Is This the Decorative Detail Your Kitchen Is Missing? Why Designers Are Rediscovering the "Sidesplash” to Elevate Kitchen Schemes

While minimalism was reigning over the last few decades, small, decorative kitchen elements fell out of fashion. Clean lines and sleek finishes were the most on-trend approach. But recently, a shift is happening in kitchen design where we are seeing a return to more traditional styles and elements. We've seen a rise in working kitchen tables, pot rails, plate racks, hutches, and, most recently, a rediscovery of the sidesplash.

A forgotten part of a kitchen backsplash, the side splash refers to the panels that create a more considered finish along perpendicular walls. It's a detail that will instantly elevate your backsplash, and designers say it's the one feature you should be introducing to your kitchen this year. Here's everything you need to know.

The Rediscovered Appeal of the Kitchen Sidesplash

When you look around historic properties, those that have been preserved at least, you'll notice so many decorative details, from intricate framing around doors to decadent moldings on the walls.

That sense of adding things because they are pretty has been lost for some time, but in 2026, it's a decorating approach that's making a comeback. And designers are starting with the kitchen sidesplash.

'A sidesplash is a beautiful way to round out a kitchen design. We love incorporating thoughtful millwork and stone details, and a sidesplash adds another layer of visual interest while also being functional. It helps the space feel more finished and tailored,' says Heather French, Creative Director and Principal at French & French Interiors.

It's the dual purpose of aesthetics and functionality that makes this feature really stand out. It's decorative and elevates the look of your kitchen design, but it also helps to further protect the walls at the same time.

'A side splash is useful to avoid water damage to the side walls, but also visually, as it creates a full volume of the material instead of just an accent wall. It feels more complete,' agrees interior designer Jessica Helgerson.

And the timing of the sidesplash's return is no coincidence. In fact, it's part of a greater shift we are seeing in kitchen trends this year, where people are embracing softer, more lived-in designs.

'There’s a broader shift happening in kitchens toward warmth and permanence. After years of ultra-minimal spaces, homeowners are craving more architectural detail and a sense of history,' explains interior designer Caroline Levenson.

'The sidesplash nods to older kitchens where stone was treated as substantial and enduring. It also pairs beautifully with inset kitchen cabinetry, antique brass fixtures, and richer wood tones, all elements we’re seeing more of again.'

The Best Materials and Silhouettes For a Sidesplash

Choosing the right material for your backsplash is an important decision, and introducing a sidesplash will have an impact. Which you choose will depend entirely on the look you wish to achieve.

'Any material that is good for a backsplash is good for the sidesplash. It’s just that certain shapes are more appropriate for certain materials. Slabs can be cut to create special swoops; tile is better (generally) in a straight line,' says Jessica.

It really depends on the style of your kitchen and the age of your home. 'The most successful sidesplashes feel tailored to the home. Rather than a sharp, abrupt return, I love a softly shaped silhouette that eases into the wall,' says Caroline.

'A gentle curve or subtle stepped detail can echo surrounding millwork and make the element feel integrated rather than added on. Proportion is everything. It should feel like a natural extension of the countertop, not something tacked on at the end.'

Heather agrees, adding: 'We tend to gravitate toward silhouettes with a more decorative edge. A softly curved or detailed profile adds character and charm, and it’s a subtle way to introduce personality into the space.'

For that beautiful curve or a decorative edge, natural stone tends to work best – even more so if you plan to incorporate a countersplash for a completely seamless look. 'Natural stone is especially compelling here,' says Caroline.

'Marble with expressive veining is beautiful when wrapped up the side because the movement draws your eye vertically and highlights the craftsmanship. Honed finishes tend to feel more timeless and architectural. Even quieter stones can work beautifully if the overall look is restrained. The key is choosing a material that feels worthy of that extra plane.'

Designer Tips on Getting The Sidesplash Right

A sidesplash is a truly luxurious detail to add to your kitchen, elevating the look of your entire space. But to ensure you get it right, designers have a few tips for a flawless execution.

The key is to treat it as a part of your design, rather than a separate entity, as Heather explains: 'Treat the sidesplash as a design feature rather than just a functional add-on. It should feel intentional and integrated with the overall space.'

Scale and how your sidesplash integrates with the other components in your kitchen are also something to pay attention to. 'Keep the height intentional. Often, just a few inches above the counter feels refined unless you’re continuing the material full height,' Caroline advises.

'Pay close attention to how it aligns with cabinet reveals and window trim so it feels deliberate. And if you’re working with veined stone, be thoughtful about how the slab is cut and oriented. When the movement flows beautifully, the whole detail feels custom.'

For Jessica, a simple formula ensures a seamless look. 'What I usually say is how do we get from point A (the upper top corner of the backsplash) to point B (the front corner of the counter) most gracefully? The answer to that question is what creates the side splash.'

Ticking the boxes for function and visual appeal, it's clear to see why designers are reviving the kitchen sidesplash. It's a small addition with a major impact – it's time we start reintroducing beautiful details to our kitchens, especially for that more custom look.

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