8 Intriguing Kitchen Backsplash Ideas You’ve Never Thought Of

updated May 3, 2019
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(Image credit: Jersey Ice Cream Co.)

What you choose for your backsplash — you know, the thing that covers the wall behind your countertops so it doesn’t get all mucky and gross — can have a huge impact on the look and feel of your kitchen. A traditional choice for the backsplash is tile, but that is by no means the only choice. Here are eight alternative ideas for your kitchen backsplash that you may not have thought about — but will definitely be thinking about now.

Above: This paneled backsplash by Jersey Ice Cream Co. adds an understated elegance to a modern kitchen. If you’re planning on doing something like this in your own home, consider using a high-gloss or enamel paint so that food residue will easily wash off.

(Image credit: Archilovers)

This kitchen design from Archilovers takes the mirrored backsplash to a whole new level with an actual antique mirror. It’s the perfect luxurious, elegant touch for a modern kitchen.

(Image credit: Copper By Design)

For a really luxurious touch, try a copper backsplash, like this one from Copper By Design. You can choose to either polish your copper to maintain the shiny appearance, or allow it to patina over time.

(Image credit: Coco Lapine Design)

This Helsinki home, spotted on Coco Lapine Design, has a stainless steel backsplash (and some very unique open shelves).

(Image credit: Reed Watts)

Tile is a fairly typical backsplash material, but this backsplash from Reed Watts has an unexpected, unfinished aspect that will make you look twice.

(Image credit: Habitually Chic)

This mirrored tile backsplash is incredibly glamorous. It’s a creation of designer Anthony Todd for the Hearst Designer Show House, spotted on Habitually Chic. The tiles are from Ann Sacks.

(Image credit: Made a Mano)

I love this colorblocked kitchen backsplash from Made a Mano, which was created from three different oversized tiles. It’s unexpected, beautiful, and also practical, because there are only two grout lines.

(Image credit: Kate Roos Design)

I saved this kitchen by Kate Roos Design (via Houzz) for last, because it might be my favorite. With the current vogue for marble countertops, marble backsplashes are fairly popular, but you’ve probably never seen a marble backsplash quite like this one. The scalloped edges, built-in shelf, and contrasting modern lighting make this kitchen one to remember.