The Beautiful Backsplash Option Erin Napier Uses Instead Of Wallpaper

Expert designer and cohost of HGTV's "Home Town" Erin Napier knows a thing or two about how to transform a room. So when she shares a trending design tip, it's worth paying attention to. In Season 9, Episode 9 of the show, Napier chose to use an eye-catching cherry-themed tile backsplash in the kitchen instead of wallpaper. Not only is it a more durable option, but it's also a fantastic way to add personality to one of the most-used rooms in a home.

Tile combines practical function with endless opportunities for unique, creative looks. With so many shapes, colors, and finishes, you can create a backsplash that goes beyond a simple background surface. From unexpected color combinations to whimsical patterns that tie together other features like oak or walnut butcher block countertops, a themed tile backsplash is a chance to customize your space and turn a boring, blank wall into a statement.

While wallpaper has seen a resurgence, especially the peel-and-stick variety, it doesn't offer quite the same benefit as tiles for a backsplash. Wallpaper might look good at first, but because kitchens are often messy, high-traffic spaces, it's prone to peeling, bubbling, and staining when exposed to moisture (like steam) or cooking splatters. Tile, on the other hand, is better suited to withstand the demands of a kitchen. Most tiles are easy to clean with a damp cloth, which makes them a practical choice for areas prone to grease or sauce splashes.

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are budget-friendly options that present durability, versatility, and easy upkeep. These are available in many shapes and shades, like neutrals or earth tones for farmhouse aesthetics or bold shades for eclectic homes. For more modern or luxe looks, glass and marble tiles offer a high-end finish. These materials can be more fragile than their clay-based counterparts, but they still outperform wallpaper when standing up to moisture and splatters. As a backsplash, wallpaper can be a temporary style solution, but tile offers lasting results. 

Wondering how much is too much backsplash in kitchens? It depends on your style preference and kitchen layout. Some might prefer a look that goes to the ceiling, and others like something more contained. Regardless, its cohesion in the room is what matters; a cohesive backsplash elevates your kitchen's design and also adds long-term value to your home. 

Feeling inspired to turn your backsplash into an HGTV-worthy feature? If you're botanically minded, take a page out of Erin Napier's book and put together a fruit-forward layout. Lemons are popular at the moment, and oranges add a cheerful touch. Create a floral mosaic to bring a whimsical feel to the room, or put together a leaf motif using monochromatic glass tiles. For a one-of-a-kind look that doubles as functional art, look for hand-painted tiles from artisans or DIY it yourself. 

For those who like clean lines, opt for a geometric pattern using striped tiles, hexagon tiles, or tiles featuring semicircles that can be rotated in various directions for a playful take on structure. If patterns aren't your thing, a standout color or texture can still make an impact. When it comes to picking the right hue, these are the best kitchen backsplash colors to consider: complementary shades for boldly colored cabinets or vibrant pops of color, shimmer, or texture to bring a neutral space to life. In fact, colorful glass tile backsplashes are trending.

Wallpaper has its charm, but tile brings both staying power and style together. Opting for themed tile is a small design choice, but an impactful one. Whether you choose something bold or a little more refined, your backsplash can become a statement that ties the whole kitchen together.