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Explore large tile backsplash ideas because their unique style and flexibility offer a visually impactful way to accentuate your kitchen or bathroom.
I am thrilled to present to you my personally designed 20 Large Tile Backsplash Ideas that I hope will invigorate your creativity as much as they did mine during their creation.
Large tile backsplash ideas can truly transform your kitchen or bathroom by creating a dramatic focal point. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek look of large subway tiles, the rustic charm of stone, or the glossy finish of ceramic, there are countless options to explore.
This article delves into the world of large tile backsplashes, offering a variety of design ideas to match any style and budget. From choosing the right material and color to installation tips and maintenance advice, every aspect is covered.
Let’s dive into these inspiring, large tile backsplash ideas to help you create a stunning and functional space.
What's Inside
White Subway Tile
These timeless classics add a clean, bright look to any kitchen. Perfect for enhancing space, they reflect light beautifully.
They harmonize well with any design style, from the most modern to the most traditional.
Installing them can be done in different patterns like vertical, diagonal, or in a crosshatch formation for a unique touch.
Stick to standard white or venture out with varied hues to give your kitchen an extra splash of color.
Their versatility and ease of maintenance make them a popular choice among homeowners.
Gray Marble Tiles
Renowned for their sleek, luxurious appeal, these tiles offer an exquisite variety within a monochromatic theme. Their animation through natural veining and subtle color variations lends an unparalleled depth to your backsplash.
Use them in large format for heightened elegance and seamless look, bearing in mind that honed versions can provide a softer, more homely feel while polished options resonate with modern, minimalist spaces.
Ideal for those who appreciate the beauty in understated design, they effortlessly imbue a sense of sophistication in your kitchen or bathroom.
Mosaic Glass Tiles
Mosaic glass tiles offer a unique aesthetic, injecting a vibrant wave of color and personality into your kitchen or bathroom. These tiles are made of small, rectangular or square pieces of glass, offering a myriad of design possibilities. You can create various patterns and color combinations to match your decor style.
Mosaic glass tiles are not only beautiful but also functional. Mix-and-match possibilities allow for vast design flexibility. The lustrous surface of the glass tiles reflects light, making your space brighter. And, since glass is inherently non-porous, these tiles are also resistant to stains and mold, making them a hygienic choice for spaces such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Maintaining glass mosaic tiles is a breeze. They are easy to clean, needing just mild soap and water to stay gleaming, further enhancing their appeal. However, while gorgeous and convenient, these tiles do require precision during the installation to achieve the best look.
In terms of cost, mosaic glass tiles can accommodate a range of budgets depending on the intricacy of the designs and the quality of the materials. You can opt for classy, simple designs for a more budget-conscious choice or go for elaborate, high-end options if you’re willing to pour more resources into your backsplash.
Stainless Steel Tiles
Known for their robustness and sleek, modern finish, these tiles blend seamlessly into industrial-styled kitchens. They are not only durable but also resistant to heat and stains, making them an ideal choice for a backsplash near stoves and sinks.
For added visual interest, stainless steel tiles can come in a variety of shapes and patterns, including squares, rectangles, or diamond patterns. Despite their metallic surface, they can be cleaned with little effort, requiring only a soft cloth and mild cleanser.
Reflecting light, these tiles can significantly brighten up your kitchen, giving it a spacious and sleek appearance. Don’t forget the bonus: their reflective property can be harnessed to keep an eye on the happenings behind while cooking!
Wood-look Ceramic Tiles
Embodying the warm charm of hardwood with the high functionality of ceramics, these tiles are an excellent choice for kitchens. They’re resistant to water and heat, offering a long-lasting solution. Mimicking various wood types such as oak, cedar, or pine, their versatility knows no bounds.
The graining effect on these tiles adds an authentic touch. With a variety of shades from light to dark, customization options are limitless. They’re easily maintained, just sweep for dust and mop for spills.
Installation can follow the traditional straight pattern or play with herringbone or staggered layouts. This decision can dramatically affect the space’s vibe. Pair light-colored tiles with darker grout for an eye-catching contrast. For a seamless look, match the grout with the tile color.
Remember, although they look wooden, they’re cold underfoot, unlike real wood. So, they pair well with underfloor heating for a cozy atmosphere. An authentic look without the associated maintenance worries – that’s the charm of wood-look ceramic tiles.
Geometric Patterned Tiles
Multifaceted in design and full of personality, this type of tile offers endless possibilities. By employing basic geometric shapes – squares, rectangles, triangles, or hexagons – you bring a sense of order and symmetry to your kitchen.
1. Versatility: They can complement an array of styles, from traditional to contemporary. Pair them with sleek, modern cabinets for a striking contrast, or with classic, wooden cabinets to enhance the old-world charm.
2. Customizable: Whether you have a taste for the bold primary colors or prefer understated monochromes, there is a pattern for you. A popular trend is using bright-colored grout to highlight the geometric pattern.
3. Focal Point: Make your backsplash the focal point. A geometric patterned tile can create a dynamic visual interest behind your stovetop or sink.
4. Spatial Perception: By clever manipulation of shapes, you can manipulate the perceived depth, width, and height of your kitchen. For example, vertical patterns can make your kitchen look taller.
5. Personality: The geometric pattern that you choose reflects your personal aesthetic and adds your unique style to the room. Hence, choose thoughtfully.
Herringbone Tiles
Known for their precision cut and distinct pattern, herringbone tiles can instill a sense of sophistication and elegance in any kitchen or bathroom. These tiles are typically laid out in a zigzag pattern that somewhat resembles a fish skeleton, hence the name.
One of the primary advantages of herringbone tiles is the versatility. You can make them as subtle or as striking as you want. For quiet elegance, consider a white or neutral color palette. If you’re after something more daring or eye-catching, opt for a bold color or texture.
Let’s not forget about size and materials either. From tiny, delicate tiles to larger, more substantial pieces, the world is your oyster. You can choose from ceramic, glass, metal, or even natural stone depending on the desired look and function.
Remember, installing herringbone tiles requires a keen eye and a steady hand due to the precise pattern. But with some patience and careful planning, a herringbone tile backsplash can become an attractive feature, providing depth and visual interest.
Chevron White Tiles
Boasting a modern appeal, these tiles are typically arranged in a V-shaped pattern, creating an illusion of movement. This arrangement can make a kitchen look more spacious, an ideal trick for smaller kitchens.
While they are exceptionally vibrant in white, they can also harmoniously blend with any color scheme, be it light or dark.
Notably, these tiles resist heat and high humidity, making them perfect even for a bustling kitchen environment.
To add more sophistication, consider pairing them with high-end countertop materials like granite or quartz.
For easy maintenance, using a non-aesthetic grout sealer can help prevent stains and ease cleaning.
Multicolor Terra-cotta Tiles
Steeped in rich history and charm, these tiles offer a rustic and warm look to any kitchen. These traditionally handcrafted tiles can display beautiful color variations, from earthy hues of orange and red to vibrant yellows and turquoises.
Their unique imperfections and textures are part of their allure, making each tile genuinely unique. Terra-cotta tiles are great for creating an inviting cozy look. However, they also require sealing to protect against moisture, especially in high-splash zones.
Opting for a multicolor display of these tiles can create a truly stunning and artistic kitchen focal point that exudes character and personality. When designing with multicolor terra-cotta tiles, consider factors such as the color of your cabinets, countertops, and flooring to ensure a harmonious look and feel.
Remember to experiment and let your creative instincts shine.
Blue Glass Tiles
Despite their bold hue, these tiles offer an unexpected tranquility to kitchens and bathrooms alike. Shimmering under specific lighting conditions, they possess the ability to create a dynamic and refreshing aesthetic.
Firstly, due to their transparency and the ability to reflect light, they can significantly brighten up darker spaces.
Secondly, choosing a blend of different shades of blue can achieve visually striking outcomes, thus offering flexibility in design.
Moreover, blue glass tiles are not just exceptional for their color but also for their easy cleanability, making them a practical solution for areas prone to splashes and spills.
However, note that installation might require hiring a professional due to the fragile nature of the tiles.
Finally, these tiles pair well with several countertop choices like white quartz, marble, or even wooden countertops, ensuring a harmonious finish.
Granite Square Tiles
Characterized by strength and durability, granite tiles offer a unique and chic look for your backsplashes. Not only do they provide a resilient surface resistant to heat and impact, but they also bring a timeless elegance with their natural stone appearance.
Granite tiles are available in a myriad of colors, from cool blues and greens to warm golds and browns, so they harmoniously blend with all cabinetry and countertop styles. To add to their versatility, they can be polished for a glossy finish or honed for a more matte, contemporary look.
Practicality is another reason why they’re a popular choice. They are easy to clean and maintain; simple wiping using a mild soap or cleaning solution works for most stains and spills.
Granite tiles can be installed in different patterns – square or diagonal, for instance. One can also intermix them with other tile types or colors for a more intricate design. Do keep in mind, professional installation is advised to handle the heaviness of the material.
Their one drawback might be that they fall on the higher end of the price scale, but given their longevity and timeless beauty, it’s a worthy investment for many homeowners. They’re a solid choice for anyone looking for a refined, resilient backsplash that will surely add a touch of class to any kitchen or bathroom.
Scalloped or Fish Scale Tiles
These unique tiles can add a playful, yet stylish element to your kitchen or bathroom. They are most commonly seen in shades of blue or white, mimicking the colors of the sea.
Their curved shape allows for a variety of layout patterns, such as the traditional overlapping design or the more modern vertical alignment. The glossy finish of most scalloped tiles also adds a level of sophistication and reflects light beautifully, bringing a sense of openness and brightness to the space.
The timeless beauty of these tiles offers both a vibrant and fresh touch, as well as a nod to the vintage charm of classic design elements. Consider pairing these tiles with simple, modern decor to let them truly stand out, or with traditional elements for a more cozy, vintage feel.
They are easy to clean and maintain, which makes them a practical choice as well.
Mirror Tiles Backsplash
A touch of opulence and ample light-reflection might be exactly what your kitchen or bathroom needs. Enter, mirror tiles. They aren’t just visually arresting but also have the potential to give your space a larger, more opened-up feel. Here’s why:
1. Light Amplification: Mirror tiles amplify natural and artificial light, brightening up your space and adding a feel of spaciousness.
2. Versatility: They can mesh well with any design style, be it modern, minimalistic, or vintage.
3. Luxurious Appeal: Mirror tiles offer a luxurious appeal that other tiles might not; they can instantly upgrade the aesthetic of any room.
4. Variety: Besides the traditional glossy finish, mirror tiles also come in antiqued or smoked finishes, opening up more style possibilities.
5. Easy to Clean: Mirror tiles are easy to clean with just a cloth and some glass cleaner, making them a practical backsplash option.
Remember to consider the amount of natural light in your space and your maintenance preferences when choosing mirror tiles.
Black Brick-shaped Tiles
A unique choice indeed, but one with high visual impact! These tiles infuse depth into your interiors, lending a sleek yet dramatic edge. Often chosen in a glossy finish, they effortlessly add an element of sophistication and modernity. Ideal for minimalist or contemporary kitchens and bathrooms, they complement metallic fixtures or appliances remarkably.
They’re not only about aesthetics, though. Brick-shaped tiles are known for their durability. Being highly resistant to stains, heat, and water, they are perfect for areas exposed to constant use or spills. Easy to maintain, just a simple wipe keeps them shiny and new.
Balancing these tiles with lighter cabinetry or walls is crucial to avoid overpowering the room. Use them wisely to create striking contrasts or intriguing monochrome themes.
Opt for two different configurations, traditional or offset: An offset pattern works best for a modern, casual vibe, while a traditional grout arrangement can evoke a more classic, rustic feel.
So, considering black brick-shaped tiles is not only about bold aesthetics but also practical resilience.
Green Ceramic Tiles
Harnessing the vibrance of nature, green ceramic tiles breathe life into any kitchen. They are perfect for homeowners who want to infuse natural charm into their space. As a versatile option, they come in different shades, from soft pastels to rich evergreens, allowing them to fit any design palette.
Green ceramic tiles are very durable, highly resistant to stains, scratches, and heat, making them ideal for backsplashes. With a glazed finish, they’re easy to clean—simply wipe with warm water and detergent—a big plus for areas that see a lot of cooking activity.
For a harmonious look, balance the vibrancy of green by pairing it with neutral tones like white or beige. Alternatively, opt for a bold, contrasting look with black or metallic accents. From traditional to contemporary, these tiles can grace any kitchen style. Design techniques like herringbone or brickwork patterns can add visual interest.
With eco-friendliness at their core, these tiles are usually made from natural clay and other raw materials. Therefore, in addition to being visually appealing, they’re an excellent choice for environmental sustainability. It’s a classic backsplash material that embraces function, longevity, ease and aesthetics, like very few can.
Natural Stone Tiles
Used for centuries in grand palaces and humble homes alike, natural stone brings an earthy, timeless appeal. The unique vein patterns and rich colors found in travertine, marble, slate, quartz, and granite result in each tile being truly one-of-a-kind.
Stone tiles are also highly durable, capable of weathering daily kitchen activities while maintaining their chic elegance.
Although stone tiles typically require sealing to protect from stains and liquid absorption, advancements in tile treatments have simplified this process significantly.
These tiles can be installed in various arrangements, but a symmetrical arrangement often highlights their uniformity best.
For cleaning, avoid acidic or harsh cleaning products to maintain the stone’s integrity and sheen. In fact, a simple wipe with a soft cloth or sponge is often enough for daily tidying, while warm water and gentle detergent can tackle tougher dirt and spills.
From rustic to modern aesthetics, natural stone tiles make an exceptional backsplash choice, infusing any kitchen with character and enduring charm.
Copper Hexagon Tiles
Copper hexagon tiles bring a striking aesthetic to any kitchen or bathroom. Their rich, warm hue instantly adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. Not only does copper complement a wide range of colors, but its geometric shape also adds visual interest and depth.
The durability of copper tiles makes them a smart choice for areas with high foot traffic or where water splashes frequently occur. These tiles are low-maintenance and, with time, develop a beautiful patina, enhancing their visual appeal.
Adaptable to both modern and traditional settings, copper hexagonal tiles can be arranged in a variety of patterns, offering flexibility in design expression. Whether used as a full backsplash or as accent pieces, they are sure to make a memorable design statement.
Pearl-style Tiles for a Glam Look
Adding a glamorous, luxurious touch to your kitchen space is effortlessly achieved utilizing Pearl-style tiles. These tiles, often an iridescent blend of whites and creams, reflect the light in remarkable ways, casting warm hues across the room, and generating a soft, elegant glow.
1. Characterized by their shimmering, lustrous finish, Pearl-style tiles mimic the aesthetic of actual pearls. They enhance a space with sophistication and delicate beauty.
2. They are highly versatile and compatible with various styles, from modern minimalist to traditional. When paired with high-end appliances or vintage-style furniture, they create a cohesive, designer-quality look.
3. Despite their sophisticated appearance, Pearl-style tiles are both durable and easy to clean, making them a practical choice for areas like the kitchen where spills and stains are common.
4. Available in numerous shapes and sizes, from tiny mosaic pieces to larger flat tiles, they offer a wide range of design possibilities.
5. Not limited to whites and creams, Pear-style tiles also come in subtle pastel shades. These add a pop of color while maintaining the overall elegant effect.
So remember, for an instant touch of opulence in your kitchen, you can’t go wrong with Pearl-style tiles.
Rainbow Colored Tiles
For a bold, distinctive look consider incorporating a mix of hues into your kitchen or bathroom decor. This choice will not just add a vibrant pop of color; it can foster an upbeat, lively ambiance.
Iridescent or glossy finishes are especially eye-catching and can enhance the perceived space in smaller rooms. The myriad of colors can also act as an easy base for decor, allowing a variety of color schemes to blend seamlessly with the rest of your interior. Make sure to balance out the vivid shades with neutral elements to ensure a polished, cohesive look.
Durability is another key benefit – with proper sealing, these tiles can withstand high moisture levels and are an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. Despite the bold aesthetic, maintenance is moderately easy, requiring periodic cleaning with mild detergent and water.
The installation process varies based on the tile material and adhesive used. Nevertheless, professional installation is recommended to guarantee a uniform, neat appearance. Ensure to account for this additional cost in your remodeling budget.
Slate Tile in Strip Pattern
Applied in a strip pattern, slate tiles offer a modern and sleek look to your kitchen. Owing to its robust and durable material, slate is a splendid way to achieve both aesthetics and long-lasting functionality. Its unique texture and natural color variation provide a dynamic, organic touch – no two slate tiles being exactly alike.
This approach is particularly appealing for a rustic or industrial-style kitchen, seamlessly blending contemporary design with rugged charm. Besides, it’s equally befitting for a naturally-themed cooking area, harmonizing effortlessly with wooden cabinetry or metallic accents.
Slate’s resistant characteristic makes it ideal for the often-messy kitchen environment, handling splashes, spills, and stains with grace. Its ease of maintenance is yet another bonus. With routine cleaning, the strip slate tile backsplash continues to shine and look just as new.
To take the visual interest up a notch, consider mixing and matching slate tiles of different sizes. Additionally, placing under-cabinet lighting can further highlight the appealing unevenness of slate, casting intriguing shadows and contours, thereby making the backsplash a real showstopper.
