Splashbacks are an essential practical and decorative element of all Gold Coast kitchens. Not only do they make it easy to keep the food preparation areas clean and hygienic, but with careful coordination they can also help to reinforce the ambience of any interior design scheme.
Splashbacks are designed to protect kitchen walls from water damage and cooking splatters. Most Gold Coast kitchens would house splashbacks ranging between 600mm and 700mm in height. With new materials coming onto the market all the time, local renovators can now be as artistic and creative with their splashback design as their imagination will allow.
Splashback Materials Available For Use in Gold Coast Kitchens
Tiles – Still the Gold Coast’s number one choice for kitchen splashbacks, tiles are available in an almost infinite number of designs and colours. Ceramic tiles are the traditional option, however mosaic and glass tile designs can lend a modern edge to any décor. One of the drawbacks of using tiles as a splashback surface is that the grout can make them somewhat difficult to clean and patterned tiles can quickly become out-dated.
Resurfacing is a great alternative for Gold Coast kitchens sporting tiles that are still in good condition but in colours or patterns that have gone out of fashion. The tiles can simply be sprayed with a purpose-designed acrylic coating that seals both the grout and tiles for easy cleaning while making them appear fresh and new once more.
Glass – Glass splashbacks provide a surface that is hard-wearing and yet incredibly hygienic. The sleek, contemporary look of glass combined with the huge array of rich colour choices has made it a much more popular option for Gold Coast kitchens in recent times. One of the downfalls of glass splashbacks is that they are typically a pricier alternative. One of the ways to keep the cost of a glass splashback to a minimum is to choose a darker colour which will not be affected by the green tint of clear glass. Light, warm and bright colours will require a premium quality low-iron glass which is more expensive.
Printed glass splashbacks are a new innovation offering unique architectural and design opportunities. Any image, pattern or graphic can be transferred onto the glass and used as an eye-catching backdrop. For those wanting something just that little bit different, there is also a new smooth, non-reflective satin glass splashback finish making its debut in Gold Coast kitchens.
Mirror – Toughened mirror glass splashbacks are a perfect choice when wanting to create an open and spacious feeling in the kitchen. These can now be purchased in a heat resistant product that can be used behind cooktops.
Metaline splashback and feature wall from Laminex in Rubicon Perle. Photo credit: www.laminex.com.au
Metaline – Metaline is a new aluminium-based splashback material manufactured by Laminex. It has the advantage of being able to provide a high-impact, contemporary look while also being durable, heat and stain-resistant.
Metaline rivals the good looks of glass splashbacks but is a more budget-friendly alternative for Gold Coast kitchens. Available in a range of colours ranging from lipstick red to delicate champagne perle, metaline is set to become the new sensation in Gold Coast kitchen splashbacks.
Stainless steel – This surface is popular in commercial food preparation areas because it can be kept very clean. One of the downfalls of stainless steel is that it will also show up every smear and fingerprint so it may not be the best option for busy Gold Coast kitchens that cater to a demanding family lifestyle. Stainless steel also requires regular maintenance to avoid discoloration of the surface and will need to be protected with a specialty stainless steel cleaner.
Acrylic – Acrylic splashbacks look like glass, but are a cheaper alternative. They have the benefit of being shatterproof which is why they have been used for many years in commercial settings such as clubs and bars. Acrylic is less heat resistant and more prone to scratching than glass, and is not recommended for use behind gas or electric hotplates.
Benchtop Materials – Corian is a popular countertop choice for Gold Coast kitchens because of its good looks and excellent durability. Corian can also be moulded to form a coved splashback, creating a seamless join between the benchtop and splash. One of the limitations of Corian is that it must be positioned with at least 200mm clearance from the rear cooktop burner.
Stone is another beautiful material for kitchen benchtops Gold Coast residents can also choose to use as a splashback. This is not a cheap option, but the results that can be created are absolutely stunning and long-lasting. Many types of stone are porous, so be sure that your stone splashback surface is sealed to prevent the build-up of food residues.
Laminate can also be used as an economical splashback material however it is not suitable for use behind cooktop burners.
When choosing your splashback it’s important to consider your lifestyle, what you can afford to spend and your interior design scheme. However with splashback options available to suit all tastes and budgets, there is now no reason why all Gold Coast kitchens can’t look their very best.
