Podcast Summary: Dear Alice | Interior Design – Episode: Backsplashes 101: Style, Trends & Tips

Release Date: May 22, 2025

In this engaging episode of Dear Alice, hosts Jessica Bennett and Suzanne Hall delve into the vibrant world of kitchen backsplashes, exploring current styles, emerging trends, and practical tips to elevate any culinary space. Drawing from nostalgic references to past design eras and spotlighting modern innovations, the duo provides listeners with a comprehensive guide to selecting and implementing the perfect backsplash.

1. Introduction to Tile Backsplashes

The episode kicks off with a lively discussion reminiscing about the ubiquitous tile backsplashes of the 80s and 90s. Jessica (A) and Suzanne (B) share humorous anecdotes about the practicality—or lack thereof—of older designs.

[00:23] B: "Today we are talking about backsplashes. I'm talking real life backsplashes that are not slab countertops like we used to have in the 80s."

2. Nostalgia for 80s/90s Design Elements

The hosts fondly recall the simplicity and functionality of past backsplash trends, highlighting the basic builder tiles and wide grout lines that characterized the era.

[00:54] B: "Not only did we have a tile backsplash in the 80s and 90s, we also had a tiled countertop."

They humorously critique the maintenance challenges of those designs, emphasizing how far backsplash technology and aesthetics have come.

3. Current Trends in Tile Backsplashes

Jessica and Suzanne transition into discussing the resurgence of tile backsplashes, noting the shift towards bold textures, earthy hues, and artisanal details that transform kitchens into personalized spaces.

[10:26] B: "They're saying 2025 is the year of the statement kitchen tiles. Interior designers are now leaning into bold textures, earthy hues and artisanal details, turning every surface into a conversation piece."

4. Listener Question and Backsplash Basics

The episode centers around a listener query from Melissa Parrado, who seeks advice on selecting a timeless yet modern kitchen backsplash without opting for slab countertops.

[02:49] C: "And then this episode came from a listener question, Melissa..."

Jessica defines a backsplash and its primary functions, clarifying that while not mandated by code, backsplashes are essential for protecting walls and adding aesthetic value.

[03:28] A: "A backsplash is essentially an extension of your countertop... The purpose of a kitchen backsplash is preventing water, grease, and other messes from damaging your walls."

5. Slab Backsplashes vs. Tile Backsplashes

The hosts compare slab and tile backsplashes, discussing the cost implications and design flexibility each option offers. They highlight how slab backsplashes, while elegant and easy to clean, can be expensive due to the need for multiple slabs to cover extended areas.

[04:15] B: "99.9% are these projects that have slabs as backsplashes... you're going to bring that same countertop material up."

6. Tile Patterns and Rhythms

Jessica introduces various tile sizes and patterns, emphasizing the importance of creating rhythm and interest through layout. They showcase the Tiger Oak project as a prime example of using diverse tile dimensions to craft a dynamic backsplash.

[12:32] A: "If you are super old school and vintage and you just want to do a 4x4, awesome. There's so many great ones that we will reference here."

Suzanne adds insights on how different tile sizes like 4x4 and 3x6 can be combined to break monotony and add visual appeal.

[14:10] B: "Dal tile. And like most Pedrosians, everyone has a line that they have this tile, and it's usually in the 4x4, and it has that kind of undulation."

7. Grout Selection and Application

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on grout choices, advising listeners on selecting colors that complement their tiles without overpowering the design. Warm gray grout is recommended for its versatility and natural aesthetic.

[25:34] A: "I use warm gray for a majority of things... it just feels like the color of, like, natural concrete or something like that."

Jessica warns against using stark grout colors like black, which can obscure tile boundaries and diminish the tactile quality of the backsplash.

8. Creative Backsplash Features

The conversation explores innovative backsplash features, such as incorporating shelves for both functionality and style. Suzanne shares her experience with a cantilevered shelf, balancing utility with aesthetic considerations.

[30:30] B: "I have a 4 inch ledge in the middle of two thirds of the way up my backsplash above my stove top where I line all my olive oils and vinegars..."

9. Mural and Decorative Tiles

Jessica and Suzanne highlight the popularity of mural tiles, such as the reinvented Delft Blue, which add artistic flair to large kitchens. They discuss how these tiles can serve as focal points, infusing spaces with character and history.

[32:10] A: "Guys, there's mural tiles... It feels like that kind of Delft Blue, but reinvented."

They encourage listeners to embrace decorative tiles to make bold statements in their kitchen designs.

10. Tips for Designing Backsplashes Without CAD

Addressing listeners who may not have access to CAD software, the hosts offer practical advice for designing backsplashes manually. They suggest using graph paper, creating mock-ups on the ground, and collaborating closely with trusted tile installers to achieve desired patterns and rhythms.

[24:41] B: "You could also put tape on the ground 20 inches high... you could play... get an overlap on the bottles and do a little better job of display."

11. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Wrapping up, Jessica and Suzanne reinforce the importance of personalization in backsplash choices, urging homeowners to select designs that reflect their individual tastes and lifestyles. They celebrate the return of tile backsplashes as both a functional and artistic element in modern kitchen design.

[35:44] B: "Guys, tile, it's back. I can't wait for you."

They conclude the episode by encouraging listeners to explore bold and exotic tile options to enhance their kitchen's personality and aesthetic appeal.

Notable Quotes:

• Jessica (A) [03:28]: "A backsplash is essentially an extension of your countertop... It can extend as low as a few inches off the wall or as high as the ceiling."

• Suzanne (B) [04:15]: "99.9% are these projects that have slabs as backsplashes, which means you're going to bring that same countertop material up..."

• Jessica (A) [14:07]: "Dal tile. And like most Pedrosians, everyone has a line that they have this tile, and it's usually in the 4x4, and it has that kind of undulation."

• Suzanne (B) [25:34]: "Are you matching the grout to the tile, or are you just doing, like, a nice neutral sort of that dark, taupe color that we love?"

Key Insights:

• Evolution of Backsplash Design: From functional but basic designs of the past to today’s expressive and artistic installations.

• Material Choices: Balancing aesthetics with practicality; opting for tiles over slabs can offer more design flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

• Design Techniques: Incorporating varied tile sizes and patterns to create visual rhythms and prevent monotony.

• Grout Considerations: Selecting grout colors that enhance rather than detract from the tile design; warm grays are versatile.

• Personalization: Emphasizing the backsplash as a key indicator of personal style and kitchen personality.

• Practical Tips: Utilizing manual design methods for those without access to digital tools; collaborating closely with experienced tile installers.

Conclusion:

This episode of Dear Alice serves as an invaluable resource for anyone looking to update or design their kitchen backsplash. By blending nostalgic elements with contemporary trends, Jessica and Suzanne provide a roadmap to creating a backsplash that is both functional and a true reflection of the homeowner's style.