The kitchen backsplash is not only an opportunity for you to infuse your space with a graphic detail, but an interesting one as well. Outside of the standard scope of staples — think appliances, cabinets, and counters, where personalization tends to be a luxury — you have the freedom to make it a special moment. Enter arabesque tile. Often characterized by an elegant and symmetrical shape, they're also known as lantern tiles or Moroccan tiles — with the latter being more of a general umbrella term. With a curved outline and sculptural, trellis-like form, it's a prime contender for the backsplash, namely one in need of an elegant refresh. Ready to try it out for yourself? Read on to see the inspired arabesque tile backsplash ideas that you'll want to replicate.
1. Play with scale.
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Opt for multiple sizes — a larger and a slightly smaller scale arabesque tile — to lend intricate detail to your backsplash. Keep things clean and fresh with a white monochromatic finish, just like in this cook space designed by Lexi Westergard Design.
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Get the look: Daltile Premier Accents Pure White Arabesque Porcelain Mosaic Wall Tile, $5.11 per square foot
2. Keep it compact.
If you're not ready to give your entire kitchen the whole arabesque tile backsplash treatment, follow the lead of 3 Lights Design and designate a subsection above the stove for it. Keep things minimal, reserving the tiles solely for that section, and paint the remainder of your space in a matching hue.
3. Think rustic thoughts.
Embrace the farmhouse chic aesthetic with a dark arabesque tile backsplash à la this kitchen by Terracotta Design Build Co. The rich color and glossy finish work together to create a dynamic element that pairs beautifully with the wood flooring and wood ceiling beams.
4. Mind the grout.
White porcelain tiles paired with dark gray grout results in a backsplash that screams sophisticated cool. Take a cue from this timeless kitchen where sleek gray cabinets and lustrous brass pulls effortlessly complement the patterned backdrop.
5. Go bold.
Take a colorful approach with an arabesque tile backsplash that's rooted in blue. In this dreamy scheme by Home Front Build, the soothing hue combines with high-contrast white detailing that complements both the upper and lower cabinets.
6. Punctuate the look.
A subtle dotted detail completely transforms the arabesque tile backsplash in this modern kitchen. Pair the marble mosaic tile with a colorful grout to truly transform your space.
Get the look: Daltile Premier Accents Cotton Arabesque Stone Mosaic Floor and Wall Tile, $15.20 per square foot
7. Play with varying shades.
For a truly impactful approach, mix things up with a tone-on-tone kitchen backsplash. We love all of the variation seen in the marble arabesque tile selected by Suburban Bees for this farmhouse-inspired cook space. The subtle shift adds dreamy depth and definition without distracting from the overall design.
Get the look: The Builder Depot Carrara Venato Honed Arabesque Baroque Marble Tile, starting at $16.95 per square foot