Not Tile: The Joanna Gaines-Approved Backsplash That'll Add A Rustic Touch

For years, white subway tile seemed to dominate the kitchen backsplash space. And though it remains a timeless design choice, it's not the only option on the menu. As Joanna Gaines — someone quite well-versed in choosing the types of material that will truly, er, fix up a place — explained on her Magnolia blog, "There are so many tile options out there, but remember you don't have to be limited to just using tile for a backsplash." At the time, she was highlighting the polished macabus quartzite, but she's also built quite the case for using exposed brick — one of her go-to less-than-traditional backsplash solutions. She has incorporated various designs of it on her series "Fixer Upper," from the classic red bricks for a homey kitchen on Season 2, Episode 11 to white brick pavers for an elegant kitchen featured on Season 3, Episode 17. 

There's various ways this backsplash can stack up. When using the raw, classic rust-hued red, the feel is more industrial decor, particularly when paired with brushed metal accents and natural wood. It can also lend itself toward a more cottagecore aesthetic with delicate curtains and plenty of greenery. But if you're looking for an option that reads cleaner, consider a whitewashed brick. Particularly when used in tandem with open shelving and wooden beams, the vibe is airy farmhouse. That's why one of Gaines' top tips for making a brick wall not look too industrial is to use paint. While white is a go-to, she's also done a painted gray.

Yes, you can get this design even if you don't have bricks to expose — or a certification in masonry. If you are set on scoring the real deal, it's best to turn to the professionals. While you could, in theory, lay the bricks yourself, it's a lengthy and complicated process that requires expertise to ensure everything is structurally sound and compliant with local codes. In other words, it's not meant for your average do-it-yourselfer.

To more easily install a beautiful brick backsplash to transform your home, consider brick veneer. Quite the effective dupe, the panels are made using real bricks. But instead of measuring in at nearly 4 inches thick, they're just over ½ inch. Due to their lighter heft, they can be installed much like tile using a quality adhesive. For an even lower, less expensive lift, you can try a peel-and-stick wallpaper with a brick design. While this option is definitely less expensive and readily available — even Joanna Gaines has a Brick-and-Mortar Wallpaper from Magnolia — it won't offer the same texture as the others, if that's something you crave.