You're going to pay more for a handmade look, bottom line. I would look into Fireclay Tile's Foundation series, which runs about $12-$15/sf in limited neutral colors. That's quite a bit less for their tile which generally runs $28/sf and up.

My kitchen Reno went over budget due to the age of my house (built 1895). I was doing a modern kitchen and had chosen mid-expensive, octagon tiles. But had to scale back. Got these 4”x 16” basic pure white subway tiles (mid-grey grout) (Home Depot) and I am actually thrilled with it. Saved money and prefer the look I ended up with after all.

I recommend checking out tile bar, i used a tile with the color montak gin. I love it!

Here are photos

I'd look into talavera tiles. They can be cheap and I just like 'em. The tricky thing with any tile is going to be matching your white.

Backsplash tile is hard and expensive to change. Paint is cheap and easy. You chose a paint color and then want to match tile to it? That's your problem.... you have the sequence backwards.

@sushipup1 words of wisdom a year too late :)

I would put tile just at range area up to hood vent only. Too much tile otherwise. Put art on opposite wall for colour.

I like the idea of tile to the ceiling….start by buying a box of something at the big box store or floor and decor, because you can return it! To see if you can find something you like….less expensive tile in glorious abundance will look more expensive than expensive tile in a limited quantity.

Fissfiss that was what I was hoping. Thank you!

You kitchen is fabulous. What color is your island? Do you definitely want white tile?

Kim thank you so much. The island cabinetry is black and the top is cloudburst concrete - a very light grey. I think I will get sick of white the least

Tilebar! Manchester Bianco seems like it would meet what you’re seeking!

From Tilebar, Manchester Bianco, $5.75/sf

Lynne3450. I just ordered a sample!! Thank you!

I agree with only putting tile at the range area to the hood as well as your kitchen has great interest already with the vault, and the window. I think the plain sheet-rock is a warmer cozier feel than a whole wall of tile and already is a color you like. A pattern tile like below would tie the grey/white/black colors in your kitchen, or a plain black tile in a stack pattern with white grout. Maybe a black and white abstract or geometric pattern? Even a fun piece of granite, marble could be interesting too, more lively than white tile on a white wall.

Check out the Marazzi Luxecraft tile collection (Home Depot). They have different subway sizes, picket, and rhombus, all with handmade texture. This is our shower using tile from that collection (shower walls).

Since you like minimal and plaint, do a larger tile and not handmade. You might not like the handmade look...

Chicago Modern Condo · More Info

Lendrum · More Info

Warm Yellow Kitchen Tiles Backsplash · More Info

Case Design/Remodeling, Inc. · More Info

I got these handmade in Italy tiles for $7.49/sq ft

https://www.ragnousa.com/collections/look/