Get Inspired! See How a Beadboard Backsplash Transforms a Kitchen
If your kitchen is starting to show signs of age, a beadboard backsplash could provide the perfect facelift. This classic wall treatment not only looks gorgeous but can be easily installed as a budget-friendly DIY project. Keep reading for inspirational photos, planning tips, and design ideas to create your own stunning beadboard backsplash makeover!
Beadboard backsplashes instantly infuse vintage charm into any kitchen. The distinctive rows of wooden boards with indented grooves have an eye-catching texture and dimension that simply can't be achieved with tile or stone. Visually, beadboard makes a statement. It adds warmth and character to what is often the busiest room of the home.
Gorgeous Examples of Beadboard Backsplash Designs
When envisioning a beadboard backsplash, many think of crisp white painted panels brightening up farmhouse kitchens. While this traditional look is gorgeous, beadboard can also impart cozy rustic flair and work with any color scheme or style.
Painted Beadboard
A crisp coat of white or light gray paint allows the beadboard's textured lines to shine. Painting also seals and protects the boards from cooking splatters. For contemporary contrast, go bold with navy blue, charcoal, or matte black painted beadboard.
Soft pastels like robin's egg blue or sage green are charming painted options as well. Keep walls and cabinets light to prevent overwhelming the petite kitchen.
Stained Wood Tones
Stained beadboard backsplashes infuse natural warmth and dimension. Light oak or whitewashed gray stains work nicely in airy cottages and farmhouses. Espresso and walnut stains provide beautiful contrast beside white cabinetry in more formal kitchens.
For extra depth, incorporate alternating sections of dark and light stained boards. Or frame crisp white beadboard with rich wood stain edging.
Playful Patterns
Get creative with beadboard patterns! Line boards horizontally in some sections and vertically in others for visual interest. Paint or stain every other board a different tone to make the lines pop. An X-detail created with trim strips can add farmhouse flair.
Planning Your Beadboard Backsplash
Choosing the Right Beadboard Material
Traditional wood or moisture-resistant PVC are the most common beadboard options for backsplashes. While costlier, real tongue-and-groove pine boards offer an authentic look. PVC provides durability and is easy to wipe clean.
Consider your design style and budget. For a rustic cottage feel, natural unfinished pine boards would look stunning. In busy family kitchens, durable PVC panels are a smart call.
Determining How Much Beadboard You Need
First, measure the space to span with your new beadboard backsplash. Standard backsplash height is 4 feet from the counter. Width depends on your kitchen layout. Multiply height by width to get the total square footage.
The most common beadboard size is 4x8 foot panels. Divide total backsplash square footage by 32 (the area of a 4x8 sheet) to estimate the number of panels needed. Budget $30-60 per 4x8 PVC panel or $50-100 for real wood.
Beadboard Backsplash Installation Tips
Installing a beadboard backsplash is a relatively easy DIY project. Start by prepping the wall area, removing any old backsplash. Measure and mark stud locations and cut panels to size with a circular saw.
Apply adhesive, then carefully nail panels to studs for support. Caulk along seams and finish edges with trim. Prime and paint or stain for best results.
Wear protective gear when cutting and installing. Have an electrician move any outlets that interfere with your new backsplash placement.
Integrating With Countertops and Cabinets
Plan your beadboard layout around sinks, stoves, and outlets. Leave a slight gap between the countertop and boards for easy wiping. Use caulk to seal crevices.
For a streamlined look, install beadboard right to cabinet tops. Or, leave a small gap and add coordinating trim. Painting boards and trim the same color creates a seamless effect.
Beadboard Backsplash Design Ideas
Color Schemes That Pop
While neutral whites and wood tones are popular, don't be afraid to get creative with color! Soft sage green or robin's egg blue beadboard would look darling beside white cabinetry. Charcoal stained boards offer modern drama.
Choose colors that complement your counters, floors, and walls. Contrast the boards with cabinetry or blend them in—either can look cohesive.
Fun Patterns and Shapes
Add visual interest with beadboard designs beyond basic rectangular panels. Laying boards vertically in some spots and horizontally in others catches the eye.
Painting X or square details with trim over the field boards livens up plain sections. Contrasting colors or stains on alternating boards also imparts character.
Extra Touches
Take beadboard beyond the backsplash zone for extra charm. Flank the range hood with boards, or run them up walls for a shiplap effect. Open shelving atop a beadboard backsplash creates a charming cottage look. Accent with potted vines or a runner of gauzy curtains.
As you can see, the design possibilities with beadboard backsplashes are truly endless. They provide such visual impact, yet are an affordable DIY option for refreshing tired kitchens. With some planning and elbow grease, you can transform your cooking space with vintage farmhouse charm or modern panache.
Hopefully these inspiring photos, tips and ideas have convinced you to take the beadboard backsplash plunge! Soon you'll be enjoying morning coffee in a kitchen imbued with rustic beauty and character thanks to the warm glow of wooden beadboard.