I would either go with a creamy subway tile like miacometlady suggested or a non-busy glass tile with subdued hues.

Are you removing the 4" granite back splash?

Natural stone is the way to go. A Crema Marfil or an Ivory Beige Travertine in a linear mosaic or a 3x6 subway with an enhancing sealer to bring out the veining. Honed or antiqued finish. Try Quarry Collection or Cleftstone Quarry Collection, Cleftstoneworks.com

Our backsplash tiles are thermoplastic with the look of tin. The Bermuda Bronze would be a nice color with your paint and cabinetry. We also have many different styles and colors available on www.backsplashideas.com where you can request up to ten free samples!

No, retroeath, had not planned on removing the 4 inch granite back splash, do you think the tile would be a problem leaving the present back splash ?

@1patch, we are also beginning a kitchen remodel project. I also have only 1 small window, but it's a south exposure, but the south wall is not a beneficiary of that sunshine. I have decided on 4" white ceramic tile interspersed with 15 or so painted tiles of songbirds and waterfowl. My new oven will be directly across from the window and for the backsplash above the oven, my husband and I have chosen a tile mural of painted wood ducks. My cabinets and floor covering will be neutral tones with white appliances and walls. I expect that my songbird and waterfowl tiles will absolutely make this space pop. I purchased the tile mural at http://www.tilemuralstore.com/, and the 4" songbird and waterfowl tiles came from eBay. There are so many colorful paintings and designs to choose from in so many areas of interest, you should take a look. ps, I have no financial interest in the tile mural store, I just like their products!

You need to pick a color out of the countertop and look for tile that matches it. If you contrast too much, the eye will only look at the backsplash, which can be a distraction.