Leave Subway Tile Behind: Try This Alternative For A Sleek And Sophisticated Look

Subway tile has been a staple in kitchens and bathrooms for many, many years (it dates all the way back to 1904, when it was first created for New York's actual subway stations). It's simple and versatile, as these 3-by-6-inch rectangular tiles can be used for backsplashes in the kitchen, shower walls in the bathroom, along the walls of coffee nooks, and so many more use cases. Despite its popularity, many homeowners are opting to try a new trend that's usurping tile in the kitchen. Those who want a stylish upgrade are saying goodbye to dated backsplashes like subway tile and instead choosing full-height slab backsplashes, the new go-to option for a fresh, modern alternative.

Full-height slab backsplashes, which can also be referred to as solid slab backsplashes or seamless slab backsplashes, are capturing attention and making a statement behind kitchen sinks and stoves. This trend eliminates the individual tiles and grout lines that characterize subway tile backsplashes and replaces them with one continuous surface. The slabs typically take a homeowner's kitchen countertop and extend it upward onto the wall, so you'll find they're often made with natural stones like granite and marble. However, they can come in concrete, porcelain, and other engineered materials, too. Either way, full-height slab backsplashes create visual drama thanks to the variations and striations visible across the surface. They're streamlined and cohesive, and you can use them in various ways, such as a focal point behind your cooking area or to cover the length of a wall.

If you're ready to swap out your tiled backsplash for a sophisticated slab option, you'll first want to decide which approach you like best: matching it to your countertop or choosing a different design. You can opt for something subtle or kick things up a notch with a dramatically veined marble, granite, or even quartz slab, depending on your preferences. No matter your favorite material or color palette, full-height slab backsplashes are undeniably practical. Since they lack the grout lines that accompany subway tile (and tiles in general), you'll achieve a more cohesive visual element that isn't broken up by those ever-visible grout lines. Plus, with a single piece of stone, you can skip the long-term hassle of fixing common grout problems like cracking, settling, or discoloration, increasing your backsplash's durability. Switching to a slab won't leave you scrubbing or steaming your backsplash to restore that grout's original color over time, either. 

Whether you decide to go with a bold, statement-making slab backsplash or one that blends seamlessly with your countertops, it's also a good idea to keep your current kitchen cabinets and fixtures in mind. Because full-slab backsplashes create vertical interest that automatically commands guests' attention, simple, classic styles tend to be the best pairing for a timeless kitchen. Cabinets that feature a lot of ornate details, along with equally elaborate fixtures, may make your sleek, modern backsplash feel less classic over time.