I am abit confused as to the wishes and th choice of fake plastic counters .So many really beutiful real stones to me so much nicer with my fave walnut. So maybe I need to get a better idea of the whole space . I might be tempted to do a glass subway tile for backsplash .Not sure how the floors are figuing into the mix so maybe a bit more explanation there .I think the elelments of thre city ideally are ones that are already in place in some of the great buildings in NY like interior brick walls for instance . The real thing is IMO the best not trying too hard to make something it is not.

I assume you're asking about flooring for the kitchen, right? (not a backsplash).

I think you're going to get a whole range of replies. I live in SoCal, where it is common to have tile in the kitchen, and I far prefer it for ease of cleanup, but I have 4 dogs and rough and ready teenagers with a really busy kitchen.

Other people really appreciate continuing their existing wood floors right into the kitchen, but you didn't mention what floors you have elsewhere in your place.

I think YOU need to come to a place where you decide about flooring based on its functional use where you are (location, and also in life!), and also keep in mind what flooring you already have, unless you're looking at reflooring your whole house. Once you decide on material, then others can weigh in on aesthetics. But the best aesthetic would likely be continuing what you already have.....