The Bold Backsplash Idea Inspired By HGTV's Tarek El Moussa's Kitchen

There are plenty of ways to go bold with a kitchen backsplash, but HGTV star Tarek El Moussa shows us how to bring the drama. Following him to two different homes, a dark black backsplash has anchored his kitchen design. We got a glimpse of El Moussa's kitchen in his previous home in Newport, which features sleek white shaker cabinets, a luxurious black countertop on the center island, and the true showstopper: dramatic black backsplash tile. The tile is a glossy black marble from Mission Tile West, and it becomes the perfect gothic-inspired backdrop for the white kitchen cabinetry. The tile is unique, installed vertically, and laid in an overlapping effect. For a similar vibe, the Archer Nero Glossy Arco 3D Deco by Tiles Direct captures the same modern energy.

El Moussa's wife, Heather Rae, spoke to HGTV about the tile, saying, "We looked at a lot of options and fell in love with this because it's so bold." Daring tile like El Moussa's black marble can really set the stage and become a focal point in your kitchen design. The couple favors the bold black hue in their kitchen enough to keep the trend going with a gorgeous matte black slab alongside natural wood cabinetry in their new home. While you don't have to follow in the star's exact footsteps, taking note of how something like this up-and-coming kitchen backsplash trend, which adds so much contrast to your space, can enhance your design.

Some folks argue that a black backsplash can be too harsh. Design experts can agree that black backsplashes have a habit of appearing too intense, particularly when paired with heavier materials, poor lighting, or when used in smaller spaces. To make a dark backsplash look intentional, pair it with lighter cabinetry and countertops to offset the heaviness of the color. Additionally, opting for a glossy finish can help bounce light, preventing the space from appearing visually flat. If full gloss isn't your vibe, opt for a semi-sheen finish instead. Vertical tiles create more height, which can help a black backsplash feel more expansive than oppressive. For a more contemporary look, matching your grout color to your tiles is a backsplash trend to try for a seamless look in the kitchen. 

However, this bold style may not be for everybody. Maybe you prefer dark vertical tiles with dark grout but would rather avoid glossy finishes. If so, mix and match the above tips. For example, in El Moussa's new kitchen, the black backsplash is one continuous matte slab, paired with light wood cabinetry, black hardware, and white accents like a white central island countertop to create contrast. Additionally, black isn't the only color fit for this trend. If you need inspo, look no further than 2026's official paint colors of the year. Hues such as steely gray Silhouette by Benjamin Moore or berry-red Divine Damson by Graham and Brown offer the perfect amount of drama.