What is the Most Popular Backsplash for Kitchens?

ProSource Wholesale | 4/22/2025

Tricks of the Trade is an article series dedicated to providing answers to commonly asked questions. The interviews are conducted with ProSource Wholesale^® trade professional members, looking to offer their insights and experience to these thoughts that arise during the building or remodeling process.

Deanna Drew is the owner of Deelightful Color Choices and an interior designer member at ProSource of Daytona Beach (FL).

In kitchen design, the kitchen backsplash is more than just a protective feature—it’s a true style statement. But what’s the most popular option today? According to designer Deanna Drew of Deelightful Color Choices, it’s less about one top choice and more about what fits the homeowner’s needs, style, and budget.

Trending Now: The Rise of Stone Slabs

One of the biggest kitchen backsplash trends is running the countertop material up the wall as a full-height stone backsplash. Typically using quartz or marble, this look creates a clean, continuous surface that feels luxurious and modern. It’s especially popular in contemporary kitchen backsplash designs with waterfall islands for a polished, designer effect. While it’s a higher investment, the payoff in visual impact is undeniable.

Tried-and-True Favorites Still Reign

Beyond stone, ceramic tile backsplash, glass tile backsplash, and metal backsplash materials continue to top the list—and for good reason. They offer long-lasting durability, visual variety, and lots of customization.

“Metal is clean, sanitary, and low maintenance. That’s why it’s used in commercial kitchens,” Deanna explained.

Ceramic backsplash remains a go-to for its affordability and timeless charm. Glass backsplash for kitchens, on the other hand, offers a sleek finish that reflects light and makes the kitchen feel brighter and more open. And when it comes to functionality, metal still wins for ease of use and resilience.

Maintenance Matters: How Materials Stack Up

If you’re selecting a backsplash for kitchen upgrades, don’t overlook the importance of maintenance. Glass and ceramic tile options are both easy to clean and resistant to everyday wear. Sealed stone backsplashes—especially in slab form—also require minimal upkeep with fewer grout lines to worry about.

Why Glass Tile Continues to Shine

Glass kitchen backsplash options remain favorites among both designers and homeowners. “It makes the space brighter and it’s super easy to wipe clean,” Deanna said. She personally uses it in her own kitchen and loves the balance of polished style and day-to-day practicality.

Understanding Tempered Glass Backsplashes

For those who want added peace of mind, tempered glass backsplash panels are worth considering. They’re heat-resistant and more durable than standard glass. “I’ve never had a client call to say their glass backsplash shattered,” Deanna said, “but tempered glass gives peace of mind.”

The Timeless Appeal of White

Whether you’re working with bold cabinetry or going minimalist, a white kitchen backsplash is always in style. It complements everything from rustic charm to sleek modern designs. “You really can’t go wrong with white,” said Deanna. “It doesn’t clash with anything—it just works.”

How Stone Adds Texture and Character

Natural materials like granite, marble, and quartz are making a strong comeback in modern kitchen backsplash ideas. These stone backsplash kitchen options add richness and personality to any space. “I love granite. It’s timeless, and now you’re seeing more people using marble too—it’s very in,” Deanna shared.

For an upscale, seamless aesthetic, many homeowners are matching their countertops and backsplashes with natural stone.

Modern Designs That Blend Style and Function

Today’s modern kitchen backsplash ideas favor large-format tile, clean lines, and subtle grout. There’s also growing interest in mixed material mosaics that blend ceramic tile, glass, and metal. Though more complex to install, the final look is bold and visually striking—perfect for a standout statement.

Coordinating Your Backsplash With Cabinets and Counters

Today’s kitchens often feature slab cabinet doors, integrated hardware, and minimalist design. That’s why many opt for understated backsplashes like ceramic tile with soft patterns or textures. “It’s all about what complements the rest of the kitchen,” Deanna explained. “Sometimes it’s a quiet detail, sometimes it’s the star of the show.”

Mixing Materials for a Custom Look

Designers are also starting to mix materials to create fully custom backsplashes. Think ceramic tile backsplash around the perimeter with stone or glass tile behind the range. The effect is layered, stylish, and totally unique to the space.

Real-World Insight: The Value of a ProSource Partnership

Deanna credits much of her design success to her partnership with ProSource Wholesale®. “I’ve discovered so many great products through them—things I wouldn’t have known about otherwise,” she said.

She also loves how her newly expanded showroom helps clients visualize their entire kitchen concept: “It’s been recently expanded, and now it offers full kitchen setups, so clients can visually see in actual form how a kitchen would be in person.”

A Better Experience for Her Clients, Too

Whether her clients walk the showroom floor or not, they still benefit. Deanna can access exclusive product lines and trade-only pricing—allowing her to stay on-budget while exceeding expectations. “It makes a big difference, having a resource like ProSource behind me,” she said.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Backsplash?

From ceramic and glass kitchen backsplashes to stone backsplash kitchen styles and everything in between, ProSource Wholesale® has the inspiration and products to bring your project to life. Visit your local showroom to explore design ideas, get expert advice, and unlock exclusive pricing available only to members.

Need a trade pro? Use our Find a Pro feature to connect with experienced home remodeling contractors, interior designers, installers, and more!

Tagged: Kitchen Design Contemporary Modern