I actually found this in your idea book. I think it would highlight your cabinets and backsplash, yet keep things simple.

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A linear, glass mosaic will look nice, is easy to clean & fairly inexpensive. You could find something similar to the pic below at Lowe's, Home Depot, etc.

Can we see a close-up of the counter? I think we are all assuming it is a solid grey, but maybe not?

it is patterned laminate. thanks.

Thanks. So, you could still use the slate I posted above.

I am seeing taupe. What is the darker color----grey, brown, or more of a green-brown?

It is lighter grey, taupe, and a terracotta/coppery color

Here are three that I would choose for you.

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@CDR Thanks so much. I like all three of them!

here is your counter with them[houzz=][houzz=[houzz=]

Which of them looks best with the countertops do you think?

Not the penny one, the more I look at it. Also, you might want to go with a more elongated tile (so you don't have a small pattern and another small pattern.

I think the medium brick antique copper goes best.

I would bring home a couple of samples of something like this and see how you like it in your kitchen.

Is the slate difficult to clean or maintain?

I would do a 2x6 subway tile in subway pattern, probably in an off white color maybe taupe to pull the color from your counter. Mosaic is going out of style. Stone is too heavy, IMO.

Slate (1st pic above I posted, I really like also). It is natural stone. But, all you have to do is seal it. I would reseal each year, which is probably overkill.

Thanks for all the comments and help!

Slate backsplash and your counter

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how about these?

Have you considered more artistic looking mosaic tiles. Because your cabinet door profiles are a bit more traditional, something softer looking may brighten up your kitchen. Like this one,

http://houzz.com/photos/7701806