It sounds as though you’d prefer a warmer white, but that you basically want a quiet tile that matches the background color of your stone. Is that correct? I agree most whites will be too stark. Look for creams and ivories. You’ll eventually find (or your installer might) the right color. Don’t be afraid to chose a nice shape - it doesn’t have to be a subway tile.

@eam44, like the fishscale pattern. You are saying summer and water, but I see industrial and dark. The entire space needs to be lightened up. Rugs, light slip covered furniture, rattan, wicker...

I hear what you are saying @elcieg, but I get a feeling it’s more like this kind of water. Just guessing, of course, but it makes me want to see an L.L. Bean Frontier blanket or something plaid in the space, maybe a Flokati rug or some sheepskin bar stools.

Do not take design advice from your tile installer!

You need to visit some local independent tile showrooms where you can borrow the larger grouted sample boards. Bring several home and start narrowing down your choices. If nothing seems right, then return to the store and borrow some more.

These independent tile stores have a better selection at all price points. If possible, stay away from big box stores.

I will second chispa's comment about not taking design advice from the installer. His/her only contribution should be to advise you on the installation--the grout lines, the suitability of the tile on the kitchen backsplash, etc.

I like very much the fishtail tile, and I do believe that a light color is warranted, since your cabinets are dark. You might also consider a glazed brick--they're usually 2 x 8, and they have a nice texture to them, while also being easy to clean.

Waterworks carries a line called Grove Brick Works, in lots of sizes and colors:

https://www.waterworks.com/us_en/grove-twenty-field-tile-2-1-4-x-7-5-8-gtf028

Speaking of water, you’re reminding me that Fireclay Tile (in addition to having glazed thin brick - good option Diane) has a shape called Wave, and their glaze Tusk would be a lovely option. This tile is handmade and sells for $38/sf. I wouldn’t even mention it if you didn’t have such a small backsplash. It’s a little extravagant for a summer house, but here it is.

And this is what it looks like on a wall - i’m not recommending the color with your counter, but this gives you an idea of the scale.

If you’d prefer a subway tile - I’m starting to think you do - look at Daltile Rittenhouse Square or Color Wheel Classic in Almond.

Go with a 'white' that is closest to the counters you can get--not the gray veining, but the lighter back ground.. You like 'the look' as is so emulate it in tile. This kitchen does not say 'lake in Wisconsin', and I don't think it ever will. It's a year old. Has the stove been used? Surprised the switches aren't melted yet. And don't get me started on people hanging next to a dirty sink ! Full or empty sinks just don't give off a sanitary vibe.....

Is that a flip-flop on the griddle???

It is!

Hopefully made out of ceramic or metal! LOL

Flip flop is metal.
We didn’t get options on the house as the old owner had it built as his summer home and ended up in FL full time.
We are only here 3-4 months of the year as we are FL people also.
@chispa I LOVE THAT TILE!!!! I think that will be our choice. Heading out shortly to get samples (at least color choice).
Thanks, all, for the great suggestions.

You could easily do a grey or creamy backsplash with what you currently have. Just make sure to get samples and see how they look in your kitchen lighting.

Contemporary Kitchen & Bath · More Info

You might get samples of tiles that you like and might work with your countertops and in your lighting. Perhaps look at a grey tile or a creamy tile.

Issaquah Modern Family · More Info

Sammamish Coastal · More Info