We are finalizing our plan for our kitchen remodel. We moved a bathroom from the middle of the house into the previous breakfast area so the kitchen could be open to the den. Since we're doing it ourselves, I'm trying to make sure that we are considering everything when we plan this.

1. We are unsure of the oven location. I prefer it on it's own so the refrigerator can be encased in pantry. I planned on possibly incorporating a roll-out shelf with a butcher block in case we needed emergency counter space next to the fridge. My husband likes the oven in its current location, so it would be next to the fridge in the new layout. Which works better, and is a counter necessary next to the fridge? We have played through many scenarios by pretending to carry turkeys and fill up glasses of water but it's hard to visualize it.

2. I basically have a safe choice and what I really want to do as far as finishes go. The cabinets will be white shaker style.
For the counters, I am so drawn to a black leathered or honed granite like Negresco / Virginia Mist / Nero Mist / Via Lactea. It is bold, though, so I am hesitant. The safer option would be something like Cold Springs / Exodus / Alaska White.

For the backsplash, I found a tile that I love called Montauk Sky https://tilebar.com/montauk-sky-2x8-ceramic-wall-tile.html . It's a 2x8 subway tile with just a hint of teal. Each tile is either matte or shiny, giving the finished look an opalescent quality. I haven't seen any projects with the tile so I'm worried, plus I know the aqua tint may limit us with paint down the line. The safe choice is a 3x12 subway called Catalina White which has a subtly varied surface which gives it a handmade appearance. The funny thing about this tile is that I ordered the exact same tile from a different company two years ago when we were considering starting the remodel again. I guess that means I'm a fan. I also like the grey version of the tile but I'm leaning toward the white. I have seen this tile used in lots of projects and it looks great, but we have white subway tile in the bathrooms upstairs so I want the kitchen to feel special.

Pictures will be in the comments as I've tried to post this twice and it timed out (I think it's because I'm picture-happy).