We Answer Wednesday - Contemporary Backsplash Ideas

“My home is mostly contemporary style with some pops of colour throughout. I am planning to add a back splash to my kitchen in the near future but want to make sure it’s a similar style to the rest of my home. What are some contemporary tiles I could consider?”

Great question! There are so many great products on the market, we know the choices can be overwhelming. A lot of these tiles can be laid in different patterns, some more contemporary than others. Clean lines and a monochromatic colour scheme are what helps to define what a contemporary design is.

Here are some great options for a contemporary back splash:

Subway Tiles: Probably the most popular choice for a contemporary space.. Subway tiles come in many colours and sizes. You can get smaller or larger. 4x16 or 2x3 and many sizes in between. They come beveled or with a slight texture. They can be laid in a classic brick pattern or for a more contemporary look, try them straight laid. These are a simple, clean option that will brighten up any space. The flexibility to lay them in a variety of patterns makes them a super versatile option for your space. 

 

Mosaic Tiles: Depending on the colour palette that you chose, this can vary from a traditional tile to a contemporary tile. Again, a monochromatic colour scheme is more contemporary than a variety of bright colours. Sticking to neutrals and shades is sure way to keep the style consistent. 

 

Textured Tiles: All tile doesn’t have to be flat and boring. Adding a wavy geometric tile that is raised adds a different dimension to your design. If you’re a person who likes a monochromatic colour scheme this is probably the best option for you.

  

Slabs: Adding a solid slab to your back splash is definitely a pricier option, but it is very contemporary, depending on the piece you choose. A marble or solid colour (with subtle veining) is a great choice for a contemporary space. It’s important to ensure that that it complements the existing counter top. The colour and material needs to flow together to make the space look harmonious.

 

Glass Tiles: Adding a simple, straight or brick laid glass tiles with a subtle colour is a great look for someone who is a little bit more edgy. This option pairs great with high gloss cabinetry. Neutrals are great too! Glass tile comes in many soft colours such as sea foam, aqua and so many other shades. The colour options are truly endless!

 

We Answer Wednesday - Kitchen Backsplash

I moved into my townhouse a year ago.  I love my kitchen!  it's white with light grey counter top and grey tile floor.  This summer I want to add a back splash but I'm not sure what to choose.  Any advice?

A white kitchen is classic and a great choice for a smaller space.  It's light and bright and in terms of resale, it has mass appeal. Adding a backsplash is a simple update that isn't disruptive to your life at home. A backsplash in a kitchen is like adding jewelry to an outfit - it really pulls it all together.  This year in tile it was all about shape, the colours were all neutral but the shapes were the focus.

For a back splash, you have lots of options.



Subway tile - this is a classic and you cannot go wrong with this option.  Seen here in a brick or staggered formation it mimics the look of brick.  A typical subway tile is 3" x 6" but there are variations in size.  In terms of colour - a soft grey is a good neutral option as is white but you could also go with a charcoal for a more dramatic look.  If you are thinking you might sell in about 3-5 years choose something with some longevity like a neutral tone.



Stainless Steel Tile - this has a bit more of an industrial edge.  This material works well in a kitchen as it's easy to clean and maintain.  You will also have a lot of shapes and sizes to choose from.  This also looks great in a kitchen that has stainless steel appliances. 



Glass mosaic tile - this option was super popular a few years ago.  This is still seen today but more tone on tone like the image here.  Various shades of grey and a mix of clear and frosted glass.  Again, a soft look with a bit of texture and shine - ideal for a smaller kitchen.

 

Marble tile - Marble is so classic and elegant but we have been seeing it in more modern and contemporary spaces, too.  It is a material that requires a lot of maintenance when installed as a counter top but as a back splash not to so much.  The natural variation and veins make it visually interesting and it look amazing when paired with grey and white.



Hexagon tile - a popular shape in 2015 for backsplashes and floors.  Try this in a neutral tone and it will give even the most 'tired' kitchen a fresh look.  The shape is interesting  but not over the top.  Hexagon tiles also look incredible in bathrooms too, in a shower as an accent or on the shower floor. 



Herringbone formation - still looking for something a bit different but not totally off the wall? Try a herringbone formation.  Using a subway tile, instead of staggering the tile you lay it in a 'zig zag' format.  Herringbone is a pattern we often see in menswear but we are seeing it in tiles.  Stick with a neutral colour palette and a grout that is a few shades lighter (or darker) than the tile so that the pattern shows.  This also looks great on a floor with a 12 x 24 tile.



Arabesque tile - this is a shape that's recently popular.  It adds an elegant touch to a kitchen.  Again, use a grout with some pigmentation so that the shape is evident.  It's lovely in white and soft grey.

Home Staging Tips for the Kitchen

We all know the importance of the kitchen.  It is the heart of the home and when it comes to the real estate market it is a hot spot.  Meaning it is one of the top areas that buyers are looking at when it comes to shopping for a new home. So when it comes to prepping your home for the resale market do not over look the kitchen.  In fact really focus on highlighting it's features and making it look it's best!

Here are some ideas

1.  Add some colour.  Yes, you need to declutter those counter tops but add a few splashes of colour here and there.  it will add warmth to the room and photograph well. When we stage a property, we use kitchen accessories like cookbook, small plants and fruit.



2.  Bring attention to the features like an island.  Have matching stools at your island, enough that they fit comfortably (approx 2 feet per stool) and be sure that the stools aren't overly bulky for the island either.  Also play with some colour with flowers so maybe even place settings





3.  Set the scene.  If you have a dining or eat-in area in the kitchen space - show it off!  Set the table or add a simple centerpiece to bring focus to the area.  Be sure that the furniture fits nicely in the space - not too big, not too small.





4.  Need some updates on a tight budget? Try smaller budget updates that make an impact like new hardware - an easy install and easy to find in a hardware store.  Update lighting too - over the island, in the eat in area and in the kitchen. The faucet may also benefit from an upgrade too





5.  Keep it clean and clutter free.  Remove notes and flyers, magnets, coupons etc...from your fridge surface it looks messy and cluttered.  Plus it takes away from the rest of the kitchen - it's distracting




 6.  Lighten and brighten.  A dark, dreary kitchen is never a turn-on so keep it light and bright.  Be sure your lighting is on full working order - no broken fixtures or burnt out bulbs but think about paint!  A fresh coat of paint is an instant facelift and in a kitchen it's a pretty easy project.  Stick to light neutral tones and it will add instant life to your kitchen


 

7.  Counter top upgrade.  Many buyers are looking for stone counter tops.  Granite and quartz are items that will help sell your home faster. Consider installing granite or quartz but if you can't afford it, try getting a quote for buyers - your agent can pass it along to those who are interested.



8.  Install a simple back splash.  If your home doesn't have a back splash - consider installing one.  Again, stick with something neutral and timeless, subway tile is an affordable option and it is a classic plus it works with every style.  a back splash can set you apart from the competition, too, many newly built town homes in suburban communities a back splash is an 'extra' so many buyers don't get one.  Stand out from the crowd!



9. Show off functionality.  Small kitchens can still be functional it's all about storage and set up.  If you are lacking in storage or surface space try adding a furniture piece that can offer both.  In this image - this 'mobile' island offers a great prep or serving space (add a chair) plus it has a lower shelf that has some storage.  This piece is perfect because it doesn't add bulk and the reflective surface adds some brightness too



When it comes to staging your home from the resale market - turn that kitchen into a dream kitchen !  Be sure to include a good clean and fixing any small repairs like shipped doors, squeaky hinges, loose knobs, leaky faucet and more....

Spice up your kitchen walls!

Paint is pretty and a perfect (and easy) way to transform any wall but check out these unique accent walls in the kitchen....


Tile has so many possibilities - flooring, counter tops and back splash so why not take it to the next level and create an accent wall in the kitchen with tile.  Tiles comes in so many different styles ranging from modern to traditional, a tile accent wall can add visual interest to any space.  Mosaics can add both pattern and colour, glass can add sparkle and shine and textured tiles can give a 3-D effect to your space.....

 

Nature lover?  Bring the outdoors in with natural tumbled stone like Sonoran stone (seen below).  It adds a lot of visual interest to the room with texture and warmth.  The tones in the stone really compliment the wood stain in the kitchen and the accents of black in the lighting and the seating give a bit more depth.  The contrast of the rustic elements and the streamlined furniture and cabinets. This stunning kitchen is warm and cozy and almost takes you away to an Italian villa

 


Classic and timeless and so luxurious....marble.  The marble backsplash in this kitchen has been carried right up to the ceiling and over to the window giving the entire space an elegant look and feel.  the soft grey veins in the marble have been accented with stainless steel elements like the over sized hood fan, stools and light fixtures plus the charcoal quartz counter top gives a bit of depth to the colour palette. The floor to ceiling marble gives this classic kitchen a slight modern (but timeless) edge.

 


 Want to take the industrial look to a new level?  How about covering your walls with corrugated metal?  Texture and shine plus it's easy to clean and maintain.  Paired with over sized pendant lighting and reclaimed wood gives this kitchen a warehouse look and feel.  This would really suit and open layout in a loft space.  This could also work nicely outside of the kitchen in a modern design home.



 


 Looking for some natural yet modern edge to your kitchen?  Stainless steel is great but how about wood panels, modern wood panels.  The natural grain add visual interest and wood adds a lot of warmth to any space. Paired with the white cabinetry and dining chairs and anchored with black counter and floating shelves this kitchen is sleek and chic, minimal with a touch of retro



 





 Here's a kitchen with lots of bold pop!  A Kelly green island with butcher block, over sized commercial grade stainless hood fan with a marble back splash and a floral wall paper accent gives this kitchen a ton of character.  A little eclectic but lots of fun!

Hot Look - Colourful Kitchens

If you are considering a major kitchen renovation or just a small update, have you considered colour in your kitchen?  White and Wood are classic and cool but colour in the kitchen is a great way to surround yourself with some real personality.  This is a great option is you have an older home or a newer more modern home, and this is also a great idea if you have a rental property that needs some sprucing up - it gets you a new kitchen without breaking the bank.

A few tips for colourful cabinetry.

1 - Keep everything else in the space neutral.  So the back splash, the counter top and the floors need to play a supporting role.

2.  Pick a colour that works with the time period of your home and your current decor.  If you have an older home, try looking at Historical Collection colours.  If you have a more modern space you can go in just about any direction (time period wise) so try and keep it in line with your decor.

3.  Painting a room is different that painting a cabinet, so ask for professional advice before starting or look into having it professionally done.

4.  And if you are not sure about committing to colour try it out on an island or perhaps just the lower cabinets.  These colours paired with classic white and wood work beautifully (see the image with white and black cabinets)

Some favourtite colour choices-

Yellow look great paired with slate grey or black accents.  Yellow can look a bit country but paired with those darker accents gives it more of a contemporary flair with warmth

- Custard cream (6093-42) Sico
- June day (SW6682) Sherwin-Williams

 

Buttercream is softer than white and prettier than vanilla, it looks like first daylight coming through the window.

- Italian Straw (POR-1752-000) Pratt & Lambert
- Acacia (50YY 83/200) CIL
- Warm Hug (111-2) Beauti-Tone

 

Cornflower Blue is a versatile shade that can swing from beach to modern, it just depends on how you style it.  It also makes warm metal look especially beautiful.

- Demi-Lune (6009-42) Sico
- Strong Winds (P5101-52) Para Paints
- Cook's blue (237) Farrow & Ball



Leaf Green is a bold and crisp colour but still livable, it adds a fresh spring feel all year long.

- Baby Fern (2029-20) Benjamin Moore
- Clean Green (P5041-82D) Para Paints
- Mountain botanical (6010-9) Valspar


Hunter Green either matte or glossy is a deep and rich hue that gives kitchen an old world look.

- Evergreen (SW-6447) Sherwin-Williams
- Tree Top (CLV 1147N) General Paint


Tuxedo Black paired with true white and pale marble for an elegant look with glamour and edge.

- Black (2131-10) Benjamin Moore
- Pluto (6024-83) Sico

Hooray for Hardware!!

So one of my favourite and easy fixes for a kitchen, bathroom and an outdated piece of furniture is new hardware.  This is a great way to update a piece or just give it a new 'style spin' .  This is a very easy and inexpensive way to make a big impact!  This is a great tip if you are looking to sell your home and what some easy ideas to update the space.

In my last home, we had a very plain faced kitchen cabinet door - we purchased a very modern looking handle and it made our kitchen look so new and current - it really changed the look of the whole space.  In our current home, we changed out our old brass very 1980's cabinet pulls and opted for a more current one in a brushed chrome. 



Sometimes the pulls and knobs can be the show stopper of the space.  Last year, we renovated a turn of the century home into a real estate office.  In the kitchens and bathrooms we used crystal knobs which added so much sparkle to the rooms and also worked well with the age of the home.



The installation of knobs and pulls is so easy and takes next to no time at all!  What a little fix for a big impact!!