You may be able to remove the backsplash without damaging the counter. It depends on the adhesives used and the skill of the person removing it. I'd say it's worth trying. You have a beautiful granite and you could create a great look by using the backsplash as your "artists canvas". So many materials will look fantastic with your countertop - how exciting! Changing the backsplash could make the entire room look different.

Thanks for your feedback!

We just added backsplash to our kitchen. It already had granite backsplash like yours. We chose to leave it and add glass backsplash. Turned out beautiful. Carried tile backsplash to ceiling.

I removed ours at our vacation condo. It came off in pieces but did not do any damage to the countertops.

I really wish that when countertops are installed, the installer would talk more to the client about will you later be adding a backsplash or do you not know yet. You may want to think about not having the additional few inches if so. I wish they would ask people so they can make a better informed decision. I think you should talk to your countertop installer to see if they will remove it carefully.

I think if you go with a porcelain off-white subway tile it will look fine with it the way it is. Use a light gray grout & place the tiles close together. Running bond or you can go vertically if you like a modern look side by side or end to end, vertically or horizontally.