the lighter tile should work. I would do grout color similar to tile color.

If you use a "colored" grout it is going to get busy and you will accentuating the grout instead of the tile.

Looking at the picture I don't think that the Grey will go with your wall colour and counter top which appears to have brown tones. The countertop also has busy grains so go with something simpler. I think that clear glass tiles will go nicely here.

I was thinking the gray may not be work either. I don't know if more of a tan, taupe would? It sounds like most are leaning towards the white..

Anybody else?? I need to decide by Monday!!

Antique white subway tile.

I would agree with Lampert Architects that the arabesque tile pattern is too detailed and a subway pattern would be better. From the colors listed I would recommend antique white with a matching grout.

If you are open to an alternative solution, I could also envision using either a 3"x 6" Travertine tile called Torreon or Durango. The texture of these tiles will provide the interest that you are seeking while maintaining a classic look.

Antique white subway tile gets my vote. Classic look and won't detract from your beautiful granite.

Have been trying to find a few pictures of Santa Ceceili with back splashes. From what i see it comes in 2 versions, dark and light. Here is a picture that might help you envision. It's the "light" version, but I think you will see that a very basic back splash looks better.

I say no to arabesque and no to gray. I like the white of the arabesque tile though. Is it Antique White? Keep grout close to tile color.

thanks for the photo! I have decided to go with the subway in the antique white. I am debating whether to do just straight subway or the herringbone pattern.

I would go with a cream color. Your granite is dark and busy like mine, keep it simple and clean looking. I used a bright white grout but I think and very tiny grout lines.

I'd do the subway in the traditional offset pattern, not the herringbone.

I like the subway as shown above. the arabasque seems too small. If it were an oversized arabesque I think it could be beautiful. But subway is classic and will always be beautiful.

My vote is straight. Glad to see your going with the subway. It's going to look great!

No herringbone.

soosun - glad you could find pictures, really makes a difference seeing it in place.

Always kind of liked it myself, but not when i see it used. reminds me of quilting.

I would use a cream/ antique white 4x12 and either bright white or cream colored grout. I would not stagger the pattern. Keep the grout line 1/8". Look at Marazzi Middleton Square.

Here is a kitchen design we did. Maybe sharing it with you will help you move forward?

A couple more pics.