UNIQUE TRENDING TILE BACKSPLASH OF 2017
Tile backsplash technology entails the interior designing that is aimed at improving the decoration of some areas of a building, especially the kitchen and bathroom sections. Backsplash incorporates unique tile designs installed to protect walls from being damaged by water that splash on bathroom walls or behind kitchen sinks.
Basically, backsplashes are constructed out of tiles made from glass mosaic which as at the moment is the most trending form of tile backsplash. Aside the kitchen and bathroom areas, tile backsplash can also be used in any other part of the home to give a beautifying effect.
Prior to this time, it is natural to see aesthetically colorful fruit and vegetable pictures used to enhance the beauty of ceramic tiles used on kitchen walls. Time passed and technology advanced, bringing with it unique changes. The trend today involves the use of stones, glasses, mirror, or metal tile backsplashes that are artistic and very creative.  Outlined below are some noteworthy tile backsplash design trends that made wave in 2017:
Marble Slabs
For years, backsplashes have been made from tile, whether they are ceramic, porcelain or natural stone. Marble slabs are very different. A slab, unlike tile, is continuous with few breaks for appliances and cabinetry. So instead of many small tiles making up the backsplash, you have one large slab stretching the entire backsplash area.  Marble and marble looking slabs are becoming especially common and in 2017, a marble kitchen backsplash will be a big trend. Mostly what draws people is it’s pure beauty, subtly of color and it’s unique variation in veining for stunning aesthetics appeal. This is why you will see a lot of marble look a likes too.
Being one large slab, any design aspects on the surface catch more attention. If the slab finishing is glossy, it creates an even airier feeling than tiles. In some cases, a slab backsplash can help create a smooth flow from the countertop to the backsplash. In such cases, both the countertop and backsplash are similar in color. Plus you have the added bonus of not having to clean up in those dreaded grout lines.  The design choices are limitless. You can choose a slab with slight color variations all the way to dense veining patterns, the choice is yours.
Ceiling-Height Backsplash
The traditional way has been to display the tiles between the countertop and the underside of the wall cabinetry. If there was no wall cabinetry above the countertop, then it was common to still place the tile straight across in the same location as if there had been wall cabinetry there. Backsplashes are not only going higher, they venture up to the ceiling. Ceiling-height backsplash can help in highlighting a single area of the kitchen, creating a focal point that unites all other aspects of the space. This can be even more effective if you are using colorful or mosaic tiles.

Higher backsplash can also brighten the space up, with the reflective qualities of the tile itself, a break in the cabinetry run, and with the color. By adding surface area, the backsplash reflects more light into the kitchen while also creating a stunning background for your work area.

Feel free to play around with a combination of colors, textures, and patterns to create an even more interesting style.
 
Larger Subway Tiles
Subway tiles have remained in their 3″x 6″ size for years, a true testament of design & function. But as a result, homeowners are left craving something a little different. With subway tiles still being the hottest thing in kitchen backsplashes. Homeowners loved them and still do, for their clean classic look and super easy maintenance. But a few changes are in the air as we get into a new year.
Specifically, we see manufacturers produce subway tiles in larger sizes. The standard large format size is 3″x 9″ or even a 4″x 12″ though you can check what sizes are available at Kennedy Kitchens and Baths.

A large format subway tile backsplash can be especially helpful for a small kitchen where the large tiles create the perception of space. Large format subway tiles can also help in creating a feeling of continuity especially if you are extending the backsplash to the ceiling.  Take a look at our remodeling ideaspage, which is s selection of our best work.

Mirrored and Metallic Finishes
The mirror finish gives tiles a glossy reflective surface, which is highlighted even more when struck by natural light. The mirror effect is even stronger when you extend the backsplash to ceiling height.
With a mirrored subway tile backsplash, use lighting to bring out a dramatic effect. During the day, make sure there is plenty of natural sunlight falling on part of the backsplash. The reflected light really brightens up the kitchen. At night, position some of your fixtures (e.g. under cabinet lighting) to take advantage of the glassy backsplash. The light reflection can make for quite a dramatic look.

 

If the glossiness is too much for you, try a metal finish. Tiles are finished in a look and texture that resembles that of metals. You can choose from different colors and shades. A metal finished backsplash gives your kitchen an unstated “strong” feel. It brings in an industrial feel, which can be enhanced by extending the backsplash across the entire wall height. You can also use smaller metal-finished tiles for a more artistic look.
More Patterns
It is no longer enough to have a plain tile backsplash; more homeowners want something that turns heads and creates an interesting focal point for the eyes. Many are beginning to experiment with various tile patterns. Patterns that made wave this year include checkered, herringbone, travertine and chevron among others.
One of the hottest upcoming trends involves the use of tile patterns inspired by cultures. Consider an Asian theme, Egyptian-inspired or Turkish-inspired backsplashpattern. Moroccan patterns are also extremely popular as are those from India. Check what patterns your local dealer has and see how you can integrate them in your kitchen backsplash.
With this pattern, we would recommend a plain countertop or even white cabinetry to highlight the beauty of the patterned backsplash. Feel free to take the backsplash as high as the ceiling to make it even bolder. It will not just be a protective surface; it will be a piece of art.
Great Finishes
With technology so advanced, there is virtually an endless option of finishes to choose from. If you want a backsplash with a slightly aged appearance, look for tiles with a weathered finish. For a washed-out look, go for tiles with an acid wash finish.   A lot of finishes are aimed at mimicking natural appearances for a more authentic look. For instance,

you can get tumbled tiles that have been designed to resemble natural stone. They have an appealing antique look to them. The natural stone effect can also be seen in matte or honed finish tiles, which are especially popular in luxury themed kitchens.  There are dozens of finishes you can choose from depending on what kind of style you want for your backsplash and your entire kitchen area. Whether you want glossy and reflective, rustic

and country or aged and weathered, they are all available.

Color Plurality
Most people are used to neutral (white, cream or beige) backsplash colors.  But now you can get tiles in almost any color you want. From divine black to splashy red to denim blue, anything goes.
The backsplash is a good opportunity to introduce a surprising pop of color in the kitchen. If you want to convey luxury, go for black or grey tiles. Just make sure they contrast well from surrounding elements such as the cabinetry and that there is enough natural light coming in. If you want an airy feel to your kitchen, good old white will work just perfectly though you can also try cream or light blue.
A blue-tiled backsplash introduces a homey feeling. It makes the kitchen feel like a happy yet cool and relaxing place. If you want a burst of energy whenever your eyes drift to the backsplash area, go for red or yellow tiles.  If you are feeling creative, combine two colors for a nice twist to your work area. A green band at the bottom of the backsplash and a white half that stretches to the ceiling results in a simple yet creative style.
It is the perfect time to experiment with new styles and colors. Try a color you would have never even considered and see the magic happen right before your eyes. If you are feeling hesitant, you can always introduce the new color in one or two lines or in individual tiles scattered throughout the backsplash.
 
An Array of Materials
In recent times, manufacturers add decorative metal pieces such as copper, aluminum, and or zinc.
Same case applies to glass-finished backsplash. You can now get full glass tiles to use for your backsplash. Why not incorporate a mixture of materials such as glass and steel. Some people even get creative and put a fabric behind the glass to create a unique look without having to worry about cleaning and or fire hazards. There even can be wood backsplashes. Although you will find most of these in furniture pieces versus around the cooking surface, since this could be a maintenance challenge. You would need the right wood with a protective finish. But don’t rule out wood as a wall finish treatment instead of paint. Wood cladding, shiplap, bead board, or wainscoting can take your kitchen to the next level.