Installing a tile wall in a kitchen is here!

It’s 2019 and that means it’s time to talk about this year’s design trends. There are so many cool trends that I look forward to using in my designs, but the one that interests me the most is the tiled wall in a kitchen. That’s right, we’re talking about the latest concept in backsplash design. Go up, tile everything and frame windows.

I have been saying for years that an easy path to high level design is through the use of tiles. I love mosaics and use them in almost every design to create unique custom looks for each of my clients.

This year’s trend is to abandon the concept that the backsplash in a kitchen is installed only under the cabinets. Instead, we’re laying tile over the cabinets and making them bold by covering entire walls.

You heard that correctly, the backsplash has now gone wall to wall and just about any tile will work for this application. However, if you want to keep your design timeless, my suggestion is to opt for a white subway tile.

I love subway tile for its versatility, cost, and high-design appearance. It comes in various sizes making it easy to create different looks and can be found just about everywhere from tile stores to home improvement centers.

When looking for a traditional subway, look no further than the classic 3×6. This tile installed in a 1/2 set pattern is about as evergreen as you can get. If you want to kick it up a notch, try using a darker grout to bring out the lines. You can also play with other sizes like 2×4 or 4×8.

Then there’s my favorite, the 3×12 white subway. This size takes us away from the traditional and leads us to a more modern look. It’s also a great size to use if you’re looking to set it up in a herringbone pattern, but it’s just as beautiful set up in a 1/2 or 1/3 pattern.

Simply put, if you’re looking for that wow factor in your kitchen, it’s time to go big and bold, wall to wall, and make tile your focal point! Whether it’s subway tile, mosaic, or evergreen stone, the entire walls of any kitchen can transform a basic design into a high-end design without remodeling the entire kitchen.