Here is a more contemporary example with a solid colored countertop in a medium tone.

The very best thing you can do is take your color samples and hit the stone yard. There are so many colors and patterns in the stone you'll know the right one when you see it. I am personally partial to glass back splashes, not the glass tile, an actual solid piece of glass that has the back side painted with whatever pattern or art I like.

Dytecture, thanks for the picture. I do like that color combination.

herblady, that's a great idea. I'm planning to do it this weekend.

I'll keep you guys posted. Thanks again.

Both suggestions were good ones so far. after you pick out the counter top take your time with the back splash. There are so many options out there today, shapes, materials & styles. Just like the counter top you will know which one goes best when you see it. Have fun & good luck. Post pics when done.

Thanks Terri Maines_Theisen ... will post pictures for sure when done.

I think the counter dytecture posted is quartz which I prefer over the granite with your cabinets. Just depends on the look you want. Quartz can give you a more solid color.

Hi Patrick, based on the handles installed on your cabinets, I am assuming that you are looking for a more contemporary design. I agree that CeasarStone would be a better approach for you. The mid range colour proposed is a great option but I would like to also suggest "concrete" colour for you. It is a deeper, darker grey option that will warm up the kitchen. A good way to pair it, in terms of backsplash, is to look for random strips glass sheets. Good luck, Laura

Thanks Urban Ideas Inc. ... that's actually what i was thinking too.. a greyish 'concrete' color for the countertop.

sam0705, i'm going with granite because it's cheaper than quarts and, unfortunately, budget is kinda tight now. I hope there's granite that would look solid-ish grey-ish concrete-ish color :)

Excellent advice so far, take it one step further when looking for your stone, look for a stone that has a vein in it with a colour you would like to introduce into the adjoining rooms. Great way to keep an open floor plan in harmony.

I would personally look at the color scheme throughout your home try to harmonize it BUT your cabinets and your countertop will be a lot more permanent than a simple color change on your walls...I like change so I go with what I love first in furniture color
and countertops...wall odors refresh a room....have fun!

Sorry wall colors change a room...lol spell check!

Patrick, if you want a solid-ish grey-ish concrete-ish look, why not consider using concrete. You seem to have a very minimal amount of counter space so concrete would probably fit your budget. Find a local concrete artisan and price it out. It doesn't hurt to check.

I love granite and its so durable...well worth the money. I have Luna lite in my kitchen, for 19 years, and I would pick it again. It is one of the most available and can come closer to being matched if you do a partial redo of the kitchen in 20 years.

Wow.. thank you all for the responses... they are all very helpful

You could also try visiting arizonatile.chameleonpower.com and instantly visualize countertops.

just a little update... i did pick out a granite.. and it turned out to be the same as this one here:

Ok - so you went builder basic, splurge on your backsplash then - and make the backsplash connect with both cabinetry and countertop in a mosaic that has both colours in it.

Yes, i did go with the basic. Hmm.. if i go with a multi color of backsplash, would it be too much, in such a little place? Something like this?

Or do you have something else in mind?

Thanks in advance.

THATS VERY DIFFERENT, AN PRETTY..

Thanks Libby

A little update on the countertop and backsplash.. it's coming together :)