I agree that the color should be white. But I don’t think I’d go with a typical subway tile.

Personally I’d probably go with a zellige multi toned tile.

But if that’s not your style, I’d look at other shaped white tiles.
I will add some option below. There are hundreds out there.
Don’t settle for anything until you know it’s the one.

(Also, I’d finish everything else before the backsplash. )

https://www.bedrosians.com/en/product/detail/cloe-tile/?itemNo=DECCLOWHI55G

https://www.wayfair.com/home-improvement/pdp/ivy-hill-tile-aerial-283-in-x-767-in-fishscale-matte-ceramic-wall-tile-515-sq-ft-case-sost5454.html

https://www.tilebar.com/bianco-dolomite-premium-3x12-chevron-polished-marble-tile.html

https://www.flooranddecor.com/porcelain-ceramic-decoratives/dove-gray-glossy-ceramic-tile-100983964.html

Thank you for the suggestions, will look into those. I do like the look of the zellige tiles, interesting combo of two similar colors.

There are no rules, as taste and suitability are subjective. You mentioned subway tile, which I think would work well in your overall space, but its style and layout will have a big influence in creating a more interesting effect.

The first priority, no matter what style you are leaning towards, is that it works well with the counter.

It doesn't have to be plain vanilla white! Many here on the forums are completely against pattern, so don't let that influence you too much.

Jeffrey Court has some interesting mosaics.

https://www.jeffreycourt.com/chapters/park-place/

An example how a bold pattern can look great ...

Holkham | Rural Meets Urban · More Info

with the floor/ stools and counter as shown.... a warmer off white/cream would suit the look. If you could paint the stair rails and post a similar cream it might work well instead of the stark white. Your furniture looks warm toned...noted that......the kitchen is large / you could do a subtle warm toned porcelain tile as well....very handsome for the space . here's beautiful patterns in porcelain for your big open kitchen.

Carpet Hex Tapestry Natural Porcelain Floor and Wall Tile · More Info

Farnese Molise Crema Porcelain Floor and Wall Tile · More Info

I prefer simple. I enjoy bold backsplashes....in other people’s homes.

I would do a 3x12 white that matches the white in your counter.

You could also find a white textured tile.

I like herbflavor and chispa's ideas for some pattern. Maybe not as bold as chispa shows. Maybe more like the softer colors that herb shows.

Hi

I have espresso cabinets and taj mahal quartzite

Here is a post I started looking for backsplash tile. I am very happy with it!

https://www.houzz.com/discussions/5878733/update-is-this-timeless-or-trendy

and here is the tile:

https://www.msisurfaces.com/kenzzi/leira/

I love subway because it's classic. I will say that because you have a waterfall counter you should be leaning modern on your backsplash, so if you use a rectangular tile (subway comes in a lot of different sizes these days), stack them instead of bricklaying them for a more modern effect. I like the different shapes as well. As a previous commenter said, beauty is in the eye of the beholder so you will ultimately have to decide what appeals to you. The backsplash is the least expensive part of a kitchen to replace (next to cabinets and counter), so I don't think it is as high stakes a decision as the other more expensive elements. I know I tend to get more decision paralysis on expensive items, so maybe this will help you. :-) What you have so far looks great. I don't usually like dark cabinets, but they really work in your space.

Thank you everyone for all your suggestions!! Will look into mosaics and also the different ways of layering a subway tile too.

Your original leaning toward a basic subway tile is timeless. I don ‘t think you would regret it or grow tired of it. Your beautiful countertops are the star.

@Kate Havent really given that a thought yet. These pendants just came with the house :)

I figured:) Too nice a kitchen to not have great pendents!

Also, there is no rush to finish the backsplash as the kitchen will work just fine without it for a few months. It took me about 5 months after we moved in, for me to make a final decision on the backsplash. It then took about 2 weeks for my builder to get the tile guy back out.

Keep looking and bringing samples home and you'll find the right tile. Make sure you check out local independent tile stores as they carry tile brands that big box stores don't have.