What is the ideal height for a tiled upstand in various rooms, as suggested by professionals?
Choosing the Right Tiled Upstand Height: A Guide for Kitchens, Bathrooms, and Utility Rooms
When it comes to tiled upstands, also known as splashbacks or wall upstands, the recommended height in kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms typically ranges from 100mm to 150mm (4 to 6 inches) above the worktop or countertop surface. This height is sufficient to protect the wall from water splashes, spills, and general wear while maintaining clean lines in the overall design.
Design Factors to Consider
- Practical Protection: A tiled upstand of around 100-150mm provides necessary protection against moisture and staining without overwhelming the space.
- Visual Impact: Lower upstands (closer to 100mm) tend to create a sleek, minimalist, and contemporary look, maintaining a smooth transition between countertop and wall. Taller upstands may look more traditional or pronounced.
- Design Flexibility: The height can vary based on materials or aesthetic preferences. For example, a full-height backsplash from countertop to underside of wall units or shelves offers maximum protection and a bold design statement, often used in luxury settings.
- Perception of Space: Vertical tile orientation or taller upstands can visually lift the kitchen walls, making the space feel taller and more open, especially in small or compact kitchens.
Alternative Materials and Design Ideas
Rob Whitaker, the Creative Director and Co-Founder of Claybrook Studio, a London-based company specializing in tile and bathroom designs, offers some alternative suggestions. He recommends extending marble or quartz worktops partway up the wall for a seamless, luxurious look as an alternative to tiled upstands.
For small areas like sinks in bathrooms, a practical choice for splash protection is a 30cm height. In utility rooms, mid-height upstands of 15 - 30cm are often ideal, offering sufficient splash protection without overwhelming the space. If the space is a little-used area, a single larger porcelain tile can be a practical, low-maintenance choice for splash protection.
Mosaic tile sheets are flexible, easy to cut, and extremely versatile for DIY upstands. Diagonal metro white tiles are perfect for minimal upstands due to their classic brick shape. Rob Whitaker recommends using smaller tiles or glazed mosaics for a more aesthetically pleasing look behind a sink. Glazed ceramic trim tiles in dove white are ideal for finishing a white kitchen or bathroom upstand.
Mirrored glass can be used as a splash protection and reflective design element as an alternative to tiled upstands. Tall upstands are great for making a statement, especially when using patterned or textured tiles like Zellige tiles. Horizontal tiles with a deep puddle glaze and high gloss finish are suitable for tiled upstands.
Material Choices
Durable materials such as porcelain or ceramic tiles are popular choices for utility rooms due to their easy cleanability and resistance to dirt and water. Vertical porcelain tiles with white and deep plum veins are suitable for both kitchens and bathrooms.
Expert Advice
Rob Whitaker suggests checking out a guide on how to tile a backsplash for step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and design inspiration. Colin Lincoln-Evans, the Head of Buying at Tile Mountain, a leading UK-based tile retailer, emphasizes the importance of splash protection when deciding on the height of a tiled upstand. He also advises that for practicality, tiled upstands should be at least 25cm to 40cm high to catch splashes.
For smaller spaces like compact kitchens and small bathrooms, taller upstands can be used to maximize utility without overwhelming the space. In more utilitarian spaces, larger porcelain tiles are a practical, low-maintenance choice, while pairing materials adds texture and visual contrast.
Claybrook Studio focuses on innovative tile and bathroom designs, prioritizing sustainable materials. Rob Whitaker recommends considering the environmental impact of the materials you choose for your tiled upstand.
In summary, tiled upstands serve a practical purpose while also contributing to the overall aesthetic of your kitchen, bathroom, or utility room. By considering the factors discussed above, you can make an informed decision about the height, materials, and design of your tiled upstand.
- Choosing the right design for a tiled upstand in a home's kitchen, bathroom, or utility room involves considering various factors.
- Higher tiled upstands may create a more traditional or pronounced look, while lower ones offer a sleek, minimalist aesthetic.
- For luxury settings, a full-height backsplash from countertop to wall units or shelves can be an option, providing maximum protection and a bold design statement.
- In compact spaces, vertical tile orientation or taller upstands can visually make the space feel taller and more open.
- An alternative to tiled upstands is extending marble or quartz worktops partway up the wall, providing a seamless, luxurious look.
- Mosaic tile sheets are flexible, easy to cut, and suitable for DIY upstands, especially for a sink area in a bathroom.
- Sustainable materials, like those used by Claybrook Studio, are worth considering when choosing the materials for your tiled upstand, prioritizing environmental impact.
In all these cases, tiled upstands serve both a practical function and contribute to the overall aesthetic of your home, ranging from lofts to home-and-garden spaces. Following a guide on how to tile a backsplash can help ensure successful execution, resulting in an enjoyable and integrated lifestyle addition to your home.
