A splashback, or backsplash (if you reside Stateside), refers to the area of wall at the back of the worktop – or rather the material used to protect it. ‘Splashbacks play an important role in modern luxury kitchen design, especially behind sinks and hobs, as these are the splash-zones for soap suds and bolognaise sauce,’ explains senior kitchens designer at roundhouse design ltd, Alice Hood. ‘Leaving this area as plain painted wall means lots of touch-ups over time, so the key is to choose a splashback surface that is non-porous and can be wiped down easily.’

Light it up

Splashbacks also offer the opportunity to explore contemporary kitchen lighting ideas and flex your creative skills. Designed by Trevor Morriss, principle architect at SPPARC, this Black Vermont Granite splashback has a leathered finish that enhances the striations in the stone. ‘Integrated lighting is great for illuminating the horizontal kitchen surfaces below, in this case showcasing the interesting texture on the splashback material,’ explains Trevor.

Raise your game

A splashback can be simply tiled throughout, but, more recently, Roundhouse Design clients have been seeking out increasingly dynamic ways to interpret tiles. Curated in collaboration with interior designer Richard Spark, this striking splashback carries Caesarstone’s Rugged Concrete modern worktops up the walls, before capping off with a rolled edge detail. Above, glossy terracotta wall tiles in jewel-bright emerald add colour and shine to the mix. Taking the tiles up a level helps keep grout lines away from the splash-zone, making them easier to keep clean.

Go for glass

Mirrored glass splashbacks are excellent for reflecting light into the heart of your cooking space. This can prove especially beneficial in a rear extension where the bespoke kitchen is set at the back of the space, away from windows. Mirrored glass splashbacks can be cut to any size, and you can request holes cut for sockets and lighting. They’re also scratch resistant and, being toughened, safe for use in a busy kitchen. ‘Antiqued or foxed mirrored glass splashbacks are more decorative than plain mirror, and the undulating patina helps conceal marks on the glass so they’re lower maintenance, too,’ adds Senior Designer, Alice Hood.

Showcase stone

Harness natural stone with beautiful veining to bring pattern and shape into an otherwise clean-lined, contemporary kitchen. In this white marble kitchen, the expertly book-matched Calacatta Manhattan splashback helps draw attention to the full depth of the room and connects visually with the modern marble kitchen island. ‘Deciding where to stop the marble was determined by the height of the first shelf; taking it up to the ceiling would have been too overpowering. Besides, the owner wanted to fill the shelves with shapely ceramics and rustic treasures, which stand out far better against a plain backdrop,’ adds Roundhouse designer, Sam Hart.

What is the best material for a kitchen splashback?

Any material that is waterproof, stain resistant, easy to wipe clean and with minimal joints, can be used to create a statement splashback. The material shouldn’t be too thick, or you’ll lose precious worktop space and may face installation issues. ‘Splashbacks can match any latest kitchen worktops material, and carry it up the wall, or be a contrasting surface that adds drama. Mirror will boost light levels, a sheet of steel lends a professional look, or a sheet of matt, colour-matched glass works for a discrete look that blends into the painted wall elsewhere,’ says Alice Hood. ‘Tiles can add texture, although I would advise against white grout as it stains. A micro-cement or polished plaster is great for a seamless, organic feel.’

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Our expert kitchen designers can help you make the best choices for your Roundhouse bespoke kitchen or wardrobes. Visit any of our seven Roundhouse showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham and get planning!