The best time to choose a backsplash is after the counter tops have been installed. You need to get samples and bring them home to judge them in your space and your light. In the meanwhile, look for inspiration images of white kitchens with blue islands that you like. They may help you narrow down the sample options.

Agreed. Better to select splash after everything is in place. You mentioned colors but nothing about style. Describe your style, are the cabinets shaker, what is the vibe of the rest of your home? What hardware do you like? Is the kitchen open to another area of the home? Do you want this wall to blend in or feel like a feature? What kind of hood?

Wait. It took me 5 months after we moved into our new build to find the perfect backsplash. Things look different once everything is installed and you have proper lighting.

I waited a full year with tile samples sitting on the counter before deciding. Since the area is small I would go with a small design tile

Perhaps start here with your search?

https://www.msisurfaces.com/porcelain-collection/kenzzi/

I agree to wait until cabinets and counters are installed. Once that happens, I'd take a picture of the area, straight on if possible, and upload it to a tile site with a visualizer. (Tilebar has one, as do many others.) Then you can see some ideas before ordering samples. (I think something with a blue color would be very nice and there are tons of options, from subway to square to other shapes to encaustic like the examples from typeandrun.)

While you wait for your install, it may help to collect inspiration photos to help narrow down shapes and styles. For example, a subway tile can come across as traditional or modern based on installation: vertical, horizontal stacked vs running bond, herringbone, etc.

Thanks guys! Sorry for lack of details. The cabinets are woodharbor chelsea style (which is shaker) and the hardware is a brushed bronze, more of a classic/antique style as opposed to a modern style. The whole house is what I'd consider transitional in style, leaning towards classic. I do worry about adding another layer of "busy-ness" to the kitchen with a patterned or unique tile since the counters do have some veining in them, and then there will be the navy island and the walnut counter on it... i dont want things to look haphazard.

Here is what my customer did in their Blue and copper kitchen.

Your kitchen sounds stunning, and a custom mosaic backsplash would be the perfect way to tie everything together! With your white cabinets, Miraggio Cielo quartz, and the Hale Navy/walnut island, we recommend a mosaic design that incorporates subtle whites, blues, and warm earthy tones to complement the space.

A handcrafted marble mosaic, such as a geometric or abstract pattern, would add elegance and visual interest without overwhelming the small backsplash area. Our mosaics are fully customizable, so we can tailor the design and colors to suit your style perfectly. Let us help create a timeless piece that enhances your beautiful kitchen! 😊

This kitchen is featured today on [link -->] Houseandgarden.co.uk I love that they skipped a backsplash behind their stove and just hung artwork, which could easily be swapped out over time with a plate, platter, large tile, or nothing at all.

I don't have a splash behind my range I have always found the wall much easier to wipe down than tiles. Plus, no grout, hurrah!