Say Goodbye To Classic White Backsplashes: Hilary Farr Calls Colorful Glass Tile A 'Focal Point'

A white backsplash might seem like a safe choice for a kitchen remodel, but it definitely has its disadvantages, in terms of both aesthetic design and functionality. Though its neutrality allows it to pair well with all sorts of cabinets and countertops, its surface can look sterile and cold. It can also be unnecessarily glossy, and grease and other cooking splatters can be easy to spot on its surface. There are plenty of other backsplash materials that are more exciting — and HGTV star Hilary Farr does a fantastic job of highlighting one of them in her show, "Tough Love with Hilary Farr." In season 1 episode 7, she remodels her clients' all-white kitchen with a stunning blue glass tile backsplash that runs all the way up the ceiling. The material brings needed visual depth to the heart of the home, and counteracts the simplicity of the room's other elements.

Before completing the project, but after confirming that cabinets would remain white, Farr said in a YouTube clip from her show: "I really want to add a bold color to their kitchen somewhere, and that backsplash is the perfect place. Instead of the classic white tiles I planned, I'm now giving them blue glass tiles that will become a focal point in the kitchen." The material most certainly draws the eye thanks to its glossy finish, and acts as an anchor point for the space. The texture contrasts nicely with the wooden open shelving in the room as well. Adding these tiles to your remodeling plans is arguably also one of the best ways to make your kitchen look more expensive.

Like all backsplash materials, the blue glass tiles that Farr installed in her clients' home are a great addition to some kitchens, and a poor fit for others. Before investing in them, review kitchen color ideas that'll make your space stand out, and decide on an overall palette for your space. You should also identify other focal points or dramatic features in your kitchen that could potentially clash with the tiles. The shiny blue finish could steal focus from large, statement light fixtures or countertops with dramatic veining, for instance. If the eye of someone viewing the kitchen is being pulled in too many directions, the space is going to look too busy. In the episode, Farr ensured that the tile provided a pop of color in an otherwise minimalist kitchen. "Since we lost the blue in the island cabinets, I made up for it with this lovely blue in the backsplash," she explained. Accordingly, the boldness of the blue tile should bring balance to the kitchen's design, rather than make it look eclectic. 

Another part of what makes Farr's blue glass tiles such a success is how well they frame the homeowners' range hood. With such a colorful backing, the stainless steel doesn't look as cold or industrial. Running such a tile up to the height of the ceiling to achieve this effect will cost you more money during renovations, but could make the heart of your home feel more luxurious in the long run. Keep in mind that the tile's glossy blue color has a cool, calming effect that's more modern in appearance. Warmer backsplash hues may work better if you'd like your space to feel cozier and more inviting. Always make sure to steer clear of colors that interior design experts wouldn't recommend using in your kitchen.