Leaves of Gold
These metal tiles from Rocky Mountain Hardware feature a raised relief in the shape of aspen leaves, juxtaposing hard and soft elements of nature. The dimensionality is an elegant way to add unexpected texture to an important kitchen feature.
Catch a Wave
The Waveline series of glass tiles from Island Stone resembles the flowing waves of the ocean, perfect for catching splashes of water from the sink. The tiles' unusual angles offer a fresh and modern departure from the typical squares or rectangles.
Picnic Lunch
Every day can be a picnic with these ceramic basketweave tiles that resemble the warp and weft of picnic baskets. These tiles bring an intriguing depth and shimmer to the kitchen—as well as a touch of playfulness.
Mirror Mirror on the…
Mirrored tiles from Ann Sacks lend industrial chic design to any kitchen. The hand-silvered tiles have been given a faux aged treatment so they appear well-loved yet still crisp and modern.
Related: Mirror Magic—10 Ways of Using Mirrors to Your Design Advantage
Rock Your World
Stone—so sturdy underfoot—is just as delightful up a little higher. This small-scale stone tile backsplash from Lowe's lifts the weighty material up onto the walls in a way that still seems surprisingly airy. The stone pieces incorporate different shades of gray and orange, resulting in a warm, variegated backsplash where no two sections look exactly the same.
A-Peeling Design
Peel-and-stick backsplash tiles make installation a breeze because they do not require additional grout or glue. The glass tiles shown here are available from Aspect in six modern colors and are great for DIYers who don’t want to get their hands dirty.
The Sky’s the Limit
Ceiling tiles don’t have to be just for ceilings. This backsplash is made up of tin tiles from The American Tin Ceiling Co. The large, lightweight panels can be easily installed on a kitchen wall using an adhesive like Liquid Nails. Tin is magnetic, so you can even use the surface to tack up your favorite recipes.
Outstanding Ovals
These dimensional rectangular tiles from Heath Ceramics feature a raised oval shape that will make your kitchen feel like an upscale café. Based on designs from 1950s, the tiles come in glossy, matte, and crackle glazes.
Related: How To Install Ceramic Tile
On the Boardwalk
Reclaimed barnwood tiles from Mission Stone and Tile are available in several sizes and colors, including natural and whitewashed shades. Square-cut pieces closely resemble the standard tile shape, while 2x18 planks create an even more rustic effect.
Related: 16 Ways to Use Salvaged Wood
Fine Lines
Break away from classic subway tile to add wow factor to your kitchen backsplash. These shimmery, skinny metal tiles from Garden State Tile balance a range of hues and widths to create a highly detailed, striated backdrop.
Related: How To Install Glass Tile
Such a Croc
Large-scale croc-inspired tiles from Italian manufacturer Petracer bring a touch of the wild to your kitchen. The tiles' glossy finish mimics the sheen of real crocodile skin—but they're infinitely more practical for a kitchen than the real thing! Other animal prints are also available.
For More....
For more kitchen decor inspiration, consider:
Sink Style: 10 New Forms and Functions for 21st-Century Kitchens
Going Bold: 10 Kitchens That Pop with Color
Small Kitchen, Big Style: 11 Inspiring Rooms That Defy Their Size
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