The kitchen backsplash serves a very useful function in protecting kitchen walls from stains and splatters created by cooking, but it has a very important design role as well. More than any other area of the kitchen, the backsplash offers an easy opportunity for homeowners to really let their creativity shine.

Put simply, a great backsplash can take a dull kitchen and transform it into something fabulous.

The main elements in designing a backsplash are the following: materials, length and height. There is no “correct” combination of these three as each kitchen design and the needs of the homeowner who works in the space will vary considerably. Some people choose to run the backsplash along the length of the countertop to create a sense of continuity in the design. Others choose to only put a backsplash behind the cook top or sink. Both can look great.

The standard backsplash is about four inches tall, although many homeowners choose to extend the height of the backsplash to the bottom of the cabinets. Which option to choose depends largely on other design elements in the room.

The desired result is to have a backsplash that complements the room as a whole, as well as showing some creative flair. The perfect backsplash for your kitchen is very much a personal decision, but like all design elements it takes some planning to ensure the end result will give the look you want.

Tile is one of the most popular backsplash materials. It is affordable and offers a myriad of design options. There are a wide range of sizes and styles available as well, from bright shiny tiles to a more textured finish.

One of the great things about tile is the range of colors available. You can choose bright colors to liven up the space, or opt for a color to complement the cabinets. Neutral colors can give the kitchen a crisp, clean, contemporary look, while contrasting colors are more dramatic.

Stone tile is another popular option. Highly polished stone tiles are perfect in a kitchen with granite countertops, while a more textured stone — such as tumbled stone — gives the kitchen a more rustic, old-world appearance.

Newer products, such as Silestone Muro tiles combine a stone look with a wider color range than is traditionally available in stone materials. Check the Silestone website at: www.silestoneusa.com for more ideas about this new product.

Other backsplash options that have seen a tremendous increase in popularity are those made from sheet metal and metal laminates. Combined with stainless steel appliances the look can easily become overwhelming so some people choose to just use metal over the stove and sink. Spectra Metals is a company that creates unique stainless steel backsplashes for different applications. A quick look at their website www.pacificcrestind.com will give a sense of the range of possibilities.

When trying to get ideas about backsplashes, look through magazines and books for ideas. Take the time to look at your space to determine what will work best for you. But above all, have fun.