For years, the walls behind our hobs have been protected by glass screens, sheets of metal or tiles, but waterproof panels offer a wider choice of styles with the same practical functionality. So why should these materials be limited to bathrooms? Waterproof wall panels can also create stylish, practical kitchen splashbacks. From marble and natural stone effects to warm wood-inspired finishes, they offer a fresh alternative to traditional kitchen tiles. In this blog, we’ll showcase how waterproof panels can help protect your walls from bubbling pots and steaming kettles, while giving your kitchen a stylish new look in one simple update.
The main purpose of a splashback is practical, it helps protect your walls from water, food splashes, grease and everyday marks that naturally come with cooking. Afterall, you only need the tiniest spec of tomato sauce to land on a wall to mark it permanently.
That said, a splashback doesn't need to be purely functional - it can be stylish too. Because it sits in such a visible position, a splash back can also become an important part of your kitchen design. The right finish can add colour, texture, pattern or warmth, helping to tie your cabinetry, worktops, flooring and hardware together.
As we said in the introduction, most splashbacks have been brushed metal, textured glass, or made from traditional tiles, but by using a waterproof wall panel, cut carefully to size, you can enjoy the same wipe clean surface but with so many more style options. What’s more, unlike kitchen tiles, none of the panels available at Naturewall need grouting, so there’s no need to worry about mould or discoloration.
To help you find the perfect splashback option for your home, we’ve pulled together five styles, each of which is as stylish as the last.
Create a luxurious marble splashback
Marble is one of those special materials that’s been celebrated for centuries. As a result, marble-effect splashbacks will instantly add a luxurious feel to your kitchen.
Pair it with simple cabinetry and pick out tones from the marble across your worktops, handles or accessories for a cohesive look.
Introduce natural character with stone
Stone-effect panels create a warm, natural feel that works beautifully with neutral cabinetry, wood and understated hardware.
Choose a subtle finish for a relaxed scheme or something bolder to create a focal point. You can also use these panels with rich natural shades including terracotta and dark anthracite grey.
Add warmth with a wood-effect splashback
Wood-effect panels can soften modern kitchens and introduce warmth and character. Pair them with light cabinetry for a fresh, Scandinavian-inspired look, or darker cupboards for a richer, more dramatic scheme.
These panels are the ideal choice for a cottage-inspired kitchen, and look beautiful with neutral shades and pops of rich red or bottle green.
Create depth with textured splashback
Reeded textures will add depth and visual interest to a kitchen without relying on bold colours. Keep the rest of your kitchen simple to let the textured splashback stand out, or combine it with other natural materials for a layered look.
Go bold with a statement splashback
While there are specific ways of using waterproof panels to create a unique splashback, don’t be afraid to use your splashback as a way to introduce contrast and personality.
Darker stone, dramatic marble or statement textures will transform the look of your kitchen, giving it a new focal point without the need for a complete renovation.
A splashback doesn't have to be an afterthought - it can take centrestage. Whether you prefer the timeless look of marble, the warmth of wood, the natural character of stone or the depth of a textured finish, waterproof wall panels offer plenty of ways to make this practical part of your kitchen a stylish statement too.
