The kitchen backsplash can be a dramatic focal point for the room. Best of all, it can be an inexpensive way to update the room. That 18 to 20-inch space between the countertop and wall cabinets can provide a wonderful landscape for displaying:

·         Ceramic or porcelain tiles

·         Natural stone tiles

·         Glass tiles

·         Metal tiles

·         Faux painting or wall paper

Where to Buy

• tile shops -- often have unusual styles
• home improvement stores -- can be more affordable
• kitchen and bath showrooms -- you'll see lots of coordinated room vignettes; may need to special order materials depending on their supply on hand

How to Blend It

Look for colors and styles that will coordinate with the

• cabinetry -- blend or contrast with wood species, glaze, detailing in moulding
• countertop -- pay attention to the texture, finish (shiny or smooth?), style -- contemporary solid surface versus Old World granite?
• floor -- wood or ceramic? Again, look to the textures and color tones for guidance

Popular Designs

• Ceramic or porcelain tiles that resemble granite, marble and other natural stones. Try combining a natural stone floor, such as slate, with a granite countertop and a backsplash that ties the two together. The backsplash could be made of authentic stone or a ceramic that adds a similar look.
• The aged or distressed look -- Some tiles are made to look worn and aged. These blend well with traditional kitchens with ornate cabinetry molding, raised panel doors, cornices, and period hardware. Those who prefer a more contemporary design would look for a polished tile that looks like granite or a tile with bold colors.
• Metal and glass tiles -- are hot right now. Use them to add dimension, blend with faucet and hardware finishes and (with glass) give the illusion of airy, openness.

A Few Design Options

If you are adding cherry cabinetry and a maple floor, look for a tile with red tones (to blend with the floor) or creamy colors (to blend with the floor). Options include: tiles with a white, cream and red; bold red; monochromatic beige; earthy Terra Cotta; tossing in a third color for accent -- sage, black or copper.

Sizes

• The standard -- 4-inch by 4-inch and 6-inch by 6-inch size are still common
• bigger tiles are in -- 8-inch or 12-inch squares add a more dramatic look.
• Mix it up -- Try varying sizes or using rectangular (8-inch by 12-inch) tiles that lay out like a puzzle.

Pricing

Ceramic wall tiles are priced from $1 to $25 per tile or more, depending on the material and design. The cost to add a backsplash might range from $100 to several hundred, depending on the size of the area and the type of tile. If you can install the tile yourself, you'll obviously save on labor.