Those pendants look odd to me but I can't tell if they look odd because of the angle of the picture or because they don't work.

Can you take a picture looking into the kitchen from the other side of the peninsula straight on.

As for the backsplash I would look for a slightly textured subway tile. we have installed several for clients that are still a gloss finish but have a bit of a wave to them which gives a nice texture in a space that is fairly smooth overall.

Those pendants look like the wrong scale for the room. They certainly aren't adding any design interest to the space.

Are they the only light over your sink?

I didnt explain my self too well- those pendants are from the original kitchen. I am looking to replace them. They do not go at ALL! too Small - looking for suggestions for new ones. Here is something I thought would look good. the orignal ones are 5 1/2 wide

Have this chandelier in the LR that is open to the kitchen so all has to flow.

Yes they definitely look off now. I agree with damiarain, enlarge them and space them evenly over the peninsula.

I thought also that they needed to be spaced apart a little. I have recessed lighting in the kitchen - these I am looking to maybe ambient lighting. I agree with you they need to be bigger. What are your thoughts on the type of backsplash?

Here was what I was thinking something like these?

The spacing does look odd... Also, not sure if it is the angle of the photo but they look really close to the edge of the ceiling. Would you consider adding a third one? Pottery Barn has several simple glass ones with brass detail that would look great with your countertop and overall look.

interestin idea -will think about it.

You do have recessed lighting, but from your pictures, it doesn't look like you have any that are illuminating the sink area directly so the pendant lights will be supplementing your task lighting there.

I like the clear glass pendant style - stylish but without adding visual clutter. To test out some different sizes, positions and number of lights, you can hang balloons or pieces of paper sized to the pendants you're interested in

As for backsplash, I would recommend marble carrara gold tile. It's a classic that would balance well the warmth in your countertops and white cabinets.