Kitchen tile is the material that is most often chosen for the wall above the countertop, that is, on a backsplash. Kitchen tiles are produced in various sizes and styles, so they are suitable for both modern and traditional kitchens. But which tile to choose for the kitchen?
Content:
The wall in the kitchen between the countertop and hanging cabinets is always visible and attracts attention. So it can be an interesting decoration of the room, often giving the room a special style, unlike any other place. In addition to aesthetic values, the properties of the material are also taken into account – the wall above the kitchen table is one of the places most susceptible to pollution, so it requires special decoration. Therefore, the area should be covered with a material that fits inside and is easy to clean. Ceramic tile would be a good choice.
Ceramic tile is the material that is most often chosen for walls above the kitchen counter. Not surprisingly, since it is non-flammable, easy to clean, and resistant to water and steam. However, the popularity of tiles does not mean that the walls trimmed with them should look standard and boring. A wide range of ceramic tile manufacturers provides the buyer with a large selection and interesting solutions. To achieve the original effect, you can choose tiles that imitate wood, of intense color, or having an unusual pattern.
The surface above the corian kitchen worktop (or any other kind of worktop material) must be particularly resistant to moisture, high temperatures as well as stains, including greasy ones. Therefore, it is worth choosing tiles with a large layer of enamel, and if you choose other finishes, do not forget to properly impregnate, clean, and periodically maintain the material. The tile should be selected in accordance with the style in which the kitchen is designed, taking into account the color of the countertops, furniture, or floor. Do not forget to plan the method of finishing the surface above the countertop; also provide holes for electrical outlets.
Tile advantages:
Disadvantages of tiles:
The aesthetics of the wall above the kitchen worktop is important, but do not forget about practical considerations. Remember that this surface is particularly susceptible to dirt and splashes. This is especially true for wall fragments at the sink and hob. Therefore, choose ceramic tiles that are easy to clean. It is best if their surface is smooth, covered with a thick layer of enamel. Then dust and other dirt will not settle on the surface so easily. Small wall tiles in the shape of a square or elongated rectangle serve well in the work area in the kitchen. In the case of small tiles, the surface of the joints is more prone to contamination. To facilitate care, you should choose larger tiles or straightened models that allow you to make really thin seams (1-1.5 mm). In the case of traditional, wider joints between the tiles, it is worth using an epoxy compound, as it is practically waterproof and not afraid of chemical cleaners.
Wall tiles are an easy-to-install solution that offers various styling options. It comes in different formats, colors, and can be made of many types of materials. It also has a lot of design, size, and decor. You can choose from a mass of varieties, which allows you to create an effective finish, seasoned with ingenuity.
You can try modern and traditional kitchens in retro, Provencal, and even rustic styles. See many interior design suggestions for kitchen tiles. You can beautifully decorate the space above the kitchen worktop using only this material. In a modern minimalist kitchen, the colored wall above the countertop will become an attractive element that will enliven the interior and give it an original character.
The fashionable design of kitchen tiles is increasingly appearing not only on the walls but also on the floor. However, patterned ceramics are a risky option. Fashion is changing too fast. Currently, the design of ceramic tiles is dominated by geometric motifs, but also in the 3D version. A kitchen tile with a texture allows you to revive the wall, which with proper lighting will be very effective. It is interesting to combine smooth tiles with a relief pattern. Clear, deeply cut lines are additionally highlighted in bright colors, which give the effect of an abstract pattern. Kitchen tiles may have oriental motifs, characterized by patterns with fuzzy lines.
Abstract watercolor prints on a canvas-like background are popular, as this is another mention of art. This motif on a kitchen tile, resembling canvases, is created by applying many layers of paint, scratched with a spatula after finishing work. All of these tiles have one more thing in common. These are not only the so-called decors but also modules that can be freely composed and covered with larger surfaces, forming magnificent decorations. Solid bricks are also trendy.
When choosing tiles, you should also pay attention to their color. White or cold tiles will add freshness and sterility to your kitchen. This option goes well with both a rural and a modern room. Metal and natural concrete simulations, as well as finished in natural tones, are ideal for minimalist and industrial kitchens. For ethnic or rustic interiors, choose white tiles in combination with stylish decor in natural and warm colors. A tile with catchy colors, such as red, will stimulate your appetite and add a bit of spiciness.
There is no doubt that more and more people are striving for tiles in a universal neutral color palette. They are usually a delicate gray, warm beige, or ivory. However, it turns out you can dilute even such boring (at first glance) colors. Hence, all you need to do is combine them with the appropriate structure. Particularly noteworthy are wall tiles that resemble sandstone or other natural stone with an uneven surface.
Gray tiles will also become more expressive if they are decorated with an original pattern, for example, geometric or patchwork masonry. This will allow the kitchen decoration to acquire a universal palette of colors, but with a touch of modernity at the same time.
Monochrome compositions, for example, in the Scandinavian style, have long enjoyed unrelenting popularity. It is important to note that the tile of white, gray, and black colors not only looks interesting but is also universal. Thus, you can pick up furniture of almost any color, getting an interesting effect. It will also allow you to subsequently reorganize the kitchen without losing aesthetics, as you can easily combine new furniture and appliances with wall and floor cladding in monochrome colors.
Ceramic tile is one of the most popular and classic solutions. It is very durable, effective, and resistant to the harsh conditions prevailing in the kitchen. You will find a mosaic of interesting combinations, as well as glass plates or those that imitate stone, concrete, wood, or metal.
The use of ceramic tiles is the most classic way of decorating the working wall in the kitchen, it is still very popular. By choosing such a traditional cladding, you can get an unusual look of a kitchen backsplash.
In addition to ceramic tiles, tiles from natural stone (a material resembling natural concrete) brick or metal, are increasingly being selected. The material gives a very original effect, and at the same time, it is quite practical. Metal tile is a good alternative to sheet metal because it looks more decorative, it is easy to apply. The result is suitable for both modern and industrial kitchens, combining beautiful views with modern trends.
Products made of natural stone or its imitation combine well with eco and ethnic interiors. You can get them in the form of plates and panels, as well as interesting stone mosaics. Although marble slabs do not require much impregnation, models made of travertine or other porous materials must be thoroughly impregnated (preferably before grouting), because in kitchen conditions they would be quickly destroyed. However, despite this, they are willingly chosen to finish a backsplash, because they look really impressive and suit many styles.
If you want the kitchen decoration to have an extraordinary view, then you should choose nice wood or plastic panels, a very stylish, interesting design, texture, and decor. But such material is quite demanding when it comes to impregnation, cleaning, and care. In addition, not all of them are suitable for the area above the stove. Plastic panels often have limited heat resistance, while wood panels require strong impregnation.
Remember that cleaning wood panels and tiles can be cumbersome, requiring careful impregnation and frequent maintenance. However, despite the need to perform many care procedures, the natural charm of timber is indispensable, so it is often used even on a backsplash. More and more people want wooden panels in the kitchen because they allow you to create a modern and idyllic mood.
Tiles based on their manufacturing material:
Classification by laying method:
Tiles according to shape:
Tile by style:
When thinking about which tiles for the kitchen to choose, you first need to decide on the general style of the room. The development of interior design always begins with a general idea of the whole room, and only then individual elements that correspond to the overall design are selected. The style of wall tiles can both emphasize the decided style of the kitchen, and make a significant discord. To fit the concept of style, you will choose the color and shape of the wall tiles. A wide range of finishes in stores includes tiles from white to black, from light to dark, almost in a full range of colors.
It should be remembered that white tiles are ideal for kitchens in the Scandinavian style, gray and faux concrete are suitable for rooms in industrial design, and wooden models in eco-design. You can also choose decors that make your interior look rustic or, for example, Moroccan. Models with a smooth homogeneous surface sustained in expressive colors, fit into the modern interior. Cream, beige or brown tiles, additionally decorated with traditional ornaments, will complement well the classic decor.
It is worth thinking about whether you need to choose tiles with a matte or satin finish? The first option looks good in a rustic and minimalist interior, it is easy to keep clean and there are no stains on the surface. Glossy tiles are perfect in modern and elegant kitchens, often optically enlarging them and adding a pinch of glamorous style. However, the disadvantage is the need for regular cleaning and sometimes polishing, since a lot of dirt is very visible.
In addition to tiles, the choice of seams is important. Remember that the more connecting seams, the more difficult it will be to clean the surface. In addition, moisture, dirt, and mold can accumulate in the cavities. For the wall above the countertop, it is worth choosing durable, flexible, as well as resistant to calcium and mold deposits (an epoxy compound is usually recommended) options. Dark seams are more practical because dirt is not visible on them, but they are not suitable for every tile. If you want to easily maintain a clean surface, consider choosing straightened tiles. They will provide a smooth, easy-to-clean surface (with joints of approximately 1 mm).
In addition to the practical function, it is also worth paying attention to the aesthetic values of tile joints. They are available in many colors. You can also choose decorative compounds (for example, with shine). Pay attention to the solutions, similar in color to the tiles, but also contrasting. It is worth picking them up to the entire arrangement, also taking into account the color of the countertops, furniture, and floor.
If the color and texture of the tile are already selected, it remains to determine only their size and shape. At this stage, it’s worth recalling some important tips that will also allow you to optically fit the tiles to the room.
In small kitchens, large tiles should be avoided. The visual perception of the wall above the kitchen worktop also depends on the grout, which creates perpendicular lines between the tiles. For large tiles, these lines can fall out in random places and divide the room too clearly. In addition, there is also the risk of a large amount of waste after the necessary cutting of tiles.
Smaller tiles are better for small kitchens. They can be square or rectangular. This choice already depends on the overall style of the kitchen. To slightly enlarge the room, it is worth choosing a shiny tile or one with mirrored elements. Mosaic will also look good at the backsplash.
Large kitchens allow you to experiment. Large tiles will work perfectly in them, so you get the effect of an almost uniform smooth wall. With modern and minimalist decorations, they will fully fulfill their task. Using mosaics in large and open kitchens can give a glamor effect. This type of decoration for the kitchen will lose all its charm, merging into a large space.
Expert Advice! If your kitchen is small, it is best to choose a wall tile of bright colors and high gloss. Thanks to this, the room will look optically larger. It is also a good idea to use mirror elements in which the opposite part of the kitchen can be reflected – this is another way to create an optical illusion so that your interior appears bigger than it really is.
In interior design, it is important to maintain harmony and uniformity of style. If you choose dark furniture, do not forget to balance it, for example, with the light color of the walls or floor. The same thing is right for the kitchen tiles. If the kitchen is dominated by dark, almost black furniture, it is worth choosing a lighter shade of tile for the walls and floor. Wall tiles can contrast with the color of the furniture or combine harmoniously with it. If you care about the preservation of similar colors in the interior, you can diversify the wall lining with decor, the design of which will add dynamics to the design.
It is also important to match the tile with the overall style. If the kitchen is made in vintage style, then small square tiles imitating old tiled stoves will be a good choice. If you choose a trendy Scandinavian style, limit the number of colors in the kitchen with shades of white, black, and brown.
Expert Advice! Wall tiles can be fixed not only horizontally, but also vertically. An interesting effect is achieved by applying the appropriate shift or by choosing tiles in the original shape of the hexagon. The connection you use for the backsplash will also be significant. This color counterpart will be the least noticeable, which will have a good effect on the decor of a muffled kitchen. On the contrary, contrast grout allows you to emphasize the interesting arrangement of tiles. However, be careful not to create the impression of a decrease in space.
The texture and patterns of the tiles are also important. Tiles with clear geometric patterns can be selected for one-color kitchen facades. Wooden furniture combined with a clear tile texture imitating concrete, for example, is not the best combination. This type of decoration will be better in spacious loft-style kitchens.
In addition to choosing a tile model, the laying method also has a significant decorative effect. In addition to the regular grid, you can also position the material:
The tiles located on the backsplash can consist of contrasting combinations, for example, white and black or dark blue, and can also be enriched with interesting decorative compositions. Place the rectangular tiles so that they mimic a natural brick. Tiles can be arranged in a modular fashion, creating a harmonious arrangement, which is a combination of tiles of various shapes, sizes, and layouts. It should be remembered that the tile pattern can visually increase or decrease the interior.
Not everyone knows that wallpapers can also be successfully used above kitchen countertops. This allows you to quickly change the kitchen look, creating a beautifully tiled splashback, as well as get a smooth surface, decorated with an interesting color, pattern, or print. Wallpaper for the kitchen is becoming more fashionable, and their selection allows you to create really interesting effects.
Important! It is better to choose special wallpapers for the kitchen designed for this room (they are usually vinyl on a non-woven base or more expensive in the form of fiberglass) because they are resistant to many stains and high temperatures, they can be easily cleaned.
You can choose wallpapers with interesting graphics, but also those that mimic other materials, such as tiles. This option will allow you to get a juicy color finish that best suits your interior and taste. Wallpaper with light tiles will give a pleasant, sterile effect, and those created in cool colors will bring a little Greek freshness or sea relaxation; warm colors will be cozy, and red can stimulate the appetite.
The advantages of wallpaper in the kitchen:
Disadvantages of wallpaper in the kitchen:
In modern interior design trends, you can notice a slow departure from traditional finishing materials, such as ceramic tiles. An interesting alternative for them, among other things, is metal or wooden panels that are placed on the wall between the kitchen worktop and the upper line of the cabinets, that is, in the backsplash area. Wall cladding made of tempered glass is also perfect because contrary to the seemed fragility of this material will be durable and easy to clean. In the market, you will find a wide range of glass kitchen tiles decorated with various motifs. Often you can even design your own print that will be on them.
Modern design trends try to make the most out of natural motifs. That is why there is so much interesting in the panels for the splashback area in the kitchen. However, if you do not trust such decisions and are afraid that the material will not work, you can apply a proven ceramic floor tile decorated with wooden imitation. Thus, you will get a splashback resembling a natural material with characteristic grit, but much more durable and easy to care for.
Compositions in the industrial style of a loft, in which rough brick reigns on the walls, are unswervingly popular. If this almost ascetic rigor is not in our taste and you want to add a little comfort, then you can put a brick tile with an uneven texture, but with a warm shade. Wall tiles in sand-beige, light gray, or even white will be perfect here.
Modern interiors love unobvious solutions that diverge from what is known and traditional. Therefore, it is not surprising that kitchens designed in this way are moved away from the wall and floor tiles in standard, square or rectangular shapes. So you can be carried away by imagination and choose a tile in an unusual form. Hexagonal, that is, honeycomb tiles are currently very popular to create various compositions.
Expert Advice! Hexagons fit perfectly into the Art Deco style, especially if they are in brilliant colors, such as tin or gold.
An interesting effect can also be obtained by choosing tiles of a classic shape. An excellent example of such cladding is rectangular models, that is, metro tiles. Even the simplest form will magnetize attention if it is laid out in a non-standard pattern. Rectangular metro tiles, located on the wall in a decorative thin mosaic, will look unusual. You can also use them as decor and combine them with tiles of normal sizes.
Geometric shapes have long reigned in kitchen compositions. Symmetrical rectangles, straight lines with decors, and diamond-shaped patterns are most popular among them. To fit them into modern interiors, you need to add a little color. In this embodiment, the tile will effectively contrast with the environment, as this will further emphasize its unusualness.
Kitchen wall tiles are one of the most common ways to decorate the space between the countertop and cabinets. The right choice of splashback finishes can affect the final effect of the entire interior design. Think carefully about the options for the stove when planning your room. There are many options, and a huge selection of designs for the splashback will allow you to choose a beautiful tile for any idea.
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