Custom Kitchen Tile Backsplash Design & Installation

Bring Your Kitchen to Life with Custom Patterns and Unique Tile Backsplash Designs

At Esox Custom Tiling, we bring precision, artistry, and old-school craftsmanship to every kitchen backsplash we install.

Whether you want to refresh a dated kitchen or create a boldly personalized space, you can trust our team to deliver exceptional results that last for years. We never cut corners or rush through a job. Every backsplash is installed with the care and attention to detail your home deserves.

What Sets Us Apart

A custom backsplash is only as good as the planning and craftsmanship behind it. At Esox Custom Tiling, we focus on the details that help create clean layouts, balanced patterns, and long-lasting results.

  • Surface Preparation: Before installation begins, we evaluate wall flatness and make corrections as needed to create a stable surface for ceramic, porcelain, glass, mosaic, and handmade tile installations.
  • Precision Layout Planning: Tile patterns are carefully planned around ranges, sinks, windows, and focal points to create balanced visual lines while minimizing awkward cuts and transitions.
  • Outlet & Fixture Integration: Electrical outlets, switches, pot fillers, and other kitchen features are incorporated into the layout so the finished installation feels intentional and cohesive.
  • Advanced Material Installation: From handmade Zellige and intricate mosaics to large-format porcelain panels, we use installation methods appropriate for the specific tile being installed.
  • Professional Standards: We follow recognized TCNA installation methods and manufacturer specifications to help ensure long-term performance and durability.

What to Expect When You Work With Us

From first consultation to final clean-up, we treat your home with the same care and attention we bring to our tile work.

  • Clear Communication: Honest timelines, responsive service, and realistic expectations from start to finish.
  • Protection of Your Home: Careful preparation and clean job sites help minimize disruption to your daily routine.
  • Design Guidance: Assistance selecting tile, grout colors, patterns, and layouts that fit your kitchen and personal style.
  • Professional Craftsmanship: Careful installation practices that prioritize both appearance and long-term durability.
  • A Finished Kitchen You’ll Enjoy for Years: Our goal is a backsplash that enhances the beauty and function of your kitchen every day.

Tile for More Than Just Kitchens

While kitchen backsplashes are one of our most requested services, our expertise extends throughout the home. We install tile in bathrooms, showers, entries, laundry rooms, basements, and other living spaces.

Whether you’re considering ceramic, porcelain, glass, natural stone, handmade tile, or specialty tile products, we’ll help you select materials that complement your design goals, lifestyle, and budget.

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Exceeding Expectations in Kitchen Backsplash Tile Installation

 

I highly recommend. Rhothmen and his team are very responsive. We are very happy with the tile flooring and tile backsplash projects that they helped to plan and complete in our kitchen. We will definitely be using Esox for any future flooring needs.

This is my second time working with Rhothmen in last 4 years, both the times he installed back splash for my kitchen. Rhothmen thru out the process was really friendly, timely and detail oriented. We changed the design at the last moment and accommodated our change, we also had to reschedule the install date twice and he was flexible on that too. Great team to work with and you can’t go wrong with them. Thank you Rhothmen for your services.

Fahad R.

I would highly recommend Esox Custom Tiling to any homeowner looking to remodel a bathroom, kitchen, or start a new build. Rhothmen is very professional and does great work. He is very responsive and walks you through every detail. If you are looking for a tile job and want someone you can trust go with Esox!

Ryan Q

Popular Kitchen Tile Backsplash Patterns for Madison Homes

Looking to install a custom kitchen tile backsplash? The pattern you choose plays a big role in the final look. Below are our most requested backsplash tile styles.

 

Light neutral vertical stacked backsplash tiles with gentle surface variation, enhancing the sense of height and simplicity in a compact kitchen.

1. Stacked Tile Pattern

This layout is known for its clean, contemporary, and minimal look. Tiles are laid in straight, direct lines, creating a modern feel that works especially well in mid-century modern, Scandinavian, or contemporary kitchens. Stacked tiles offer a sense of order and openness, making them a great fit for smaller spaces.

This pattern suits a variety of tile shapes and sizes, including subway, square, or even mosaic tiles, and is favored by those who want a simple, easy-to-install option that still stands out.

 

Matte blue running bond backsplash in elongated subway tiles, adding a soft pop of color and timeless charm above granite countertops.

2. Running Bond Tile Pattern

Also called the traditional brick or offset pattern, running bond is a timeless and versatile choice with both visual and practical advantages. The staggered arrangement helps hide minor imperfections and brings a classic feel, making it ideal for traditional, farmhouse, and transitional spaces.

At the same time, this pattern can complement modern kitchens with heritage influences. Homeowners appreciate its familiar charm that never goes out of style.

 

Clean white herringbone backsplash with a subtle sheen, installed as a full-height focal point behind a stainless range—great for modern or creative kitchen styles.

3. Herringbone Tile Pattern

The herringbone pattern delivers a sophisticated zigzag effect, offering both elegance and visual interest to any kitchen. Its versatility means it suits a wide range of designs, from historical and vintage-inspired settings to modern, creative interiors.

Herringbone can be used as a full backsplash or feature area behind a stove or sink. For those seeking a bold accent or a chance to blend modern and classic touches, this intricate pattern is a top choice.

 

Sophisticated navy herringbone backsplash behind the stovetop, offering bold texture and a refined focal point in a transitional or modern kitchen.

4. Mesh Mounted Mosaic Kitchen Backsplashes

Mesh mounted mosaics are available in glass, ceramic, and other materials, with endless patterns, colors, and textures. They allow homeowners to add a unique, personalized touch to their kitchen and work well in eclectic, cottage, Mediterranean, or bohemian spaces.

Mosaics are perfect for those who want creative freedom in design, turning even a small backsplash into a true statement piece.

 

Modern white stacked picket tile backsplash with black faucet, expertly installed by Esox Custom Tiling in Madison, WI—ideal for contemporary kitchens.

5. Picket Tiling Style

Picket tiles have a distinctive, elongated hexagon or pointed shape, setting them apart from standard subway or square tiles. This pattern adds a touch of whimsy and contemporary style, but is still subtle enough to blend with other kitchen elements.

Picket tiles work well in transitional and contemporary kitchens, creating visual interest and the illusion of more space. They’re a smart choice for anyone who wants something fresh and memorable without being too bold.

Kitchen Backsplash Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

We proudly install custom tile backsplashes across Dane County WI including Madison, Fitchburg, Middleton, Monona, Sun Prairie, Verona, Stoughton, Maple Bluff, Shorewood Hills,  and surrounding communities. If your location isn’t listed but is nearby, feel free to reach out—we’ll be happy to confirm if we can serve you!

 

The timeline depends on the project’s size and complexity. Most kitchen backsplash projects are completed in 1–2 days, depending on the size and complexity of the design.

The process starts with a consultation where we discuss your goals, measure the space, and help you choose the right tile and layout. Before installation, we protect your countertops and surrounding areas to keep your kitchen clean. Most backsplash projects are completed in one to two days, depending on the design. Once the tile is set and grouted, we clean up thoroughly and review the finished work with you to make sure everything meets your expectations.

 

Yes. Every kitchen is different, and so is every homeowner’s vision. Esox Custom Tiling specializes in custom backsplash designs tailored to your space, style, and goals. Whether you’re drawn to herringbone, stacked, mosaic, or something entirely unique, we’ll walk you through pattern options, tile selections, and layout recommendations. 

 

Not all backsplash materials perform the same way. Porcelain and ceramic tile remain popular because they are durable, easy to clean, and available in a wide range of styles. Glass tile can add brightness and visual depth, while handmade tile and natural stone offer unique character and texture. We help homeowners evaluate the advantages of each material based on their design goals, maintenance preferences, and budget.

Careful layout planning is one of the most important parts of a successful backsplash installation. Before setting tile, we evaluate cabinet spacing, outlet locations, windows, ranges, and other focal points to create balanced visual lines and minimize awkward cuts. This planning helps the finished backsplash feel intentional and professionally designed.

Yes. Large-format tile has become increasingly popular because it creates a clean, modern appearance with fewer grout lines. Proper installation requires careful wall preparation, layout planning, and precision cutting to achieve a flat, consistent finished surface.

Contact us today to make your kitchen backsplash design and installation a long term success.