Straighten out Your Backsplash with Linear Tile

Featured Image: Flash Ivory 5 x 5 Ceramic Tile Kitchen Backsplash & Mont Blanc Satin Quartzite Countertop from Arizona Tile

Straight lines create a clean, polished look that pairs well with any design style. Whether you’re a fan of chic and modern decor, or you gravitate toward rustic farmhouse elements, incorporating a linear tile pattern into your backsplash adds a sophisticated touch that complements without overpowering.

Still, if you want your backsplash to be a statement piece, a linear tile pattern can stretch outside the norm. You can stagger your tile to create movement, alternate colors for a checkerboard effect, or play with orientation to add dimension to your space. However you choose to configure your tile, a linear pattern is sure to deliver, elevating your space with a sleek, polished finish. Read on for a few ideas on how to work a linear tile pattern into your next backsplash project.

Balance Your Lines with Texture

One of the benefits of opting for a linear tile pattern is that it gives you the opportunity to play up other design elements you might otherwise overlook. With clean lines, you can feel free to add interesting layers of texture, color, and materials. Because your tile pattern is more subdued and minimalist, a little flair through movement will actually balance out your design and keep it from appearing too simple.

For a perfect example of how to achieve this balance, look no further than Flash. Available in eight versatile colors, this glossy ceramic tile catches the light and offers beautiful tonal variety. With a gentle texture that’s unique to each tile, Flash gives the appearance of a subtle wave that complements the rigidity of straight lines. Pair this linear ceramic tile with natural wood elements for a soft, boho-chic look that’s perfect for any bathroom or kitchen.

Image: Paloma Camel 4 x 16 Linear Ceramic Bathroom Shower Tile from Arizona Tile

Create Height in Cramped Spaces

One of the most effective design skills is knowing how to create the illusion of a larger space. This is often best achieved through natural light and sleek furniture, but clean lines play a big part in making a space look large and airy. If you have a small powder room or a tight shower area, incorporating a linear pattern using vertically placed tiles is a great way to make your ceilings appear taller. Paloma is available in seven sleek neutral colors, making it a great addition to any color palette. The glossy finish plays with light, a critical element of making a room appear more spacious. Arrange the tile vertically to draw the eye upwards and create the appearance of a taller wall and a bigger space.

Image: Calacatta Gris 4 x16 Linear Marble Bathroom Wall Tile from Arizona Tile

Add Marble for a Touch of Elegance

If you’re looking to achieve a sophisticated, spa-like bathroom, marble tile is a must-have. Though beautiful, large slabs of marble can be a lavish expense. By using a smaller tile and arranging it in a linear pattern, you can create the same effect of a floor-to-ceiling marble slab, for a fraction of the cost. Calacatta Gris is a white marble with very faint, warm grey details which adds a   subtle cloud-like movement to the tile. Whether you use it as a linear backsplash tile or to create a relaxing shower space, this elegant marble will achieve your desired result. Pair it with white linen and organic material to transport yourself to a five-star resort.

Image: Vetri Bianco 8 x 24 Linear Porcelain Kitchen Tile Backsplash from Arizona Tile

Keep It Simple for an Understated and Sophisticated Look

If you want to add a backsplash that fades into the background without looking bland, a simple white tile is the way to go. The neat grid effect of a linear pattern adds a bit of intrigue without overwhelming the space, drawing the eye toward some of the bolder design elements, like sleek cabinetry, hanging kitchen island cabinets, or a modern chandelier. As a porcelain tile with a slight sheen to it, Vetri Bianco is glamorous yet understated.  Making it the perfect choice for a sophisticated linear backsplash. If you want this tile to be more of a statement piece, use a dark grout to play up the checkerboard pattern and give your backsplash an extra touch of drama.

Image: Islandia Barbados 4 x 12 Glossy Glass Kitchen Backsplash Tile & Grigio Nube Quartz Countertop from Arizona Tile

Create a Coastal Vibe with a Glass Mosaic

If your backsplash is intended to be a focal point of the space but you’re looking to achieve a sleek, minimalist vibe, a linear glass tile is a great option.  It instantly adds sophistication to any space and complements modern elements. The reflective surface adds dimension to your kitchen or bath and immediately draws the eye in. Add a splash of color for a calming, coastal look. Islandia is available in eight dreamy tones that echo the natural colors found on the coast and comes in a matte or glossy finish. Arrange this subway tile in a linear pattern for a chic backsplash and round out the look with white cabinetry and modern elements.

Image: Gioia Avocado Porcelain Tile Bathroom Wall Tile & Terrazzo Black Porcelain Tile Floor from Arizona Tile

Add Contrast with Bold Colors

As mentioned above, a linear tile pattern is subtle and understated enough that you have room to go bold with other design elements. In addition to layering textures and materials, color is a great way to elevate a gridded backsplash. For a serene look, opt for soft neutrals, like a warm beige or cool seafoam. However, if you want to add a touch of drama to your bathroom or kitchen, use a tropical hue or jewel tone to elevate the simple appearance of a linear tile pattern. Gioia comes in 16 beautiful colors, ranging from creams and whites to bright blues. Use this sleek tile for your next backsplash project to liven up your space with eye-catching colors.

However, you choose to style your linear tile backsplash, make it your own.  The tile and stone experts at Arizona Tile are always happy to help you find the perfect timeless bathroom look. Explore our unique stone and tile offerings in one of our many showrooms. Visit our virtual slab yard, or check out our Just Imagine Visualizer to see how our products will look in your space without even leaving your home. If you have any questions or need help starting your project, contact us today.