Using the herringbone pattern is a really simple way to add interest to your space, it's a little different, and the tile you chose is not too 'loud', it will never stand out as being out of place but it adds a nice touch.

Okay thanks Patrick! My countertops are quite busy so I worried the herringbone is too busy of a pattern to add to the space. But I really like the herringbone pattern. I agree it would add interest to the space.

We've done it in a kitchen we haven't photographed yet and their selections were very similar to yours, it looks quite nice. I'd say pick a similar grout color and it won't detract from your countertops.

I vote brick pattern:)

I vote herringbone - it's such a beautiful and interesting pattern. And, just a bit unexpected.

Anne is right, you need a little more tile for herringbone, there are a lot of cuts, and sometimes installers charge a little extra for the time that it takes. We're all just trying to help you make an informed decision.

If you had a large area behind your stove then I would say the herringbone would be fine. It still can be fine, but you are putting it in a smaller area - and if you are installing it yourself it will be harder.

I really like my ordinary brick laid cream subway tile - fits my kitchen perfectly. You do have less grain in your cabinets, so probably could go with the busier herringbone pattern - I needed to keep it simple:

From farther back:

https://www.houzz.com/photos/my-pics-work-in-progress-phvw-vp~58830325

I think brick with a matching grout. You could have a little herringbone over the range, but that also requires a border.

Because of the over the range microwave, I don't think there is room for a herringbone area.

I prefer brick pattern. All pictures posted here that used herringbone have a solid color countertop.

I think if you were in love with the herringbone it could absolutely work in this case - smooth, single color tile with a matching grout. It would add a bit of style and pattern without being too loud. However, if you are more drawn to the brick pattern, it is guaranteed to be a classic - it's a good safe bet! (If it were my kitchen I'd go for the herringbone!)

I don't think you have room for a herringbone and your counter is rather busy for more pattern.

Thank you everyone for your opinions and advice! It was much appreciated :) After much debate, we decided to go with the brick pattern because of all the small spaces around the windows (not pictured). Should I use contrasting grout (slightly darker) or matching grout for the brick pattern?

When your backsplash is installed but not grouted, the area between the tiles will read a bit dark and give you an idea of what contrasting grout would look like. With my cabinets, I though it would be too busy - I have oak cabinets with grain and this gives my cabinets some "movement" - a busier look than yours. I was thinking about contrasting grout but once I had a clue how it would look, I decided not to. I have seen contrasting grout look really good with wood cabinets so you can hold off on that decision till after the tile has been installed.

In this picture the wall on the left has not been grouted and you can see the darker outline around the tiles. You might have to click on the photo to enlarge it to see what I'm talking about.

I narrowed it down to two choices of grout: Antique white or bone. Any thoughts? I prefer matching grout but can't find an exact match. Or should I go darker?

Do you have enough leftover tile to do a test/sample board....glue a few tiles to a board, mix up your grout and go for it.....you would then have a better idea about the two options....grout is pretty inexpensive and you may be surprised about your favorite!

Antique white looks like the best match to me. Bone looks too pink.

Antique White is my vote.

I like the antique white too. Note - on mine I went with bright white - but that was to tie it to the white in my countertop. You can see the mild contrast if you enlarge the pic.

antique white. they should have actual grout samples, not pictures.

If you can get a sample board or see real grout that would be best. We picked out a color based on a brochure, went to a tile place and the plastic "sample" was totally different! So while we have a tentative color, I'm getting a sample board made. White can be very tricky due to undertones.

By the way, I like the brick pattern. I think everything really flows together very nicely!

Here is a slightly different take on a brick pattern.

Thanks everyone! The pictures of grout samples were actually a little deceiving. The actual grout samples at the store were much different. So it was definitely Antique white!