Erin Napier Ditches A Plain Backsplash For A Fun, Patterned Style

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Comfortable and playful kitchens are currently trending, making Erin Napier the perfect design resource. As the host of HGTV's "Home Town" with her husband Ben Napier, Erin is known for her ability to blend vintage decor into personalized interiors. If you're searching for a unique backsplash idea that will still look beautiful for years to come, consider Erin's concept from a very popular episode of "Home Town." She wrote in an Instagram caption that Season 10, Episode 8 was the most-watched episode in "Home Town" history. In the featured home's kitchen, Erin opted for a checkerboard pattern with rust and ivory square tiles that's worth imitating. 

She paired the tiles with a blue-green quartzite countertop with dramatic visual variation. Erin noted that in order to splurge on the countertop, they selected affordable tiles for the backsplash. She explained to the homeowners that the unexpected, bold pattern made the tiles look more expensive than they actually were. When it comes to how and where to use checkerboard patterns in home decor, the backsplash is the perfect place to start.

Designer Erin Napier isn't the only one who has fallen in love with this creative backsplash idea for your kitchen. Checkerboard tiles have been trending recently among designers and homeowners. While Erin went for a brown-and-white checkerboard pattern, you can adjust this look to suit your space and style. Terracotta tiles are also trending, and you can lean even further into the earthy trend by replacing her brown tiles with true terracotta.

There are several budget-friendly options to consider. Beyond Erin's affordable tile idea, you can cut the costs even further by experimenting with other techniques. These Stone Center Online Thassos Checkerboard Mosaic Tiles feature a white and wood grain pattern, similar to Erin's earthy selection. Wallpaper backsplashes are also increasing in popularity, with Erin herself having used this method to upgrade a client's backsplash. Try a product like this Amiya Vinyl Checkered Wallpaper. You can even paint your existing tiles to create a checkerboard pattern, just make sure to follow these pointers for updating your tile backsplash with a fresh coat of paint.