When I think contemporary but timeless, I like marble so I am wondering if you could work that in maybe as your backsplash? In which case for counter I would chose a more solid color of quartz like a grey, black or even pure white.

If this is your final selection, I would also make the same choice - its safe. But, if I the kitchen is spacy and not open plan (dont know the rest of colours), I'd dare go for bottom left (biggest piece) for he most effective contrast. Small m2 would work with that but larger would, specially should you plan appropriate lightning.

http://houzz.com/photos/798841

Grey quartz counter
http://houzz.com/photos/571998

I personally would like to see a little more contrast than white on white. As Sam suggested, maybe gray or black. As far as the quartz vs granite question, it's more of a personal preference question. I think the more solid and monochromatic you go, the more timeless it'll feel and the less dated it will become.

If you want a marble look as Sam mentioned, which I agree is very timeless as well. You may want to consider a quartzite for the counters that has the appearance of a Carrara or Calcutta marble, but durability of granite.

What color is your floor?

I haven't selected flooring yet. It will likely be a ceramic tile of some sort though.

I have a similar kitchen - went with "majestic white" granite. I didn't want too light, or too dark - very messy husband and I wanted something where I wasn't obsessing about every little crumb or streak on the counters. We are just waiting for the backsplash to be installed but so far, I'm loving the look. Would love to see pictures of your kitchen.

Make sure you do porcelain and not ceramic. If the ceramic chips you will see white underneath the glaze. Porcelain color goes right through.

Have you considered using a recycled glass countertop? We have a beautiful grey, and white, in our GEOS Recycled Glass Surface Product line.