The Backsplash Choice That's On Its Way Out In 2025, According To Designers

Want to give your kitchen a more modernized look without spending money on new countertops or cabinets? Changing up your backsplash might be the best way to go. The collection of tiles behind your sink and stovetop doesn't just play an important functional role when cooking. It can be an eye-catching focal point that transforms the aesthetic of your space. Choosing a color for it can therefore be a tricky process. The hues and textures you select need to align neatly with your cabinets and appliances. Additionally, selecting the wrong color for your backsplash might give your entire kitchen an outdated look. The once-popular choices of dark brown or reddish brown, for example, are a sure-fire way to make your home look out of style. These hues are outdated kitchen trends you can leave in the past.

Dark brown and reddish brown backsplashes are on their way out thanks to how simplistic and dull they are. Unlike many other warmer shades of brown, they don't bring all that much of a natural aesthetic to a space, and instead leave interiors looking overly dark, especially when used in high doses. Like other dark colors, heavier, weightier browns can also make spaces appear smaller than they actually are. Although they can sometimes result in a cozy vibe, they're typically quite difficult to pull off successfully within the kitchen. As a result, dark brown and reddish brown backsplashes will soon be joining the ranks of once-popular kitchen trends that won't be coming back anytime soon.

If you already have a dark brown or reddish brown backsplash in your home and want to update your space with a newer color, there are a couple of directions you can go in. One option is to select a neutral backsplash that blends in seamlessly with your kitchen's other elements, such as your appliances and cabinets. White, black, beige, and gray are all examples of neutral colors that will look nice in a variety of modern spaces. Another option is to pick a backsplash that adds a pop of color to your interior. A bright orange or pastel pink color, for example, is sure to give your kitchen a more distinct character. Your final option is to blend bright colors with neutral ones using bold tile patterns and textures.

When selecting a new color for your backsplash, there are a few factors that you should consider. The first is the existing color palette within your space. Ideally, the tile arrangement you select won't clash with your kitchen's current look. You'll also need to think about the pattern of the tiles, or how you're going to lay them out on the wall. Additionally, you should decide if you want your backsplash to be a central focal point of your space. If the answer is yes, you might want to opt for bolder colors and patterns. The overall size of your backsplash is also worth thinking about since it can impact project costs; just make sure you're familiar with the best way to plan a kitchen renovation budget to maximize your investment.