Dave & Jenny Marrs Ditch Traditional Backsplashes For A Chic & Timeless Alternative

If you think the subway tile craze has left the station and you feel lackluster about a classic herringbone selection, it might be time to brainstorm other kitchen backsplash ideas. Fortunately, Dave and Jenny Marrs can assist with some inspiration. One of their ideas is so clever yet simultaneously obvious, you'll wonder why you didn't think of it sooner. Rather than mix and match textures, the duo opts to use the same material for the kitchen countertop and backsplash, ultimately creating a unified aesthetic and chic statement. 

You can watch the look unfold in Season 6, Episode 14 of "Fixer To Fabulous", where Dave and Jenny rebuild a Bentonville home after tornado damage. Although this is a slightly different approach than other sophisticated subway tile alternatives they've used, the end goal is the same: to complement the cabinetry provide the space with an enduring elegance. In order to do so with this particular project, they paired dark-grey quartz on the countertops and walls with ceiling-high oak cabinets. in their blog post about the renovation, they explain, "Instead of a traditional backsplash, we continued the countertops up the wall — keeping the look clean, classic, and timeless."

Though the couple's route might have veered from the glazed approach, it does have its perks. The DIY adds a calming factor and a cohesive element to the kitchen, which might not have been possible when mixing elements. It also tricks your eye into believing the space is larger than it is since there isn't a big visual shift. Plus, it allows you to play with contrast, which Dave and Jenny say adds subtle depth. They utilized dark-hued quartz to play off the natural wooden details for a warm, welcoming aesthetic. 

If you're considering this look for your own space, you'll need to choose a countertop material that can serve both purposes, meaning quartzite, granite, and marble are all contenders. Additionally, it's important to factor in durability and upkeep. Or choose a material, like porcelain, that's strong yet lightweight compared to its counterparts, doesn't require as much maintenance, and can withstand some wear and tear. Also consider how far up you'd like the material to go: Dave and Jenny allowed the quartz to touch the bottom of the ceiling-high cabinets, whereas you might prefer a short counter splash that's only 4 to 6 inches above the countertops.