STATEMENT SPLASHBACKS
Make vertical surfaces the star of the show
ORGANIC QUARTZ
‘The material you choose for your kitchen surfaces is pivotal to the functionality of the space,’ says Mor Krisher, global head of design at Caesarstone. Tougher than most natural stones, man-made quartz comes in large slabs for virtually seamless installation. ‘Quartz is particularly great for splashbacks as it’s resistant to cracks, scratches and, most importantly, staining,’ adds Mor. Design-wise, recent improvements in quartz production techniques is introducing increasingly credible realism. The best designs eschew the uniformity of machine manufacture in favour of nature-inspired fluidity that brings surfaces to life. →
4011 Cloudburst Concrete quartz, from £550sq m, Caesarstone
DOUBLE THE IMPACT
If you’re torn between the prettiness of tiles and the practicalities of quartz, take a dual approach and enjoy the best of both worlds. In this beautiful kitchen by Roundhouse, split surface splashbacks marry texture, shine and colour to make the most of the vertical space around hob and hood. ‘The glossy green tiles are a particular triumph as they reflect light from the sliding glass doors opposite,’ says Oli Moss, designer at Roundhouse. ‘It can be tricky to achieve a neat connection. Here, the quartz upstand has a rolled edge detail to create a smooth juncture between the two materials.’
Rugged Concrete quartz, from £550sq m, Caesarstone. Trasparenze Verde Smeraldo terracotta
wall tiles, £265sq m, Reed Harris. Kitchen by Roundhouse
NATURAL BEAUTY
While natural stone like marble is comparatively
delicate, used vertically it is less likely to come under fire from knives and pans. Splashes are the main threat, and a quick response with a damp cloth will go a long way to prevent stains. For many, the beauty on offer is well worth judicious cleaning. ‘Natural materials have an incredible calming effect in a space,’ says Alex Beaugeard, director of design at Lanserring. ‘The historical significance of using marble for splashbacks, along with the knowledge that every slab is completely unique, creates an emotional connection that will help
your kitchen resonate with you.’
MELLOW METAL
‘Stainless steel is durable, low-maintenance and extremely hygienic, so it’s the ideal splashback material for our present times,’ says Tom Edmonds, design director at Lewis Alderson. ‘It can be made
into large complicated pieces with sinks and drainers welded in, virtually eliminating joints where bacteria and dirt could accumulate.’ While
it is more often associated with contemporary kitchens, stainless steel can prove a surprisingly good
fit amid traditional cabinetry. ‘In a classic kitchen, stainless steel lends a modern edge and, in time, will gain small swirl marks, which will settle into a lovely mellow patina that requires little fuss,’ adds Tom. →
TIMBER’S BACK
Wood may seem an unusual choice for a splashback but its natural depth will lend richness and warmth at eye level. Here, Martin Moore used solid sculptured walnut with a special fire rated lacquer finish to make it wipe clean and
practical. ‘Wood is currently enjoying a bit of a revival, particularly walnut,’ says Richard Moore, design director at Martin Moore. ‘We love how it can be used to pick out warm tones in hand-painted cabinetry and rich metallic finishes like this rose copper tap.’ For a similar look with excellent robustness, consider Martin Moore Stone’s
walnut-effect porcelain tiles, £60sq m.
3D TEXTURE
Found on furniture, ceramics, glass and lighting,
the graceful linearity of fluted design is now weaving its magic into the kitchen. In this project by Brian O’tuama Architects, a fluted Calacatta marble splashback was combined with natural wood cabinetry to provide a tactile treat hidden inside minimalist pocket doors. ‘We wanted the fluted marble to add visual interest and surface texture in contrast to the flat, contemporary exteriors,’ explains Brian O’tuama. ‘The fluted surface creates areas of light and shadow, highlighting the character of the marble’s colouration and veining, and bringing
that little bit extra to an already beautiful stone.’
BESPOKE BRASS
Brass and copper are relative newcomers to the splashback arena, but these age-old materials are fast gaining fans. Brass specialist and maker James Petre, managing director of Quirky Interiors, believes the beauty of warm metallic splashbacks lies in bespoke customisation. ‘Brass can be pre-aged to varying degrees, according to preference,’ he explains. ‘You do need to wipe up spills and should never scrub with
abrasive cleaners, but with a little bit of Brasso and a dry cloth, a brass splashback will just keep giving.’
Deco brass splashback, £450sq m, Quirky Interiors. Kitchen doors by Custom Fronts