Splashback Ideas for Kitchens: Glass, Tiles or Stone?
When designing a kitchen, splashbacks are often overlooked, yet they play a key role in both functionality and aesthetics. The choice of material can impact not only the visual appeal of your kitchen but also its maintenance, durability, and cost.
Let’s break down the three most popular splashback ideas for kitchens—glass, tiles, and stone—to help you make an informed decision for your kitchen renovation.
The role of splashbacks in kitchen design
A splashback is there for more than just protection—it complements your kitchen’s style, tying together benchtops, cabinetry, and lighting. Whether you choose glass, tiles, or stone, the right splashback idea for kitchens can either blend in subtly or become a bold feature.
Beyond aesthetics, splashbacks also improve functionality by making cleaning easier and protecting walls from stains. Light-coloured or glossy splashbacks can be used to make small kitchens feel bigger, while bold tile patterns or natural stone textures add character. A well-chosen splashback balances style and practicality, ensuring your kitchen feels cohesive, functional, and visually appealing.
Comparing splashback ideas for kitchens
To give you a quick overview, here’s a comparison of the three most popular splashback materials–glass, tiled, and stone–based on key factors:
| Glass splashback | Tiled splashback | Stone splashback | |
| Cleaning
|
Easy | Hard | Easy |
| Aesthetics | Good | Great | Amazing |
| Price | $$ | $ | $$$ |
| Statement piece | No | Yes | Yes |
Glass splashbacks: Modern, sleek, and easy to maintain
Glass splashbacks provide a modern, sleek, and minimalist look, making them an ideal choice for those wanting a seamless complement to their cabinetry. Made from toughened safety glass, they are highly durable, heat-resistant, and easy to clean. Their smooth, non-porous surface means no grout lines to trap dirt, making them a low-maintenance option.
Glass splashbacks also add natural light due to their reflective properties, making small kitchens feel more spacious. They are available in custom colours, metallic finishes, or prints, offering great flexibility in design.
Glass splashback options
- Colour customisation: Customisable to any standard paint colour.
- Glass type:
- Australian glass: Contains iron, giving it a greenish hue. Some people love this natural effect, while others prefer a clearer option.
- Low-iron (extra-clear) glass: Eliminates the green tint for a pure colour representation.
- Metallic finishes: A subtle metallic spray on the back of the glass that adds depth and a shimmering effect.
Pros of glass splashbacks
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Available in any custom colour
- Heat and moisture resistant
- Creates space with reflective properties
Cons of glass splashbacks
- More expensive than tiles
- Shows fingerprints and smudges easily
- Less texture and character compared to tiles or stone
Tiled splashbacks: Versatile and full of character
Tiled splashbacks offer endless design possibilities, making them one of the most popular and cost-effective choices. Available in countless colours, patterns, and materials, they suit both traditional and modern kitchens.
Tiles add depth, texture, and personality, making them a great statement piece for farmhouse, industrial, and eclectic kitchens. From classic subway tiles to bold geometric patterns, tiled splashbacks allow homeowners to personalise their space.
Tile splashback options
Tile splashbacks come in a range of sizes, shapes, and patterns, however some of the most popular tile options at the moment include:
- Small square tiles (100mm x 100mm): A big trend right now! Creates a modern yet nostalgic look but has lots of grout to clean.
- Subway tiles: A timeless classic that suits any kitchen style.
- Large format tiles (600mm x 300mm): Fewer grout lines mean less maintenance.
Pros of tiled splashbacks
- Endless design options (patterns, colours, sizes)
- More affordable option
- Great for adding texture and personality
Cons of tiled splashbacks
- Harder to clean due to grout lines
- Trends change quickly, meaning some styles may date faster
Tip: If you love the tile look but hate cleaning grout, consider larger tiles or darker grout colours to reduce visible stains.
Stone splashbacks: High-end, luxurious, and seamless
If you’re looking for a more premium option, stone is the ultimate luxury choice. Stone splashbacks offer a seamless look, especially when paired with a matching stone benchtop. Composite stone is used the most, providing a polished, durable, and stain-resistant finish.
Stone is ideal for minimalist and high-end kitchens, as it requires little maintenance and has no grout lines to clean. Please note when you are considering your splashback options that composite stone cannot be used behind gas cooktops due to heat regulations.
Stone splashback options
-
- Matching benchtop & splashback: Composite stone splashbacks are simply an extension of the benchtop material, creating a seamless and cohesive look.
- Honed vs. polished finish:
- Honed – Matte finish for a softer, natural aesthetic.
- Polished – Glossy finish for a sleek, modern appearance.
- Colour choices: Available in various neutral tones, including whites, greys, and darker shades to suit different kitchen styles.
Pros of stone splashbacks
- Minimal maintenance (no grout to clean)
- Create high-end, seamless look
- Highly durable and heat resistant
Cons of stone splashbacks
- Expensive compared to tiles and glass
- Not suitable for gas cooktops
Choosing the right splashback for your kitchen style
Your splashback should complement your kitchen’s style, enhancing the overall look and feel. Here are the some of our favourite splashback ideas for kitchens, tailored to different kitchen design styles:
Modern kitchens: Sleek and minimalist
For a seamless look, glass or stone splashbacks are ideal. Glass enhances light and creates a clean finish, while stone adds luxury with its natural veining.
Best choices: Glass splashbacks in neutral tones, stone with soft veining, or large-format matte tiles.
Classic kitchens: Timeless and elegant
Subway tiles and natural stone work best, providing a refined, traditional look. Opt for white subway tiles with contrasting grout or marble-style splashbacks for sophistication.
Best choices: White subway tiles, marble-look stone, or mosaic tiles for texture.
Industrial kitchens: Bold and edgy
Darker tones and textured materials create a rugged, urban aesthetic. Stone splashbacks in charcoal or black and concrete-look tiles work well for this style.
Best choices: Dark stone, concrete-look tiles, or metallic finishes.
Scandinavian kitchens: Light, airy, and natural
For a soft, minimalist feel, use white or light grey tiles with a subtle texture. Matte stone splashbacks in neutral tones also work well.
Best choices: White subway tiles, textured ceramics, or light stone splashbacks.
Hamptons-style kitchens: Coastal elegance
Bright, open kitchens suit marble-style stone or mosaic tiles in soft blues or whites. Glossy white subway tiles encourage a coastal, airy feel.
Best choices: Marble-look stone, soft blue mosaic tiles, or glossy white subway tiles.
For more inspiration on kitchen design styles, read our blog here.
Choosing the perfect splashback
Each material has its strengths, so the best splashback ideas for kitchens depend on your style, budget, and maintenance preferences. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something you love—after all, it’s your kitchen!
If you’re planning a kitchen renovation in Perth, the expert team of designers at Kitchens Perth can help bring your vision to life. From selecting the perfect splashback to designing a kitchen that suits your lifestyle, we offer tailored solutions to suit your style and budget.
Get in touch with Kitchens Perth today to discuss your dream kitchen!
