Understanding Upstands and Splashbacks: A Guide to Kitchen Design

Dreaming of a kitchen that seamlessly blends good design with functionality and style? Heard about upstands and splashbacks but not entirely sure about their purpose or the differences between them? Fear not! In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of upstands and splashbacks, exploring their roles in the kitchen, why they’re essential, and the various options available.

What are Upstands and Splashbacks?

Let’s start with the basics: what exactly are upstands and splashbacks?

Upstands serve as extensions of your worktop, running along its length and returning up the wall typically between 6cm to 12cm. They provide a polished finish to work surfaces and cover any gaps between uneven walls and the straight edge of a worktop.

On the other hand, splashbacks cover a broader area, commonly found behind sinks or hobs to shield against food and water splashes. Generally, anything higher than 20cm is considered a splashback, while lower than 20cm is categorised as an upstand.

Regardless of terminology, both serve the same purpose – enhancing the kitchen’s aesthetics and protecting walls from stains and splashes.

Why Have Upstands and Splashbacks?

Upstands and splashbacks not only elevate the look of your kitchen but also enhance its durability. They offer an easy-to-clean surface that maintains the kitchen’s appearance and cleanliness, regardless of how messy your cooking endeavours become.

Beyond functionality, these features contribute to the kitchen’s style statement. With recent trends emphasising extensive wall coverage, upstands and splashbacks provide an opportunity to infuse personality into the space while ensuring easy maintenance.

What Options are Available?

1. Tiles: A traditional choice, tiles offer versatility in design, allowing for bold patterns or subtle hues. While they’re customisable to fit any kitchen layout, grouting and maintenance can be cumbersome.
2. Glass: Glass splashbacks inject colour and contemporary flair into kitchens. With minimal joints, they’re durable and low-maintenance, albeit requiring frequent cleaning to prevent watermarks and streaks.
3. Granite, Marble, and Quartz: These premium materials, often used for worktops, are also popular for upstands and splashbacks. They provide a cohesive look and minimise joints, ensuring a hygienic and visually appealing kitchen space.

Wellingtons Kitchens can help you pick the perfect upstand or splashback to compliment your Kitchen. Contact us to find out more.