The Origins of this Modern Kitchen Amenity May Surprise You!
Within the kitchen, the backsplash combines functionality with stylistic grace in a way that few features can. Acting as an accent piece, a backsplash can either bring a splash of color to an otherwise minimalist kitchen or complement a variety of eclectic decorations. But one thing to remember about backsplashes is that functionality must be a factor. A cement tile backsplash can prevent stains and grease spatters, keeping your kitchen bright and clean and preventing unpleasant smells from setting in.
While the kitchen backsplash is a common sight in many homes now, it wasn’t always this way. In fact, the modern idea of a kitchen backsplash is a relatively recent invention. But where did this incredibly practical idea originate?
From Practical Purposes to Style Statements
Like many common household features, the backsplash can’t be traced to one single source. What we DO know about the original backsplashes is that they came into use shortly after running water became widespread around the 1930s. Due to the advent of running water, kitchen innovations emerged swiftly, and the backsplash became a common kitchen sight.
Originally, backsplashes were about 4 inches high and were made of fragile materials like glass or ceramic. Many were simply attached to the then-popular farmhouse sink. When undermount sinks rose to popularity in the 40s, backsplashes were no longer directly attached to the sink, so the only solution was mounting the backsplash directly to the wall. Over the following decade, the backsplash became a popular place to demonstrate decor tastes. Around this time, the bright colors and elegant patterns of the cement tile backsplash became the stylistic standard.
Enduring the Test of Time
Even though the cement tile backsplash rose to fame in the 1950s, it’s held up to the many home decor style changes over the years with ease. Whether it adds vivacity to a simple kitchen or accompanies a lively, colorful kitchen, the cement tile backsplash shines in just about every setting. In addition to its timelessness, cement tile has proven to be one of the best materials for a backsplash. Its natural durability and easy clean-up is perfect for facing the messes of cooking. Over the years, production quality has only increased, so modern cement tile is likely to last even longer and hold to even more sauce stains, grease spatters, and splashes of water than its predecessors.
At Riad, we’ve seen our tile used to create backsplashes in kitchens of all shapes, sizes, and styles. We’re always amazed with how creative our customers can be in using our intricate designs to complement their kitchen. We take a great deal of pride in our craft, and seeing others enjoy our work brings a smile to our face!
Bringing a splash of color to your kitchen is easy! Please feel free to get in touch with us, and we’ll send you some samples of our handcrafted tile, so you can choose which one fits your kitchen best.
