Walls and Backsplashes Are Becoming the Artworks

In 2025, interior design trends are shifting towards making walls and backsplashes the centrepiece of a space. No longer are they mere backdrops—they’re evolving into standalone works of art. From bold textures to intricate patterns, walls and backsplashes are transforming homes with style, creativity, and personal expression. Here’s how you can embrace this trend and elevate your interior spaces.

1. Bold and Textured Walls

• Plastered Finishes: Venetian plaster, limewash, and other artisanal finishes create depth and dimension, offering a timeless, sophisticated look.

• Wall Murals: Custom-painted or wallpaper murals can turn an entire wall into a statement piece, showcasing everything from abstract designs to natural landscapes.

• 3D Wall Panels: Geometric or organic shapes crafted from wood, metal, or gypsum add a sculptural element to your walls.

• Design Tip: Balance bold walls with neutral furniture and decor to avoid overwhelming the space.

2. Statement Backsplashes in Kitchens and Bathrooms

• Handcrafted Tiles: From Moroccan zellige tiles to encaustic patterns, artisanal tiles infuse character and charm into backsplashes.

• Slab Backsplashes: Large-format materials like marble, quartz, or porcelain create a seamless, luxurious look. Intricate veining and bold patterns can make these slabs feel like works of art.

• Metallic Accents: Brass, copper, or stainless steel tiles add a touch of modern glamour while reflecting light beautifully.

• Design Tip: Match or contrast the backsplash with countertops for a cohesive yet dynamic look.

3. Colour as a Statement

• Unexpected Hues: Jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue make walls and backsplashes pop, especially in minimalist spaces.

• Ombre Effects: Gradients transitioning from one colour to another add movement and intrigue to vertical surfaces.

• Painted Patterns: Use stencils or freehand designs to create unique, hand-painted walls that reflect your personality.

• Design Tip: Complement bold colours with softer tones in the rest of the room to create harmony.

4. Mixed Materials for Interest

• Wood and Stone Combinations: Pairing natural elements like reclaimed wood with stone creates an earthy, grounded feel.

• Mirrored Surfaces: Mirrors as backsplashes or wall panels add depth and make spaces appear larger.

• Textile Walls: Upholstered wall panels or fabric wallpapers bring warmth, texture, and acoustic benefits to a room.

• Design Tip: Incorporate lighting that highlights the texture and materiality of your walls and backsplashes.

5. Personalisation Through Artistry

• Custom Designs: Commissioning artists or artisans for bespoke murals, mosaics, or tile patterns ensures your space is one-of-a-kind.

• DIY Projects: For the creatively inclined, creating your own painted wall or tiled backsplash can be a rewarding way to personalise your space.

• Framed Wall Elements: Treating a section of a wall or backsplash as a framed artwork—using contrasting materials or borders—can turn it into a focal point.

Why This Trend Works

Walls and backsplashes as artworks align with the broader movement towards personalised, expressive interiors. By treating these surfaces as design opportunities rather than functional necessities, you can elevate your home to reflect your unique taste and style. This approach also allows for creativity in spaces that might otherwise go overlooked, like kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s through bold colours, intricate patterns, or custom artistry, walls and backsplashes are redefining how we think about interior design in 2025. They’re not just structural elements; they’re canvases for creativity. Embrace this trend and transform your home into a gallery that tells your store.