Galvanized Metal
Metal backsplashes are typically of the stamped variety, but a flat sheet of galvanized metal makes a clean and modern statement in a country kitchen or mudroom potting area.
Marble Slab
The gray veins in this white marble provide visual interest in an all-white kitchen, while bringing some warmth and fun to the design.
Related: I'm Dreaming of a White... Kitchen: 10 Bright Beauties to Behold
Hand-Glazed Ceramic
A hand-glazed tile made by Heath Ceramics from brown clay warms up a modern kitchen. The owners of the Ione, CA-based company practice what they preach, featuring the tile running vertically on their own kitchen’s backsplash.
Related: How To: Install Tile
Design Sponge
Patterned Tile
An intricate patterned tile backsplash is a commitment, but one that makes a bold statement in a kitchen. Sean MacPherson’s Portugese tiles provide a lively backdrop in his vintage-style abode.
Related: A Little Goes a Long Way: Using Decorative Tiles
Reclaimed Wood
Salvaged wood creates rustic texture on the kitchen backsplash and offers eco-conscious renovators a way to reuse an existing material.
Related: Say Yes to Salvaged Wood
Black and White
Like black tie for the kitchen, white subway tile with black grout never goes out of style. And although it looks sophisticated, the material costs are low, making this stylish look quite affordable.
Related: Subway Tiles: The New Classics
Antique Mirror
A little bit of Parisian glamour in the kitchen comes via antique mirror installed as the backsplash. Its patina makes the material more forgiving and permit less meticulous maintenance.
Related: Mirror Magic: 10 Ways of Using Mirrors to Your Design Advantage
Concrete
Some perfectionists shy away from concrete on account of maintenance, but if you reseal and wax concrete occasionally, it makes a great backsplash material for an industrial look.
Related: How To: Clean Concrete
Brick
If you’re lucky enough to have an exposed brick wall in the kitchen, why not keep it visible as a gorgeous backsplash? One word of caution: Brick should be sealed, since it is a porous material.
Related: Brick Basics: Maintenance, Care, and Cleaning
Mini Mosaic
If you really want to make your kitchen one-of-a-kind, consider a mosaic . The small tiles will add texture and flair, while the pattern... is more or less up to you!
Related: How To: Work with Mosaic Tile
Modern Glass
This isn't your mother's glass tile. While normal glass backsplashes feature either a whole sheet of glass or glass subway tiles, Everstone is putting out uniquely shaped designs, from pointy shards to circular bubbles.
Related: Using Glass Tile for a Handcrafted Look
Penny for Your Thoughts
If your change jar is threatening to take over your kitchen, why not let it? This backsplash, made of over 6,000 extraneous pennies , knows the true meaning of "remarkable".
Tin Ceiling Tiles
Sometimes underappreciated when installed overhead, the delicate details of pressed-tin ceiling tiles command full attention at eye level.
Related: 10 Great Looks in Tin Ceiling Tiles
Center Medallion
Many tile manufacturers offer a wide range of medallion styles, ideal for the large open space above the stove.
Related: Kitchen Envy: 10 Rooms We Love
Laminated Fabric
A favorite swatch of fabric laminated between glass panels combines bold colors with an easy-to-clean surface.
Related: Going Bold: 10 Kitchens That Pop with Color
Wood Paneling
When used as a backsplash, white tongue-and-groove board is the perfect accompaniment in a country kitchen.
Related: How To: Paint Wood Paneling
Rock 'n' Roll
To highlight the shapes of the rocks above the stove, the builders of this log cabin installed a hammered metal spice shelf with small recessed lights.
Related: New and Notable: 10 Must-Haves for the Luxury Kitchen
For More...
If you're looking for more on kitchen remodeling, consider:
Kitchen Flooring: 8 Popular Choices
7 Budget-Friendly Kitchen Makeover Tips
12 Outstanding Kitchen Island Options
Don't Miss!
If you have the money to hire a handyman for every household woe, go ahead. But if you want to hang on to your cash and exercise some self-sufficiency, check out these clever products that solve a million and one little problems around the house. Go now!