Between choosing a layout, appliances, and a color scheme, there's a lot to consider when designing or sprucing up a kitchen. And that's exactly why we're focusing on the fun part right now: backsplash, which basically just refers to the kitchen wall material. Backsplashes can span the entire wall, they can be a pop behind the range, or they can cover the area between the countertops and cabinets. And then there's the big wide world of texture and color they open up. It doesn't matter if your dream kitchen is rustic and cozy, or modern and sleek-the 55 kitchen backsplash design ideas below will have you covered.

Sky-High

Instead of merely doing a backsplash, run tile up to the ceiling. It makes more of an impact that way. In this Catherine Kwong-designed space, the subway tiles complement both the formal, sophisticated elements as well as the more casual and approachable parts.

Matching Island

Lacquer, marble, tiles, oh my! This fabulously over-the-top kitchen designed by Michelle Nussbaumer isn't afraid to have fun. For a similar look, choose a backsplash that corresponds with the kitchen island and then use tile on the floors.

Painted Glass

For something a little more special than the go-to subway tile route, consider this high-shine option. Interior designer Danielle Colding used a glass backsplash for a shinier, more modern and cosmopolitan touch in this city apartment. It goes perfectly with the lacquered cabinets.

Stripes

Subway tile offers tons of room for creativity in the kitchen, so if you want to use subway tile but also want to feature a more unique backsplash, look no further. Here, Chango & Co. created two stripes of olive green to add color and break up the white backsplash. They're placed under the white floating shelves, playing up the linear motif further.

Calcutta Marble

Marble can be as traditional or as modern as you want it to be, based on the materials you pair with it. In this sleek kitchen designed by Arent & Pyke, the marble backsplash blends seamlessly with the countertops and both contrast and complement the gray natural stone island.

Stainless Steel

To combat the inevitable oil splatter, choose a stainless steel backsplash, like those used in restaurant kitchens. But that doesn't mean they can't also look unique and stylish. In this kitchen designed by GRT Architects, the warm wood countertops, forest green pops, and edgy brass hardware do the trick.

Quartz Extension

A simple, clean transition in an all-white kitchen, extend the quartz countertops a few inches up the wall. Using the same material will protect your walls and maintain visual consistency. In this modern, bright country kitchen by Romanek Design Studio, the floating shelves are also the same material, creating even more flow.

Non-repeating Pattern

The pattern of the tiles in this kitchen by Studio DB changes ever so slightly as it crawls across the wall, creating a unique and chic non-repeating pattern.

Full Coverage

Designed by Studio Helder, this striking kitchen is completely covered in glossy tiles. It straddles a unique line between retro and futuristic.

Cubist

Yes, even a backsplash can be a work of art. In a small kitchen, every inch should be both functional and communicate the right style statement, so creating a unique backsplash is well-advised. In this deVol Kitchen, the tiles are laid to create abstract shapes. It almost looks like a Cubist painting.