Post again once the granite is installed for BS ideas. I have no idea how deep of a green your granite is. How far up would you take it?

It looks good. I really like your pendants. I have to agree with your dh on the subway tile with so much white in the room. About the 4" granite, how did you like having a 4" backsplash before?

I agree it would help to see the granite in place.

It's looking really good so far. Don't settle for the 4" strip. Even a "sterile" white backsplash is better than that.

I agree with linelle and baha. Don't do the four inch and wait until we can see your granite.
Even if you do the plain white, you can add accent tiles, borders etc.
As someone with plain tiles (Gracia Rixi's crackle in crema) I hear what your husband is saying and it was my first thought during reno. But ,when you move in all the stuff, applainces, accessories etc. it should not look sterile.
With the white cabinets and green counter, you might also look at green tiles.

Hi thanks for all the suggestions. Here's another picture of the kitchen.
It's open to the family room and in the corner there is a brick hearth.
So I think between the granite I chose and the brick in the corner it will be a challenge to find the right tile.

Here's the picture.