Backsplash Materials, Costs and Ideas

March 10, 2023, by: Greca Sandford

A bathroom backsplash is meant to protect walls from water and spills, but that doesn’t mean they have to be boring. Modern backsplash ideas are seemingly endless. Tile, of course, is the obvious choice, and comes in a multitude of styles, colors, and patterns. Natural stone, such as slate and marble, is also a popular bathroom backsplash idea. Unconventional materials have also been showing up lately, from wood to concrete, nothing is off limits anymore.

If you can dream it, chances are, you can incorporate it into your home’s design. A unique modern backsplash is one of the simplest ways to add character and your individual style to an otherwise utilitarian space. It’s the like jewelry that brings the whole room together.

The modern bathroom backsplash ideas pictured are just a sample of the wide range of colors, materials, textures, and styles available for your bathroom remodel. Take a look and find some inspiration for ways to show off your personal style.

19 Backsplash Ideas for a Modern Bathroom

Stained Glassstained glass

In this transitional bathroom, the spa-like hues of this modern tile backsplash create a stained glass effect, and add texture and pattern.

Touch of Elegancetouch of elegance

The marble countertop is carried up the wall to achieve a sophisticated look in this bathroom by designer Sarah Richardson. (photo by Stacey Brandford)

Natural Tonesnatural tones

This small-scale mosaic tile backsplash is a refined counterpoint to the chunky stone countertop and rustic vanity in the bathroom of this beach house.

Concrete Casualconcrete casual

Modern concrete backsplashes and countertops are both durable and cost-effective, and really stand out against the white sink and cabinets in this Dutch bathroom.

Faux Rusticfaux rustic

These ceramic tiles only look like weathered wood! Taking the tile up to the ceiling makes this modern farmhouse bathroom feel taller than its modest proportions.

Matte Moroccanmoroccan matte

The use of matte tiles has been a design trend for the last few years, and can give a dated bathroom modern appeal. This lovely Moroccan-inspired tile backsplash in blues and greens show why this trend is around to stay.

Mirrored Luxurymirrored luxury

Forgo the bathroom mirror altogether by using shiny mirrored tiles on a backsplash and beyond. The chandelier and bold checkerboard flooring also pack a big punch in a small space.

Textured Stonetextured stone

This light-colored natural split-face modern stone backsplash is a rustic counter to the contemporary cabinets and light fixtures. Natural variations in color and texture make this backsplash truly unique.

 River Rocksriver rocks

River rocks are a natural choice for a great bathroom backsplash idea! Not only do they add an organic element to the space, but they will stand up to just about anything.

Hex-Cellenthex-cellent

The hexagon is definitely having a moment! Simple white hexagon tiles are a great alternative to a basic bathroom tile backsplash, and a dark grout makes this stunning shape really stand out.

Neutral Chicneutral chic

An intricate band of mosaic tile on this backsplash is echoed in the shower, and compliments the neutral tones of the countertop and floor.

Well-Roundedwell-rounded

Create a simple and shapely centerpiece in the bathroom by using a curved backsplash in the same material as the countertop.

Pattern Perfectpattern perfect

A beautiful vintage tile backsplash infuses this quaint bathroom with pattern against the stone sink and natural wood shelf.

Contemporarycontemporary

Taking the tiles a little higher up the wall than a typical bathroom sick backsplash creates a more modern look, as does the contrast of the tiles with the dark wall paint.

Reclaimed Woodreclaimed wood

Tiles made of reclaimed wood and cut in varying thicknesses create a backsplash that definitely isn’t shy. The look is both organic and modern at the same time.

Oversizedoversized

The opposite of small mosaic tiles, this large glass tile bathroom splashback makes a statement in this contemporary bathroom by designer Christine Sheldon

Subway Switchedsubway switched

A classic white subway tile backsplash gets an update when laid in fun pattern in this modern bathroom!

Waveswaves

What better for a bathroom backsplash than tiles reminiscent of the ocean? The watery blues and clean lines create a calming, serene environment, perfect for a long soak.

Monochromemonochrome

Beadboard works as a modern backsplash, too! This easy to install material provides instant charm. Try painting beadboard the same color as the wall for a more modern take on this cottage style staple

If you’ve recently remodeled your bathroom we’d love to see your modern backsplash ideas. Submit your project today and we’ll publish it here at RenoCompare.


REVIEWED AND FACT-CHECKED BY JAMIE SANDFORD

Jamie Sandford - Owner and Lead Editor at RenoCompareJamie Sandford is the Chief Editor at RenoCompare (find out more). Jamie has been involved in construction for over 30 years. Straight out of college, Jamie worked with construction crews for the television, film and theatre industries for over 12 years. In his thirties, he turned his attention to DIY decorating and construction, working on many house renovations and remodels. During this time he started to specialize in home flooring and in 2013 he launched the Home Flooring Pros website. Two years later he launched RenoCompare.

“I’ve seen interior design, remodeling, and construction from both sides of the street, contractors on one side and homeowners on the other. My aim is to close the gap between the professionals and the consumers and make it easier for both sides to work smoothly and effectively side by side. At RenoCompare we want to save you time and money by giving you the information you need as simply and as quickly as possible!”

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