The Busy Backsplash Trend That's Making Your Kitchen Look Tired And Dated

If you've noticed that your kitchen looks a little dated, chances are your once-trendy bright kitchen backsplash is the culprit. Colorful, busy, and bold tile backsplashes were once all the rage, but they haven't aged well. Jennifer Davis, the principal designer at Davis Interiors agrees. She told Homes and Gardens that a backsplash can date your kitchen, especially those bold glass tiles that were eye-catching 20 years ago. "A well-thought-out renovation can breathe new life into the heart of the home," she added. Instead, Davis recommended replacing the backsplash with soft neutrals — think beige, black, or white — for a timeless look.

The good new is you don't have to feel stuck with an outdated kitchen. You can DIY creative backsplash ideas without breaking the budget. There are a few different ways to give your kitchen a fresh, modern look with paint, peel-and-stick wallpaper, and tiling on top of the dated backsplash.

One of the easiest ways to update that busy, colorful tile backsplash is with paint. You can add neutral colors easily and within budget. However, it comes with some cons. If not properly primed, paint may lose some durability due to heat and moisture exposure, causing it to peel off the tiles. It also can highlight imperfections on the tiles themselves, so make sure to seal any dents or scratches before beginning to paint. 

If you want to add in a subtle pattern or even a mock stone look, peel-and-stick wallpaper is a great option to breathe new life into your kitchen. It's possible; just make sure the wallpaper is a heat-resistant vinyl that can withstand moisture. Look for phrases like "washable" and "scrubbable" to find the right one. Vinyl is a great choice because it's waterproof, giving it the power to withstand the daily splashes of the kitchen. If you're considering peel-and-stick wallpaper to cover your outdated backsplash, take a good look at your existing tiles. Some experts caution homeowners to fill in the grooves between tiles first for a smoother, cohesive look.

Another option is to tile on top of the existing backsplash. However, this method isn't agreed upon. Many pros recommend tearing out the backsplash completely before adding the new tiles, while anecdotal evidence suggests going for it — just make sure to do it properly. If you aren't sure, reach out to a local contractor for an expert opinion.