Kitchen Post #7 - Tile Backsplash

We decided to use a 2" square travertine tile for the backsplash that matches the travertine flooring nicely.


We did not bother using a special tile backer for the backsplash. We just applied pre-mixed mortar (comes in a bucket) to the drywall, and stuck the 12" square meshed together sheets of tile to the wall. After the adhesive had fully cured, we grouted the backsplash with sanded grout and then sealed it according to the directions with an appropriate tile sealer.

My meticulous hubby, Dave, did a fantastic job cutting the tiles to go right around the curved bottom molding on the cherry cabinets. You can see his handiwork here under the microwave.

We wanted some sort of transition between the travertine backsplash and the granite counters. We ended up choosing glass tiles that came with a travertine border. They are my absolute favorite part of the kitchen! So elegant!

Sure beats our old "faux gray brick backsplash" doesn't it??

That puppy was made of styrofoam...LOL!

It is amazing the difference that a decorative backsplash makes in a kitchen, and it requires such little effort in the whole scheme of things. I think it would be a fabulous way to upgrade just about any kitchen. And there are so many amazing options out there (tile and otherwise)!

You could use tin like this:

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And I absolutely love this tile backsplash!

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and this one!

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Or what about a stainless steel backsplash?

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Penny tile would be another really cute option.

Here's some I found on overstock.com!

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Or what about versatile beadboard? Last summer I saw this very helpful tutorial by Thrify Decor Chick and was forever inspired!

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Or you could even cover your backsplash with inexpensive pegboard and paint it a glossy bright color like this. Not only is it cute and different but it also adds a lot of function.

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This has got to be one of my favorites...a mirrored backsplash. It would really help make a dark, small kitchen seem much brighter and more spacious!

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And for probably the cheapest backsplash makeover of all - just paint it! And choose a fun color of course.

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And just so you know, I'll be posting later this week about our travertine floor tile and our stainless steel appliances so come back for more kitchen fun!