7 Best Kitchen Backsplash Styles And The 7 Most Overused

Backsplash decisions play a significant role in shaping the atmosphere and flow of the kitchen. These pieces anchor the entire design of the space. If you’re looking for backsplash styles that resonate with your interior and purpose, we’re here to help you stay sharp on what works and what doesn’t.  The right style can enhance your kitchen with texture, shine, and artistry. But the ones that you see in almost every home? They bring the kitchen's look down with overused patterns and uninspired choices. That’s why it’s essential to pick finishes that deliver timeless impact and skip the ones that have worn out their welcome. This way, you can style a kitchen that feels both thoughtful and personal.  So, let’s start with seven backsplash styles worth considering.

Each Zellige tile features natural imperfections, creating a handcrafted texture that is full of warmth and character. Earthy tones like clay and olive complement wood accents and stone counters. Their glossy finish reflects light softly, adding radiance to rustic or Mediterranean kitchens while avoiding anything overly polished or predictable.

A full marble slab delivers unmatched drama with sweeping veining and zero grout lines. Luxurious varieties, like Calacatta, instantly elevate modern or transitional kitchens. Bookmatched installations behind ranges become works of art, especially when paired with understated cabinetry that lets the stone shine without distraction.

Large-chip terrazzo adds playful texture and bold pattern to neutral kitchens. With customizable colors and durable finishes, it balances personality with practicality. This style is often used to match countertops or flooring and works beautifully in modern kitchens if you aren’t afraid to have a little fun with the form.

Best used as a statement behind a cooktop, brushed brass backsplashes instantly elevate industrial or contemporary kitchens. They deliver a sleek, seamless surface with just the right amount of warmth and shine. Free from grout lines, this design offers a refined, modern edge that pairs beautifully with dark cabinetry. 

White subway tiles with grey grout have flooded builder-grade kitchens, stripping them of individuality. The stark contrast often feels sterile and outdated. With so many more expressive options available, this combo now reads flat and forgettable rather than timeless or clean. It’s a safe choice—but not a stylish one.

Although intended to mimic vintage charm, faux tin panels often fall short due to their plastic textures and shiny finishes. They don’t age well under heat or moisture, and their reflective surfaces often clash with modern elements. So, it’s best to go for a more authentic metallic look with real brushed metal.

Scripted phrases like “Gather” or “Live, Laugh, Love” embedded in tile might feel personal. However, they are overused and outdated now. These backsplashes prioritize fleeting trends over timeless design. Fonts may also clash with cabinetry, and once the novelty fades, what’s left is visual clutter.

Glossy white chevron tiles may look crisp at first, but the repetitive pattern and high-shine surface quickly become impractical. Every smudge and reflection breaks up the look, while the overused layout lacks depth. Alternatively, diagonal tiles or matte finishes offer similar movement with a cleaner, more lasting appeal.