This week's Question of the Week struck a nerve. I asked what you would do for a backsplash if you had your way, and in the same breath slighted a long-time favourite: tri-coloured glass mosaic tile. In a word: I'm over it, no longer a fan. Many of you -- even if not exactly over it -- also had strong opinions on the subject, and your many comments prompted me to do another backsplash post.
Because not much has changed since the original Top 5 Backsplashes post about a year ago, I'm not going to say that the following is my absolute favourite. (If you want to see my absolute favourite, follow the Top 5 link.) I do however think the area is worth revisiting, and have put together a sort of 'Side B' of my favourite backsplashes to help with your decision making process. What say you about these?
Tin
Valley Tin Works; Talissa Decor
Someone commented on the Question of the Week, offering traditional tin ceiling tiles as a backsplash option, and I have to commend them: it's a great option for an alternative backsplash. You have the bling factor yet it's still a natural, somewhat neutral material. There are, however, tin tiles, and tin tiles. You can source vintage/reclaimed tiles, but to get a substantial amount that are all in good shape is hard. New, these are available in most hardware stores, and new technology calls for a simple staple gun to adhere them to drywall. It used to be that you had to screw or glue them onto plywood, but no longer. Some are even peel-and-stick like the solid tin roll, pictured above (right).
Wood
photo via ThundaFunda.com
I'm not sure if this example here is brought to you by Ikea, but I can tell you that we have the less expensive Pronomen (now called Lagan) butcher block Ikea countertops at home, that we've also put to work as a splash guard. You just need to oil it, and it wears great -- though it may not be as easy to clean as glass, the wood can hide A LOT of dirt, not to mention fingerprints!
Relief
Clockwise from top left: Anna Sacks tiles; Dex tiles; Dex tiles
Again, may not be as satisfying to clean as glass, but if you're looking for some drama, this is it! I have to admit though, I especially like these in neutral colours. In fact, even though they do make these types of tile in many colours, it's best to stick to neutral if you're going to do relief -- the fact that they're 3D is more than enough oomph factor.
Double Duty
These oversize fish-scale ceramic tiles come with one of the cutest things I've ever seen: built-in herb pots (of course you can grow anything you want in them.) I do love the idea of pulling fresh basil out of the blacksplash to throw in my pasta du jour though...
The Quickest Fix Ever
Thanks to Cedric who was featured on Apartment Therapy, I discovered this gem: a porto-splash. Cut or salvage a piece of glass roughly the shape and size of a backsplash, frame it, and place is between the wall and wherever the cooking happens to be going on! It's a great tip for those who are renting and can't do much with the backsplash -- or lack there of -- they've been given. I love how bachelors think -- anything to avoid a little handy work! (Thought this is so "why didn't I think of that!?" good that I may have to take that last part back.)
Thoughts?
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