[kimarama]

We're planning on a standalone range with a range hood, and I'm wondering if it's absolutely necessary to have a backsplash. (I'm honestly probably trying to avoid having to make a decision, but hey, a girl can dream, right?)

I saw this picture on the Flickr page, and since we're going with Adel MB, thought that this would be similar to our finished product:

http://l.yimg.com/www.flickr.com/images/spaceball.gif

We haven't decided on a countertop yet, so that will also probably drive the decision. But I just wanted to see what the general concensus was on the no backsplash idea.

Thanks!

[Mariposita]

I have been living without a backsplash for the last two months since cabs were installed (counters went in last week), and I can see why we would need a B/S.

My walls have splatters from cooking and this alone would drive me crazy. Like you, I was hoping...praying and wishing I didn't have to put one in!

[stacylu]

I don't think you absolutely need one as long as you paint with a durable paint... And you don't have a slide in range. You'll have splatters on the wall no matter what's on the wall. We've lived without one since July and are doing ok with the minimal cleanup but we plan to do one - once we figure out what we want!

[kimarama]

Good thoughts...thanks for the feedback.

We may go without, since it's not urgent, and take time to get to know the feel of the kitchen before we decide on something.

Back to the galleries for more inspiration...

[Toxigal]

that had a backsplash.

so i'd say no, they aren't necessary

[kmcg]

Considering the surprising amount of cleaning the backsplash I do (around the sink and prep area, especially), I've become a believer in them. But I agree that you don't need to get to it right away.
Kathy

[DesignDiva]

You don't need one necessarily...but they do give you the chance to express a little artistic creativity in an otherwise very utilitarian space. It's the one place of simply pure beauty in a kitchen! I think a kitchen looks a bit naked without one.

Of course, I cannot actually COMMIT to a backsplash, at least a tiled one, so I made mine removable in case I want to change it.