Choosing Kitchen Splashbacks Made Simple

If you’re thinking about a kitchen renovation, one of the most essential features to consider is the splashback. Whether you opt for a look-at-me statement piece or a discreet workhorse, it’s an area that demands careful thought. As one of Sydney’s leading kitchen renovation specialists, Designline has consulted with countless homeowners about how to choose a splashback for their style, budget and lifestyle. 

This guide walks you through the key considerations so you can feel confident in your decision and enjoy a kitchen that looks incredible for years to come.

Why Are Splashbacks So Important?

A kitchen splashback may seem like a small detail, but it significantly impacts both the look and performance of your space. Indeed, this single feature carries a lot of responsibility, including: 

 

• Shields your walls from damage via steam, heat, splatters, oil and moisture
• Makes cleaning so much easier than painted plasterboard 
• Elevates the overall kitchen aesthetic 
• Helps tie other kitchen features together, including the cabinetry, benchtops and flooring 
• Endures wear and tear, enabling your kitchen to perform better for longer 
• Adds value to your kitchen renovation 

Different Types of Kitchen Splashbacks

Perhaps one of the most hotly contested topics is the age-old question of glass vs. tile splashback. There are actually many more options than these two materials, so let’s consider the pros and cons of all. 

Splashback Material	Pros	Cons
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile Splashback	Cost-effective Huge range of colours, shapes and styles Easy to replace individual tiles if damaged Handles heat well	Grout requires ongoing cleaning Patterned tiles can date if not chosen carefully
Glass Splashback Note: It’s not always possible to structurally change to a window splashback in existing properties. This is a more common option in new builds.	Seamless, modern look Very easy to clean with no grout lines Fully customisable colours Reflective surface helps brighten kitchens	Usually higher cost than tiles Can show smudges and streaks more easily Requires precise on-site measurements
Engineered Stone Splashback	Luxurious, high-end look Extremely durable and stain-resistant Can match your benchtop for a seamless finish Minimal joins Some stone can be on a par or less than glass splashbacks	More expensive than tiles or glass Not recommended directly behind gas cooktops unless the material is approved and installed correctly
Stainless Steel Splashback	Very hygienic and easy to wipe down• Perfect for high-use kitchens Reflective, contemporary commercial look Heat-resistant	Can show fingerprints and scratches Industrial look may not suit all homes
Window Splashback	Brings in natural light Creates a sense of space Beautiful outlook if your view is appealing Eliminates grout cleaning	Requires careful design for cabinetry and rangehood placement Offers limited flexibility for power outlets More expensive to manufacture and install
Timber Splashback	Warm, natural aesthetic Great for feature walls away from direct heat Can tie in with timber flooring or cabinetry accents	Not suitable behind cooktops• Requires sealing and regular upkeep• Can mark or discolour if not protected properly

 

What Really Matters When Selecting Your Kitchen Splashback?

There are really six key areas that should guide your kitchen splashback decision-making:

1. Splashback Materials

We’ve gone over this above – it really is one of the most important elements. 

2. Cleaning Splashbacks

Splashbacks are going to do a lot of heavy-lifting, and they’ll get grubby. You want to clean them easily, with just a squirt of spray and a few quick wipes. If you opt for tiles, the smaller the tile, the more grout there is, which makes cleaning more difficult. 

3. Heat and Moisture Resistance

This is a non-negotiable. Given the splashback’s proximity to your stovetop and oven, it must be heat-resistant. The last thing you want is for your beautiful feature to warp, crack or discolour.

4. Splashback Colour & Style

We mentioned earlier that your splashback can be a knock-out feature for your kitchen, or it can take a back seat and let other design aspects take centre stage. If you want to blend in, go for soft neutrals, matching stone, white or light tiles. This creates a calm, timeless look. If you want some punch, stand out with contrasting colours,  feature tiles, bold patterns or textured materials.

Anything is possible, and there is a splashback to match every kitchen style, from Hamptons or Scandi to Modern or Portuguese. 

Most clients will typically offset their benchtops with their splashbacks, or vice versa. What does this mean? If your splashback is the focal point, the benchtops tend to be more discreet. Inversely, if the benchtops have heavy veins or textures, the splashback will often be toned down. However, that’s not to say they can’t both deliver the wow factor, or both be more discreet. In short, whatever you love will be right for your kitchen! 

5. Splashback Height & Scale

Traditionally, kitchen splashbacks would go up to the bottom of cabinets. However, that’s the nature of a bespoke kitchen renovation – you can throw the rulebook out the window. As such, we’re finding more and more Sydney clients want their splashbacks to go right up to the rangehood and even the ceiling. 

6. Splashback Cost

There is no single cost for a kitchen splashback. The final figure will depend on a number of elements, including:

• Size and scale of the area 
• Material selected 
• Complexity of application 
• Wall condition 
• Choice of grouting 

Contact Designline About Your Kitchen Splashback and Renovation in Sydney

Ready to choose the right splashback or start planning your dream kitchen? Our design team is here to guide you through every decision, from materials and colours to layout and functionality. Visit our Padstow showroom to explore options in person, or book a complimentary design consultation and on-site measure. We’ll help you create a kitchen that looks beautiful, performs effortlessly and suits the way you have always wanted to live in this space. 

FAQs

What is the best kitchen splashback?

There is no single splashback that suits every kitchen. The best option is the one that works with your cooking habits, style, maintenance preferences and renovation budget. Each material offers different strengths, and the right choice depends on what matters most to you.

For the best all-round option: Porcelain tiles are extremely durable, heat-resistant, low-maintenance and suitable behind gas cooktops. They offer a premium, seamless look and work beautifully in both modern and classic kitchens.

For a sleek, modern, easy-to-clean aesthetic: Glass gives a smooth, reflective finish with no grout lines. It wipes clean in seconds and works well in contemporary kitchens.

For something budget-friendly and versatile: Ceramic tiles offer endless colours, shapes and patterns, making them perfect for customisation. They handle heat well and are cost-effective, with options to suit any design style.

For a seamless and high-end finish: Matching your benchtop with a stone splashback creates a cohesive and luxurious look. These are ideal for homeowners who prefer minimal joins and a polished finish.  

For an industrial or commercial kitchen feel: Stainless steel is highly durable, hygienic and heat-resistant. Perfect for enthusiastic cooks who want a practical, professional look.

For maximising natural light: A window splashback opens up the space, brings in outdoor views and adds architectural interest. They are ideal for kitchens that back onto gardens or courtyards.

How high should a kitchen splashback be? 

A standard kitchen splashback height is 600 mm, but this can vary based on your cooktop type. For safety with gas cooktops, a minimum of 650 mm is required, and it’s crucial to check your rangehood’s installation manual for specific clearance recommendations. Designline’s work will always find a way to meet regulatory requirements and aesthetic preferences.  

About the Author – Jackson Mikhael 

With over two decades in construction and a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management, Designline owner Jackson Mikhael brings unmatched expertise to every project. As a licensed builder and carpenter, Jackson serves as Head Project Manager while specialising in innovative bathroom and laundry design. His hands-on approach means he’s equally comfortable conceptualising your dream renovation as he is rolling up his sleeves to make it a reality. For ten years, Jackson and his Designline team have delivered exceptional results for clients through genuine craftsmanship and personal dedication.