The Backsplash Mistake That Can Make Your Kitchen Look Outdated Fast

Do you want your backsplash to make a splash? Along with cupboards and countertops, the backsplash is a key focal point of any kitchen design. The moment someone enters the room, they will notice the backsplash if it stands out, which is exactly what some people want. Bold, bright colors. Maybe interesting patterns or unique materials. LED-embedded tiles have been trendy, as have living-wall backsplashes made of moss.

While daring and unusual ideas can be exciting, you need to ask whether you — or a potential future buyer — will still appreciate the backsplash next year, or in five years' time. Sometimes an audacious, striking backsplash idea can be a mistake. There is no doubt that a new trend can be extremely eye-catching when it emerges. Linear glass, subway tile, and bold colors were all big backsplash trends that seemed a little dated by 2025. So even if something seems like it's the coolest thing in the world right now, styles will inevitably change over time.

The best option for a backsplash, if you want your kitchen to remain timeless, is to select a design that avoids trends entirely. Because they aren't bold, unusual, or extravagant, they stand the test of time. That doesn't mean they have to be unattractive, but they don't need to be over the top, either.

If you're doing a kitchen redesign, no one is saying you can't choose something bold or unusual that catches your eye, as long as you're aware that the trend might not last. If you like it, then absolutely stick with it. It's your kitchen, so you should have it the way you want. Just remember that if you plan to sell your house down the road, an outdated or unappealing backsplash could work against you with potential buyers.

Neutral colors tend to be the best choice for a backsplash that stands the test of time. It's right there in the name, after all. Neutral by definition means it isn't offensive and doesn't jump out at you. The right design with the right material can still be tasteful, elegant, and even eye-catching. It doesn't have to become overpowering the way some trends can.

Worry less about flashy and trendy materials and more about ones that are durable and well-made. That's one of the key elements to making sure your kitchen never looks dated. There are so many backsplash materials that you could choose from; some like stone or ceramic are very timeless, while others are more niche. You'll want to match your choice with the rest of your kitchen's design, but a little planning ensures your backsplash looks good now and will still look good in 20 years.