Trying to find an option to get by until my husband and I save enough money to completely renovate our kitchen.

Hello all! We’re in the middle of planning our kitchen remodel and could really use some design input. We love the high-end look of a slab backsplash with a shelf and panelling above (see Photo 2 for inspiration). Unfortunately, the quote for the slab came in way over budget, so we’re exploring more affordable options.

Here are the three options we’re considering that we’d like feedback on:

1. Ditch the panelling, run tile all the way to the ceiling, and add a shelf about halfway up. The range hood would still be panelled in a colour matching the cabinets (Photo 3).

2. Use the same tile just up to the shelf, with panelling above the shelf (Photo 4) • Concern: I worry this might look too busy, with too many competing lines

3. Use large format tile to mimic the slab look, with a shelf and panelling above (Photo 5). • Concern: I haven’t seen many people use large format tiles for a backsplash. Does it come off as tacky or cheap?

Also worth noting: our bar area is in the same room and leans a bit more midcentury, with walnut panelling (I’ll include a photo of that too). We’d love for everything to feel cohesive without being too matchy matchy.

My style preference tends to be a little all over, but generally something transitional with clean lines and natural materials. Most of our spaces mix cottage-y, modern, and mid-century inspirations.

Thanks so much! We really appreciate any advice or feedback!

(Photos attached in order: 1. Our actual kitchen, 2. Slab + panelling inspiration, 3. Tile to ceiling + shelf, 4. Tile to shelf + panelling above, 5. Large title to shelf + panelling above, 6. Bar area with walnut paneling)