Did you know a backsplash does more than just protect your kitchen walls from spills and splatters?
It actually plays a huge role in the design aesthetic of your home.
Going for a full height backsplash can give your kitchen a seamless look, really lifting the overall vibe of the space.
I’ve put together a complete guide that explains everything you need to know about full-height backsplashes.
It’s packed with 21 inspiring design ideas that could take your kitchen to the next level.
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Let’s get started and see how you can elevate your space with these ideas. I cover these important topics:
What is a Full Height Backsplash ?
Why Choose Full Height Backsplash?
Material Choices for Full Height Backsplash
Pros and Cons of Full Height backsplashes
Design Ideas
Faqs
What is a Full Height Backsplash ?
1 | Design Idea
In the world of kitchen design, a full height backsplash is a standout feature that can dramatically transform the aesthetic and functionality of the space.
Unlike the traditional backsplash, which might only extend a few inches above the countertop, a full height backsplash stretches from the countertop all the way to the underside of the upper cabinets or even to the ceiling, covering a large part of the wall.
This approach not only offers a sleek and elegant look but also serves as a focal point in the kitchen.
One of the advantages of a full backsplash is its ability to seamlessly integrate with modern kitchen features, creating a cohesive and sophisticated ambiance.
It acts as a canvas that can be customized to reflect one’s personal style, whether through the use of bold patterns, vibrant colors, or subtle textures.
This versatility makes it a popular choice among homeowners looking to add a touch of luxury to their kitchens.
Why Choose Full Height Backsplash?
2 | Design idea
A full height backsplash is not just about aesthetics; it also offers practical advantages.
It provides a significant amount of protection to the walls from splashes and spills, making cleanup easier and maintaining the integrity of the wall surface.
This is particularly good in high-use areas around the sink and stove, where the risk of water damage and stains is higher.
Incorporating a full height backsplash into your kitchen design can elevate the overall look of the space, making it a modern and elegant focal point of your home.
Material Choices for Full Height Backsplash
Ceramic and Porcelain
3 | Design idea
When it comes to choosing materials for a full height backsplash, ceramic and porcelain are top picks.
They’re versatile enough to fit into any kitchen style, whether you’re going for a modern design or something more transitional.
These materials can complement the kitchen countertop beautifully and extend all the way up, enhancing the height of the backsplash for that seamless look.
Imagine how ceramic or porcelain could elevate a kitchen with crisp white cabinets, offering a clean and sophisticated backdrop.
Plus, the type of backsplash you choose can make a significant impact, whether you lean towards traditional backsplashes or something more contemporary.
Ceramic and porcelain offer endless possibilities to match your kitchen’s theme and color scheme, making your design choices truly unique to your space.
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Natural Stone
4 | Design idea
Have you ever considered natural stone for a full height backsplash?
It’s an incredible choice that can bring a luxurious and timeless look to your kitchen.
Imagine the elegance of a full height granite backsplash or the seamless beauty of a full height slab backsplash.
These aren’t just backsplashes; they’re statement pieces, each slab of stone unique, adding a type of depth and texture that’s unmatched.
The type of stone you choose can create a dramatic effect, thanks to the rich, natural materials it’s made from.
Whether it’s the veining of marble, the warmth of granite, or the earthiness of slate, each brings its own character to your kitchen.
Picture this: a fabulous kitchen that feels both classic and contemporary, where the backsplash isn’t just functional but a main feature.
That’s the power of natural stone. It’s not just about the practicality of protecting your walls;
it’s about making a statement that speaks to your style and elevates your space into something truly special.
Glass Tile
5 | Design Idea
Considering glass for your full height backsplash?
It’s an amazing choice that can completely transform the look of your kitchen.
Glass backsplashes offer a sleek, modern appeal that can tie your space together for a cohesive look.
Imagine how it would look extending all the way up to the ceiling height, especially if you have gray cabinets.
The reflection and shine could make your kitchen feel more open and bright.
Now, think about the elegance of a full height herringbone backsplash made from glass tiles.
It’s not something you see every day, and it could set your kitchen apart in the best way possible.
Unlike traditional tile backsplashes that might have visible grout lines, glass can offer a smoother, more continuous appearance.
The beauty of glass is that it comes in so many colors and finishes, so you can really customize the look to fit your vision.
Whether you want something clear and crisp or a tinted glass that complements your gray cabinets, the options are endless.
Let’s explore how a glass backsplash could elevate your kitchen into a space that’s not only functional but truly stunning.
Quartz Slab
6 | Design Idea
Thinking about using a quartz slab for your full height backsplash?
It’s a fantastic idea that can really elevate the elegance of your kitchen.
Quartz is such a versatile material that it can complement any design, especially if you’re aiming for that gorgeous kitchen vibe.
Picture it with white quartz countertops – the continuity of quartz from the countertop up the wall creates a stunning, unified look that’s both modern and timeless.
Now, imagine pairing that with a stainless steel kitchen hood.
The sleekness of the stainless steel against the smooth quartz backdrop? Absolutely stunning. It’s not just about the practical benefits of quartz, like its durability and ease of maintenance; it’s about creating a focal point in your kitchen that feels sophisticated and well thought out.
Quartz slabs come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can really customize the look to match your vision.
Whether you want a bright, airy feel with white quartz or something darker to contrast with your cabinets, a quartz slab backsplash can make your kitchen look and feel luxurious.
Pros and Cons of Full Height backsplashes
Pros of Full Height Backsplashes
7 | Design Idea
- Aesthetic Appeal: A full height stone backsplash or a full-height granite backsplash adds a luxurious and cohesive look to any kitchen space, transforming it into a focal point of the home.
- Protection Against Food Splashes: Extending from the countertop to the cabinets or even to the ceiling, it offers unparalleled protection against food splashes and stains.
- Increased Property Value: The sophistication and custom look of a full kitchen backsplash can significantly increase the value of your home.
- Easy to Clean: With fewer grout lines compared to traditional tile backsplashes, full height backsplashes are easier to clean and maintain.
- Design Continuity: A full height backsplash provides a seamless transition between the countertop and the upper cabinets or ceiling, enhancing the overall design continuity of the kitchen.
Cons of Full Height Backsplashes
8 | Design idea
- Cost: Using materials like stone or granite for a full height backsplash can be more expensive due to the need for larger slabs and potentially more intricate installation.
- Limited Design Changes: Once installed, a full height backsplash, especially one made of expensive materials, commits you to a specific look, making it harder to change the kitchen’s design theme without a significant overhaul.
- Requires More Material: Although it can sometimes use less material than tiled backsplashes that cover the same area (due to the absence of grout lines), a full height backsplash often requires large, single slabs, which can be more costly and difficult to source.
- Installation Challenges: The installation of a full height backsplash, particularly with heavy materials like stone or granite, can be more complex and require professional handling to ensure proper fit and finish.
- Potential for Overpowering Small Spaces: In smaller kitchens, a full height backsplash might dominate the kitchen space, potentially overwhelming other design elements.
Design Ideas
9 | Design idea
White brick full backsplash kitchen
What is the average cost of a full height backsplash?
The average cost of a full-height backsplash can vary significantly based on materials, the size of your kitchen, and labor costs in your area.
Generally, for materials like ceramic or porcelain tile, you might expect to pay between $5 to $15 per square foot.
More luxurious materials like marble, granite, or glass tiles can cost anywhere from $10 to $50 per square foot or more.
Labor costs for installation will vary by region but can range from $10 to $40 per square foot.
Keep in mind, these are rough estimates, and prices can vary widely depending on specifics.
Blue backsplash kitchen
10 | Design Idea
How do I clean and maintain my backsplash?
Cleaning and maintaining your backsplash depends on the material it’s made from.
For most tile backsplashes, a simple mixture of soap and water or a non-abrasive cleaner is sufficient for regular cleaning.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges, especially on natural stone or glass tiles, to prevent damage.
For grout lines, a baking soda paste or a commercially available grout cleaner can be used to address discoloration or mildew.
Regularly wiping down your backsplash after cooking can prevent stains and build-up, making maintenance easier over time.
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What is standard countertop backsplash height ?
Dark kitchen full backsplash
11 | Design Idea
Can I install a full height backsplash myself?
Yes, you can install a full-height tile backsplash yourself if you have the right tools, some basic DIY skills, and patience.
It involves measuring your space accurately, cutting the tiles to fit, applying adhesive, setting the tiles, and then grouting.
However, for materials that are more difficult to work with, such as large slabs of stone, I would not recommend it. You should be hiring a professional.
Farmhouse kitchen full backsplash
12 | Design Idea
How do I choose the best material for my kitchen?
Choosing the best material for your kitchen backsplash depends on your budget, style preferences, and practical considerations.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are popular for their durability, affordability, and wide range of designs.
Glass tiles can offer a modern look and are easy to clean, though they can be more expensive.
Natural stones like marble or granite provide a luxurious appearance but require more maintenance to prevent stains and are generally pricier.
Consider the overall design of your kitchen, including countertops and cabinets, to ensure your backsplash complements the space.
Also, think about your cooking habits; for example, materials that are easier to clean might be preferable if you frequently cook with oil or sauces.
Contemporary veritcal backsplash
13 | Design Idea
Photo Credit : Burlington Design Gallery
Full backsplash herringbone
Vertical Tiles Behind Hood
14 | Design Idea
Zellige Tiles
15 | Design Idea
FREE CHECKLIST : 10 THINKG YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU START YOUR KITECHEN REMODEL
Dark Kitchen with marble
15 | Design Idea
This modern kitchen boasts a stunning marble waterfall island, seamlessly flowing from top to side, paired with a matching marble backsplash.
Dark, sleek cabinets contrast beautifully, offering a sophisticated and luxurious ambiance.
The island and backsplash’s natural marble veins add elegance, making this kitchen a true focal point.
Red Brick Backsplash
16 | Design Idea
This kitchen features a full-height red brick backsplash, adding warmth and rustic charm.
Bright white cabinets provide a crisp, clean contrast, enhancing the space’s airy feel.
Exposed wooden beams overhead inject a touch of natural elegance, perfectly complementing the brick’s texture, for a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Sage Green Hexagon Tiles
17 | Design Ideas
This kitchen showcases a full-height backsplash of sage green hexagon tiles, infusing the space with a serene and nature-inspired ambiance.
The unique shape and calming color of the tiles create a dynamic texture and visual interest, beautifully contrasting with minimalist cabinetry.
This design choice brings a fresh, contemporary feel to the kitchen.
Pastel Tile
18 | Design Ideas
This kitchen features a playful backsplash of pastel tiles in two different widths, creating a whimsical and dynamic pattern that adds a soft pop of color.
Light wooden cabinets complement the backsplash, lending a warm, natural feel to the space.
The combination of pastels and wood exudes a fresh, inviting atmosphere.
Metallic Tiles
19 | Design Ideas
This bold kitchen stands out with its dark cabinets, offering a deep, dramatic contrast to the shimmering metallic tiles arranged in a herringbone pattern on the backsplash.
The metallic sheen catches the light, adding a luxurious and modern touch that beautifully offsets the matte darkness of the cabinetry.
Terracota Tiles
20 | Design Idea
Industrial Vibe
21 | Design Idea
This kitchen channels an industrial vibe with a full-height red brick backsplash, adding texture and a raw, edgy aesthetic.
The brick’s rustic charm is complemented by sleek, modern fixtures and minimalist cabinetry, creating a striking contrast.
Exposed pipes and open shelving enhance the loft-inspired look, making a bold statement.
Are there any trends in backsplash designs I should be aware of?
Trends in backsplash designs evolve, but there are a few notable ones:
- Large Format Tiles: Larger tiles or slabs for a seamless look with fewer grout lines.
- Bold Colors and Patterns: Bright colors or intricate patterns can make a statement in a kitchen.
- Textured Tiles: Tiles with 3D textures add depth and interest to backsplashes.
- Subway Tiles: A classic choice, but with a twist in colors, sizes, or patterns.
- Natural Stone: Using natural stone for a timeless and elegant look.
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Sustainable materials like recycled glass or eco-friendly ceramics are becoming popular.
- Metallic Finishes: Tiles with metallic finishes can add a touch of glamour.
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