes (bonus points if it includes colors found outside, like the Annie Selke Flora Vapor Blue tile shown here). This charming bathroom demonstrates how to feature a patterned tile without overwhelming the space. The colors in the floor tile are reflected in the blue sink vanity and the Annie Selke Artisanal White subway wall tile. By maintaining a simple color palette, the space feels elegant yet full of personality.

For more ideas on infusing your home with nature-loving vibes, check out our guide to biophilic design.

Pattern and Color

Pulling a color or two from your patterned tile will ensure your design coordinates. However, if you choose a black-and-white patterned tile, like the Cloth Black and White tile shown here, you can pair it with virtually any hue. We love how the Glass Royal Blue Amalfi tile pops against the black-and-white design, and how the black hardware and white grout lines create a visual throughline between the shower walls and the bathroom floor.

Wallpaper Effect

A patterned wall tile provides the look of wallpaper with all the durability and easy-to-clean properties of ceramic or porcelain–perfect for mess-prone spaces like kitchen backsplashes, bathrooms or entryways. This fashionable kitchen features the Nikki Chu Tangier Graphite tile. Bold enough on its own, this patterned tile is paired with the black Iconic Steel floor tile and the Nikki Chu Luxor Winter White subway tile (on the kitchen island). If you love this global, eclectic style, shop our exclusive Nikki Chu Collection.

5. Tone on Tone

One way to ensure a cohesive look between your floors and walls is to coordinate the tones of your tiles. This involves choosing a color from one tile and carrying it through to another. The result is floors and walls that complement each other without exactly matching. Here are a few spaces that exemplify this concept.

Beige on Beige

Tiles that offer shade variation are perfect for the tone-on-tone concept. This elegant bathroom, designed by @jessicasmithhomedesign, pairs the Coco Canvas Glossy wall tile with a marble checkerboard floor featuring Royal Satin White and Avorio Fiorito tiles. The undulating surface of the handmade-look subway tile spans creamy whites to light tan tones, which are reflected in the white and beige floor.

Rust on Rust

Here, the crisp white background and expressive rust-colored veins of the Pisa Oro Matte tile are echoed in the Kasbah Cross Terracotta and Star Bone floor tiles. While a single white, beige or grey tile would capture the tones of the unique marble-look wall tile, selecting the most vibrant shade creates an invigorating space. While nothing beats the singular luxury of real marble, some ceramic and porcelain marble-look tiles offer colors and designs you won’t find in nature, such as blue, green and gold.

Warm and Cool

Sometimes, multiple tones can be carried through from one tile to another. This welcoming entryway pairs the Organic Clay Taupe wall tile with the Jerica Ceniza floor tile. While one is dark and the other light, both of these handmade-look subway tiles feature a mix of warm brown and cool grey tones. The combination of the two creates a subtle visual texture that makes the space feel fresh and contemporary.

6. Eclectic

Even tile rules are meant to be broken! While tried-and-true combos make for beautiful and unique spaces, good design can be found in the least expected pairings. Here are a few of our favorite eclectic tile arrangements.

Singular Looks

The Alison Victoria Brick x Brick Petal tile and the Terrazzo Nero Macro tile are an unconventional couple that forms natural harmony in this sweetly chic bathroom, designed by Yellow Brick Home. The brick-like texture of the wall tile and the terrazzo-inspired floor tile, with its pattern of glass- and marble-look fragments, each contribute their own visual appeal. While the colors and textures are neither matching nor dramatically contrasting, their warm tones and singular styles make an interesting complement.

A Reflection on Texture and Pattern

This opulent space, showcasing tile from our exclusive Kelli Fontana Collection, is a wealth of texture and pattern. The Patina Siren Mirror wall tile provides a smooth, reflective surface with striking aged details, while the Tommas Carrara fluted marble-look wall tile lends texture to the space. Paired with the Inlay Proper Naples Beach floor tile, with its elegant leaf pattern, these tiles come together to create a rich, romantic tableau. Though each piece in her collection is distinct, celebrated designer Kelli Fontana conceived of all her tiles to work together for a classic, bold and whimsical aesthetic. Explore all of our exclusive designer collections for complementing tiles that form eclectic designs.

Shape and Movement

There are many ways to add a sense of movement to your tile design, as evidenced in this exceptional space. Though the three prominent tiles are aesthetically distinct, each brings its own visual flow. The center tile stripe features the Trois Bandes tile, with its black-and-white diamond pattern forming a horizontal zigzag. This movement is directionally mirrored by the organic woodgrain detail in the Amazon Amendoa tile, while the half-hexagon shape of the Tory Black mosaic floor tile reflects the diagonals in the patterned tile. The result is a space that could feel random but has enough visual throughlines to maintain cohesion.

Whether you seek a dramatic contrast, a soothing monochromatic space or a distinct ecelctic pairing, there are as many wall and floor combinations as there are tiles at The Tile Shop (literally thousands!). We hope these classic designs have inspired your next project, and if you need a little more guidance, be sure to schedule a free design consultation or visit your local showroom–our tile experts are excited to help you create a space you’ll love.

The post Tried-and-True Wall and Floor Tile Combinations appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Change Your Tile’s Direction to Create Distinction

This space, designed by Principle Design & Remodeling, features the Bulevard Snow subway tile installed in a herringbone pattern behind the stove and a brick-lay pattern under the cabinets. Placing the herringbone design in the center creates a sense of movement, and helps provide visual separation between meal prep and cooking, making it feel like you have more room for both. Shop subway tile for a wealth of styles to achieve this design.

2. Infuse Your Space With Bright-Hued Blue

Make your small space stand out with a vibrant color, like the bold blue of the Zellige Azul gloss tile. The rich hue will complement a range of cabinet colors, from white to wood to a buttery yellow. If you love this stunning shade, explore our full collection of blue tile.

3. Design a Serene Nature-Inspired Space

Bring the expansive, mood-boosting feel of the outdoors to your space with nature-inspired colors, shapes and materials. We love how this bright and cheery kitchen pairs the Glass Tea Green tile with a blonde wood range hood for natural appeal. Learn how to create serene spaces in every room of your home with this guide to biophilic design.

4. Create a Marble Focal Point Above Your Stove

A small stove backsplash is the perfect place to invest in a beautiful marble mosaic. This backsplash, designed by C2 Interiors, features the Victoria Grey Lattice tile. The diagonal lines and pointed shapes of the mosaic add a lovely sense of movement, making it pleasing to look at as you tend to your burners.

5. Show Off Your Artistic Side With a Tiled Picture Frame

A tiled picture frame is created by “framing” a patterned or mosaic tile with trim. This technique can be elaborate, with multiple layered trim profiles, or feature a simple single pencil or Somerset trim. Here, the stove backsplash features the floral-patterned Genius tile framed by the Black High Pencil Liner. A single layer of black trim makes this picturesque patterned tile the focal point.

6. Add Texture With 3D Tile

A textured or 3D tile adds a tactile element to walls, giving your small space more dimension. This style is perfect for a sink or stove backsplash, where the exposed space allows light to cast shifting shadows on the raised pattern, creating a dynamic appeal.

7. Dazzle with Jewel Tones

Give your small backsplash the star treatment with a dazzling jeweled tone, like splendid sapphire or rich ruby. This lustrous kitchen features the Costa Emerald Mix mosaic tile. We love how its brilliant green tones pop against the sky-blue cabinets. If you’re envious of this vivid hue, shop our wide assortment of green tile.

8. Keep it Simple–And Chic!–With White Subway Tile

White subway tile is a design staple with a long tradition in kitchens, where it was first adopted by the Victorians as a symbol of cleanliness. Over a century later, this style still feels contemporary thanks to its versatile design. This sleek space, designed by Restor Homes and featuring the Bianco Puro tile in an offset vertical layout, offers a modern take on a classic look. Discover more design possibilities in this guide to subway tile layouts.

9. Achieve a Stylish Slab Look

Love the look of a marble slab backsplash? Achieve a similarly elegant effect with affordable, easy-to-maintain marble-look porcelain or ceramic tile. Available in a range of on-trend styles, the large-format version of these tiles (categorized as any tile with a side longer than 15″ and available in sizes up to 48″ x 48″) requires fewer grout lines, making small spaces feel more expansive and cohesive.

10. Add Charm With English Cottage Patterns

Backsplash designs for small kitchens don’t have to be unassuming. The Laura Ashley Wexbord Fresh Green tile brings the quaint, romantic sensibility of English cottage style to this cozy backsplash. If this whimsical design style is your cup of tea, shop our exclusive Laura Ashley collection.

11. Outline Your Design With Trim

This charming kitchen is proof that tile doesn’t need to extend far to make an impact. By cutting the Annie Selke Artisanal White Lace tile off before it reaches the shelves, Maya Drozdz makes this small space feel less crowded. The design is accentuated with the Black High Pencil Liner, which creates a neat border around the tiled backsplash.

12. Stretch Your Budget: Tile Your Backsplash For Under $200

Even if your budget is as small as your space, you can afford a stylish refresh with our expansive selection of tiles under $7. This backsplash, designed by Timber Trails, features Regent Bianco ceramic subway tile. At just $5.39/sq. ft., you can tile a 20- to 30-sq.-ft. backsplash for under $200.

13. Create a Modern Farmhouse Moment

Modern farmhouse design favors open shelving, which can make your kitchen feel more spacious. This backsplash, designed by I SPY DIY, features the Riad White tile beneath an open wooden shelf. The purposeful variations in color and surface texture in this handmade-look tile add an artisanal touch, complementing the refined rustic decor.

14. Embrace Simplicity with Japandi Style

The exquisite minimalism of Japandi design creates a feeling of intentionality in a small space. In this backsplash, designed by Yellow Brick Home, the long, skinny tiles comprising the Home Kit-Kat Milk mosaic provide a sense of harmonious symmetry. Learn more about this organic and calming design style in our Japandi tile guide.

15. Mix Materials for a Sophisticated Design

Incorporating a variety of materials is a simple yet sophisticated way to add interest to your backsplash, as seen in this contemporary kitchen featuring the Palermo Noir Stone Hex tile. The combination of slate and brass in the hexagon-shaped tile gives the space a dynamic sense of movement and rich visual texture.

16. Make Your Backsplash Feel Boutique With Zellige Tile

The authentic, craftsman appeal of handmade Zellige tile makes any space unique. Available in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors, every piece of this traditional Moroccan tile is crafted using ancient techniques that create natural variations from piece to piece.

17. Evoke a Historical Sensibility with Victorian-inspired Tile

Even if your kitchen doesn’t hail from the last century, you can still embrace your love for antiques with historic-inspired tiles. These ceramic Victoria tiles–available in Blanc (shown) and Gris Fonce, a dark oxide copper shade–feature raised patterns reminiscent of 19th-century-era tin tiles, while the weathered appearance mimics the look of worn paint.

18. Create a Unique Layout

Make your small space a standout with a custom layout. This boho chic kitchen, designed by I SPY DIY, features the Aurea Bronze tile in alternating horizontal and vertical stacks. Though simple, this backsplash commands attention, in part due to the contrasting grout color, which helps highlight the distinct design. Discover more worldly and eclectic tile ideas in our guide to boho chic style.

19. Marvel with a Versatile Basketweave Mosaic

The Sampson Mosaic tile features an elegant, intricate basketweave pattern that suits a variety of styles, from transitional to mid-century modern to modern farmhouse. This marble tile is stunning paired with white cabinets and gold fixtures, but it would look just as intriguing beneath wood cabinetry.

20. Add Beauty With an Ornate Pattern

An ornate patterned tile brings a lot of charm to a small space. This kitchen, designed by Simony Silva, features the elegant Cheverny Blanc tile. We love how the taupe and blue design complements the warm, neutral cabinetry.

21. Make Waves

Because it’s a small space, the backsplash is the perfect place to accentuate your decor with an unexpected design element, like a uniquely shaped tile. In this kitchen, the Wave Blue Reef tile introduces soft, pillowy lines for wave-like movement.

22. Add Drama With a Contrasting Grout

When you don’t have a lot of space to work with, every element becomes especially significant. A dark tile with light grout (or vice versa) highlights the layout and shape of your design. White grout paired with the Noir Honed Amalfi tiles creates a sense of drama in this Timber Trails-designed kitchen.

23. Create a Contemporary Look With Classic Herringbone Tile

A herringbone layout is a classic design that looks at home in contemporary spaces. In this chic kitchen, the Herringbone Gloss White tile complements the geometric patterns on the window covering while maintaining an elegant simplicity. If you love this dynamic design, shop our wide assortment of herringbone tile.

24. Make a Point With Picket Tile

Reminiscent of a classic picket fence, this elongated hexagon-shaped tile is on point! With its mix of straight and diagonal lines, picket tile creates a sense of movement and natural flow in your space. Here, Picket Florencia Super Bianco is installed using white grout for a subtle design, but you could enhance the shapes’ appearance by using contrasting grout.

Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide assortment of kitchen backsplash tiles to find your perfect style, and check out our guide on how to tile your backsplash yourself for DIY inspiration. Need more assistance? Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, where you’ll find the tile, tools and expert advice you need to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size backsplash tile is best for a small kitchen?

Virtually any size tile will work well for a small kitchen backsplash. If you want a cohesive look that makes your space appear more expansive, use a large-format tile, while a small mosaic tile adds movement and interest.

What is the best color backsplash for a timeless kitchen?

A crisp white backsplash will adapt as your style evolves. White subway tile is a classic look that can be easily updated with colored accents or by painting your cabinets and shelves.

Should the backsplash be lighter or darker than the countertop?

Your backsplash color depends on your personal style. If you tend toward the bold, contrasting your tile and cabinet colors adds a sense of drama. A backsplash that picks up some of the tones of your cabinets–-like a gold-flecked backsplash with gold fixtures on your cabinets -–will look cohesive while adding interest. Contrasting trim or grout will add definition to matching backsplash, countertops and cabinets.

The post 24 Small Kitchen Backsplash Tile Ideas for 2025 appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Create a Unique Subway Layout

A custom subway tile layout takes center stage in this boho chic kitchen, designed by I SPY DIY. The Aura Bronze tile is installed in an alternating vertical and horizontal stack, adding a sense of movement and individuality to the space. Discover how to incorporate this worldly and eclectic style in your space with our guide to boho chic design.

2. Add Brightness With a Glossy Beige

A glossy finish reflects light, creating a brighter space for kitchen prep. The warm beige tones of the handmade-look Tribeca Oatmeal tile provide a soft, neutral base for the kitchen, making the backsplash appear almost white when the light hits it. Shop our wide range of beige tiles to recreate this serene look.

3. Reflect Your Personality With a Glass Tile

Glass tile features a naturally reflective surface, so even a dark color will add brightness to your prep area. This stunning kitchen, designed by @eleven11tileanddesign, features the Glass Burlap Amalfi tile. The warm brown tile and white grout lines create an inverse effect of the golden-veined white marble countertops, resulting in a rich and cohesive design.

4. Make Waves With a Unique Shape

Unique shapes offer a wealth of design possibilities that go beyond typical straight edges. Here, the Wave Old Cream tile creates a pillowy effect on this backsplash, adding playful movement and a softer edge. Shop our wide assortment of uniquely shaped tile for more interesting profiles.

5. Choose a Charming Pattern

Warm neutrals are paired with an elegant pattern in the Bolshoi Taupe tile. The white, star-shaped design elevates the space, providing a focal point that complements a wide range of cabinet colors. Discover more delicate and eclectic designs when you shop patterned tile.

6. Add Texture With an Architectural Tile

Characterized by uneven surfaces, rough-edged architectural tile adds both visual and tactile texture to your space. Available in a wide range of materials, from wood to natural stone–like the Copper Rust Random Rectified Slate tile shown here–these authentic details bring a rustic feel to the room.

7. Add Elegance With a Diamond Shape

The charming silhouette of the Legno Wheaton tile draws the eye up this kitchen wall. The white chevron pieces outlining the brown diamond-shaped tiles add a sense of movement. Shop our vast selection of diamond-shaped tile for an on-point design for your space.

8. Create Old-World Vibes With an Encaustic Tile

Encaustic tiles are decorative cement tiles with a history in classical design. The pattern is inlaid into the tile, so it will remain even as the tiles age. This kitchen, designed by Georgia Pepperberry, showcases the Lira Negro Encaustic tile. The brown, black and white tile perfectly complements the white cabinets and wood-and-black range hood.

9. Choose Travertine for a Natural Look

A type limestone formed in mineral springs, travertine tile boasts rich color variation, with shades from black to silver. The Volcano Brushed Amalfi tile shown here, with its mix of chocolatey browns, beiges and greys, demonstrates the colorful range of this natural stone. Shop our wide selection of travertine tile to find the shade that fits your style.

10. Embrace Authenticity With Zellige Tile

Crafted, painted and glazed by hand, each Zellige tile is authentically unique. The Zellige Alabaster Gloss tile features varied tones that range from beige to pink to grey, creating a perfectly imperfect backsplash. If you love this handcrafted look, shop our full line of Zellige tile.

Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide assortment of kitchen backsplash tiles to find your perfect style, and check out our guide on how to tile your backsplash yourself. Need more assistance? Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, where you’ll find the tile, tools and expert advice you need to get started.

The post 10 Beautiful Brown Kitchen Backsplash Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

10. Boho Farmhouse

Boho Ikat-patterned floor tiles are paired with a farmhouse subway tile backsplash in this sophisticated kitchen, designed by I SPY DIY. The combination of patterns, colors and textures creates a rich and varied tableau. If you love this artistic, worldly style, check out our guide to boho chic design.

9. Beautiful Beige

The warm-toned Coco Canvas Glossy tile backsplash creates a welcoming atmosphere in this contemporary kitchen, designed by @cmormandesigns. The uneven surface texture and color variation, characteristic of handmade-look tile, add visual interest and complement the marble countertops and fashionable brass fixtures.

8. Varsity Blues

The variation in surface texture on the Retro Lino subway tile gives this best-selling tile its appeal. The vivid white glossy backsplash brightens the room, providing a contrast to the cool blue cabinetry. Discover more of the Timber Trails-designed home in the Varsity Blues Home Tour.

7. Coastal Chic

Warm whites grace this sleek kitchen, also designed by Timber Trails. The undulating surface of the Riad White tile creates gentle waves that reflect light across the stove backsplash. The off-white and light beige tones evoke a bright, sandy beach, for an elegant coastal chic look.

6. Serene White

The slightly textured surface of the Argile Matte White tile gives this space an artisanal fee. The subtle greyish tones make this handmade-look tile a versatile choice–perfect for a warm or cool neutral color scheme.

5. Tumbled Marble

The rustic, yet refined, look of tumbled marble elevates this modern farmhouse kitchen. The Meram Blanc Carrara subway tile, paired with the open wooden shelving, adds plenty of visual texture to this stylish space, designed by Our Home Colonial. For more ideas on achieving this cozy and chic aesthetic, check out our guide to modern farmhouse design.

4. Elegant Craftsman

Based on historic wallpaper by British designer William Morris, the Hawkdale Willow Olive tile pairs beautifully with the Hawkdale Pure Chalk tile, creating a moment of elegant whimsy on this Craftsman-style backsplash. Shop our exclusive Morris & Co. collection for more iconic patterns and colors.

3. Authentic Handmade Chic

Ancient techniques and modern style come together in this stylish kitchen, designed by Fox Homes. The wide grout joints highlight the uneven edges of these tiles, which are handcrafted by Moroccan artisans. If you love this one-of-a-kind look, shop our full assortment of Zellige tiles.

2. Warm Whites

Here, the Meram Blanc Carrara tile graces another favorite kitchen. The tumbled marble adds texture to the backsplash, providing a rich complement to the smooth off-white cabinets. If you love this traditional-meets-contemporary style, check out our guide to transitional design.

1. Envy-Worthy Hues

Don’t let the name confuse you–the Zellige Dirty Blue tile combines blue and brown shades for a rich olive green. The undulating surface of this handcrafted tile gives the kitchen backsplash a stunning sense of movement. We love the charm of this artisan petite subway tile as much as you do, which is why we carry it in four colorways: Azul, Shamrock, Turquoise and Dirty Blue.

Is a kitchen renovation at the top of your 2025 to-do list? Shop our wide assortment of kitchen tile or peruse our kitchen tile ideas for endless inspiration. If you need help getting started, schedule a free design consultation–we’ll help make your kitchen design dreams a reality!

Discover more of our 2024 Year In Review Series: Top 10 Bathrooms of 2024

The post Year In Review: Top 10 Kitchens of 2024 appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Elevate Your Design With a Glass-Marble Mix

Tile that combines two or more materials will bring complexity and visual texture to your space. Here, the Divisa Storm tile elegantly blends marble and glass for a striking design. The marble veining, along with the chevron pattern, infuse the space with a sense of movement that complements the woodgrain detail of the shelf.  

2. Cast a Romantic Glow

The Patina Gilded Mirror tile casts a golden hue in this luxurious kitchen, designed by Kelli Fontana Vogelgesang. The gold mirrored tile features a beautiful coloration, creating a soft, romantic effect. If you love this chic, whimsical style, explore our exclusive Kelli Fontana designer collection.  

3. Infuse Your Space With Beachy Blue

The brilliant Glass Sky Blue Amalfi tile fills this space with a soothing coastal tone. The charming pastel evokes the tranquility of a bright day at the beach, perfect for creating a cheerful design. For more ideas on how to bring seaside serenity into your space, check out this helpful guide to “coastal chic.”  

4. Incorporate a Stunning Picture Frame

A tile “picture frame” is created by framing a decorative tile with trim pieces, such as Hixtons and Somersets. This makes a perfect centerpiece for your glass tile backsplash. Here, the expressive blues and greys in the Blue Twilight Brick tile enhance the elegant grey veining in the Hampton Carrara Chevron tile, resulting in a highly designed, cohesive space. Achieve this effect by layering trim pieces to highlight your favorite mosaic or patterned tile.

5. Create Movement With a Chevron Pattern

A dynamic shape, combined with striking color variation, infuses this space—designed by A. Dorazio—with a lively sense of movement. We love how the grey, beige, and white tones in the Alato Beachwalk Chevron tile coordinate with the white cabinets and grey-veined white marble countertop.  

6. Add Serene Neutrals

The Santos Beach tile‘s blue, grey and beige tones convey a calm coastal landscape. The combination of warm and cool neutrals adds a tranquil, yet visually complex, backdrop to this contemporary kitchen.

7. Choose a Mirrored Tile to Reflect Your Personality

Brighten your cooking space with mirrored glass tile. The Antique Mirror Bevel tile shown here reflects light, adding extra illumination to this stove backsplash. Designed by Timber Trails, the kitchen features this standout tile only on the top half of the backsplash to avoid overwhelming the space—we think they struck the perfect balance.

8. Add Hex-cellent Dimension

The hexagon is a classic shape that’s experiencing a resurgence in the interior design world. Here, the Posh Brushed Silver mosaic tile creates a lustrous backsplash. If you love this timeless shape, shop our wide assortment of hexagon tile.  

Wherever you are on your renovation journey The Tile Shop is here to help. Discover more possibilities when you shop our wide assortment of glass tile, or explore even more inspiring kitchen tile ideas. Ready to bring your dream space to life? Visit your local Tile Shop showroom or schedule a free design consultation to get started.

The post 8 Stunning Glass Tile Ideas for Kitchen Backsplashes appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Combine Warm and Cool Neutrals

One of our favorite design trends is mixing warm and cool neutrals to achieve an inviting and visually interesting space. This luxe kitchen backsplash, designed by @cjuncaj, features the expressively veined Firenze Calacatta tile. With its grey, beige, brown and cream tones, this tile creates balance while making a bold statement.

2. Add Elegance With a Leaf-Shaped Mosaic

Give your backsplash a beautiful sense of movement with a marble mosaic. This stunning space, designed by @ckdesignernicole, features the Elia Honed by Alison Victoria tile. The delicate leaf shapes accentuate the grey and taupe veining in the white marble tile, forming a playful and serene backsplash.  

3. Create a Slab Effect

Achieve the luxurious “slab” look with a large rectangular marble tile, like the 12″ x 24″ Calacata Evora tile shown here. Larger tile requires fewer grout joints, resembling the appearance of a single slab of marble. You can also obtain the slab marble look with large-format porcelain tile, available in sizes up to 48″ x 48″.  

4. Mix Marble and Metal

Layering materials adds visual texture to your space. The Palermo Noir Stone Hex tile, featured on this stylish kitchen backsplash, combines rich black marble with small pieces of brushed bronze. We love how the chic bronze accents complement the metal faucet and fixtures.  

5. Get a Modern Farmhouse Look With a Basketweave Mosaic

This kitchen, designed by Timber Trails, showcases elevated modern farmhouse design. The Sampson mosaic tile features an exquisite basketweave pattern of white and beige marble. Paired with open shelving and wooden accessories, this backsplash embodies the cozy-chic aspect of modern farmhouse style. For more ideas on incorporating this design throughout your home, check out this comprehensive guide to achieving a modern farmhouse look.

6. Set a Mood With Grey Marble

Love the tone of a cloudy sky? Bring it indoors with an expressive grey tile, like the Bianco Colorato shown here. The soft light and dark grey veining are beautifully balanced by subtle beige tones, creating a harmonious neutral look. We love how this gorgeous grey complements the white cabinets and wood shelves.

7. Cast a “Hex”

Available in a range of sizes, colors and materials, hexagon tile is a retro shape that has found a fresh application in our spaces in recent years. Marble, with its vivid veining–bold or subtle, like the soft grey featured in the Royal White Hex tile—adds a sense of movement to your hexagon tile backsplash.  

8. Elevate Your Space With a Waterjet Mosaic

Glass and marble are elegantly combined in the Northbrook Glass with Black Marquina tile. Created using high-powered jets of water that carve intricate grooves in the hard stone, waterjet mosaics combine natural stone with glass, metal or mother-of-pearl. As an added bonus, the glass in this mosaic captures light, brightening the cooking space.  

9. Create a Rustic Look With Tumbled Marble

The worn appearance of tumbled marble is achieved by placing the stone in a rotating drum with rocks, sand and water. The result is a beautifully textured tile that is both refined and rustic. This charming kitchen, designed by Esslinger Design Co., features a backsplash of Meram Blanc Carrara tumbled marble subway tile, which creates an elevated brick wall feel.  

10. Add Art Deco Charm

Curves and geometric shapes are hallmarks of classic Art Deco design. This style, popularized in the 1920s, has reemerged in the 2020s with a contemporary twist—and we’re loving it! Here, the stylish Christie Volakas mosaic tile, featuring lush marble and gilded metal accents, creates a space that Gadsby would adore.  

11. Create a Sense of Movement With Chevron

This V-shaped tile creates a pleasing zigzag pattern that adds a sense of movement to this kitchen. The natural grey veining adds texture, complementing the organic elements, such as the wicker lamp shade and open wood shelving.  If you love this classic look, explore our wide assortment of chevron tile.

12. Add a Marble Tile “Picture Frame”

Make your favorite marble mosaic a focal point by showcasing it in a tiled picture frame. This technique, created using decorative trim to frame a patterned or mosaic tile, adds a highly designed, picturesque element to your space. It’s also a great way to add a touch of luxury while staying within budget.  

13. Marvel With Marble Subway Tile

Elevate the everyday with a luxurious marble subway tile. This crisp and clean backsplash, designed by Timber Trails, features Meram Blanc Carrara subway tile. The soft veining in this winter white marble adds dimension, enhancing standard white subway tile with a touch of elegance.  

14. Choose a Diamond-Shaped Tile for a “Cut Above”

Bold grey veining adds movement to this opulent backsplash. The Africa Tempesta Wheaton tile features beautiful diamond and chevron shapes, enhancing the dynamic quality of the design. We love how the cloudy grey tile contrasts with the white countertop.  

Updating your space is easier than you think! Shop our wide assortment of kitchen backsplash tiles to find your perfect style, and check out our guide on how to tile your backsplash yourself. Need more assistance? Visit your local Tile Shop showroom, where you’ll find the tile, tools and expert advice you need to get started.

The post 14 Marvelous Marble Tile Kitchen Backsplash Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Add Charm With “English Cottage” Patterns

The delicate florals and whimsical shapes of our exclusive Laura Ashley collection tiles embody the cozy charm of “English cottage” style. Here, the Wexbord tiles in Midnight and Fresh Green combine historic prints from the iconic British design company with natural hues. The results are spaces that are both bright and fun, yet as soothing as a warm cup of tea.

2. Add Softness With Curved Tile

Make waves in your kitchen with the Wave Blue Reef tile. The curved edges add softness to your design, and the tile can be installed in a variety of layouts for a personalized look. The offset pattern of this kitchen backsplash creates gentle “pillowy” lines that give this space a sense of movement.

3. Embrace Authenticity With Handcrafted Tile

Zellige tile is popular for its authentic artisanal qualities. Crafted, painted and glazed by hand, each tile is completely unique, creating natural tonal variations on your kitchen wall or backsplash. Our Zellige tiles come in a range of sizes, shapes and colors, including Azul, Turquoise, Shamrock and Dirty Blue (shown here in a petite subway).

4. Incorporate An Ornate Pattern

Gorgeous cream and weathered green come together to create this lovely lace-like pattern from Morris & Co. Inspired by iconic British designer William Morris’s historic wallpaper patterns, the Morris & Co. Pure Net Linen tile creates a soft and sophisticated space. Shop our exclusive Morris & Co. tiles for more historical designs and charming colors.

5. Infuse Your Space With Soothing “Neutral” Tones

This bright and inviting kitchen, designed by A Life Unfolding, is the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing matcha tea. The Glass Green Tea subway tile backsplash is serene enough to serve as a neutral. The color blends nicely with the blonde wood range hood and white shelving.

6. Add a Touch of Blue

You needn’t saturate your entire kitchen in blues and greens if that’s not your aesthetic. A touch of color adds visual texture to your space. This cozy “modern farmhouse” kitchen, designed by I SPY DIY, is case in point; the Look Avio tile used on the side of the kitchen island complements the neutral color scheme while standing out enough to create interest.

7. Embrace a Groovy Pattern

The mesmerizing geometric lines of the Eclipse Azul tile create a striking kitchen backsplash in this modern kitchen. Available in four distinct blue and green colorways, this tile is a homage to mid-century psychedelic style.

8. Infuse Your Space With Natural Colors

Energize your space with natural green tones like those of the lush Hackney Jade tile shown here. This vibrant, handmade-look tile features tonal variations that create movement from piece to piece. Discover more nature-inspired style ideas in our comprehensive guide to “biophilic design.”

9. Make Your Space Shine With Jewel Tones

Invigorate your space with vibrant jewel tones like emerald and sapphire. Here the bright bejeweled hue of the Canatina Blue tile creates a brilliant focal point for the stove backsplash. We love how this vintage-look tile coordinates with the eclectic elements of this kitchen; the leafy wallpaper and dark wood range hood contribute to the unique character of the space.

10. Keep It Cool With a Blue Kitchen Backsplash

The fluctuating tones of the Marrakesh Blue tile create a water-like feel for this kitchen backsplash. The handmade-look tiles vary in color and surface texture, and the glossy finish captures the light as it plays across the surface. The effect is stunning and serene. If you love this tile’s perfectly imperfect appearance, shop our wide assortment of handmade-look tile.

Whether you’re doing a complete remodel or refreshing your backsplash, The Tile Shop has the tile, tools and expert advice to help at every step in the process. Discover more kitchen tile ideas, shop our wide selection of blue and green tile, or visit your local Tile Shop to get started.

The post 10 Brilliant Blue and Green Kitchen Tile Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

1. Pair Wood With an Ornate Patterned Tile

A beautiful patterned tile will give your space distinction as well as provide an elegant pairing with a wood floor. The ornate Morris & Co. Pure Net Black Ink tile elevates this space and complements the natural wood floors (as well as the gorgeous floral wallpaper) giving this home a hand-crafted feel.

2. Ceramic Tile to Wood Floor Transition

Man-made ceramic and porcelain tiles offer a wide range of styles, shapes and designs. The Star ceramic tile gives this space, designed by Callaway Homes, an elevated “modern farmhouse” aesthetic. The flooring creates a clear delineation between the kitchen and living space, yet the black and white patterned tile pairs well with the wood floors.

3. Use Wood-Look Porcelain for a Cohesive Look

If you want to extend the look of wooden floors into your kitchen, durable and easy-to-clean wood-look porcelain will give you a natural appearance in a material well-suited to handling traffic and mess. Wood-look tile can be used to create cohesion between two separate but closely related rooms, as At Home With Ashley has done in this kitchen/dining space.

4. Tile Your Kitchen Island

If your kitchen or great room already features wood flooring, consider showcasing a favorite tile in a more unconventional spot, such as the side of a kitchen island. In this cozy-chic kitchen by @courtneypillion, the Star tile adds a delightful, unexpected design element.

5. Add Interest With a Diamond-Shaped Tile

Shape is another way to add distinction to your floors. Consider using tile shapes with diagonal lines, such as diamonds, chevrons or hexagons, to play up the contrast in a tile to wood transition. This stylish kitchen, designed by @jenpanattoni, featuring the Diamond White City tile is a case in point.

6. Create a Classy Pairing With Stone-Look Tile

Stone or stone-look tile and hardwood are a natural pairing. This kitchen, designed by Rashida Banks, uses the Aqua Nero Matte porcelain tile. The rich veining in the tile adds visual texture that complements the organic woodgrain in the living room floor.

7. Extend Your Kitchen Floor With Luxury Vinyl Planks

Another option for a cohesive look from your kitchen and beyond is to continue your floor beyond the culinary space. Here the Arbour Midlands Hickory Tavern luxury vinyl flooring extends from the kitchen into the dining room, but this stain- and scratch-resistant flooring is suitable for an entire first floor. This easy-to-install option is perfect for a DIY project. Discover just how stress free vinyl flooring can be with our helpful guide.

8. Tile Your Counter Wall

The counter wall provides another opportunity for you to showcase your style. This chic kitchen features the Liria Negro tile. The ornate black, white and beige pattern complements the dark wood floor for a chic and unique design.

9. Pair Wood With a Beautiful Neutral Pattern

In this stunning space designed by @alexandria.by.design, the warm dark brown wood floor is beautifully complemented by the cool grey and light blue pattern of the Cybele Blue tile. While this design uses pattern to achieve a cool, neutral look, you can achieve a similar effect with grey marble or marble-look tiles.

Want more inspo? Check out our 17 Creative Kitchen Floor Ideas for 2024. Find even more inspiration on Instagram and our Customer Room Gallery, where our tiles are used in a variety of real spaces. Or, if you’re looking for some guidance on an upcoming project, set up a free design consultation to get advice from our tile experts.

The post 9 Kitchen Tile to Wood Floor Transition Ideas appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.