@ RES, architect Same here been using Sketchup Pro since it 1st came out in 2000 and Chief Architect Pro ( before it was Chief Architect since 90s) In earlier days I have been using just for my own project designs and customers and for the last 10 years or so I been doing work for many customers...It seems this is the best way to get something designed that a homeowner can actually visualize the project as it was already built and you place them right inside the house and they can get a better feel how rooms interact with adjoining spaces, they can walk through the entire house, a finished basement, sit at the island of their kitchen, or the outdoors. Now I average about 100-150 designs a year for customers and contractors locally and nationwide with all kinds of projects... from simple furniture placement to entire 3D house layout, I have some builders they use my services for a spec home 3D visuals and real-time renderings, schematics for zoning board proposals, real estate agents, contractors, and homeowners, not to mention I work with some architects as well. IMHO This is the way to go nowadays to end up with a design you really want... I don't want the old-timers to take me the wrong way, quick pencil mack-ups are good in the field to give the customer an idea what you have in mind and to make sure this is what they like... but when you at home, you can present your customer with 3D images using available software in any way you like, sure it takes an investment, with plugins, certain renderers, etc the whole software packages ran me about 4k with bells and whistles that I need + monthly fees to display models and run online video sessions, etc but now when working with a customer when the initial model laid out... you can move walls, cabinets, swap elevation views, scenes, swap materials within seconds while the customer is watching and you can present them drawings in any style, shape, or form that they can pass onto their architect, builder, or contractor and with a visual everyone is on the same page. Here a few examples of different representation styles you can do with a mouse click.

Yes, you will need to remove backsplash you already have, then all trims and then prep the wall. Check youtube, there is plenty of help there. Remember when you put your first tile you will know exactly where your last tile lands. If your design must have trims yo can do it but lay it out and see what you want.

Since you don't have any experience managing a project of this magnitude you definitely need a GC. There are also some very good subcontractors who will only work with GC's. As with all home improvement projects, the best advice I can give you is to spend a lot of time planning and be sure to have all fixtures, cabinets, etc. on site before you start tearing things apart. Especially now as there are shortages of some types of materials. As soon as the container from China with the ** pick a material ** is empty, you have to wait for the next one. Good contractors are also in high demand. Ten years ago we waited almost a year for the one we wanted to have time to work on our project. It could be even worse now.

Sadly, my sweet olive died and I don't even know why.  I am getting another one and this time, want to do what "you" do. Please provide details 9n how often how much water you give yours. Also, how many hours of direct and indirect light do yours receive? My area is mild in temperature all year around with average low of 54 and high of 85.