Oh, how we love backsplashes. They’re the one part of a kitchen’s design that can shake things up. After all, if you have a white kitchen, adding a colorful backsplash with tile may be just what the space craves. Au contraire, if you have an eclectically lavish space, a toned down, simple subway tiled backsplash will tie things together beautifully.

No matter the design scenario you fall under, one thing is for sure: the backsplash is a needed element. So, with all that, where do you start?    

We’ve rounded up 5 designs to help you find the answer to that question and provide inspiration.

Farm Fresh.

This modern farmhouse kitchen exudes personality thanks to the encaustic tile backsplash. With the gray-and-white, worn-in color tone contrasting the natural wooden, oven hood and shelving, it’s a standout design.

What we love: The way the encaustic porcelain creates character in a smaller kitchen space.

Seaside Escape.

Is it just us or isn’t this kitchen backsplash the perfect twist on tradition? The 4×4 tile in a light-reflecting, neutral color palette adds a more classic feel to the modern appliances, and is a refreshing replacement of the usual subway tile. Designed by Mattson Made, the square tile adds a handmade character and its lighter tone brings in a coastal vibe.

What we love: The contrast of the light tile against the darker wood counter and black cabinetry is an A+ in our book.

Bar Bound.

Sometimes, incorporating a tiled backsplash in smaller areas of your home, like the bar area, is a perfect way to liven things up. It makes sense for this spot to have a touch of individuality, since it’ll be the center for social gatherings with friends and family. This home bar design by Breed House is undeniably chic with its use of a geometric, glass mosaic tile that perfectly complements the blue cabinetry and fancy tequila bottles that reside in the region.

What we love: The way the shine of the glass mosaic tile works with, not against, the brass décor and faucet.

Stylish Stripes.

Get wavy! This modernized, mid-century inspired kitchen from Interiors by AD has a subtle twist thanks to its use of a chevron backsplash.

What we love:  The variety of surprising design elements from the lighting pendants to the unique choice of tile.

Here for the Herringbone.

This kitchen by Brooklyn Design and Build is proof that all white works when you add a unique element into the design as they did with the herringbone lay pattern in their backsplash.

What we love: The simplistic white design gets color touches from plants and accessories, making it a truly versatile design.