I think a neutral subway tile in perhaps a different size than the standard 3x6 would look really nice.

Here is a link that might be useful: http://www.kitchens.com/products/backsplash/design-expert/tile-grout/?Next

Obviously I'd suggest the beveled arabesque I have. My search for a bs that went with BA was difficult. This was absolutely the perfect tile for me.

Also, a first runner up was a large format tile from Mandala. It is in their Sinu collection, the color is STingray. srg215 (do a search) used it after I suggested it to her and she couldn't believe how well it complemented the BA. I believe she used a smaller rectangular tile because the larger one was on backorder, but I wanted to use a larger format subway for mine.

And there was an Italian slightly gray crackled beveled subway that was in the running, until the arabesques came into my life!

Good luck!

Just wanted to say how beautiful your kitchen is turning out!!!

I'm going to piggyback on bees suggestions. I'm typically not a white tile advocate however, I do see it in your kitchen. Something with texture like bee recommended. Her famous arabesque or {{!gwi}}

I like your idea of the taupey green glass solids. Your backsplash needs a little sparkle, but it needs to be subtle or it'll shout down the rest of the room, which is vivid but quiet.

is "powder" in the color "suede" from Stone and Pewter accents. It's little squares of one color, rather than many, and has bubbles and ripple and reflection. Something like this might be gorgeous without being overpowering.

OTOH, flat, matte glass would look good too. I like the idea of glass for you because while the cabinetry style is referential of the past, it really is a very today kitchen.

I like remodelfl's idea. Perfect.

Here are a few more.
~boxer

Thank you all that have responded already. I appreciate every bit of opinion expressed here. It helps to have someone to talk it over with.

Bee...I of course am familiar with your BS and love it to pieces. I think it would give me a look that doesn't read as from a specific time period, which is what I want. I have seen the stingray pics, and while it looks fantastic in her kitchen, I wonder if its too dark for my space? My kitchen is much smaller than hers. I am thinking I want something that just sort of blends in and doesn't stand out. Am I right or wrong on that train of thought?

Boxer, can you get me info on some of the back splashes shown in these pics? Some I like, some are totally what I am trying to avoid :) If so, then I am curious about those little hex tiles and the ones pictured below.

I will try to upload pics of the current samples I have pinned to our walls tomorrow. I like the ones I brought home, just not sure they are *perfect* for my kitchen. Either not quite the right material or color...can't place the problem, just know its not "the one"

So many choices...what is that dreamy 3D tile in remodelfla's post? I love that.

You have a strong color scheme in the white cabinets, dark island and then the strongly patterned dark/light granite. It's intense contrast but 2-toned with simple lines.

And you have a very small area for the tile. I would make it as simple as possible because another strong element would start a fight for your attention.

There is a lot in favor of plain pale cream or white subway tiles. Match the cabinets or the palest color of the granite.

If you feel the need for something that "pops" ... add a brightly colored cookie jar. Too many things popping in any one room are a design flaw.

I agree lazygardens. I love a beautiful back splash, like those shiny hex's pictured above, but know they don't fit my space. I need simple, something that just blends but matches.

One thing to consider....do you really want a backsplash that you have to dust?

Michelle--that lovely tile is Ann Sacks Heath ceramic. Isn't it awesome? But Plllog nailed it...dusting your bs? Hhhmmm....

Ahhhh...good point on dusting not to mention $250-300 (or more) a sq. ft.

The shiny hexagon tile are Hexagon white shell tiles
The tiles are made from shells like rive shell, abalone shell, Pen Shell...

The other images are
Some are matchstick tile, some are by Ann Sacks, Trikeenan
tile, Modwalls,

hope this helps.

the cabinets are really traditional, but your overall living style seems more transitional. i think one color introduced would be a nice element-soft green-I see some green in the stripe couch. And not too much emphasis on highly detailed pattern-I don't think those cabinets would play too well off that kind of thing. Simple squares on the diagonal or the larger subway patterns. I don't care for the intricate patterns with what you have going.Your good looking floor and island really embellish the space-keep it simple with your backsplash.

green, shiny glass!
nice space you have . .

I am still figuring out my backsplash too. One thing I found out so far is that I really like the glass tiles with the clear mastic much better. Of course, that ups the price.

I like your paint color. It works well with your other choices. Could you find a ceramic subway in a similar color?

This is an election year.

Visualizing BS is a way of life around here (DC).

Weedmeister.....you crack me up! Perfect post for my title! Thanks for the humor :)

I did a little research online this morning, but really, until I see them in person, how can I tell if its going to match? I need to go out and get some samples, but have no idea where to go. The downside to living in a small town....

Shamelessly tossing this out there one more time :/ I stopped into Hamilton Parker after returning the previous tiles to The Tile Shop and wow !! Lots to look at, like eye candy all over the store (some expensive eye candy I might add!)

Anyhow, I have brought home some tiles that all "match" just a matter of what color to go. I am still leaning towards something close to cabinet color, but when friends and family stop over, they all pick the darker gray colored tile I have sitting out. I just think it will box in my kitchen. Who's right, me or them?!

Sorry, should have added I am thinking a subway like pattern or something solid but patterned to give a little visual stimulation. I think it needs to be a solid color, but maybe a shape (like the arabesque) would be doable?