Backsplash Backlash
This morning we excitedly met with our Certified Kitchen Designer to finalize the plans for our cabinets and countertops. We’re super psyched to post pics of all the materials we’ve chosen (KraftMaid cabinets, Stonemark Granite countertops, etc) so stay tuned for that fun stuff. In the meantime, we’re having a moment of indecisiveness about the backsplash.
One easy option is to continue our granite a few inches up the wall to act as a backsplash and then keep the rest of the area under the top cabinets a semi-gloss paint like this.
This option really appeals to us because we would be able to easily change the paint color should our kitchen need a fun update down the road.
Our other option is to nix the few inches of granite on the backsplash and use one material from countertop to the bottom of the cabinets, like white subway tile (our absolute favorite) or some other small tile like this.
The only downside is that this couldn’t be easily changed like paint, and will cost more for installation.
I’m sure we’ll come to a decision at some point (and would totally appreciate your opinions- comment, people, comment!) but until then we’re having lots of fun looking at crazy cool backsplashes in magazines and on the internet. Click here for some fun options like this gorge glass backplash we found on RemodelingMySpace.com.
If you enjoyed this post, please leave a comment or subscribe to the feed and get future articles delivered to your feed reader.
Comments
Thanks for weighing in H! We’re definitely going to explore tile options thoroughly. The funny thing is that our last backsplash was just a few inches of gross blue formica (our old countertop material) and we didn’t notice much of an issue with stuff spashing above it. Then again, we’re not exactly culinary masters, and over the years with kids and stuff I’m sure the backsplash will get a lot more action!
Hey Rob,
The great thing about Stonemark granite is that most granite slabs need to be sealed annually (an annoying and somewhat costly process) to insure that they stay stain and bacteria resistant. But Stonemark granite is engineered so that it never needs to be sealed and is therefore easier and cheaper to maintain. We’re all about easy maintenance so it seemed like a no brainer to us, but check out your local Home Depot (where it’s sold) for more information.
Sherry
Through the experiences of others I’d go with a back splash that isn’t just a painted wall. The back splash tends to get “splashed” while cooking and some cooking oils and sauces can permanently stain even glossy painted walls. I’d go with a textile that’s easy to clean like glass or tile that you can just wipe. My parents just got tile as a back splash and it made the space in between the cabinets and the counter look really open. I can’t wait to see the final outcome good luck!!