The Design Rule Small Kitchens Are Breaking (And It's Fine) - Tasting Table

"Are you a stickler for rules? Or do you like to play fast and loose, following your instincts no matter what the traditionalists say? In the world of kitchen design, the prevailing wisdom is that a backsplash belongs behind the sink and stove. Whether it's subway tile, glass mosaic, beadboard, or similar materials, there has to be something there, right? Not so fast! Today, the idea of a backsplash is being abandoned entirely, especially in smaller kitchens."

"Backsplashes started with a purely functional purpose. As the name suggests, they were meant to protect walls from splashes from the stove and sink that could stain or damage nearby surfaces. Early backsplashes were typically about four inches tall, which was considered sufficient to catch errant grease or sauce. Over time, they also became aesthetic elements, adding to the overall style of the kitchen."

Backsplashes originated as short protective strips to catch splashes from stoves and sinks and later evolved into aesthetic features. Traditional materials range from subway tile to glass mosaic and beadboard, which add visual texture but also grout lines that can clutter small spaces. Removing the backsplash can produce a more unified, harmonious look and make a compact kitchen feel larger. Many paints are washable and durable enough to serve as practical wall finishes. Where extra protection is needed, small upstands or similar minimal barriers can replace full-height backsplashes to preserve space and cohesion.

Read at Tasting Table