Back Splashes
Back Splashes
Ebony and ivory, peanut butter and jelly, Peyton Manning and Reggie Wayne — great partnerships work well for a reason. One partner complements and contrasts the other partner in a way that enhances both. Nothing is more true than with countertops and back splashes. Once, back splashes were a mere afterthought; a standardized, 4-inch continuation of the countertop behind the sink and stove. However, the modern back splash is a versatile, functional and visual element in the kitchen.
Material
A common and economical back splash solution is the standard 4-inch lip. This type of back splash helps continue the color and surface of the countertop around the edge of the wall. It is an economical option because it can be cut from the same material or slab as the countertop.
Tile
A long standing and traditional back splash material, tile employs its durable qualities in many kitchens. With a vast variety of color, texture and tile materials available, tile provides a great way to make a piece of your kitchen truly unique.
Metal
Stainless steel can be a powerful visual statement in your kitchen. As a back splash, stainless steel is a neutral color and is a durable and easy-to-clean surface. The muted reflection it collects also add a dynamic color depth and complement to your kitchen. Stainless steel can be used to contrast natural surfaces, like wood cabinets, or to enhance an industrial, contemporary kitchen design.
Wood
As stainless steel appliances, fixtures, sinks and even utensils have become more popular in contemporary kitchens, a natural material, like bamboo, can be a beautiful break from the mechanical culture of metal. Once properly finished and sealed, a wood back splash is just as durable as your hardwood floor.
Style
The are many styles of back splashes. From the standard 4-inch lip to elaborate tile mosaics, the purpose of your back splash is not just functional. It is capable of much more than protecting your wall from grease or moisture. With some consideration, your back splash can become either a focal point in your kitchen or a beautiful and subtle complementary feature.
When choosing a style of back splash, consider what you want in your kitchen to stand out the most. For instance, a full counter-to-cabinet back splash can create unity with a monochromatic, or single-color, color scheme between the cabinets, countertop and the back splash.
Using a contrasting color will help separate and compartmentalize the shapes and color of your kitchen, which can help emphasize a specific feature, such as your countertops.
In many partnerships, there’s usually one partner that is a little more popular. It’s true that countertops often get all the glory when it comes to kitchen-talk, but with some consideration to your style, function and personality, back splashes give you another surface to create a unique kitchen experience.
Thank you,
David Decker
President, Affordable Kitchens and Bathrooms
AKB is dedicated to customer service, open communication, quality workmanship and unique design, while building lifelong relationships with our customers.
