I have SC counntertops and having same BS installed shortly, but my cabs are white, so no advice on how SC will look with all dark kitche. However, I will say I chose SC for its balance of light and dark. I needed dark to balance the white, but did not want an overall dark look. I liked that the SC I chose had a cream background, dark veining and a lot of caramel throughout. Sorry but I have not started a photobucket acct so cannot provide photos. If you look on HGTV general decorating site, I provided some on a recent thread on white cabs and granite countertops. Or you can email me and I'll attach photos. At some point wehen I get my act together I'll master that photobucket thing...

Java

I think the SC would look lovely. It's a classic granite (as is black) and you can never go wrong with a classic. I have had both granites in homes over the years. Black in my condo with natural Cherry Shaker style cabs. The SC was in our last home with dark stained cherry cabs mixed with distressed black cabs. SC definitely hides more.

With 3 young children and an active kitchen I think the SC will hide more. Is there more upkeep with dark granite keeping it looking good (spots, scratches, streaks, etc)? Any thoughts on a travertine backsplash with a strip of glass tiles running through it? Something like this maybe:

Here is a link that might be useful: Backsplash Pic

This is what it would look like.

Can't tell if this is quartz or granite. There are lots of nice black quartz and granites to choose from, just beware of dyed granites,etc.

Here is a link that might be useful: {{gwi:1575030}}

Hi,

My first question is what kind of style do you want to
go with? Since you mentioned a Mosaic glass backsplash that can be a bit more urban or contemporary. Which would transform your kitchen. A glass subway or another
simple shape will be perfect in a small space.

I posted your kitchen so that others can chime in to see
your kitchen next to some ideas.

Santa Cecilia

Below is a kitchen with dark cabs, and black appliances.
Notice the granite goes with everything even though there
is not a lot of black in it.

Another image with Black appliances and dark cabs.
This granite is Juparana Florence

A simple backsplash glass subway tile.

{{gwi:1575051}}

Not sure the granite in this image. Dark cab, blk appliances
and beautiful granite.

I do not know the granite here but wanted you to see
a med granite with dark appliances and little lighting

Notice the next two imgages with counters that are
light or dark. Which would you like for yourself?

Here is a kitchen with a light counter

And here is one with a dark counter. The dark one has
undercab lighting.

Both the above pictures had glass tiles. Glass tiles
are not too expensive and can be found at Lowes or HD.
They also update the space without overpowering the room.
Lots to think about. I hope I have helped you.

Check out the link for some ideas on choosing counters.
~boxer

some granites you may encounter that are in a good price
range.

Giallo

Verde Peacock

New Venetian Gold

Here is a link that might be useful: GW Stone Information and Advice (& Checklists)

Wow! Thanks a lot boxerpups. Those pics help a ton. Thanks everyone else also. I like the picture with the Juparana Florence granite. I don't think the mosaic glass would fit our kitchen style.

Hey Freezedried,

Now that you know which granite color you like what about
one of these backsplashes. Since you are not interested in
the mosaic glass maybe one of these is appealing. Although
I think you might just keep the BS you have as this could
go with most granites.
~boxer

And lastly think about the counter edge you want in your
space. It can be dressy or casual but it ties in to
the space.

~boxer