What exactly are you looking to update? I am not sure if you are looking to do minor construction or just asking for decorative help.

We are going to replace the countertop and add a backsplash.

Actually the house isn't really big enough or in the right area to support anything high end for this project. I think we are going to replace the countertop with a solid colour ... likely granite at the absolute top end and we are thinking of using a complimentary colour for all the cherrywood floor and cupboards.

Hello.. Have you considered using a metal backsplash for your kitchen?

We are a premium online supplier of metal mosaic tiles for backsplash and other wall applications, and based on the images/info you provided, we feel several of our tiles would go well with your kitchen cabinets. You would need to select the countertop before finalizing the backsplash (or vice-versa).

Please see some of our customer install images as inspiration..

http://www.houzz.com/projects/72838/eden-mosaic-tile-installations

This is our Houzz store - Please note we do offer samples:

http://www.houzz.com/photos/products/Buy-on-Houzz/seller--edenmosaictile

Good luck with your kitchen design!