The backsplash in a beveled white glass subway tile will let your granite be the focal point. Glass give you a depth that regular tile does not. Be sure to add LED strip lights under the cabinets to bring light into a shaded area. I have the same granite and cabinets. I struggled with the backsplash as my kitchen got some very bright light in the afternoons, but virtually no direct light in the mornings. Most colors went muddy due to the shadows cast by the cabinets. I didn't want to have to turn on the under cabinet lights all the time, so I opted for the glass subway tiles. I wish they had the beveled edges they have out now. Such a wonderful look. Whatever you get, don't get something that competes with your beautiful granite! Keep in mind, white glass has a slight hue to it, sort of very very pale blue, which will really bring out the cool tones in your wood floors!

Love stacked stone for a backsplash but hate trying to clean anything that splashes on it. Nearly impossible in my experience, even when it's treated.

I could see a glass subway tile also, but perhaps in a matte finish so as to not have too much shine. They come in many colors, amongst which I’m sure you could find a perfect match.

Suggestion: when looking at (and taking/posting pictures of) your finish selections, try to place each of the items in the same manner it will be installed. Floors and countertops horizontal; cabinets, paint, wall tile vertical. The correct viewing angle really helps ensure you’re seeing colors, textures, finishes, etc as closely as possible to finished install view. :)

why can't you go buy what you want and have the builder install what you buy? If you are that limited, go with the white subway, it's timeless. I don't see it as cheap.

I would opt to do what kmkane suggest above and buy your own materials if builder agrees to purchase. Otherwise, see if you can get a credit for no backsplash, and then purchase tiles you want and hire someone to install after the fact. Better to get none than get white subway that you’ll could have/cause issues removing later.

Talk to your builder and see if you can get a credit for the materials that are figured into his cost. It will be much cheaper using his materials, but to get just the right look, take the credit and buy your own materials. Sometimes, if the builder is obtaining the materials locally, you can go to his supplier and select something different at a nominal additional fee. It may be worth it to be happy and avoid a costly remodel down the road. Just be sure you let them know you will do all the leg work and it won't interfere with their schedule in finishing your home.

Dead white might be too much, try an off white or cream too. In any event, do what you think will look good as no one can give accurate advice based on a picture alone. Don't do 6 in granite, that's really a builder look.

An off-white porcelain flat subway tile laid in a running bond pattern, with light gray grout. Have the tiles laid as close as possible. If builder does not do the under cabinet lighting. Be sure to do it yourself in LED lights. Kitchen will be dark. You will need as much light as you can get. Enjoy your lovely new space.

I'd opt for the white subway backsplash. It's classic and easy to replace down the road if you want. Once it's all together you'll love it!! Congratulations!

oh, this is making me angry, and it's not even my place! There is NO reason you have to have a backsplash. I'd fight for none and get a credit. They're being stubborn. Have your attorney call or something. Darned builders, they just can't see past their stupid contracts.They can paint the danged thing for heavens sake.

Don't go for the 4" thing, that has the chance to hurt your counter top But I don't have a problem with subway, I think it's classic, so, use as far away from white as you can get, and don't use white grout, use a color that looks nice with the granite.

Good luck!

Agree that herringbone will look too busy with your countertop decision.

So is the contractor saying the grey subway has to be laid in herringbone too? That doesn't then make sense! Herringbone is harder to do.

Will you be living in the house when the backsplash is being installed?

nothing wrong with subway, just use off white, matte finish, and not white grout. Don't focus on it. You have a really nice kitchen, and congrats! A new house, all good news :)