How To Use The Kitchen Backsplash Trend That HGTV's Jenn Todryk Loves

While tiled backsplashes may seem like they're going out of style, this actually couldn't be further from the truth. Tiles are being used now more than ever to add a decorative touch to this high-traffic room of the house. Though there are plenty of styles and options available, HGTV's Jenn Todryk went with an overlooked choice for a client remodel in Season 2, Episode 3 of "No Demo Reno." To create a unique look, she used imperfect zellige tiles on the backsplash.

When renovating the home, Todryk wanted to lean into the aesthetic her client loved while also making the atmosphere feel more modern. Most of the reno called for cosmetic changes, like adding earthy green hues to the space, but the kitchen required quite a hefty change. With the brand new eat-in island made with light wood, marble countertops, and a golden faucet, there was a hint of rustic charm added to the mix. Paired with the newly-painted green cabinets and black countertops across from the island, adding in the soft gray imperfect zellige tiles was a smart choice for tying the room together.

There are several benefits to adding an imperfect zellige tile backsplash to your kitchen. Other than its ability to protect your walls, these handmade tiles with lots of texture will amplify a sense of elegance from the distressed surface. Imperfect tile has a more rustic origin since it's weathered, though the "aged" characteristic can fit just as well in a vintage-inspired space. Whereas other kitchen backsplash tiles feature a unison pattern and clean grout lines, this tile choice leans more towards a disheveled appearance — the feature Jenn Todryk loves. This adds a rugged texture to the room since the uneven grout lines cause the tiles to have a pop-out effect.

Another reason to choose imperfect tile as your kitchen's backsplash is for its uniqueness. One of this style's main selling points is that it sports a handmade look, which isn't something a lot of kitchens have. Instead of going with a common, clearly manufactured backsplash, this unusual trait creates a focal point and showcases originality. Plus, if you choose a lighter color, the backsplash is able to blend effortlessly with any darker hues in the room.