Usually the backsplash goes above where the countertop is. Usually, it goes between countertop and upper cabinets and behind the range up to the bottom of the hood. If a hood has wall space around it or is T shaped, sometimes the tile will extend up the wall above the bottom of the hood. Behind the range a backsplash is helpful to protect the wall from splatters.

Difficulties happens when the upper cabinets and lower cabinets do not end at the same point or a light switch is half in, half out of the end edge. As for the fridge, I would just tile straight across, continuing the tile on one side right to the other - this is actually easier then finishing out two edges on each side of the fridge.

You do not have to have a backsplash if you don't want one, and another alternative is the 4" splash made from your countertop material. However, if you do the 4" splash, it is better not to tile above it.

if it were mine, I'd tile the entire area. I like tile and I like the look it imparts to a kitchen. If you are getting a super fantastic quartz countertop in amazing colors/pattern, I would n't worry about the splash as much. If you are getting a plain solid color, or something very low key, then put in a cool splash. Or, just get extra quartz and run it up the wall for a continuous look. Is the micro going over the stove? you could always just get a piece of stainless steel to go behind the stove if you decide against the splash (you still will get splatter on the wall) or just do the 4" piece as jh mentioned.

The sink is under the window, that's why I pointed out the wall with the window and my corners in the house are pretty even - not the way it looks in the mock up. So, would that work to bs in just that area? From corner to corner behind the sink, but not the rest of the kitchen? To me it doesn't seem like the other areas truly need a backsplash. But, maybe people do it more for aehstetics? Or are the rules that the bs must be under the cabinets that are over the counter? Just trying to figure it out before I have my counter templated and have to decide about a bs.

I've not had issues with splatters on the walls. I use good paint as well so that helps. Plus, I don't cook with a lot of grease and keep sauces on low heat, so rarely have anything get on the wall.

Honestly, I only have 27 sq ft area to bs, so it's not a cost savings question. More of a question of how much work I have ahead of me since I will most likely diy the bs. :)

Beth, I had a over-the-range microwave, but decided against it this time around. It will be on the counter. Good things to consider. Thanks!

I love the look of backsplashes in photos, but have seen a not so great one up close - by contractors. So, my hesitation comes from that. Plus, I see a lot of bad "pro" installations here on Houzz. ;) I'm just not sure of my skills. :) In just a few weeks my cabinets will be installed and I'm getting to that stage where I just want to be done with everything. We've done all of the other work in regards to updating the house - so maybe I'm not giving myself enough credit.

I have seen 'pro' installations that look like Helen Keller may have done it, and DIY work that has been flawless. As a DIY'er, you can afford to take your time and do proper research. I've done many backsplashes and I'm no pro tile setter. I'm sure you'll do a fine job. If you need help w/a particular backsplash choice, let me know the color of your cab and the type of quartz you're getting and perhaps I can recommend something for you.

Keep in mind that people come to Houzz when they have a problem. I do not know anyone personally who had a reputable tile person do a poor backsplash job. I did my own, though I had tiled other projects before. If you are doing it yourself, you can start with the window wall. You could stop there, or if it is not going too bad, keep tiling. Do keep in mind that different lots of tile can have slightly different color tone. Buy your tile from a place that will let you return unopened boxes and get enough to do the whole job. If you do simple subway tile in an ordinary color, like white or cream, you can go with Lowes or similar because they will take back unused tile. If you are going with wood cabinet as pictured, simple is probably best unless your countertop is plain.