Featured in cover: Heather Hilliard chose Absolute Black honed granite for this kitchen backsplash
Traditional tile - most often ceramic and stone - is the most popular pick for kitchen backsplashes. But these materials represent the tip of the iceberg when it comes to covering the walls behind a countertop.
More adventurous materials range from stone slabs to copper, to vinyl and micro cement.
“I’ve admired micro cement in European kitchens for years—it always looks so effortless,” said interior designer Annie Downing in Austin. “It’s one of those materials that feels both modern and handmade at the same time.”
Meanwhile, San Francisco interior designer Heather Hilliard loves the simplicity of a stone slab backsplash. “There’s something incredibly elegant about minimal grout lines,” Hilliard said.
Since backsplash materials run the gamut, you can tailor your choice to fit your lifestyle and taste. To help you decide, Downing, Hilliard and two other designers weighed in on alternatives to traditional ceramic and stone tile backsplashes.
Copper Tile
Showcase Kitchens chose copper tile for this Mediterranean-style space. Tim Cree Photography
“Copper, a unique choice, is an underutilized and versatile material that can be used in any number of styles. Since copper looks great against black metals and most wood tones, it can be rustic, French country, industrial, classic, modern/minimalist or Mediterranean/Spanish.
This 1-inch-x-4-inch porcelain tile in a brick pattern [pictured], is clad in real copper with an added antiquing. It was selected strictly for its touch of sophistication and in keeping with the warm, modern Mediterranean-style kitchen the homeowner was seeking. Copper offered the homeowner a sense of warmth and character that traditional ceramic or porcelain tile could not. Aside from the fact that it fit perfectly with the Mediterranean look, it offered a glowing texture that just felt more special.
Copper naturally oxidizes over time, which means that it will develop a patina that changes it from its natural copper hue to a brownish green. Some may welcome this. This homeowner chose to prevent aging by having the contractor, Matt Galante, give the backsplash extra coats of a clear automotive top layer. This also helps with easy maintenance.” - John Starck of Showcase Kitchens in Manhasset, New York
Micro Cement
Micro cement, as seen in this kitchen by Annie Downing, feels clean and calm. Lindsay Brown
“Micro cement is a fine, cement-based coating that’s applied in very thin layers to create a smooth, seamless surface. It has a soft, tactile quality more nuanced than plaster, less rigid than tile and it brings a quiet sophistication to a space. It brings warmth to contemporary design and simplicity to more traditional spaces, which is a rare combination.
It’s seamless and incredibly versatile. Without grout lines, it feels clean and calm, visually and practically. The matte finish softens the light beautifully, and because it’s applied by hand, there’s always a bit of movement and artistry in the surface. It’s a subtle detail that makes a big impact.
It does require a skilled hand. Installation and sealing are critical to ensure it’s water- and stain-resistant. And like plaster or natural stone, it will develop a patina over time. I happen to love that evolution—it adds character—but anyone looking for a perfectly uniform finish might find it challenging.
In this kitchen [pictured], we decided to use it on all surface areas. One of its best qualities is that it can be applied directly over existing surfaces, which makes it a great solution for both new builds and remodels. It’s transformative without being fussy.” - Annie Downing, Annie Downing Interiors, Austin, Texas
Stone Slabs
Heather Hilliard said stone slabs like this marble are versatile and universal. David Duncan Livingston
“Tile has its place, but slabs offer a striking restraint. They create a beautiful visual continuity and, practically speaking, the seamless surface is easier to maintain.
Stone slabs are so versatile and universal, I think they work beautifully in many kitchens. They’re great in transitional or traditional spaces where you want warmth and texture without the fuss, as well as more contemporary kitchens where a striking marble or granite slab can serve as a focal point. They also complement traditional environments when paired with warm wood cabinetry and vintage-inspired fixtures.
The natural veining and movement in the stone almost become like a piece of art behind your range or sink. Beyond looks, slabs are also practical. They’re durable, easy to clean, and protect walls without disrupting the design.
When selecting stone, I look at the veining, movement, and texture. If the countertop has a lot of activity, I’ll keep the backsplash more restrained. If the counter is quieter, that’s an opportunity to introduce more drama.” - Heather Hilliard, Heather Hilliard Design, San Francisco
Vinyl
Anthony Wilder Design/Build chose vinyl that resembles natural wood for this backsplash. Stacy Zarin Goldberg
“This vinyl product provided a practical yet stylish alternative—durable, simple to maintain, and visually cohesive with the rest of the space. It is resistant to moisture when properly installed.
This particular vinyl [pictured] has a highly realistic wood look, making it a natural fit to use for the kitchen backslash. Using a material that looks like natural wood in this way offered a subtle nod to that era while introducing a contemporary twist by presenting the material in an unexpected application. It also complements organic, minimalist styles.
In order to finish the edges and seams properly, they require creative detailing for a polished look. They are less heat-resistant than stone or tile, so placement near high-heat zones should be considered carefully.” - Shannon Kadwell, kitchen and bath director at Anthony Wilder Design/Build in Cabin John, Maryland
