Hello! Came across your post. Although, the subway tile suits well, my vote for best choice is the second option of tile. The grays and patterns really stand-out against the countertop.

of those 3... I'd do 2 also

At first I thought those were black-and-white photos!

Then I saw the bits of color in the 4th photo.

2 or 3, like the “colors” in 2 but love the shape in 3. You can’t go wrong with either.

Yes, I do really love gray! Always have. There’s lots of wood in the room that isn’t shown by the pictures, so I’m not too concerned with it being too gray, and there are also some open shelves that aren’t shown where we can put some colorful items.

Following!

I like the counters as ithey give life against the gray on top and below. I would extend that white or near white into backsplash area. Gray in the backsplash will be too shadowy . A white subway and slight contrast to the grout color would balance out the gray and extend the beautiful counter choice.

3 is my favorite.

So here’s a general question about tile, because we are also considering going with a white subway tile (which would either have a bevel edge or that hand glazed bumpy look). Other than appearance, is there a difference between high end tile and what you get at Home Depot, etc? Again, the difference in appearance is obvious, but are there any quality or durability differences?

yes..tile has to be cut and handled . edge surfaces come into play for your pro doing the work. We used Florida tile [very nice ]…...Also I've ripped out caulk and replaced w new many times and those edges hold up well. Daltile is good. I would purposely buy the highest quality tile I could find up to the max that budget allows .

I received some TileBar samples earlier this week. These are subway options. Two with some gray and one pure white. I like them all well enough, but not in love with any of them. I’m visiting another tile shop tomorrow, but we really need to get the tile ordered because we can’t install the vent hood until the tile is up. I would love some suggestions!

In the pic w all 3 I like the first one in the row. W the gloss and shape it would pop just the right amt. you might try oversized tiles or white w texture. You'll see something.

Can you upload a pic of your finished kitchen and if you are pleased with quality. Coincidentally, we are planning a kitchen remodel and have selected moonshine and grayloft as well. However, I am debating whether to do all moonshine on perimeter with a grey loft canter island, or moonshine upper cabinets with grey loft on bottom and island.

We are looking for moonshine kitchens too. Can you please upload a pic?