Best backsplash for kitchen: What are the Best Backsplash Materials for Your Kitchen?

Making a kitchen apron from tiles can be called the most time-consuming. What is its main disadvantage. It will require preparatory work to level the walls, the help of a qualified specialist, and the laying process is associated with dirty work.

Also, during the move, a tile apron will definitely not be able to move with you.

However, an apron made of quality tiles from a good manufacturer will serve you up to 20 years .

Clinker apron

Clinker or clinker brick is so popular in the design of apartments and houses that it is not surprising to use it to decorate a kitchen apron.

Beautiful, textured, stylish, but rather porous finishing material. This means that it will absorb water, dirt, grease and quickly lose its attractive appearance.

Therefore, glazed clinker tiles are suitable for a kitchen backsplash. If we are not talking about a brutal Loft-style kitchen, then it is possible to cover the clinker with paint suitable for the operating conditions in the kitchen.

Apron made of MDF panels

MDF panels have been used in practice as a wall panel in the kitchen for quite a long time and have proven themselves on the good side. MDF panels can be from 3 to 10 mm thick. The top layer of such panels is a polymer film, which reliably protects the base from destructive external influences: water, dirt, hot steam and greasy contaminants. This film can have any color and pattern, be matte or glossy.

It is worth noting that MDF panels have a shorter service life than tiles.

Why are they chosen as the material for the apron?

There are a lot of arguments:

• Affordable price;

• Lungs;

• Do not require professional installation;

• No pre-preparation of walls required;

• Quick installation.

• A separate point is aesthetics. Such a fashionable now kitchen design with a working area, made in a single color. The table top and wall panel in the same shade of wood make up a single space, this is exactly what MDF panels are.

Stylish, beautiful, inexpensive and fast – an interesting option for a modern-style kitchen.

Glass kitchen apron

Skinali is an apron made of tempered glass, durable, reliable, which will withstand any test in the kitchen. Maybe this is the perfect material for a kitchen backsplash?

Initially, tempered glass began to be used as a protective coating for photo printing of a variety of designs: favorite flowers, fresh greenery, landscapes, fruits, or city views. And having shown such good results as a wall panel, glass has found wide application in kitchens, even in combination with other types of backsplash when additional protection is needed.

Unusual choice – metal, wood or stone

These types of materials that need additional fire and moisture protection include modern types of finishes for the kitchen apron, decorative plasters and natural wood.

You can protect the entire apron made of these materials with glass, or you can only protect the area behind the sink and stove.

Quite expensive options, but very beautiful and stylish, include an apron made of sheets of metal, such as copper, and natural stone: marble, granite or quartz.

A less expensive substitute for natural stone, but more reliable protection will be artificial stone. Modern technologies make it possible to bring artificial materials to characteristics that even outperform natural ones in terms of quality. Although for a large area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room, the option of a kitchen apron made of artificial stone will also cost a solid budget.

The choice of material for a kitchen apron is limited only by your imagination!

We embody any dream of an ideal kitchen!

Home comfort workshop Kitchens INVERNO – kitchens to order according to an individual project in Veliky Novgorod.

6 best aprons for the kitchen

All useful information about aprons for the kitchen in one review: how to choose, which options to pay attention to, how to care for, mount and what could be replaced.

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The best kitchen panels

The review includes both budget and premium collections of plastic, MDF, HDF and glass kitchen backsplashes. These are exceptionally high-quality models that have earned positive feedback from customers.

Reason to buy:

• Light thickness;
• Easy installation;
• Versatility.

The apron is made of HDF board, which is similar in characteristics to MDF, but due to the higher density it is 2 times thinner with the same strength. The top of the product is covered with a PET film, which is heat and moisture resistant.

Versatile beige ceramic brick design makes it suitable for most kitchen interiors. The glossy surface does not absorb dirt and is easy to clean.

Reasons to buy:

• 3D effect;
• Variety of patterns;
• Backlight.

The glass backsplash has an internal light that not only creates a 3D effect, but also replaces the lighting above the work surface. It does not fade with time of use. The picture applied using photo printing does not deteriorate either.

The apron is made of tempered glass. He is not afraid of moisture and temperature changes. Easy to clean, resistant to aggressive detergents.

The screen has no seams for maximum style and easy maintenance. As a drawing, you can use any photo, including ordering an individual production.

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Reasons to Buy:

• Light weight;
• Quality decor;
• 100% moisture resistant.

The company “Kronoplast” produces ready-made aprons for the kitchen with a universal size. They are made from ABS plastic, one of the best performing materials of all polymers.

The perfectly flat surface prevents the accumulation of dirt and makes cleaning quick and easy. The panel also withstands short-term heating up to 100 degrees.

The design is applied by thermal printing, which ensures its durability, good detail and color reproduction.

Reason for buying:

• Sleek design;
• Strong base;
• Two mounting options.

The apron is made of MDF board 6 mm thick. Standard dimensions allow you to install it in most kitchens – one panel is enough to decorate one small room.

The panel has a unique matte finish that visually and tactilely makes it look like stone. The marbled gray coloring is successfully combined with many interiors, both modern and classic.

Reasons to buy:

• Thin MDF;
• Juicy designs;
• Durability.

The apron is made from 4mm MDF board with a heat-resistant film coating. The special impregnation of the panels makes them resistant to moisture, the development of fungi and mold.

Panels can be framed or glued. The glossy finish protects them from fading and dirt accumulation. The apron is easy to clean and does not absorb odors.

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Reasons to buy:

• Large selection of colors;
• Thin panels;
• Light weight;
• Easy maintenance.

Stylish, expressive drawings with high detail have made Trebiti kitchen panels popular among buyers. In addition, they have a very affordable price, are resistant to high humidity, grease and other contaminants.

Light weight, slim body of only 1.7 mm, easy adhesive mounting allows panels to be installed without the help of professional fitters. Even a beginner will cope with the task.

How to choose an apron for the kitchen

Ready-made aprons for the kitchen can have both unusual and standard dimensions – 600×3000 mm. Universal option suitable for most typical kitchens. And non-standard panels should be selected according to their dimensions or made to order.

The main difference between kitchen backsplashes lies in the base material:

• Tempered glass is an eco-friendly material with a special style. It harmoniously looks in modern interiors, successfully combined with lighting. As a rule, glass is decorated with a film glued on the back.
• Plastic (usually ABS) is a lightweight and inexpensive material that can be printed with a variety of images. The thickness of such an apron does not exceed 1.5 cm. A heat-resistant varnish or a metallized coating is used as a protective layer.
• MDF – boards made of wood fibers, have a large thickness of 4-6 mm, are resistant to mold and bacteria, are protected from moisture by film, varnish and impregnations. They look “expensive” and are resistant to mechanical damage.
• HDF – boards similar in characteristics to MDF, which are also made from wood fibers, but have an increased density, which allows them to be made thinner. Optimal for kitchens in which every centimeter of space has to be saved.

If you need a budget version of an apron for the kitchen, you should pay attention to plastic panels. Glass skinals look good in modern kitchens. But MDF and HDF are universal. They are suitable for any interior – unless, of course, they fit into the budget, as they have a higher price.

Equally important is the right choice of design apron. For small kitchens, solid-color panels or with small prints are optimal – preferably in light shades. An apron with a large pattern will look harmonious only in large rooms. And the dark colors of the panels are suitable for well-lit kitchens.

Which is better for backsplash – ceramic tiles or prefabricated panels?

The main advantages of prefabricated panels, regardless of their material, are the speed and ease of installation with a minimum of requirements for wall preparation. Such aprons are able to hide minor irregularities in the base. In addition, the cost of many panels is often lower than that of tiles.

On the other hand, ceramics are truly durable. It has all kinds of sizes and designs, allows you to design any apron according to the configuration – even the most non-standard one. But it also has quite significant drawbacks:

• Difficult to stick by yourself;
• Expensive to have installation done by a specialist;
• The wall must be carefully prepared;
• We’ll have to take care of the seams.

It is impossible to answer unambiguously what is better. It all depends on the budget, design, requirements.

FAQ

What are kitchen aprons attached to?

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Mounting method depends on the type of splashback. It can be a frame, screws or glue. In this case, it is necessary to take into account not only the material of manufacture of the plates, but also their weight. So, for panels made of ABS plastic, a special adhesive for polymers is used. The best option for a glass apron is a hinged frame. MDF boards are mounted on a crate or liquid nails, less often on self-tapping screws.

What can replace standard panels?

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Designers offer many interesting ideas for those who consider glass, MDF, plastic, as well as ceramic tiles and mosaics to be obsolete. For example, you can paint the wall with slate paint, leave it concrete with a primer applied, cover it with ordinary transparent glass, under which you can paste wallpaper, lay it out with decorative stone, pebbles. In industrial style kitchens, a metal stainless panel will look organic.

How to care for a kitchen apron?

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To maintain the original appearance of the backsplash in the kitchen, it is important to clean it properly. The best option is to wipe it with a soft sponge or cloth immediately after using the stove, which will prevent the dirt from drying out and the need to use more aggressive substances.
Features of care may differ from the material used to make the apron, but the main rule for everyone is the same – do not use products with abrasives, hard metal washcloths and brushes. The scratches left behind will not only spoil the appearance of the panels, but will also lead to the accumulation of dirt in them, which will make cleaning even more difficult in the future.

150 ideas in 2022

Author Vitaly For reading 18 min Views 20.3k.
Updated 12/20/2021

Contents

Features

We are not talking about the overalls of the hostess in the kitchen, even if the purpose is almost the same. An apron is a covering over the work area that protects walls and furniture from steam, high temperatures, drops of grease and food. To adequately cope with this task, for its design it is necessary to choose a material with good characteristics, which does not deform over time, and is also amenable to care.

Although some designers prefer to use the finish on the entire area of ​​the wall, more often the backsplash stands out from the overall composition and serves as a striking detail through color, texture or pattern. You can buy the same finish as the countertop to harmonize the space.

Dark surfaces are considered less practical. But if the backsplash has a rich color, the rest of the room should be “muted”. Horizontal stripes will help visually stretch the room, and mirror finishes will add volume. Colorists recommend using warm shades, as food looks more appetizing against the background.

But these recommendations are very conditional, you need to move away from your design skills and tastes, since the range of materials is quite wide.

Technical features when choosing an apron

When choosing an apron, the size of the room is of great importance. The larger the kitchen, the less appliances will be on the countertop, and on the apron you can choose any ornaments and small motifs. If the area is small, be prepared for the fact that the entire table will be filled, and the apron itself will be covered with railings and objects on it. As a result, it will have a minimal number of designs or none at all.

Size range of aprons

The height of the apron varies from 50 to 65 cm, determine this parameter yourself, starting with what will be most convenient. Everyone’s height is different, and height preferences also vary. If the hood is domed instead of built-in, the trim needs to be extended another 20-30 cm.

This is an important point if you want to order tempered glass, which will cost more. Or, at your discretion, cover this piece with another material before pulling it out and attaching it nicely to the glass.

The apron must run around the entire perimeter of the kitchen unit, and not just behind the hob and sink. First, it’s cuter. And secondly, in these places there is always a danger of getting dirty or dirty with splashes of fat. And if there is no material that is easy to clean, all the beauty of the kitchen will fade in the best case for a year. In case the sink is in a corner, extend the backsplash to the next wall, this area is always the dirtiest.

Materials for kitchen apron

What are they and what to choose:

1. Ceramic tiles
2. Glass
3. Made of the same material as the countertop: laminated MDF or chipboard (postforming)
4. Mosaic
5. Plastic

and others. Only the first 3 are reasonable modern options. They meet all the requirements of sustainability and practicality, and the number of appearance variations tends to infinity.

The photo card is of poor quality and leaks on the glass. Plastic looks cheap and bad, you can always find cheap tiles that still look much better than plastic.

Ceramic tiles

Compare tiles with glass. Tile characteristics:

1. Huge selection of sizes, colors and textures.
2. Unlike glass, it can have a deep texture, which means it will look much cooler with the lighting that is almost always built into upper cabinets.
3. The reverse side is the seams between the tiles, which is not so important if you know how to choose a tile grout, but nonetheless.

Phototile

A full-fledged photo print on a tile is leaking onto a glass backsplash. If you want a design, you can order any and place it under glass. If we were talking about large areas like a bathroom wall, then yes, it might make sense in a photo tile, but not in a backsplash.

One of the advantages is the ability to make a drawing with your own hands, so that it is clear that the drawing is yours and unique. With a glass shell, this is also possible, but your work with tiles is perceived more interesting.

Glass aprons

Tempered glass skinali is a perfectly smooth and durable material for finishing an apron. Depending on the transparency, there are two options for glass surfaces: matte and glossy. And most importantly, under the glass you can place any image that you find on the Internet, with sufficient resolution.

Although my advice is to do color, not a photo or drawing. During operation there will be many items that will break the composition, and initially you can make a mistake with the choice.

These options without drawings are standard for high-tech kitchens.

Practicality rivals glass with tiles:

1. Easy installation for the customer: go to one place and order everything turnkey.
2. Smooth, non-porous surface, not suitable for dirt. Even if you don’t clean for a long time, you can always wash it back to its original state.
3. Unlimited possibilities – any image and photo.
4. Forgive the lack of texture variation – a smooth surface is very practical, but a deep texture can look very nice (especially when lit).

Less glass on the apron – price. Skinal costs an average of $30-60 per linear foot, which is comparable to the price of quality tiles. The price is adequate, because in all respects they compete on equal terms.

Stone apron

Stone as a facing material can be of two types: artificial and natural. The second option is used much less frequently, mainly because of the high cost, which does not correspond to the duration. But in order to ensure maximum environmental friendliness of the cladding, you can buy porcelain stoneware slabs. They are quite strong and durable.

Marble looks very noble, but under the influence of moisture quickly loses its attractiveness. Rational owners prefer artificial counterparts. Acrylic and quartz products do not absorb moisture, do not deform, and are also great for decorating countertops of the same shape.

Plaster backsplash can be considered on a par with the previous options if a protective varnish is applied. Designers do not recommend combining different types of stone in one space, especially in modern interiors.

Regardless of the origin of the material, its cost is higher than other products, and installation requires the intervention of professionals.

Steel backsplash

Such an element will perfectly fit into the interior of a high-tech, loft or minimalist kitchen, but if you wish, you can choose the appropriate option for classic trends. In general, a steel apron is still considered something exclusive. It gives the room a strict, elegant, even “official” look, which is why metal is often combined with “warm” wood.

Aprons are made from affordable stainless steel and more expensive copper. The texture is different: glossy, inside the mirror, or matte, forming a soft “glow”. A sheet of metal can cover the entire free area so that it does not form seams and creates a sense of solidity.

The work area will look even more spectacular if you install special lighting above it – the light from the spotlights, directed at the steel sheet, glows beautifully in the evening.

MDF and chipboard (postformed) kitchen apron

In general, it could be made from acrylic, but this is not economically feasible. But chipboard in terms of price / quality ratio is quite enough.

MDF and backsplash chipboard are used for both fronts and countertops. Postforming is a wood-based adhesive laminated on all sides with durable plastic. Countertops are made according to the same principle. Features:

1. Easy installation without prior wall alignment.
2. Same easy disassembly if needed.
3. Easy maintenance.
4. Possibility to realize false ceilings or facades precisely in terms of color and texture.
5. Economical in both price and appearance.

Porcelain stoneware apron

Porcelain stoneware contains two types of clay, quartz sand, silicates and coloring pigments. Each ingredient enhances the performance of the material as well as increasing the visual possibilities.

Due to the cost and complexity of installation, porcelain stoneware is often used to finish the entire wall, but where a particularly durable coating is required, you can limit yourself to just an apron.

This type of coating is good because it can be used to imitate any other material: for example, to engrave a wood texture that is less resistant to kitchen conditions, or expensive marble.

Brick apron

Brickwork is incredibly popular not only in the loft, but also in other interiors. At the same time, it is not necessary to use rough brick for decoration – you can create the desired texture using more practical materials that can cope with the role of a kitchen apron.

An elegant solution – a backsplash made of ceramic tiles. You can choose from a glossy or matte texture, as well as choose a custom color scheme. Artificial stone also has the desired effect, but it is recommended to worry about its preparation in advance.

If there is no need to imitate brickwork, then natural brick is suitable for decorating the working area. It is resistant to extreme temperatures, durable enough and requires no maintenance. Before buying, make sure that the surface is not rough, otherwise it will quickly absorb all kinds of dirt.

Mosaic

This option looks very interesting and relevant, but it has a serious nuance. Mosaic involves a huge number of seams. If an ordinary tile has 1 horizontal and 3-5 verticals, then a mosaic has hundreds of seams.

Therefore, the use of a regular shoot for a mosaic on an apron is a so-so option – it will lose its appearance very quickly. There remains an epoxy-based grout, but it is very expensive, it will take a lot and not all craftsmen know how to work with it. Therefore, either you have to fork out, or it is better to refuse the mosaic idea.

But there is an alternative version of the apron – pseudo-mosaic. This is a tile that outwardly imitates a mosaic with texture and pattern. Mosaic tiles will be much cheaper, the seam area on it will be ten times smaller, and this is important for an apron. If the tiler is experienced and the color of the grout can be exactly matched to the color of the false seams on the pseudo-mosaic, there will be almost no visual differences.

Mirror Apron

Mirrors are the rarest material for a kitchen splashback, although they can look luxurious. As an option – a mirror with a facet, but we are talking about a luxurious look, cooking in such a kitchen is problematic – cleaning will take the same amount of time.

Be careful when choosing mirrors for your work apron, as the reflective surface doubles the clutter on your desks. To avoid this feeling, you must always keep the kitchen in perfect cleanliness and do not leave unnecessary items on the surface. Of course, you can forget about the roof rails.

If you want glare and light, it is better to use glossy tiles or glass, mirrors are suitable only for a kitchen that is not used for its intended purpose at all.

Oilcloth

Yes, an apron can also be made from oilcloth. One of the cheapest options you can make yourself. All you need is to take the necessary measurements, choose the oilcloth itself, and then attach it to the wall using a furniture stapler.

This option will protect the walls from dirt and water, but for a gas stove it is better to choose another option – the oilcloth can be charred.

Choosing the best apron for any given situation is not easy. Most often, people are guided only by aesthetics, but do not forget about other points:

• balance;
• planned duration of use;
• kitchen style;
• complexity of repair and replacement;
• cleaning.

Focus on these factors, and the apron will delight you for many years.

Plastic backsplash

Plastic backsplash is an inexpensive option for finishing a working wall in the kitchen. The plastic panel has a modern look and is easy to assemble. In photographs, it is impossible to distinguish it from glass skin, but in real life it looks frankly worse. If there are financial problems, it is best to consider the option of postforming.

The most noticeable accent in the interior can be a kitchen apron, which, due to its small area, is not worth spending a lot of money on. The 2 best modern options are glass and tile.

Materials for the original apron

So, the basic ideas ended with how to decorate the apron. In addition, there will be only very original options.

Discs and pieces of dishes

This is where all the necessary and unnecessary junk comes into play: broken plates, whole plates, discs – all this is glued to the base, and tile grout. It looks spectacular, because it is simply impossible to find such a second apron.

But even here there is a problem with the seams, which will have to be cleaned frequently. In addition, CDs have a mirror surface, on which all drops and dust particles will be visible.

Slate board

A very original method is to make a slate board instead of an apron. All that is needed for this is to walk three times with slate paint over the required space. It is easy to care for – avoid using abrasive cleaners and hard sponges.

With the help of drawings on the board, you can change the appearance of the kitchen even every day – you definitely won’t get tired of it. It will look especially impressive in a white kitchen.

Pebbles

If you are a fan of pebbly beaches, then you can create such a corner in the kitchen. For example, in the form of an apron. But since the surface of the stone is uneven, but it will be very difficult to clean it, dust will get between the stones, and as a result, such a panel will quickly lose its original appearance.

Wine corks

Yes, too: smear the apron with wine corks. Moreover, they not only collect them themselves, but also buy them in bars and restaurants. To speed up the process, cut them in half to make it easier to stick to the backing.

Laying pattern is the same as for parquet. Only the material of the caps is porous, so washing them will be a big problem. You can resort to a permanent assistant – glass, but is it worth building an apron already thick? The wine cork idea works for the dining area, but for the work area in the kitchen.

Laminate or parquet

Laminate is preferred on a backsplash and is even more often cheaper than parquet. It is worth choosing high-class material (32-33) and good locks with moisture protection. You will have to lay it yourself, since ready-made laminate panels for the apron are not sold. Sticks to liquid nails.

The backsplash for parquet is made differently: first, the “matrices” are glued to the support with glue or liquid nails, then everything is painted and also attached to the wall. But on the stove, the paint can melt or crack, so this method is not suitable for everyone. You can cover the parquet with glass, but then the apron will turn out to be too thick – this is not suitable for everyone. But it looks very original.

Material requirements for backsplash

When choosing modules in the catalog of kitchen backsplashes, you need to pay attention to the characteristics of the selected material. The basis for creating a protective coating on the hob must meet a number of requirements:

Apron area, even in large kitchens, rarely exceeds 2 square meters. So you can buy expensive cool tiles and give the apron a really stylish look. It is stupid to miss such an opportunity: choosing more expensive facades or a countertop will cost a lot, and it is quite possible to spend money on 2 meters of an apron.

Tiles with imitation of wood, concrete and marble look beautiful, but only with imitation and texture, and not just with a pattern.

White pork is also still in vogue and probably won’t go out of style. Looks too elegant in both classic and modern styles. At the same time, there is no risk of looking bad – white pork is the most common and proven option.

1. Material strength. The robust construction makes the material resistant to mechanical deformations.
2. Waterproof. The presence of an apron implies frequent cleaning of the working area, which means that the upholstery does not have to be afraid of moisture.
3. Resistant to high temperatures. The heat from the stove can damage some of the materials that aprons are made from.

In addition, pay attention to the appearance, the presence of decorations and environmental performance. In the production technology, toxic and flammable paints and varnishes cannot be used.

Color composition for backsplash

The color scheme plays an aesthetic role in the interior of the kitchen. A variety of shades can both emphasize and spoil the overall design direction in the room. Therefore, the choice of colors is approached from a practical point of view.

Natural shades for backsplash

Chocolate, woody or walnut backsplash tones used to decorate a white kitchen. The combination of dark and calm tones and snow-white furniture has a beneficial effect on the mood and psychological mood of a person.

Blue and red colors

Saturated colors decorate kitchen aprons in light interior models. Bright colors allow you to highlight one or another area of ​​the kitchen, emphasize the original decor of the headset.

Apron White

All shades of white – cream with a bluish tint, cream with pink undertones – are used in contrast with dark colors. Most often, such compositions are used for high-tech and Scandinavian kitchens.

Rules for choosing a shade

How to choose the color of an apron for the kitchen? Experts advise to proceed from the shade of furniture, walls, floor and ceiling. What color to choose the material depends on many factors. By itself, it is already an independent element and should harmoniously fit into the overall look.

Combination with

The hood area looks attractive when selected and matches the shade of the façade of the headset. The rest is neutral. How to choose the right material depends on the countertop. They can be made of the same material, such as stone, or similar in texture and tone.

Finishing in different styles

An analysis of a particular direction helps to make a choice. Each style has its own characteristics that must be considered in order to understand which apron to choose.

Classic kitchen apron must be solid and match the color of the front side of the set. If the furniture is dark tones, then the wall decoration becomes light and vice versa. A white kitchen enhances contrast so all colors appear brighter.

Country music is reminiscent of a farm ranch, so stone, wood or imitation of natural materials are chosen here. Provencal style, on the contrary, involves the use of light colors and small elements. Mosaics, light tiles, MDF panels or glass are suitable here.

When decorating a room in a modern style, cladding can be done with rough plaster, sheet metal, brickwork or imitation wood.

Color tips

When deciding which backsplash to choose, room designers give their recommendations:

• materials for white are easier to assemble. An apron for a white kitchen should be chosen in light colors. This will make the space lively and cheerful.
• If the room is dark, the finish should be as light as possible. This technique will transform the room.
• The dark tones option is considered impractical, as all drops, dust and stains will be strongly visible on it.
• Muted shades of red and chocolate are suitable for a beige kitchen. To prevent the walls from blending in with the furniture, use opposite color options.
• Which is better for a red, yellow or orange kitchen? Here you should use a calm neutral color on the wall. To create a contrast, the wall is made completely white or black. But it is worth considering the features of the overall design.
• A green or blue surface looks bright from the start, so tiles or other finishes should set it off while maintaining the overall style. Do not forget about the compatibility of warm and cold shades.
• For a brown headset, a light tone glossy finish or brick style is suitable.
• Almost any option is suitable for a gray kitchen. The main thing is that warm tones are combined with warm, and cold tones are combined with cold. The photo-printed glass cover will help dilute the mouse color earphone.
• An apron for a black and white kitchen should repeat one of these tones or be bright. Red plastic or discreet brown tiles are in trend.
• If you want to highlight the suite, the wall should be done in neutral tones. In a room where there is not enough expressiveness, the wall in the working area should be highlighted with fancy upholstery that contrasts with the furniture.

When choosing a surface finish, it is important to keep the same style and combination with the work surface. View all cuisines

Selection rules

When deciding which apron to choose, some details are taken into account:

1. It should be in harmony with the overall interior, not be faded and not spectacular.
2. When choosing a shade, moderate tones are preferred. From the bright eyes quickly get tired.
3. For a brighter shade, use glossy finishes. Matte finish looks pale.
4. A large print in a large room can be lost or seem inconspicuous, in a small one – too voluminous.
5. To visually expand the space, draw a horizontal line along the perimeter on the wall.
6. A glass or mirror backsplash will make the room look bigger. But it quickly gets dirty and requires special care.
7. When tiling, it is worth choosing a square-shaped material (the size can be any). Looks more aesthetic.
8. Tiles must be purchased at a premium. This is due to the fact that it is quite fragile, with inaccurate processing, cracks and chips may appear on it. Moreover, products of different batches may differ in shade.
9. Smooth surfaces are easier to maintain as dirt accumulates even on the smallest irregularities.

Installing a backsplash

The choice of how to install the lining depends on the chosen material:

1. Coverings such as stone, decorative shawls or mosaic structures require more than just expert help. In this case, the alignment and plastering of the walls will become an obligatory stage of repair work.
2. Plastic, MDF and some tiles do not require pre-treatment.

In other cases, the amount of preparatory work will depend on the quality of the wall cladding, the presence of structural defects and the presence or absence of a complex pattern on the apron.

The backsplash over the hob is an extremely important element of the kitchen interior. The decorative coating performs not only a practical function, but also plays an aesthetic role, emphasizing the style features.

Photo of an apron for the kitchen

Which apron for the kitchen is better, photo, options, how to choose

Kitchen apron is an indispensable attribute of kitchen design, practical and beautiful at the same time. Thanks to him, the wall near the working area is reliably protected, and the interior is diluted with a decorative detail. In addition, it can be used to correct the geometric disproportionality of the room.

There are several types of backsplash that allow you to embody almost any idea in kitchen design. To decide which apron to choose, you need to consider what types of materials are best to use.

Varieties of kitchen aprons

1. 1. Ceramic tiles.
   2. Available in plain and tempered glass.
   3. Made of natural or artificial stone (porcelain stoneware).
   4. Made of natural wood or fibreboard (chipboard, MDF).
   5. Plastic apron.
   6. Metal apron.
   7. Made with wallpaper or paint.

Each of the above materials may well be used to design an apron for the kitchen, and read on about the advantages and disadvantages of each type.

Ceramic backsplash

One of the most successful and practical options, a constant companion of a kitchen interior in a classic or Provence style.

Advantages of ceramic tiles:

• Durability: has a service life of 15-20 years.
• Hygiene: is easy to care for and does not harbor germs and fungus.
• Moisture resistance: is ideal for such purposes to choose non-porous, glazed tiles.
• Decorative: attractive appearance and the ability to embody any ideas in design.
• Heat resistant. The tile can be used near the hob, it will not crack, and cleaning up grease splashes on the ceramic surface is not difficult.

Ceramic tiles have an excellent price-performance ratio and are ideal for Provence or classic kitchens. However, there are some downsides to this option as well.

Ceramic apron always looks good

Disadvantages:

• Labor-intensive installation. Often, for these purposes, you have to hire a specialist, which will increase the cost.
• The need for surface preparation before installation, as this will affect not only the appearance, but also the durability of the structure.
• The price in most cases will be relatively high (depending on the type of tile).

Also, some inconvenience will be the need to adjust the height of the apron according to the size of the tile. Fortunately, such a wide range is on sale that choosing the right model is not difficult.

There are certain types of ceramic tiles, such as mosaic tiles. You will have to tinker with the installation, but the result will be amazing. Such a design will be truly unique, even in spite of the style in which the kitchen will be decorated. Mosaic tiles are a great option for interior design trends such as Art Nouveau and Provence.

Tempered glass

Glass backsplash for the kitchen has an exotic name “skinali” and is not inferior in strength to the ceramic version. It is made using special tempered glass. It is impossible to accidentally damage or break it, while a good manufacturer provides a guarantee of up to 15 years for its products.

Skinali – a modern and original version of the apron

On the reverse side of the glass, any image or photo is applied to the kitchen apron, which also has a warranty period of at least 5 years. This significantly increases the already rather big cost, but an attractive appearance easily compensates for these costs.

Skinali looks amazing in any interior. Usually the image is selected according to the chosen direction. In modern styles – modern and art deco, bright and slightly expressive drawings harmoniously look. Provence, decorated with a plain light apron or a model with an unobtrusive pattern, will become simple and homely. An ethnic-style kitchen will also need such a decoration, which, with a sufficiently skillful choice, will become the main touch of originality.

Skinali advantages:

• durability;
• durability;
• decorative;
• hygiene;
• the ability to embody almost any design ideas for an apron.

What is the biggest disadvantage of skinning? Of course, quite a high cost. You can choose simpler options, for example, from plexiglass, but such a surface will quickly become scratched and lose its beauty.

Kitchen backsplash stone models

Natural stone is great for wall decoration, but its artificial counterpart has better strength and hygiene characteristics. In addition to the natural porosity, which will already make maintenance difficult, it is difficult to choose a natural stone by shade. This creates problems in interior design and will not allow the implementation of some ideas.

Decorative stone will bring originality to the atmosphere of the kitchen

Quartz agglomerate or porcelain stoneware is free from these shortcomings, it is extremely durable and hygienic. Such an apron will decorate the kitchen in any style, it is perfect for the laconic execution of minimalism and will make Provence as comfortable as possible. A great idea would be to make an apron and countertops in a single composition. The only drawbacks that artificial stone can be blamed for are the significant cost of acquisition and the need for qualified installation.

Wood and its analogues

Unfortunately, not everyone can afford natural wood. A common and more inexpensive option would be to use fiberboards made using special technologies from wood waste.

For connoisseurs of natural materials

Well-known chipboard boards have low resistance to moisture and are not usually used as a backsplash. More practical and rational will be its modern counterparts, for example, MDF. The cost of such an apron will be slightly higher than traditional plywood, but unlike other options, it is more affordable.

Advantages of MDF:

• beautiful design;
• strength and reliability;
• the possibility of self-manufacturing and installation;
• excellent resistance to moisture and water.

Wood and wood look best in classic and rustic interiors. It is not forbidden to decorate the Provence-style interior with such an apron.

Plastic kitchen apron

This option appeared relatively recently, but almost immediately became popular. This can be explained by the affordable cost, which will not make a tangible “hole” in the family budget. An important factor will be the unusually attractive models of colored aprons and the ability to realize any ideas by choosing the image you like.

Plastic panels look quite harmonious

It is not very suitable for some interiors, for example, it is worth trying hard so that the plastic looks harmoniously in a Provence style kitchen. The design of such a room will require more traditional materials. But for ultra-modern hi-tech or modern, it fits perfectly.

Metal kitchen apron

Metal sheets are rarely used for this purpose. The advantages of this option are more than offset by the disadvantages, so metal aprons are a rarity in kitchen design.

Metal looks impressive, but is not particularly practical

Advantages of metal:

• light weight;
• easy installation;
• additional space expansion thanks to the mirror effect.

Cons of a metal apron:

• high cost of a quality model;
• rapid loss of attractive appearance;
• difficulty in care;
• chance of corrosion.

Wallpaper or painting

These types of kitchen aprons are no longer relevant, as they are not a very reliable and durable option, especially since more suitable materials now exist.

Important nuances of installing an apron

You can install it yourself if you are confident in your abilities

• Sealing joints. There are special borders on sale that skillfully mask the joints with the wall and countertop. The best option would be gluing with a sealant or waterproof silicone, on top of which such borders can be installed. This measure is simply necessary to prevent water and dirt from entering the walls of the furniture set.
• Fewer seams, better kitchen apron. Thus, the likelihood of stubborn dirt and a quick loss of an attractive appearance is reduced. It is best to make an apron from a single plate in which the required configuration is cut. For ceramic tiles, it is necessary to use a good waterproof grout, but sometimes it is necessary to replace it.
• Small stock. When planning the location of the wall cladding and furniture set, the material should be calculated so that the kitchen apron goes a little under the upper and lower cabinets, countertops and other surrounding objects. In this way, unaesthetic areas of the bare wall can be avoided, which will provide additional hygiene and just hedge against incorrect measurements.
• Non porous material. An absolutely smooth, waterproof and non-porous surface is optimal. Textured materials for design ideas are best used on furniture facades or when decorating walls, and it will be more practical to make an apron for the kitchen as smooth as possible.

There is no doubt that a kitchen apron is essential. It not only provides protection for the work area, but also actively participates in creating a unique and beautiful design. Thanks to this attribute, you can diversify the interior at minimal cost and make it truly stylish and cozy.

The use of various materials will make it possible to present interiors in a different style more advantageously: from trendy high-tech to cozy and homely Provence. If you choose a kitchen apron taking into account all the design features of the room, then this will be a good opportunity to bring your own ideas to life and try on the role of a designer.

Choosing an apron for the kitchen: color, budget, design

Tips

Modern kitchen – all in sight. The trendy open floor plan and popularity of studios turns home cooking into a cooking show that can be watched from the dining room or living room. And if we are talking about a show, then the “stage” should be designed appropriately. And the kitchen apron plays one of the main roles here: after all, it is he who serves as the backdrop for the entire culinary action. At the same time, it must also fulfill its intended purpose: to serve as protection for the wall from splashes, stains, grease, and steam. We asked interior designers Emily Henderson, Bobby Berk and Katie Hodges to share their experience and advice on how to choose a stylish and trendy backsplash that is both practical and trendy kitchen design. So let’s go!

COLOR

Emily Henderson

The choice of backsplash depends on the worktop. “It’s obvious, but it’s a fact: the first thing you have to decide is whether you want the backsplash and countertop to be made in the same color and style, or, on the contrary, contrast with each other, such as a white marble countertop with black tiles “.

Design by Anastasia Brandt. A stylish black apron contrasts with the white facade.

Do not follow fashion trends. “Fashion and trends often force us to act contrary to our tastes and preferences. But tile is not a dress that can be easily replaced; re-laying it will cost too much. Therefore, if you are not sure that you really like the decor or ornament that is fashionable this season, do not risk it. Better follow your heart and do what you really like, even if it’s not fashionable.

Please check the tile samples before purchasing. “Like with paint, lighting greatly affects our perception of the color of a tile, and it can look different at different times of the day. Therefore, I suggest taking samples of the tiles you want to buy from the store and leaning them against the wall on which they will be laid. If you already have a kitchen brought in or have a sample of countertops on hand, see how they work together with tiles. If you are buying handmade tiles, please be aware that it can be very different even from the test samples, since each piece is unique.”

Designed by Alena Skovorodnikova. The kitchen apron is lined with multicolored handmade ceramic tiles.

A kitchen apron doesn’t have to be boring. “If you love color, think colorful tiles. Even if we are talking about a rented apartment, where, perhaps, other people with different tastes will later live, do not be afraid to experiment. After all, now you live here!

Details and texturesA “If, on the contrary, you are not a fan of bright colors, but want something more than a simple white tile on the wall, pay attention to tiles with an unusual texture. Even the simplest plain tiles can have beautiful bevelled edges, hand-glazed or unusual textures that mimic wood or, say, fabric. This way you can keep the overall color neutral but create an impactful, visually appealing surface.”

Take your grout color seriously. “Things can go to hell if you pick the wrong grout color. Please note that contrasting grout visually highlights the tile, its installation and pattern. On the other hand, a tile matched to the color gives your kitchen backsplash more expressiveness and texture. I would recommend consulting the tile seller on this matter.

Bright apron: yes or no? “Even if you like bright colors and catchy ornaments, I would advise you not to make the apron too provocative. Still, it is better to stick to calm, neutral shades – blue, greenish, rusty, sandy. They will allow you to painlessly change the style of the interior of your kitchen in the future without having to re-tile the wall. If you choose hot pink or, say, crimson red for the apron, it will be more difficult to adapt to future changes.

Whether you like fun colors or psychedelic wall art, choose a neutral backdrop for your backsplash so you can enjoy it for years to come.

WHITE APRON

Emily Henderson

The choice of white tiles depends on the style of your kitchen. “For more traditional kitchens, ivory tiles with a matte finish are best. For a modern minimalist interior – glossy sterile white tiles.

Pay attention to the shades. “Which kitchen would you like: dazzling white or a softer milky white? This is the question you should ask yourself before buying white tiles. If you want something bright and dazzling, choose a cool white with a bluish tint. For a softer range, warm, yellowish (but without obvious yellowness!) Tones close to the color of baked milk are suitable.

Don’t forget the frosting. “Glaze also affects the color of white tiles. Decide if you wanted a super glossy apron or something more matte.

Consider other materials you choose. “If you have a lot of warm materials (natural wood, textiles) in your kitchen, it makes sense to “dilute” them with colder white so that the space does not look too yellow. Always test white tiles on site before purchasing and installing.”

White boar tile? Why not. The main thing is to choose the shade that best suits your kitchen, paying attention to warmth, tone and glaze.

DESIGN

Bobby Burke

Start with your kitchen layout. “If your kitchen does not have upper cabinets, you can put an apron all the way to the top, which will visually increase the height of the ceilings in the room. The same goes for open shelving: you can fill the entire wall with tiles down to the bottom shelf. Let the space itself dictate the design.”

Here’s a simple tip from Bobby Burke: If you lay tiles all the way to the ceiling, your kitchen will look taller.

Think about what an apron should bring to the look of your kitchen. “Analyze the room and decide if you want to create the illusion of more width or more height. The pattern and tile laying will depend on this. Of course, there are always exceptions to this rule, but usually tiles are laid in the same way throughout the kitchen:

• Horizontal laying visually expands the room, but reduces its height.
• Vertical, on the contrary, narrows and makes it visually taller.
• Checkerboard pattern creates a classic, clean look
• Herringbone works well on an accent wall where there isn’t too much of it. In this case, you should be guided by the principle Less is More (“better less is more”).

Apartment on Chistye Prudy in Moscow. Designed by Daria Russu.

BUDGET

Cathy Hodges

Which tile is better: expensive or cheap? “It all depends on your preferences and the overall design of the kitchen. I like to use medium to high priced handmade tiles. It is expensive, but very high quality, and looks unique” ( You can find such tiles at the Greta Wolf company, www.gretawolf.ru, or from Russian artisans, for example, in the Cezzle workshop, www.cezzle.com ).

What to consider when choosing. “First of all, it is worth understanding for yourself what your kitchen design will be built around: whether it will be kitchen furniture, natural stone floors or tiles. Once you decide this, it will be easier for you to calculate expenses and prioritize expenses. For example, if beautiful solid walnut kitchen cabinets become the main “hero” in your kitchen, it probably makes no sense to spend money on an insanely expensive apron. For him, a budget neutral tile is suitable, which will not distract attention from the headset. But if you are not limited in funds, you can choose more chic options – the main thing is that they fit the style of your kitchen and the entire interior. Most kitchen aprons have a height of up to 60 cm, this is not such a large area, so it’s better to immediately estimate the total cost, and proceed from these figures in your calculations.”

Designed by Margarita Mustafina. Oriental motifs were embodied in the original solution of the apron.

How to save money on an apron .

• Lay tiles vertically. This creates a clean silhouette.
• Choose custom shapes. Large mosaic or hexagonal tiles are good options.
• Use non-white grout. Silver gray and natural gray are my favorite grout colors that can create contrast without being too flashy.”

More expensive options. “If the question is not worth the money, choose handmade tiles. The beauty of this tile is that you will not find two identical products here. When editing, they give the finest play of tones and midtones, which looks simply amazing. Especially when the light hits the wall at an angle. Another good option is a tile with a pattern made to order in an individual color. And, finally, you can choose a glazed “boar” tile. It comes in different shades of white and creates a trendy retro look these days.”

Project by designer Nadia Zotova. An apron with openwork golden tiles reminds of the warmth of Morocco.

Tags

• tips
• Kitchen
• Tile
• kitchen design
• kitchen apron

Publication date:

04/16/2021

Material prepared:

Olga Songe

The requirements for the material for a backsplash have long ceased to be limited to practicality and durability: today the wall above the countertop is also a decorative element that can take the interior to a new level or create a wow effect in it. What materials do the pros prefer – we tell.

Ella Tarasenko: “An unexpectedly practical and effective option is a bare brick of the kitchen wall”

“I am convinced that the choice of material for finishing the backsplash should depend on the concept of the project and, which is also important, on the functionality of the kitchen. This moment can be key. Therefore, I always think about how customers live.

For example, in a family where there is a lot of cooking, a material that is convenient for quick cleaning will be useful: large-format and small-format porcelain stoneware or natural stone, which is very close to me.

Kitchen interior. Project author: Ella Tarasenko.

An unexpectedly practical and incredibly effective option is the bare brick of the kitchen wall, it is especially suitable for apartments in historical buildings – the kitchen literally turns into an art object.

On the other hand, if the hostess prefers to use the oven, you can choose the backsplash more boldly: use stone or metal imitation plaster.

The most difficult to care for, but also the most impressive aprons are made of sheet metals such as copper, brass and stainless steel. They are suitable for houses with large areas, where, in addition to the working kitchen of the staff, the owners design a less practical (but rather aesthetic) kitchen area, which is used on special occasions. A sheet metal apron can also be a beautiful solution for the kitchen of a bachelor who rarely cooks or a girl who is not burdened with everyday life.

Arina Volkova: “I love working with tiles and porcelain stoneware”

“There are quite a few options for finishing an apron. I think that the most popular answer among designers will be quartz agglomerate. He is loved for strength, size, availability. But plasters, glass and plastics are long gone due to their fragility and impracticality.

Natural stones will always be relevant. Of course, among them there are both capricious care and more practical options. Granite, marble, onyxes are always beautiful. Nothing beats the beauty of natural materials.

I love working with tiles and porcelain stoneware. Ceramics is affordable, easy to clean, has a huge number of options for colors, textures, formats, patterns. The apron can look like stone, concrete, like textiles, have any pattern and at the same time be durable and easy to clean.

Large format porcelain tiles have been on the market for a long time. For me, he is now in first place in the decoration of aprons and countertops. It’s all about a single pattern over the entire area, the absence of seams, a strong, even surface. This is a story about the perfect combination of architectural principles: usefulness, strength and beauty.”

Maria Filshtinskaya: “We use natural stone in our projects”

“The designers of our studio prefer natural materials. A kitchen backsplash is no exception, and one of the best options for finishing it is natural stone. It will withstand both temperature changes at work surfaces and moisture. In our projects, we use marble, granite, onyx, quartzite and other durable materials that, depending on the design, complement the space.

But there is no better or worse material – we select an apron depending on the type of countertop, the overall design and the wishes of the customer. It can be a contrasting solution – a black burnt granite countertop, and an apron made of Calacatta Gold, which is softer in texture and color. You can use one material on the countertop and apron, thereby visually expanding the work area.

In addition to solid slabs, it is also possible to use stone tiles or mosaics with various laying and polishing options. By the way, if after a long time in use a natural stone loses its smoothness and tarnishes, it can be polished – this will return it to the appearance of a new product.

More and more customers are now looking at kitchen space not only as an area for active cooking, but as a relaxation area where you can have a bite to eat, drink light drinks and spend time with your family. Therefore, more often requests are received for the design of the kitchen area as a separate space. At the same time, the kitchen apron can act as the very “accent”. In this case, we suggest using a metal sheet treated in a special way, which creates the effect of its oxidation and makes a unique pattern that has its own life. For the possibility of operation in domestic conditions, the sheet is processed with special means that preserve its appearance. Such an unusual apron is not only practical, but also makes the kitchen area a place of attraction.”

Daria Pushkina: “Tiles are so diverse and traditional that they cannot lose their relevance”

“My favorite technique now is to use the same material for the backsplash and countertop, if it is made of artificial stone, quartz or large-format ceramics. This allows you to create a single niche and not split up the volume and composition, which looks aesthetically pleasing. Also, these materials allow you to make the apron seamless, and this is hygienic and easy to clean.

The next priority material is tiles: they are so diverse and traditional that they cannot lose their relevance. For an apron, you can use ceramic tiles, different types of handmade tiles, as well as cement and metlakh tiles – you only need to know the nuances in processing the last two.

The advantages of tiles, in addition to a huge selection of shapes and shades, are also that most often it is more budgetary than many alternative materials – an apron made of even expensive tiles will cost less than an apron made of artificial stone, quartz, and especially ceramics.

The downside is the inevitable presence of seams, which will require a little more effort in cleaning. And here it is very important to choose the right grout – epoxy, not cement, and also not snow-white and not very light easily soiled.

If I have a backsplash in my project, I tend to choose one that is close in tone to either the countertop or kitchen fronts to avoid unnecessary contrasts, especially with overhead cabinets. If you need to emphasize the apron and highlight it from the total volume, then the countertop and kitchen fronts should be made similar or the same in color. Although there may be exceptions here, and one should proceed from the characteristics of the space and the materials used.

Lyudmila Verba: “I consider artificial acrylic stone (Corian) to be optimal for finishing the backsplash area in the kitchen”

“I consider artificial acrylic stone (Corian) to be one of the best solutions for finishing the backsplash area in the kitchen. I see a lot of advantages of this material. Firstly, acrylic stone can be thermoformed – it can be used to make countertops with curved shapes and rounded corners.

Secondly, there are no microscopic pores in the structure of acrylic stone, which are typical for natural materials, which means that acrylic stone has high hygienic and operational properties. The surface of the acrylic stone countertop is easy
cleanable, it is impervious to bacteria.

Acrylic stone is also much “warmer” to the touch than any natural stone, seams are absolutely not visible during joining, the material is resistant to mechanical stress, and scratches on its surface are easily polished. It is very difficult to get chips on an acrylic stone.

Another advantage of the material is a wide range of colors. Artificial stone can be monophonic, repeat the structure
natural stone and even have decorative inclusions.

A fragment of the kitchen. Design: Ludmila Verba.

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