20 Kitchen Backsplash Ideas For Small Kitchens To Create A Striking Focal Point In A Compact Area

This post shows you the best kitchen backsplash ideas for small kitchens.

Ideally, the kitchen sink and countertops are central to kitchen activities, making the backsplash a critical design element.

My kitchen is designed to welcome you with the sight of the backsplash when you get in.

It had been a dull sight until recently when I did a makeover.

The right backsplash idea is all you need for an attractive and chic kitchen.

If you are struggling with a dull backsplash, keep reading for 20 ideas to transform your kitchen into an elegant haven.

Pin it for later! ⤵️

White hexagon tiles backsplash

Hexagon tiles are a trendy choice for functionality and aesthetics.

Install backsplash tiles in white to create a clean and airy feel.

Avoid covering the whole wall to create a unique artistic pattern.

White paint and marble backsplash

Marble is fantastic at keeping a place stylish; therefore, go for a marble option around the cooker.

Cover the remaining backsplash space in white paint to complement the soft hues on the cabinetry.

Collectively, white paint and marble create a striking focal point in the kitchen.

Glossy white herringbone tile

Another way to create a striking focal point in your kitchen is to settle on glossy white herringbone tile.

To complement the kitchen theme, go for white while settling on herringbone to add a timeless charm.

Keep it glossy to add sleek, to create modern aesthetics while still maintaining simplicity.

Beadboard backsplash

Consider abeadboard backsplash for a touch of antique wooden style.

Add hooks on the backsplash for hanging silverware, creating a rustic charm for the kitchen.

Consider vertical wood panels for an artistic touch.

Penny tiles backsplash

Penny tiles will add texture and visual interest to your backsplash without overwhelming your kitchen.

Use white grout to add an artistic charm.

Consider having a reflective countertop to create a striking visual illusion of symmetry.

Go for natural variation in colors

Consider a backsplash with glossy off-white and leathered soapstone to give an impressive artisan look while emanating immense rustic glamour.

  Complement this backsplash design with minimalistic white and earth-red plant pots.

Deep green subway backsplash with white grout

Subway is a rustic tile design that deserves a space in your backsplash.

Consider a deep green color with white grout to enhance color and texture.

Install a floating shelve and a potted plant for a decorative art display.

Consider matching color hues

Go for a glossy green subway backsplash tile to invoke an attractive and stylish elegance.

Match the color hue with the walls and the cabinet to achieveglamour.

  Adorn the backsplash with floating shelves and personalized art and décor to create a focal point of distraction.

Match navy and grey backsplash tiles

Navy and grey backsplash tiles will effortlessly bring out the elegance in a grey-dominated kitchen while adding a sophisticated look.

Consider aligning your tiles in a subway pattern with white grout to have the best appealing view from a distance.

Glossy white marble backsplash

Install a marble backsplash to give your small kitchen a modern, stylish design.

Choose glossy white marble for a clean and airy effect.

Consider using the same marble on the countertop and kitchen top for a classic yet seamless glamour.

Try an artistic backsplash tile display

If you want to create an artistic illusion with your backsplash design, consider arranging the tiles divergently.

Consider a green color to invoke a touch of nature.

Ensure the design is not finished off to create a sophisticated rustic touch.

3D effect backsplash tile

Another way to make your backsplash a focal point of interest is arranging your tiles to create a 3D illusion.

Consider using green tiles that blend seamlessly with the freshly picked flowers placed on the counter to bring fresh relief into the kitchen.

Have the rest of the room in white for an airy feel.

Mosaic tile backsplash

Consider installing mosaic tiles as backsplash for an antique touch to your kitchen.

Have the mosaic tile with an artistic navy, white, and grey motif to introduce a pop of color to your space.

Consider a brown wooden range hood casing and white cabinets for a glamorous look.

Match your backsplash and floor

Settle on white and grey motifs on your backsplash tiles and match this with your floor tile for an artistic display.

Install an LED light beneath your kitchen cabinet to create a fantastic glow on your artistic backsplash tile patterns for a glamorous look.

Go for a slightly grey marble backsplash

A slightly grey backsplash will reduce blinding reflection while offering a stylishly looking kitchen in a room adjacent to the open, transparent windows and door.

Pair this backsplash with light blue cabinets for an elegant color blend.

Consider a beveled subway tile backsplash

The angled edges of your beveled tiles will reflect light and create texture and depth in your kitchen.

Consider a subway design for an immense display of rustic style and glamour.

Install white floating shelves and light sconces on the tile to add a sophisticated style in your kitchen.

Wallpaper backsplash

Consider a wallpaper backsplash, but have it in colorful prints to create a striking focal point in the kitchen.

Pair it with a glossy marble countertop and dining tabletop for a contrasting yet glamorous look.

Have your cabinets in a bold matte black color to add a striking style and rich texture.

Colorful ceramic backsplash

If you want to achieve immense beauty in colorful prints, install a ceramic backsplash.

Consider multicolored prints and motifs to achieve a focal point of distraction in your kitchen.

 Pair with a white quartz countertop to add a classic texture.

Brick backsplash

Consider having a brick backsplash painted in light white to add texture while creating an inviting farmhouse look.

Pair this with white cabinets and a countertop to achieve a clean and airy aura in the kitchen.

Ocean and sky-inspired backsplash

Have your backsplash tiles in blue and white color art that recreates an illusionary sky and ocean effect in the kitchen.

Install them in white grout to achieve a seamlessly attractive backsplash.

Pair with a terrazzo countertop for a classic touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What materials are best for a small kitchen backsplash?

When selecting materials for a small kitchen backsplash, it’s important to consider both durability and aesthetics.

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are popular due to their water resistance and ease of cleaning.

Glass tiles can reflect light, making your small kitchen feel larger and brighter.

If you’re looking for something more unique, try metal or mirrored tiles, which add a modern touch and can also make the space appear more expansive.

For a cozy and rustic look, consider natural stone, but be mindful of the maintenance it may require.

2. How can I make my small kitchen backsplash stand out?

To make your backsplash the focal point of a small kitchen, consider bold patterns or vibrant colors.

Subway tiles arranged in a herringbone or vertical stack bond pattern can create visual interest.

Alternatively, a mosaic or geometric design can add an artistic element.

You can also use contrasting grout to highlight the shape of your tiles.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match materials, such as combining glass and metal tiles, for a unique and eye-catching design.

3. What is the ideal height for a backsplash in a small kitchen?

The height of your backsplash depends on the overall design and the impact you want to create.

A standard backsplash typically extends 4-6 inches above the countertop, but in a small kitchen, extending it to the bottom of the upper cabinets can create a seamless look.

For a more dramatic effect, consider taking the backsplash all the way up to the ceiling, especially behind a stove or sink, to draw the eye upwards and make the space feel larger.

4. Are there any space-saving backsplash ideas for small kitchens?

In small kitchens, maximizing space is crucial, and your backsplash can serve multiple purposes.

Consider a magnetic backsplash where you can hang utensils or spice jars.

Another space-saving idea is to incorporate shelving into the backsplash design, providing extra storage while adding to the aesthetic.

Using mirrored or reflective tiles can also create the illusion of more space, making the kitchen feel larger and more open.

5. How do I choose the right color for my small kitchen backsplash?

The color of your backsplash can dramatically affect the perception of space in your kitchen.

Lighter colors, such as whites, creams, and soft pastels, can make the kitchen feel more open and airy.

If your kitchen has a neutral color scheme, a colorful backsplash can add a striking contrast.

Alternatively, if you prefer a monochromatic look, choose a backsplash in a shade similar to your cabinets and countertops to create a cohesive and expansive feel.

For a bolder approach, consider dark tiles, but balance them with sufficient lighting to avoid making the space feel cramped.

If you love these ideas, don’t forget to pin the above image to your “Kitchen” board.