Are tiled backsplashes still in style? Here's what designers are using to protect walls right now

Tiled backsplashes have been the default choice for decades. Durable, easy to clean, and with infinite options when it comes to design, it's easy to see why the humble tile is an enduring choice to protect walls from stains and splashes. But, after enjoying so many years as a staple feature, is the tiled backsplash really still in style, or has it been usurped?

It only takes a glance at traditional kitchen backsplash ideas to realize how ubiquitous tiles are. From classic checkerboard formations and decorative delft tiles to glazed metro tiles and baked Moroccan slabs, retro homes almost always have a tiled backsplash.

More recently, however, our backsplash ideas have evolved. Think back – when was the last time you saw a modern home curated by a designer that featured a tiled backsplash? Instead, slab backsplashes probably come to mind. Continuous pieces of granite, marble, or glass along countertop walls create a seamless, modern look that designers (and homeowners) seem to favor.

So, has the dawn of more innovative engineering caused the downfall of tiles, or are our ceramic slabs here to stay? We asked designers, and here's what they had to say.

Are tiled backsplashes still in style?

While it's unlikely that you look at something as classic as a subway tile backsplash and think it looks dated, it's not exactly ahead of the curve when it comes to kitchen tile trends (or bathroom trends, for that matter). So many ordinary family homes feature tiled backsplashes that look great, but the most stylish and elevated spaces don't rely on them as heavily.

Yet, this offers a perfect instance of where 'timelessness' should probably take precedence over 'trendiness'. A simple checkerboard tile backsplash is never going to age, but, an elegant marble slab – as aesthetically beautiful as we consider it right now – just might.

According to San Francisco-based designer Jon de la Cruz, it isn't tiled backsplashes themselves that are going out of style but, rather, the way the tile is applied. 'While we've perhaps all grown a bit tired of the ubiquitous white subway tile in a brick pattern, there are so many other alternate tile material options and patterns that look fresh and can be timeless if approached carefully,' he says.

Dan Mazzarini, principal and creative director of BHDM Design and ARCHIVE, agrees, also alluding to the overuse of the subway tile specifically. 'Tile backsplashes are a timeless, utilitarian way to approach a backsplash,' he explains. 'Subway tile remains a timeless classic, but with so many incredible options on the market, we can expect people to have a little bit more fun playing with color.'

What other backsplash ides are popular?

All that being said, the popularity of more monolithic backsplash ideas cannot be ignored. So many designers are now choosing seamless counter splashes – where the same slab style is extended from the countertop up the wall to form a backsplash. 'This creates a luxurious, cohesive look and minimizes grout maintenance. It's perfect for modern kitchens and lends a high-end feel,' explains Jessika Gatewood of Gatewood Designs.

Jon agrees that this style of slab backsplash is an increasingly popular kitchen trend, but adds that while they're the cleanest and most durable option, they're also more costly. 'This is better for more visually formal houses, while tile backsplashes are great for a more casual, country kitchen,' he says.

Counter splashes typically feature stone designs, whether natural or engineered (picture the likes of quartz, granite, and marble.) Ashley Macuga, principal designer at Collected Interiors, says this stems from a desire for more organic materials in our kitchens and bathrooms.

'There is a movement to creatively utilize natural stone, metal, and glass as an alternative,' she says. 'The reason why stone, in particular, is becoming so popular is due to advancements in fabrication, which gives designers the creative space to reimagine the shape of stone, layering new levels of elegance into kitchen and bathroom designs.'

According to Paula Dixon, founder of Paula Dixon Design, other materials that are making a statement in high-end kitchen ideas are wet-rated plaster and architectural stone. 'Both choices add texture and warmth to create an earthy interior element,' she says. 'Pair these choices with stained wood cabinets and unlacquered brass fixtures for the ultimate designer’s kitchen.'

How should we design a tiled backsplash?

As a relatively low-cost and low-effort upgrade compared to its monolithic slab counterparts, the power of a tiled backsplash really shouldn't be underestimated. With limitless opportunities when it comes to color, configuration, pattern, and grouting, you can also create a far more unique backsplash compared to the now omnipresent marble countersplash. The question is, how should we design a tiled backsplash for a look that's en-Vogue?

Judging from the comments above, a white subway tile won't score you any style points as a kitchen tile idea. 'Today's trends favor bolder choices,' says Jessika. 'Textured tiles, handcrafted zellige, and larger-format tiles with fewer grout lines are popular for their organic and clean aesthetic.'

'While tiled backsplashes remain an option, artisan tile backsplashes are the current trend for spaces with a story,' adds Paula, pointing to zellige tiles specifically. 'Typically crafted from clay and fired, they employ aspects of the cradle-to-cradle concept, harmonizing with some principles of Biophilic design,' she says.

Although tiles allow us to get creative with color and pattern, Jon urges us to keep things simple if you want a stylish tiled backsplash, or to paint a pre-existing tile backsplash for a refreshing revamp. 'Avoid bright white grout or mixing too many accent colors or complicated shapes,' he notes. 'Steer clear of decorative accent borders, select a tonal grout that harmonizes with the color of the tile, and let the interesting textures like glazed firebrick or encaustic cement tile speak for themselves.'

What tiled backsplash ideas are on trend?

So, how are tile backsplash trends shaping up right now? If you're in the market for a new one and want to avoid outdated backsplash designs, the main forerunners for the year ahead are warm metallics with dynamic movement. That means 'no' to uniform glazed tiles with no variation or pattern.

'I predict metallic accents, like brushed brass or copper inlays, will emerge alongside tiles, adding warmth and depth,' says Jessika. 'Also, patterned tiles with intricate or European-inspired designs will be popular, reflecting a return to artisanal craftsmanship. For a dramatic statement, look for bold, moody colors; think deep blues, forest greens, and even burgundy.'

Tiled backsplashes are here to stay. Timeless and versatile, they offer so many options for a bespoke design, just be careful how you use them to avoid dating your home.