Bring Timeless Style to Your Kitchen With White Brick Backsplashes

White brick backsplashes never go out of style. The classic subway tile shape and herringbone brick patterns pair beautifully with any kitchen decor from modern to farmhouse. White reflects light and makes small spaces instantly feel more open and airy. It provides a clean backdrop for colorful accents and is easy to dress up with bold grout or mix and match with other materials. Read on to explore the versatility of white brick backsplash tile and find inspiration to elevate your kitchen design.

Whether planning a full kitchen remodel or quick weekend project, installing a new backsplash is one of the easiest ways to update your space. But with so many trendy tile options on the market, how do you choose one with staying power? White brick backsplashes have remained popular for over a century, bringing visual interest, brightness, and timeless appeal to all styles of kitchens.

White Brick Backsplash Materials Bring Depth and Dimension

The beauty of white brick backsplashes lies in the subtle variations in the tile materials. Matte ceramic, crackled glaze porcelain, polished marble, and glossy glass all provide depth and dimension. Here are some of the most popular white brick tile options:

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic is the most common material for brick-shaped backsplash tiles. It's affordable, easy to clean, and available in standard sizes. Choose a matte finish for a traditional look or glossy white tiles for increased reflectivity.

Handcrafted subway tiles with slight imperfections and crackled glazed ceramic can add old-world charm. Combine with dark grout for contrast. Coordinate ceramic brick tiles with the kitchen counter and cabinet colors.

Marble Tile

Marble backsplash tile gives an elegant, luxurious look. The natural gray veins and swirls add subtle beauty. Keep in mind that marble is porous and will need to be sealed to prevent stains.

A marble herringbone pattern backsplash can create visual impact as a focal point behind the stove. For a lighter look, marble subway tiles look stunning with brass fixtures and wood accents.

Glass Tile

Glossy glass brick tile is available in a vast array of colors and provides a contemporary vibe. The reflective surface increases light. Glass tile is also translucent, adding depth as light filters through.

Consider large-scale glass subway tiles to make a statement. Or use iridescent glass bricks for shifts of color. Combine glass tile with metal and stone for an eclectic blend of textures.

Porcelain Tile

Glazed porcelain tiles are extremely durable and waterproof, making them ideal for backsplashes behind sinks and stoves. Porcelain offers the look of natural stone without the maintenance.

For traditional appeal, opt for matte finish subway style porcelain tiles. Porcelain brick is also flexible, allowing you to cut intricate patterns like herringbone for the backsplash.

Patterns and Layouts for White Brick Backsplashes

In addition to the diverse white brick tile materials available today, there are endless options for laying out your backsplash design.

Subway Tile

The classic rectangular subway tile is the most recognizable brick backsplash look. Lay the tiles in offset rows or stack them in a modern vertical pattern.

Consider subway tiles with handmade wavy edges or different sizes like jumbo bricks. Use varying grout colors and widths to add interest within the simple grid.

Herringbone

For a contemporary spin, install white bricks in a sleek herringbone pattern. The zigzag layout draws the eye to beautiful variations in color and texture.

Extending the herringbone pattern to the walls or across the entire backsplash creates a custom built-in look. Frame the herringbone backsplash with wood shelving for contrast.

Basketweave

Interlocking brick tiles at perpendicular angles create a charming basketweave pattern. This grid layout provides depth and visual texture.

Mix glossy and matte tiles in the basketweave design for interest. Use basketweave brick backsplash tile in a kitchen with traditional white cabinetry for a coordinated look.

Design Ideas for White Brick Backsplashes

Beyond the basic brick shape and layout, there are many ways to customize your white backsplash tile. Here are some ideas for taking this timeless look from basic to beautiful:

Mix Brick Shapes and Sizes

One simple upgrade is combining standard subway tiles with larger bricks and specialty shapes like circles or diamonds. This adds subtle interest while keeping the classic brick style intact.

Or stagger extra-long subway tiles with shorter bricks. Varying the scale and stacking patterns prevents monotony.

Use Contrasting Grout Colors

White tiles with bright white grout can look washed out. Choose a dark gray or even black grout for dramatic impact. Softer gray grout also adds subtle contrast.

If going for an organic look, match the grout to the tile color. Or pick a complementary grout that ties into the cabinetry or counters.

Incorporate Natural Materials

The minimalist look of white brick backsplash tile contrasts beautifully with natural elements. Wood open shelves, granite countertops, and stone accent walls add warmth.

Wrought iron fixtures, antique brick flooring, and reclaimed wood beams enhance the rustic farmhouse feel with white subway tiles.

Install a Focal Backsplash Wall

Create a focal point by using white brick tile as an accent wall behind the stove or sink. Flank it with painted walls to frame the backsplash.

Enhance the brick wall with open shelving, pendant lights over islands, or a decorative range hood. Add metal and stone accents.

Stainless steel appliances, nickel or copper vent hoods, and chrome fixtures pop against the white brick backdrop. The sheen and cool tones complement the tile.

Aged metal finishes like oil-rubbed bronze have an industrial vibe that pairs well with white brick's utilitarian roots. Just a touch of metal brings the space together.

When planning your kitchen remodel, don't overlook the transformative power of the humble white brick backsplash. This versatile tile material comes to life in endless patterns and combinations. Use brick backsplashes to amplify light, accentuate design focal points, and pull together an aesthetically pleasing and timelessly stylish kitchen space.