I think a question to ask yourself is how long you will love the amber knobs? I feel like yes this last tile looks nice but commits you to a specific design theme. Over all your kitchen has a classic look, change hardware and lighting and it could have an entirely different feel. Back splash isn't so easy to change. I know people will stone me for that comment but I do always try to think ahead when choosing such a permanent element, this same slate without the amber would match your kitchen minus hardware and lighting and allow for a change, it wouldn't have the "bling" factor but do you want the back splash the focal point?

You have an absolutely gorgeous kitchen!!!! A suggestion would be, glass tiles as these would be an elegant light generating addition. You can go with a neutral field tile and accent with a splash of color to tie in your beautiful counter top. This can be achieved by using anyone of our 37+ standard formats or 15+ Architectural assemblies, giving you a truly custom experience just for you. Please have a look at our site for the many options and ideas we can offer. Wishing you a sparkling day.

I would probably go with the cream color from your granite.. You could also get a sample in a gray color that picks up the color from the granite to see if it goes with the cabinets. The overall color of your kitchen is pretty warm, which I like. The Bluestar is really nice and good. I had my MIL get one to replace the old GE and she's happy with it.

Very interesting dilemma. If you did open shelves and sort of dressed that area like a dry bar, I think it would be fine without the back splash. It's not part of the contiguous countertop, so it's not like stopping half way down a bank of cabinets. It truly is a separate space. I think you'd be fine not tiling there in this instance.